by Sarah | Nov 28, 2013 | Author Interview, Friday Dialogues, Guest Authors, Writing
Personal
- Can you tell us a little about yourself?
Gray Dixon is my nom de plume for the erotica—hot, sexy stories for the adult crowd—I write. I love walks along the beach at sunset, a glass of wine over a romantic dinner and a night of love.
Okay, that sounded like something I’d write. On the serious side, I’m married to my Dear Heart for many years, have the 2.1 children according to statistics, a dog or two (depends on how I feel when I visit the pet rescue center), a couple of fish (they’re easy to take care of), a big yard with lots of fruit trees (I like organic gardening), two cars and a house (both two much to take care of when I want to write). Overall, I like a lot of different things—crafting, watching the History Channel, reality shows (not all, but some), travel, and writing. I have a few skeletons in my closet, but I’ll never tell. I’ve worked hard all my life in many interesting career paths and enjoyed all of them. Writing and getting published, however, has topped all my previous endeavors. I love creating new worlds and living in them for a brief time before moving on to the next one.
- Do you laugh at your own jokes?Yeah, I do.
- Have you ever found true love? Yes, I married him.
- Do you have a saying or motto for your life and/or as a writer? People’s lives change daily, be prepared.
- What is something you never leave home without (apart from keys, phone, money, and ID)? Business Cards.
- Where can people find you on the web? Where can they read more about your books?
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gray.dixon.50
Twitter: https://twitter.com/GrayDixon
Between the Pages of Black and White… Blog: http://graydixon.blogspot.com
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/25504491-gray-dixon
YouTube Page: http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdQx7aa87kRVpa0XdjG4Tzw
Your Novel
Master Marshal is the fourth book in the Masters of Tabu series. As the tagline states, a cowboy and a supermodel hook up and passion ignites. Shane Marshal inherited his family’s cattle ranch and struggles to keep it out of the red, financially. He is also a co-owner in Club Tabu which he doesn’t get to visit often because he works almost every waking hour to keep the ranch going. With the help of his friends, he turns the property into a working dude ranch, with BDSM activities for additional revenue.
In walks Sharon Berger, aka Valentina Halston the supermodel. But, Shane doesn’t know she’s famous in the fashion world. She’s there to find rest and relaxation with a little fun to escape the paparazzi and get over her cheating ex-boyfriend.
Therein begins the fun and naughtiness.
- Are the names of the characters in your novel important? I strive to find the perfect names to fit the characters I have in my head. All the characters in the Masters of Tabu series came to me quickly and I never changed them.
- How much of yourself is hidden in the characters in the book? All of them have bits and pieces of me.
- What was your favorite part or chapter, and why? The rope scene. Sensual and really enjoyed writing it. I wanted to put one in this story after watching a few rope suspension scene at a club.
Writing
- How many stories are swirling around in your head? Do you keep a mental list, a computer file, or a spiral notebook filled with the ideas? I’m already thinking about adding a few more to the Masters, but they might end up a new series. I keep notes and ideas in a journal I refer to often. If I’m out of the house and an idea strikes, I type it into my phone notes and transcribe when I get back to my laptop.
- What are you working on now? I’m working on Book 5, Master Dragon. He’s a bad boy and can’t wait to delve into his character.
Fun (Crazy, odd questions just for fun)
- Have you ever gone out in public in mis-matched shoes, or with your shirt on backward, and when you realized it just said ‘eh, screw it’? Many times I’ve had embarrassing moments with wardrobe malfunctions. Like, several buttons opened on a shirt, the lining to a see-thru skirt or dress up around my waist and me baring everything, or once I lost a garter and didn’t know until the stocking started inching down my thigh. Real good times.
- Are you a neat freak? Or clutter-bound? Used to be neat freak, but as I’ve grown older and clutter bug because I’m always writing!
- You were just given a yacht. What would you name it? Excite Me
- If you were a Star Trek® or Star Wars® character, which one would you be? More Star Trek than Star Wars. I love space exploration and when growing up, I wanted to be an astronaut. The best I’ll ever do is maybe one day write about traveling in space.
- If parents say ‘never take candy from strangers’ then why do we trick or treat? Great marketing years ago by the candy companies.
Quick Questions
- Sing in the rain or dance in the streets? Sing in the rain
- Pen or pencil? Pen, I do crossword puzzles in pen.
- Summer or Winter? Summer, hate the cold.
- Movies or TV? Movies
- Theater or DVD? DVD
- Rural or Urban? Tough one, done both and like something about each
- Facial hair or clean shaven? Clean shaven
- Marvel or DC? I’m not into either
- Cowboy or Bad Boy? Oh, I have to choose?
- Sunrise or Sunsent? Both are beautiful, but I’m a night person, not morning, so sunsets.
- Fall leaves or Spring flowers? Spring flowers
- Peanut butter or jelly? Peanut butter
- Spender or Saver? Saver
*~*~*~*
| [amazon_link id=”B00GWTVKU2″ target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] | SCP |
BLURB:
A cowboy and a supermodel ignite unbridled passion in the Texas heat.
