We had a tie for Friday's contest, so congratulations goes to Carol Burge for "Dangerous Desires" and to Hailey Edwards for "From the Ashes"! You both get to go on to Sunday's final contest!
Last day of covers before our finalist make their bid for the top position! We're so excited to find out who will win the best cover!
Pick your favorite cover in todays group, and vote in the above poll. Good luck authors!
Showing posts with label author. Show all posts
Showing posts with label author. Show all posts
Friday, June 5, 2009
Cover Contest Day 5
Congratulations, Ella Drake! You're cover for Wolf Bitten has won Thursday's contest! You're now entered in the final round on Sunday! Good luck!
Woohoo! We've got 10 more great covers for your voting pleasure. :D Pick your fav and vote in the poll above. Good luck, authors!!
Woohoo! We've got 10 more great covers for your voting pleasure. :D Pick your fav and vote in the poll above. Good luck, authors!!
Thursday, June 4, 2009
Cover Contest Day 4
Congratulations to Julia Knight! Your cover for Ilfayne's Bane won Wednesday's poll. You get to go on to Sunday's final contest!
Another 10 covers! Lot's of great artwork out there. Pick your favorite cover in the poll above. Good luck authors!!
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
Cover Contest Day 3
Congratulations to Keta Diablo! You're cover for Crossroads won Tuesday's poll! You get to move forward to Sunday's contest!
I apologize to Katie Reus. Photobucket decided your cover for Dangerous Deception violated copyright law. So, I wasn't able to add it to the slideshow. I've added it just above the others for our readers to see. Again, I apologize for that.
I apologize to Katie Reus. Photobucket decided your cover for Dangerous Deception violated copyright law. So, I wasn't able to add it to the slideshow. I've added it just above the others for our readers to see. Again, I apologize for that.
Round three, here we go! Pick your favorite cover, and vote in the poll above! Good luck authors! Remember that Katie's cover is also included in the contest.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Cover Contest Day 2!
Congratulations to Lisa Alexander Griffin! You're cover for A Celtic Lover's Magic has won Monday's poll! You're cover will go on to our final contest on Sunday.
Ready for a new set of 10 covers? Here they are! Same as yesterday, pick your favorite, and vote in the poll above.
Good luck authors!
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Being an author.
I've been thinking about something lately and it goes a long with some feedback I've been getting from friends and family. I've been told that I'm selling myself short and should aim higher. I disagree because I like where I am right now in my writing career. Writing is a learning experience and there's more for me to learn.
So it brings up a question. When do you consider yourself an author instead of a writer? Is it when you get your first book finished? Your contract? Or maybe that huge book deal? I received my first book cover on Monday and it was so wonderful to see it. I was just thrilled! But the truth is, I had already decided I was an author long before I got the cover. I decided I was an author when I received my first contract from Lyrical press in January. Everything after that moment just reinforces the feeling.
So tell me your story... when did you decide you're an author instead of just a writer? Have you had not so welcoming feedback from friends or family? How did you handle it?
Talk to you soon,
Wendy
Monday, April 6, 2009
Please welcome Lori Perkins...Agent, ePublisher, Author
Welcome, Lori. We're so pleased to have you with us today! Lots of great advice here today folks!
WTR: Where can we find you online?
LP: You can reach me at lperkinsagency@yahoo.com. I have 2 blogs, ravenousromance.blogspot.com, and agentinthemiddle.com
WTR: What made you choose your career as an agent?
LP: I was a journalist, and left to become an agent because I wanted to work with both nonfiction and fiction.
WTR: What exactly are the duties of an agent?
LP: We get your book in shape for submission (edits and rewriting), find you the best publisher, negotiate your contract, and oversee your writing career.
WTR: What is the most important thing for a writer to do to catch your eye?
LP: Know what I sell and tell me why I should represent you
WTR: What is the worst thing an author can do to turn you off?
LP: Tell me you have 15 novels waiting for me to read. I can only sell one at a time, so tell me about your best and most commercial work.
WTR: What genres are you looking for at this time?
LP: Right now, I am not taking on new clients (I have 80, but I have 3 junior agents who are all looking for new authors (and I read everything).
* Marsha Philitas (mplperkinsagency@gmail.com) is looking for erotica and erotic romance,
* Sandy Lu (sllperkinsagency@lperkinsagency.com) is looking for thrillers, mysteries, chick lit and literary fiction, and
* EK (EK@lperkinsagency.com) is looking for YA, sci-fi, fantasy, and graphic novels. I oversee everything submitted.
WTR: What are you currently reading?
LP: I read three books a week for Ravenousromance.com, so right now I am reading volume II of VITAL SIGNS, our erotic version of Grey’s Anatomy.
WTR: What is your favorite book?
LP: I have four: 1984, Dracula, Gone with the Wind and Anne Rice’s Beauty Book series.
WTR: I understand you are part owner of Ravenous Romance, tell us a little about the company.
LP: Ravenousromance.com is an ebook and audio publisher of erotic romance fiction. We publish a book a day and a short story a day.
It was started by myself and two of my publishing colleagues, Holly Schmidt and Allan Penn, because we realized there was a growing readership for erotic romance and that epublishing was the wave of the future.
As an agent, I had sold a number of the erotica short story writers into the growing erotic romance market in traditional publishing, but the publishers only wanted one book a year. My authors could write 10, and there were readers waiting for their next book. Epublishing delivers books to readers at the pace they want them.
WTR: How does the current economy affect your views on publishing?
LP: People are getting tired of paying $30 for a hardcover, $20 for a trade paperback that should be a $5 mass market, and close to $10 for a mass market. Books are pricing themselves out of the entertainment budget. When they cost the same as a DVD or CD or a game, it’s a hard choice. A book should be $5, which is what a ravenousromance.com title is.
WTR: Do you think ebooks will ever replace print?
LP: No, people will always want books, but for entertainment purposes and/or high school and college reading, yes, I think people would prefer to download a copy of The Scarlet Letter rather than carry it around with them. And for traveling, I can carry 30 books on my ereader in my pocketbook, which sure beats loading up my suitcase.
WTR: I understand you are also an author, where can we find your work?
LP: On my two blogs, and on Amazon. I’ve written (and published) since I was 17, so I always find time to write. At Ravenousromance, I edit a number of anthologies (I just finished editing SEX AND TAXES which will pub on April 15th). But if I’m inspired, I’ll just get up a half hour earlier to write.
WTR: What does a typical day for you look like?
LP: I work 16 hours a day M-F, and about 5 hours each day on the weekend. I’m up at 7, check email, take my son to school, work-out, work until 6, cook dinner, watch some TV with the family, and then begin editing manuscripts until about midnight.
WTR: What advice would you give for new authors?
LP: Join a professional organization so then you can be mentored by someone further along who knows your genre. Research the genre and niche you are going into. Finish that first draft. Edit. Rewrite.
WTR: What are your current projects?
LP: I’m editing two Ravenousromance.com anthologies – Threesomes and Sex Toys, so I’m looking for stories. Submitting a story to RR is a great way to break in. At least 10 of the authors we’ve published broke in with short stories.
WTR: What do you think is more important, characterization or plot?
LP: Plot. There are some best-selling novelists who use wooden characters, but the plot just drives the story. I cannot think of a single novel where the characters alone can support the story.
WTR: What is your biggest pet peeve with submissions?
LP: Books are that are too long or short. Publishable novels are 70,000 to 100,000 words (50,000 for RR).
WTR: What is the most important thing for an author to consider when searching for an agent?
LP: Whether or not the agent is looking for clients in the area you are writing in and whether or not they are taking on new clients.
WTR: What is the most important thing to consider in maintaining an agent/author relationship?
LP: That your agents has many clients, while you usually have one book. Your agent is very busy.
WTR: What is the biggest mistake a new author can make?
LP: Having unrealistic expectations.
WTR: What are your duties at Ravenous Romance?
LP: I am the editorial director. With Holly Schmidt, the Publisher, we decide what we’re going to buy at RR. I edit three books a week.
WTR: About how many books per month/year does Ravenous Romance publish/plan to publish?
LP: We publish about 250 novels and anthologies a year and the same amount of short stories. Ravenousromance.com is one of the best markets for short stories today. When you include the anthologies, we probably buy 400 short stories a year.
Lori will be available throughout the day to answer questions that you post, so be sure to leave a comment/question for her! She is also giving away two $5 gift certificates to two lucky winners! Just leave a comment to be entered in the drawing. Good luck!
WTR: Where can we find you online?
LP: You can reach me at lperkinsagency@yahoo.com. I have 2 blogs, ravenousromance.blogspot.com, and agentinthemiddle.com
WTR: What made you choose your career as an agent?
LP: I was a journalist, and left to become an agent because I wanted to work with both nonfiction and fiction.
WTR: What exactly are the duties of an agent?
LP: We get your book in shape for submission (edits and rewriting), find you the best publisher, negotiate your contract, and oversee your writing career.
WTR: What is the most important thing for a writer to do to catch your eye?
LP: Know what I sell and tell me why I should represent you
WTR: What is the worst thing an author can do to turn you off?
LP: Tell me you have 15 novels waiting for me to read. I can only sell one at a time, so tell me about your best and most commercial work.
WTR: What genres are you looking for at this time?
LP: Right now, I am not taking on new clients (I have 80, but I have 3 junior agents who are all looking for new authors (and I read everything).
* Marsha Philitas (mplperkinsagency@gmail.com) is looking for erotica and erotic romance,
* Sandy Lu (sllperkinsagency@lperkinsagency.com) is looking for thrillers, mysteries, chick lit and literary fiction, and
* EK (EK@lperkinsagency.com) is looking for YA, sci-fi, fantasy, and graphic novels. I oversee everything submitted.
WTR: What are you currently reading?
LP: I read three books a week for Ravenousromance.com, so right now I am reading volume II of VITAL SIGNS, our erotic version of Grey’s Anatomy.
WTR: What is your favorite book?
LP: I have four: 1984, Dracula, Gone with the Wind and Anne Rice’s Beauty Book series.
WTR: I understand you are part owner of Ravenous Romance, tell us a little about the company.
LP: Ravenousromance.com is an ebook and audio publisher of erotic romance fiction. We publish a book a day and a short story a day.
It was started by myself and two of my publishing colleagues, Holly Schmidt and Allan Penn, because we realized there was a growing readership for erotic romance and that epublishing was the wave of the future.
As an agent, I had sold a number of the erotica short story writers into the growing erotic romance market in traditional publishing, but the publishers only wanted one book a year. My authors could write 10, and there were readers waiting for their next book. Epublishing delivers books to readers at the pace they want them.
WTR: How does the current economy affect your views on publishing?
LP: People are getting tired of paying $30 for a hardcover, $20 for a trade paperback that should be a $5 mass market, and close to $10 for a mass market. Books are pricing themselves out of the entertainment budget. When they cost the same as a DVD or CD or a game, it’s a hard choice. A book should be $5, which is what a ravenousromance.com title is.
WTR: Do you think ebooks will ever replace print?
LP: No, people will always want books, but for entertainment purposes and/or high school and college reading, yes, I think people would prefer to download a copy of The Scarlet Letter rather than carry it around with them. And for traveling, I can carry 30 books on my ereader in my pocketbook, which sure beats loading up my suitcase.
WTR: I understand you are also an author, where can we find your work?
LP: On my two blogs, and on Amazon. I’ve written (and published) since I was 17, so I always find time to write. At Ravenousromance, I edit a number of anthologies (I just finished editing SEX AND TAXES which will pub on April 15th). But if I’m inspired, I’ll just get up a half hour earlier to write.
WTR: What does a typical day for you look like?
LP: I work 16 hours a day M-F, and about 5 hours each day on the weekend. I’m up at 7, check email, take my son to school, work-out, work until 6, cook dinner, watch some TV with the family, and then begin editing manuscripts until about midnight.
WTR: What advice would you give for new authors?
LP: Join a professional organization so then you can be mentored by someone further along who knows your genre. Research the genre and niche you are going into. Finish that first draft. Edit. Rewrite.
WTR: What are your current projects?
LP: I’m editing two Ravenousromance.com anthologies – Threesomes and Sex Toys, so I’m looking for stories. Submitting a story to RR is a great way to break in. At least 10 of the authors we’ve published broke in with short stories.
WTR: What do you think is more important, characterization or plot?
LP: Plot. There are some best-selling novelists who use wooden characters, but the plot just drives the story. I cannot think of a single novel where the characters alone can support the story.
WTR: What is your biggest pet peeve with submissions?
LP: Books are that are too long or short. Publishable novels are 70,000 to 100,000 words (50,000 for RR).
WTR: What is the most important thing for an author to consider when searching for an agent?
LP: Whether or not the agent is looking for clients in the area you are writing in and whether or not they are taking on new clients.
WTR: What is the most important thing to consider in maintaining an agent/author relationship?
LP: That your agents has many clients, while you usually have one book. Your agent is very busy.
WTR: What is the biggest mistake a new author can make?
LP: Having unrealistic expectations.
WTR: What are your duties at Ravenous Romance?
LP: I am the editorial director. With Holly Schmidt, the Publisher, we decide what we’re going to buy at RR. I edit three books a week.
WTR: About how many books per month/year does Ravenous Romance publish/plan to publish?
LP: We publish about 250 novels and anthologies a year and the same amount of short stories. Ravenousromance.com is one of the best markets for short stories today. When you include the anthologies, we probably buy 400 short stories a year.
Lori will be available throughout the day to answer questions that you post, so be sure to leave a comment/question for her! She is also giving away two $5 gift certificates to two lucky winners! Just leave a comment to be entered in the drawing. Good luck!
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Interview with Gracen Miller
First off, a big THANK YOU to the bloggers of Wicked Thorn and Roses for allowing me to join their home on the internet. I look forward to getting to know all of you.
Tell us a little about yourself.
*straight faced* I’m a self-made millionaire. *laughs* Okay, okay, you got me, that’s my dullest fantasy. My spiciest fantasy is…Tsk..tsk…tsk…I am so not sharing that with you. *grins* Seriously, I’m an obsessed writer and a part-time paralegal masquerading as a mother to two very active boys. Both my boys are black belts in Tae Kwon Do, so I’m not a soccer mom, but a karate mom and all the other sports in the rainbow that involve hitting someone (i.e. basketball, football, karate and I think that’s about it, but that’s enough, right?). Basically, I’m a shuttle bus between sporting events. I’ve been married for 16…no 17 years to my best friend from high school. Yeah, corny, but true. Anything else you want to know, just ask. I’m pretty open, so long as it’s not about my spicy fantasies. ;-)
Please list places we can find you online…websites, myspace, facebook, blogs, etc.
My publisher: www.firedrakesweyr.com
My website: www.gracenmiller.com
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/gracenmiller
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/profile.php?id=1219953540&ref=profile
Is there anything your family or friends pick on you about?
*coughs* No. I’m perfect. *looks around innocently* What? No one ever believes me! *grumbles no one told me I was going to be confessing everything here* My husband and two sons are always cracking blonde jokes about me. First off, let me mention I am NOT a blonde, but my husband and both of my sons ARE blondes. The “why” they make blonde jokes, well…um…*cringes*…must I really confess that—Look! There’s a purple elephant in the room with a green monkey cart-wheeling across his back! *laughs* Did I distract you away from the question? *grins hopefully* Guess not. Okay! I admit sometimes it takes me a moment to process stuff. My defense…they’re all guys and they speak “guy lingo” and sometimes that’s a bit confusing for the lone non-blonde girl in the household. So, maybe they’re speaking “blonde guy lingo”. Yeah, that’s my story and I’m sticking with it! =)
When and why did you begin writing?
I’ve been writing since my elementary English teacher (sixth grade) forced us to write a story. I went home grumbling that night about the homework. How dare she make us use our imagination! *gasp* Shocker! We had to broaden our minds. *another shocked gasp* It had never been required before. I wrote about an evil race rising up from Atlantis determined to take over the world. *laughs* It was horrid stuff, but what I discovered was so much more important and life changing. No, I’m not being dramatic. I found a world of open-ended possibilities. Pardon the analogy, but writing is little like playing God. I live through them, I maneuver their lives…er…okay my muse is shouting that SHE maneuvers their lives, so basically I’m just living through them and being the muse’s puppet. I can create and become characters that I would never dream of being outside my mind. I can be gusty, bold, deadly and really, really passionate to name a few. Writing helps me find the peace of being whomever I want, whenever I want and it is the best escape from the overwhelming realities of life. For me, I don’t need drugs to create euphoria because there is nothing better than the high I get from writing.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
Sometime in high school I realized I wasn’t just a student, I was a writer. At that time I was writing lots of sappy and dark dreadful poetry. Also a girlfriend and I would create characters and write about their lives, passing them back and forth. Typically, she and I were sisters in the stories, but we would meet that special someone, fall in love and have babies. *rolls eyes and gags self* When one storyline was exhausted, we would start another set of characters and follow the same theme. By the end of our writing together, we had five different storylines. Really, I’ve always been a romance writer. I just didn’t realize that until later.
What inspired you to pen your first novel?
I knew by my senior year of high school that I wanted to write books for a living. I just got sidetracked by life and jobs. My first novel was written during a particularly difficult time early on in my marriage. We didn’t have kids, I was bored to death with life, with jobs, and I wanted some excitement back. All my husband and I ever did was sit and watch television after work and I was bored to tears. So, I sat down at the computer and started writing. I still have the novel. It’s horrid, but it was my first accomplishment and I’m proud of that. It also saved my marriage. Strange thinking, yeah, probably, but it is true. Writing that novel gave me the excitement I needed to be happy again with my marriage and with my life. I’ve learned over the years, writing keeps me happy, keeps me ground and believe me, you don’t want to be around me when I’m going through a long dry spells in my writing. I become demon possessed.
What genre are you most comfortable writing?
I love paranormal and it’s easier for me to get into the evil/dark spirit of things when writing paranormal. I grew up reading and watching everything horror genre I could get my hands on, so I am a dark girl in a lot of ways. I’m not a comedic writer. I wish I could write comedy, but my sense of humor is so dry, what I find funny others do not. And what others find funny, I’m rolling my eyes over. So, paranormal is my comfort zone.
What are your current projects?
Well, even though I love paranormal, I just subbed a sci-fi romance novel, based upon warring races and what was necessary to create peace. My girlfriend that I wrote all those stories with in high school challenged me to get out of my comfort zone and actually gave me the idea. So, I don’t have any idea how well it really works, but we’ll see when I hear back from subbing it. *bites nails* I’ve got two other books I’m about to sub as well, both in the paranormal genre. And I’m working on two different books, Demon Eyes and Dragon Blood. Obviously by the titles, they’re paranormal. Did I mention that I like the paranormal? *winks*
What are your hobbies?
Hobbies are not listed in order of preference: Writing, family, chatting with friends on forums and watching Supernatural on Thursday nights. I am obsessed with that show. It gives me my paranormal fix and it has two dreamy guys. *sighs*
What is one thing you could never live without?
Oh, wow! This question is so limited. My first thought was writing. Then my second thought was, “Wait! Sex!” Then I felt all guilty because I didn’t think of my family first. *kicks air* I am SO not letting my husband read this. *laughs* Actually he might approve of the second thought. *winks*
If anyone wants to know something about me, please ask away. I’m an open book just waiting to be read. :D
Tell us a little about yourself.
*straight faced* I’m a self-made millionaire. *laughs* Okay, okay, you got me, that’s my dullest fantasy. My spiciest fantasy is…Tsk..tsk…tsk…I am so not sharing that with you. *grins* Seriously, I’m an obsessed writer and a part-time paralegal masquerading as a mother to two very active boys. Both my boys are black belts in Tae Kwon Do, so I’m not a soccer mom, but a karate mom and all the other sports in the rainbow that involve hitting someone (i.e. basketball, football, karate and I think that’s about it, but that’s enough, right?). Basically, I’m a shuttle bus between sporting events. I’ve been married for 16…no 17 years to my best friend from high school. Yeah, corny, but true. Anything else you want to know, just ask. I’m pretty open, so long as it’s not about my spicy fantasies. ;-)
Please list places we can find you online…websites, myspace, facebook, blogs, etc.
My publisher: www.firedrakesweyr.com
My website: www.gracenmiller.com
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/gracenmiller
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/profile.php?id=1219953540&ref=profile
Is there anything your family or friends pick on you about?
*coughs* No. I’m perfect. *looks around innocently* What? No one ever believes me! *grumbles no one told me I was going to be confessing everything here* My husband and two sons are always cracking blonde jokes about me. First off, let me mention I am NOT a blonde, but my husband and both of my sons ARE blondes. The “why” they make blonde jokes, well…um…*cringes*…must I really confess that—Look! There’s a purple elephant in the room with a green monkey cart-wheeling across his back! *laughs* Did I distract you away from the question? *grins hopefully* Guess not. Okay! I admit sometimes it takes me a moment to process stuff. My defense…they’re all guys and they speak “guy lingo” and sometimes that’s a bit confusing for the lone non-blonde girl in the household. So, maybe they’re speaking “blonde guy lingo”. Yeah, that’s my story and I’m sticking with it! =)
When and why did you begin writing?
I’ve been writing since my elementary English teacher (sixth grade) forced us to write a story. I went home grumbling that night about the homework. How dare she make us use our imagination! *gasp* Shocker! We had to broaden our minds. *another shocked gasp* It had never been required before. I wrote about an evil race rising up from Atlantis determined to take over the world. *laughs* It was horrid stuff, but what I discovered was so much more important and life changing. No, I’m not being dramatic. I found a world of open-ended possibilities. Pardon the analogy, but writing is little like playing God. I live through them, I maneuver their lives…er…okay my muse is shouting that SHE maneuvers their lives, so basically I’m just living through them and being the muse’s puppet. I can create and become characters that I would never dream of being outside my mind. I can be gusty, bold, deadly and really, really passionate to name a few. Writing helps me find the peace of being whomever I want, whenever I want and it is the best escape from the overwhelming realities of life. For me, I don’t need drugs to create euphoria because there is nothing better than the high I get from writing.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
Sometime in high school I realized I wasn’t just a student, I was a writer. At that time I was writing lots of sappy and dark dreadful poetry. Also a girlfriend and I would create characters and write about their lives, passing them back and forth. Typically, she and I were sisters in the stories, but we would meet that special someone, fall in love and have babies. *rolls eyes and gags self* When one storyline was exhausted, we would start another set of characters and follow the same theme. By the end of our writing together, we had five different storylines. Really, I’ve always been a romance writer. I just didn’t realize that until later.
What inspired you to pen your first novel?
I knew by my senior year of high school that I wanted to write books for a living. I just got sidetracked by life and jobs. My first novel was written during a particularly difficult time early on in my marriage. We didn’t have kids, I was bored to death with life, with jobs, and I wanted some excitement back. All my husband and I ever did was sit and watch television after work and I was bored to tears. So, I sat down at the computer and started writing. I still have the novel. It’s horrid, but it was my first accomplishment and I’m proud of that. It also saved my marriage. Strange thinking, yeah, probably, but it is true. Writing that novel gave me the excitement I needed to be happy again with my marriage and with my life. I’ve learned over the years, writing keeps me happy, keeps me ground and believe me, you don’t want to be around me when I’m going through a long dry spells in my writing. I become demon possessed.
What genre are you most comfortable writing?
I love paranormal and it’s easier for me to get into the evil/dark spirit of things when writing paranormal. I grew up reading and watching everything horror genre I could get my hands on, so I am a dark girl in a lot of ways. I’m not a comedic writer. I wish I could write comedy, but my sense of humor is so dry, what I find funny others do not. And what others find funny, I’m rolling my eyes over. So, paranormal is my comfort zone.
What are your current projects?
Well, even though I love paranormal, I just subbed a sci-fi romance novel, based upon warring races and what was necessary to create peace. My girlfriend that I wrote all those stories with in high school challenged me to get out of my comfort zone and actually gave me the idea. So, I don’t have any idea how well it really works, but we’ll see when I hear back from subbing it. *bites nails* I’ve got two other books I’m about to sub as well, both in the paranormal genre. And I’m working on two different books, Demon Eyes and Dragon Blood. Obviously by the titles, they’re paranormal. Did I mention that I like the paranormal? *winks*
What are your hobbies?
Hobbies are not listed in order of preference: Writing, family, chatting with friends on forums and watching Supernatural on Thursday nights. I am obsessed with that show. It gives me my paranormal fix and it has two dreamy guys. *sighs*
What is one thing you could never live without?
Oh, wow! This question is so limited. My first thought was writing. Then my second thought was, “Wait! Sex!” Then I felt all guilty because I didn’t think of my family first. *kicks air* I am SO not letting my husband read this. *laughs* Actually he might approve of the second thought. *winks*
If anyone wants to know something about me, please ask away. I’m an open book just waiting to be read. :D
Friday, March 6, 2009
Interview with Tierney O'Malley
Where are you from?
I am from Seattle, Washington. The Evergreen State! Live or come and visit and you’ll know why this place is called evergreen. :)
Tell us your latest news.
My latest news: I sold my first novel, Wicked Knight: Tristan, to Red Rose Publishing. It is a standalone book and the first of the five Knight stories I plan to write this year or for the rest of my life. LOL. So exciting. *grinning* Also, Perfect Vessel (Emerald Envisage Anthology) is coming out I believe in March from eXtasy Books. The story is about a hot green alien, desperate dancer and an out of this world offer. This story is definitely wicked.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
The first time when I truly felt that I have the tools to write was during my English Composition class. My instructor kept writing comments on the side of my written works “publishable”. She even gave me a copy of the Writer’s Market book. And getting my short story published at the college paper sealed the idea.
What genre are you most comfortable writing?
I love writing contemporary romance. I feel this is where my strength lies. Although I tried writing my first paranormal (trying something new is fun), sent my proposal and actually received a request for full.
How did you come up with the title for your book(s)?
I like this question :). Coming up with a title is not easy. I always ask myself, “What the story is about?” After coming up with a title, I spice it up to make it catchy, romantic, sensual. For example, To Trust a Wicked Man. The story centers on the heroine trying to find ways to trust a man. Using the title To Trust a Man is fine, but by adding the word wicked, the title is now more colorful and intriguing. Now you can ask, “How wicked is he?” :) The book is available at Fictionwise. Grab a copy and see how wicked my hero is. If anyone out there has a suggestion on how to come up with a great book title, I want to hear it. Please, please, tell me. LOL
What are your current projects?
I am now working on the second Knight book, Wicked Knight: Bors. Okay, the Knights are the four undeniably yummy, gorgeous and irresistible brothers. All named after the famous knights of the round table. Their last name is Knight.
What do you think has helped you the most with your writing?
Reading books of the same genre I am interested in writing is great. Searching and reading writing tips online. Forums! Join Romance Divas. I met wonderful authors there. Always ready to give their advice, tips, and comments. Oh, and Romance Writer's Community or RWC--awesome site.
What are your hobbies?
I like to play tennis with my family, chess, go for a walk with my husband, read, write.
What is your favorite secret pleasure?
Long hours of soaking in the bathtub while reading a book and eating candies or cookies.
What is your biggest wish for yourself?
Right now, I wish I could talk to my brother one more time. He passed away two months ago.
.
I am from Seattle, Washington. The Evergreen State! Live or come and visit and you’ll know why this place is called evergreen. :)
Tell us your latest news.
My latest news: I sold my first novel, Wicked Knight: Tristan, to Red Rose Publishing. It is a standalone book and the first of the five Knight stories I plan to write this year or for the rest of my life. LOL. So exciting. *grinning* Also, Perfect Vessel (Emerald Envisage Anthology) is coming out I believe in March from eXtasy Books. The story is about a hot green alien, desperate dancer and an out of this world offer. This story is definitely wicked.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
The first time when I truly felt that I have the tools to write was during my English Composition class. My instructor kept writing comments on the side of my written works “publishable”. She even gave me a copy of the Writer’s Market book. And getting my short story published at the college paper sealed the idea.
What genre are you most comfortable writing?
I love writing contemporary romance. I feel this is where my strength lies. Although I tried writing my first paranormal (trying something new is fun), sent my proposal and actually received a request for full.
How did you come up with the title for your book(s)?
I like this question :). Coming up with a title is not easy. I always ask myself, “What the story is about?” After coming up with a title, I spice it up to make it catchy, romantic, sensual. For example, To Trust a Wicked Man. The story centers on the heroine trying to find ways to trust a man. Using the title To Trust a Man is fine, but by adding the word wicked, the title is now more colorful and intriguing. Now you can ask, “How wicked is he?” :) The book is available at Fictionwise. Grab a copy and see how wicked my hero is. If anyone out there has a suggestion on how to come up with a great book title, I want to hear it. Please, please, tell me. LOL
What are your current projects?
I am now working on the second Knight book, Wicked Knight: Bors. Okay, the Knights are the four undeniably yummy, gorgeous and irresistible brothers. All named after the famous knights of the round table. Their last name is Knight.
What do you think has helped you the most with your writing?
Reading books of the same genre I am interested in writing is great. Searching and reading writing tips online. Forums! Join Romance Divas. I met wonderful authors there. Always ready to give their advice, tips, and comments. Oh, and Romance Writer's Community or RWC--awesome site.
What are your hobbies?
I like to play tennis with my family, chess, go for a walk with my husband, read, write.
What is your favorite secret pleasure?
Long hours of soaking in the bathtub while reading a book and eating candies or cookies.
What is your biggest wish for yourself?
Right now, I wish I could talk to my brother one more time. He passed away two months ago.
.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Interview with Mark Alders
Please list places we can find you online…websites, myspace, facebook, blogs, etc.
I am available on livejournal, mainly because I like the user interface of that blog. The address is http://markalders.livejournal.com/
Tell us a little about yourself.
I am 38 years old—yes, that’s only 2 years away from being the big 40! Yikes. By day I am a mild mannered Post office worker and by night I let my imagination run riot at the keyboard, creating all sorts of stories.
Tell us your latest news.
I am currently in the middle of moving house. At the moment I am in Perth. From the 25th of February I will be in Melbourne. Why did I move all the way across the country? To be closer to family, that’s why. Am I insane…most likely! *giggle*
When and why did you begin writing?
I began writing in high school. English was my first love. I actually wrote a book back then, a terrible, terrible book and we shall never speak of it again. LOL It was basically a knock-off of Lord of the Rings. Well, we all had to start somewhere. As for the why, I really don’t know. I think it has a lot to do with the fact writing takes me to places my imagination leads me.
What are you reading now?
I am reading Heinlein’s “Tunnel in the Sky”
What are your current projects?
I always have a few projects on the go.
A) “SATOR”, a m/m fantasy
B) “The Song of Tristan and Isolde”, a m/m paranormal/fantasy
C) And the second book of my five book series, collectively known as the Pembroke Eve chronicles. The first book, Shadows of the Mind is currently submitted to eXtasy. It is a m/m sci-fi tale
D) “The Cadet’s Officer”, a short story and m/m sci-fi
Do you have a writing routine?
Yes…whenever I get the chance, basically. My muse is also like a wallflower at a teenage disco. It sits by and watches nervously…then, when it plucks up the courage to get up and dance I can’t keep up! LOL
My writing is sporadic. I can go days without placing a word down, then all at once I can write a novel in 6 weeks…Crazy!
What is one thing you could never live without?
Chocolate. Chocolate. Chocolate. Did I mention chocolate?
Where do you spend most of your time online?
On porn sites…kidding! LOL Seriously, I spend a lot of my online time researching. One of my current projects SATOR is requiring some Australian Aboriginal phrases and words…so yeah, I’ve been learning some phrases to possibly use in my books.
What are your hobbies?
I watch movies as a hobby. Because of work and my writing life I don’t get a chance to watch TV. I do it as a hobby. Most weeks I am lucky to get an hour of TV in! Ahh, the life of a writer, hey?
What is your favorite secret pleasure?
To sit and type all day while eating chocolate J
I am available on livejournal, mainly because I like the user interface of that blog. The address is http://markalders.livejournal.com/
Tell us a little about yourself.
I am 38 years old—yes, that’s only 2 years away from being the big 40! Yikes. By day I am a mild mannered Post office worker and by night I let my imagination run riot at the keyboard, creating all sorts of stories.
Tell us your latest news.
I am currently in the middle of moving house. At the moment I am in Perth. From the 25th of February I will be in Melbourne. Why did I move all the way across the country? To be closer to family, that’s why. Am I insane…most likely! *giggle*
When and why did you begin writing?
I began writing in high school. English was my first love. I actually wrote a book back then, a terrible, terrible book and we shall never speak of it again. LOL It was basically a knock-off of Lord of the Rings. Well, we all had to start somewhere. As for the why, I really don’t know. I think it has a lot to do with the fact writing takes me to places my imagination leads me.
What are you reading now?
I am reading Heinlein’s “Tunnel in the Sky”
What are your current projects?
I always have a few projects on the go.
A) “SATOR”, a m/m fantasy
B) “The Song of Tristan and Isolde”, a m/m paranormal/fantasy
C) And the second book of my five book series, collectively known as the Pembroke Eve chronicles. The first book, Shadows of the Mind is currently submitted to eXtasy. It is a m/m sci-fi tale
D) “The Cadet’s Officer”, a short story and m/m sci-fi
Do you have a writing routine?
Yes…whenever I get the chance, basically. My muse is also like a wallflower at a teenage disco. It sits by and watches nervously…then, when it plucks up the courage to get up and dance I can’t keep up! LOL
My writing is sporadic. I can go days without placing a word down, then all at once I can write a novel in 6 weeks…Crazy!
What is one thing you could never live without?
Chocolate. Chocolate. Chocolate. Did I mention chocolate?
Where do you spend most of your time online?
On porn sites…kidding! LOL Seriously, I spend a lot of my online time researching. One of my current projects SATOR is requiring some Australian Aboriginal phrases and words…so yeah, I’ve been learning some phrases to possibly use in my books.
What are your hobbies?
I watch movies as a hobby. Because of work and my writing life I don’t get a chance to watch TV. I do it as a hobby. Most weeks I am lucky to get an hour of TV in! Ahh, the life of a writer, hey?
What is your favorite secret pleasure?
To sit and type all day while eating chocolate J
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Interview with Wendy Ely
Where are you from?
I grew up in Milwaukie, Oregon but moved to sunny Arizona five years ago. I love everything about this place from the people I have met to the palm trees!
Do you see writing as a long or short term goal?
I have been writing since I could hold a pencil so I imagine I’ll write as long as plots and characters form themselves in my brain. I’m actively working on two books at this time and have several more swirling around in my thoughts waiting to be written. Each book is an adventure that I look forward to every time.
Do you belong to any writing forums or groups?
I joined Valley of the Sun Romance Writers, which is a local chapter of Romance Writers of America, about a year ago. I have loved every minute of it. I also belong to a critique group.
What new author has grasped your interest?
Buffy Christopher. I don’t generally read paranormal romance but her books are fascinating. You can find her at www.sapphirebluepublishing.com.
What are your current projects?
I’m in the editing phase of a contemporary called New Years Resolution. My critique partners are going over it now. In New Years Resolution, Kate wants to be engaged by the following year. Her friends think she’s crazy since she’s not even dating when the resolution is made! She goes on a dating spree in hopes to find Mr. Wonderful. Instead, she learns more important lessons about life, plus Mr. Wonderful has been right in front of her the entire time!
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Interview with Alisha Paige
Please list places we can find you online.
You can find me at http://www.alishapaige.com/ and at my blog interviewing other authors at http://www.alishapaige.blogspot.com/. I’m also on My Space and Facebook so friend me if you’re on there.
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Texas but one day I want to live in New York. I visited the Big Apple when I was 18 and fell in love with the excitement, the cozy coffee shops, Broadway..sigh.
What inspired you to pen your first novel?
I read a book by Rebecca York about a werewolf. When it was published, paranormal romance was not even considered a genre. Instead, it was classified under suspense. Ms. York opened up a whole new world to me. I wrote my first paranormal years later because I’d never forgotten her story.
What genre are you most comfortable writing?
I’m most comfortable writing paranormal or fantasy because my imagination can run wild. There are no rules..
What books have most influenced your life?
Stephen King’s On Writing is a must read for any writer.
What are you reading now?
Dawn Thompson’s The Ravening..chilling and very erotic
Are you a plotter or a pantser?
Total pantser and it’s quite scary at times. I never know where my stories will take me but my characters have never let me down yet.
What is one thing you could never live without?
My supportive, loving, sexy husband and my three beautiful children.
You can find me at http://www.alishapaige.com/ and at my blog interviewing other authors at http://www.alishapaige.blogspot.com/. I’m also on My Space and Facebook so friend me if you’re on there.
Where are you from?
I was born and raised in Texas but one day I want to live in New York. I visited the Big Apple when I was 18 and fell in love with the excitement, the cozy coffee shops, Broadway..sigh.
What inspired you to pen your first novel?
I read a book by Rebecca York about a werewolf. When it was published, paranormal romance was not even considered a genre. Instead, it was classified under suspense. Ms. York opened up a whole new world to me. I wrote my first paranormal years later because I’d never forgotten her story.
What genre are you most comfortable writing?
I’m most comfortable writing paranormal or fantasy because my imagination can run wild. There are no rules..
What books have most influenced your life?
Stephen King’s On Writing is a must read for any writer.
What are you reading now?
Dawn Thompson’s The Ravening..chilling and very erotic
Are you a plotter or a pantser?
Total pantser and it’s quite scary at times. I never know where my stories will take me but my characters have never let me down yet.
What is one thing you could never live without?
My supportive, loving, sexy husband and my three beautiful children.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Interview with Sierra Wolfe
Please list places we can find you online…websites, myspace, facebook, blogs, etc.
You can find me at…
My webpage
MySpace
Facebook
You can find me at…
My webpage
MySpace
And of course…here at the Wicked Thorn and Roses blog
Where are you from?
Good ole Missouri. Of course, I work as a traveling nurse, so I’m not always home. You never know where you’ll catch me. ;)
What kind of jobs have you worked while building your writing career?
Oh, wow. I’ve worked a lot of jobs in my time. I don’t know if I’d say they were while I was building my writing career, but since I’ve been writing most of my life to some degree, I guess they were in a way. Anyway, I’ve worked as a waitress, a factory worker in several different kinds of factories, an accounting assistant, a nurse assistant, and a nurse. Let’s just say that I lose interest in things very easily (except writing, of course). Writing is the one thing I’ve never bored of.
When and why did you begin writing?
I don’t know if I have an answer for that. It seems like I’ve always written, in one form or another. I was about 4 years old when I wrote my first poem for my grandma. I remember how proud she was and she put it away to keep. Years later, she pulled it out to show it to me. I’ll never forget it.
Who or what has influenced your writing, and in what way?
One of the influences with me would be my grandma. She was an avid reader. She had a full wall in her bedroom full of shelves of books. She’d read each and every one of them, some of them several times. I was in awe of how many there were. That’s where I inherited my love of reading, and with that, came my love of writing.
What genre are you most comfortable writing?
Any kind of romance. Paranormal, inspirational, contemporary, romantic suspense, you name it, I would take a shot at it. I’d really like to write some young adult books, too.
If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?
Actually, I’m lucky enough to have one. The amazing and wonderful Gemma Halliday! NY published author of the “in High Heels” series. For more information, check out her site!
Of course, she's just got started with me, so my bad writing has nothing to do with her teaching, LOL. I know I will learn tons from her, though. And, I'm extremely grateful for her guidance and inspiration. I can't wait to learn everything she has to teach me!!!
What are your current projects?
Too many to mention. I’m the type who has about 5 projects in the works at one time. If I get tired of reading one over and over, I can move on to another for a while. It really works for me.
Do you see writing as a long- or short-term career?
Hopefully, long term. It’s my goal to make it my full-time career. Easier on the back and knees than nursing, LOL. But, I may have to keep nursing at least part-time. Don’t know if I could give it up completely.
If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything?
Yes, I would have started getting serious sooner. It took me too long to have enough faith in myself to work on it seriously. I still have plenty of moments of self doubt, but it’s getting better.
Do you belong to any writing forums or groups?
Absolutely, I belong to several. But, my favorite place in the whole world is Romance Divas.
Are you a plotter or a pantser?
Plotter. I’ve tried pantsing, just couldn’t cut it, I’m afraid.
Is there anything additional you would like to share with your readers?
I hope you enjoyed reading a little about me. I’d love it if you would come back often and see what we’re up to. In fact, if you’d follow our blog, I’d be ecstatic! Seriously! Oh, and I love comments! ;)
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Interview with Kate Davison
Where are you from?
Originally, Pontiac, Michigan. I moved to the Gulf Coast of Florida at age 12 due to my father’s health. Then I moved to New Jersey about seventeen years ago. Still live in NJ. It’s the biggest surprise of my life. The state is nothing as I’d pictured it. It’s more rural than anyone ever gives it credit for, with more varied topography than any state its size should be allowed to have. Damn, I sound like I should write copy for the New Jersey Tourism Bureau.
Tell us a little about yourself.
I’m a natural born smart-ass and a control freak. My husband is a graphic artist who does daily comic strips and graphic novels. He’s a very cool guy. We attend lots of comic conventions, on both sides of the table—meaning as talent and fan. I’m a science fiction junkie. When my hubby and I first moved to New Jersey the first long trip we took was down to Atlantic City to a Star Trek Convention. It was so cool. It’s no secret that I’m a geek. A wear my geekdom with pride.
What kind of jobs have you worked while building your writing career? I work as a Respiratory Therapist, which means I keep people breathing, either by natural or artificial means. My specialty is working in a Level III NICU with all the little tiny premature babies. Love it. There is something very rewarding about taking a tiny life and seeing it through some of its worst crises and then at the end of about four months watching she or he go home with very grateful parents.
When and why did you begin writing?
I began writing because if I didn’t pour out all the ideas swimming around in my head either it would have eventually exploded. I love to read, so I think creating my own characters and situations was a natural extension of that love of books. I began making up my own stories before I could read. When I was a child I had terrible nightmares. My mother, at her wits end, took me to the pediatrician. He told her to read to me before going to bed each night to put good thoughts into my head. No such doing. I only wanted the unadulterated Brothers Grimm or Three Billy Goats Gruff. After fighting with me every night, my mother finally took all the books and put them away. But was a determined child, and I found them and got them down again. She finally threw up her hands and said to hell with it. So, I started telling myself stories to fall asleep. And now….ah um….years later, I still do.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
The first day I first put words to paper. No one ever saw the stories I wrote back then, and no one ever will. But I was still a writer. That goes for anyone. If you put words to paper, you’re a writer.
What inspired you to pen your first novel?
Lack of books turning out the way I wanted them to. I wanted to write my own endings, have my own conclusions on paper. Of course, what I didn’t know at the time was that most determined main characters—and a few secondary ones—begin to take over and soon write their own endings.
Who or what has influenced your writing, and in what way?
I can’t really say, there have been so many over the years. Definitely sci-fi. I started watching Star Trek when I was a kid, and before you ask…yes, the original series back in the late 60’s early 70’s. I loved the way each show entombed a new culture. Even as a child I was amazed by that. By the time I was 11-12 Star Wars came out. I remember seeing the first few trailers for that on television and all they showed was the now famous logo and at the very end, Darth Vader turned around and looked straight into the camera. Talk about a dramatic hook! Mine and my father’s mouths opened and we both yelled, “I gotta see that.” Then there were all the epic mini-series that were on television that came from books. Of course, I had to go back and read them after they aired, but it did give me an huge appreciation for literature.
What genre are you most comfortable writing?
Since I write in six different genres under several names, I have to say I am comfortable in most. Historical seems fraught with danger for me. I love Historicals, but noticed if I ever decide to do an entire novel in that genre without it being fantasy or steam punk, I better get a lot of references. I am a documentary junkie and most days have the History Channel on in the background, so it’s not the research part I find daunting, but the actual dialogue. – Most comfortable are paranormal, sci-fi and futuristics- anything where there is little or no structure in the world created. By that I mean the world is open to however the author wants to make it. I’m of a firm believer Gene Roddenberry was a god!
How did you come up with the title for your book(s)?
Usually they just come to me. I like to try and make them mean something to several aspects of the book. Character traits, plot points, internal conflicts, or external. I have a series of romantic suspense I’m working on that all have sayings from the Bible as the titles. Sometimes I’ll even take a line from the book that came out rather poetic and use that for a title. Since some of my future books will be targeted for NY, I’m sure I won’t be able to keep titles – one of the great things about writing small press is the fact the publishers pretty much let you keep your titles. At least that’s been my experience, which really works for me, since I put such time and care into selecting what title goes on the front of the book.
Do you see writing as a long- or short-term career?
Definitely a long term. I’ve already been at it in one form or another since childhood, I doubt I could stop now. The voices won’t let me.
Originally, Pontiac, Michigan. I moved to the Gulf Coast of Florida at age 12 due to my father’s health. Then I moved to New Jersey about seventeen years ago. Still live in NJ. It’s the biggest surprise of my life. The state is nothing as I’d pictured it. It’s more rural than anyone ever gives it credit for, with more varied topography than any state its size should be allowed to have. Damn, I sound like I should write copy for the New Jersey Tourism Bureau.
Tell us a little about yourself.
I’m a natural born smart-ass and a control freak. My husband is a graphic artist who does daily comic strips and graphic novels. He’s a very cool guy. We attend lots of comic conventions, on both sides of the table—meaning as talent and fan. I’m a science fiction junkie. When my hubby and I first moved to New Jersey the first long trip we took was down to Atlantic City to a Star Trek Convention. It was so cool. It’s no secret that I’m a geek. A wear my geekdom with pride.
What kind of jobs have you worked while building your writing career? I work as a Respiratory Therapist, which means I keep people breathing, either by natural or artificial means. My specialty is working in a Level III NICU with all the little tiny premature babies. Love it. There is something very rewarding about taking a tiny life and seeing it through some of its worst crises and then at the end of about four months watching she or he go home with very grateful parents.
When and why did you begin writing?
I began writing because if I didn’t pour out all the ideas swimming around in my head either it would have eventually exploded. I love to read, so I think creating my own characters and situations was a natural extension of that love of books. I began making up my own stories before I could read. When I was a child I had terrible nightmares. My mother, at her wits end, took me to the pediatrician. He told her to read to me before going to bed each night to put good thoughts into my head. No such doing. I only wanted the unadulterated Brothers Grimm or Three Billy Goats Gruff. After fighting with me every night, my mother finally took all the books and put them away. But was a determined child, and I found them and got them down again. She finally threw up her hands and said to hell with it. So, I started telling myself stories to fall asleep. And now….ah um….years later, I still do.
When did you first consider yourself a writer?
The first day I first put words to paper. No one ever saw the stories I wrote back then, and no one ever will. But I was still a writer. That goes for anyone. If you put words to paper, you’re a writer.
What inspired you to pen your first novel?
Lack of books turning out the way I wanted them to. I wanted to write my own endings, have my own conclusions on paper. Of course, what I didn’t know at the time was that most determined main characters—and a few secondary ones—begin to take over and soon write their own endings.
Who or what has influenced your writing, and in what way?
I can’t really say, there have been so many over the years. Definitely sci-fi. I started watching Star Trek when I was a kid, and before you ask…yes, the original series back in the late 60’s early 70’s. I loved the way each show entombed a new culture. Even as a child I was amazed by that. By the time I was 11-12 Star Wars came out. I remember seeing the first few trailers for that on television and all they showed was the now famous logo and at the very end, Darth Vader turned around and looked straight into the camera. Talk about a dramatic hook! Mine and my father’s mouths opened and we both yelled, “I gotta see that.” Then there were all the epic mini-series that were on television that came from books. Of course, I had to go back and read them after they aired, but it did give me an huge appreciation for literature.
What genre are you most comfortable writing?
Since I write in six different genres under several names, I have to say I am comfortable in most. Historical seems fraught with danger for me. I love Historicals, but noticed if I ever decide to do an entire novel in that genre without it being fantasy or steam punk, I better get a lot of references. I am a documentary junkie and most days have the History Channel on in the background, so it’s not the research part I find daunting, but the actual dialogue. – Most comfortable are paranormal, sci-fi and futuristics- anything where there is little or no structure in the world created. By that I mean the world is open to however the author wants to make it. I’m of a firm believer Gene Roddenberry was a god!
How did you come up with the title for your book(s)?
Usually they just come to me. I like to try and make them mean something to several aspects of the book. Character traits, plot points, internal conflicts, or external. I have a series of romantic suspense I’m working on that all have sayings from the Bible as the titles. Sometimes I’ll even take a line from the book that came out rather poetic and use that for a title. Since some of my future books will be targeted for NY, I’m sure I won’t be able to keep titles – one of the great things about writing small press is the fact the publishers pretty much let you keep your titles. At least that’s been my experience, which really works for me, since I put such time and care into selecting what title goes on the front of the book.
Do you see writing as a long- or short-term career?
Definitely a long term. I’ve already been at it in one form or another since childhood, I doubt I could stop now. The voices won’t let me.
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