Shane Marshal struggles to keep his family’s cattle ranch above financial flood waters. With help from friends, he turns the homestead into a BDSM retreat. He can’t keep his mind on business when a single woman from New York with legs to infinity arrives. To tamp down his lustful thoughts, he goes out of his way to give her grief, but she doesn’t flinch. He needs a new strategy.
Valentina Halston, a high fashion model, changed her name from Sharon Berger to hide her past. After finding her boyfriend in delicato with another model, she books a vacation at a dude ranch with BDSM activities in search of change. Rest and relaxation, fresh air, no phones, no paparazzi, and no cheating boyfriend sounded perfect. Instead, she finds more than she could imagine.
EXCERPT:
Kneeling closer, he enfolded his arms around her back and drew her back against his chest. Leaning toward her mouth, he noted her eyes closing.
Shane lowered his mouth and captured those delectable parting lips. He swirled the tip of his tongue inside, discovering every tiny inch of the wet warmth. She didn’t resist and neither did she change her position. He deepened the caress causing his body to react, his erection pressing harder against his tightening jeans. He longed to restrain her, whip her, and finally take her places he could only imagine as a mind-blowing fuck.
What the hell was he thinking? How many times had he told himself he couldn’t get involved with her over the past twenty-four hours? He knew better and reined in his hyper-drive Dom to release her.
Her eyes fluttered open. “Wow,” she gasped. “You were so—so incredible. Do all cowboys kiss that way?”
He chuckled. “I’m not sure about other cowboys.” Shane grinned and glanced over at the other couple to make sure he hadn’t disturbed them. “Glad you liked it. I do pride myself in delivering my all in a kiss.” He winked.
Sharon pursed her lips. “There’s no shame with you, is there?”
“Nope.”
“All this confidence comes from experience? How many women have you had?”
He cocked his head and crinkled his brow. “Darlin’, I don’t kiss and tell. Now, back in position.” He slid along the blanket until he positioned himself behind Sharon. He wrapped his hands around her waist. “Are you comfortable?”
“Yes,” she said, her voice fluttered. “Not really. My knees hurt.”
“Thank you for being honest. This can’t be your first time, darlin’. Lean back on your heels and spread your knees wider.”
“I can’t—”
by Sarah | Nov 22, 2013 | Author Interview, Friday Dialogues, Guest Authors, Writing
Personal
- Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I’ve always had stories swirling around in my brain; until recently I thought everyone did. When I’m not actively talking or thinking about what I’m doing, the characters start showing me scenes in their lives, demanding I tell their stories so they can live in the heads of readers also.
- Have you ever found true love?
I met my husband over 30 years ago at a 60s party thrown by a mutual friend. I drank a lot too much beer, so my brother carried me out of the party that night, fireman-style, while I yelled over his butt, “You there, cute boy! Remember, party at our house next weekend! Be there!” He came to that party and never left. We’ve loved and supported each other through raising 4 kids, and the loss of 3 of our parents. He’s my soul-mate.
Your Novel
- What about your book might pique the reader’s interest?
I like to write about strong women who are living independent lives. They’re not looking to fall in love, but are willing to have a hot encounter with a sexy man. I don’t like alpha-hole men, so my heroes generally appear to be betas…until the chips are down or their woman is threatened. Then they will move Heaven and earth to protect her. Sigh…
- What inspired you to write this particular story?
When I finished my previous book, For The Love Of His Life, the epilogue ended with Dmitri, the cousin that Ivan sent to convince the scary red-headed biked queen to forget about her promise to hunt down the famous actor and force him to have sex with her, deciding to stay and try to “tame a wildcat”. At that point I had no plans to write another book with these characters, but after I wrote that last line, Dmitri and the biker queen started to urgently tell me their story, so I had to write it.
- How did you choose your title?
I like to use puns or double entendres in the titles. I’ve been dismayed more than once after choosing the perfect title, to search for it on Amazon and find lots of other books with that same exact title! So I work to create unique titles. In For The Love Of His Life, the hero, Raul, learns to love himself, as well as the woman he falls in love with. In Only One Man Will Do, the heroine, Alexandra, learns that not only can she be happy with only one man for the rest of her life, but that Dmitri is the only one who can thrill her for the long term.
- How much of yourself is hidden in the characters in the book?
Ooh, tricky question. One of my closest friends, who was a roommate after college, says that when she reads my books it’s like sitting and chatting with me…she can hear my voice narrating the story to her. I guess that’s what gets called the author’s “voice”.
Writing
- What are you working on now?
The epilogue in Only One Man Will Do has Raul telling Ivan that they need to find a woman for him. He smiles and says he’ll wait, leading Raul to tease him, asking him if he expects that someday she’ll just walk in the door of his resort. He says “yes”. When I wrote those words, I suddenly knew who was going to star in the next sequel. I never set out to write a series, but I get so fond of the characters that I want them all to have a HEA. Plus I respond to the ones who make the most noise in my head.
- Have you written any other books?
I have a series of 6 books about the members of a large Hispanic family, and the people they all find to complete them. The Reyes Family Romances was my first series, and one of the books, # 4 in the order, is a free download at: http://www.smashwords.com/b/18367. I’ve also written 2 female spy novels that just got re-issued as a 2-in-1 eBook for only $3.99 for 2 complete novels. I wrote 2 stand-alone romances, and then a series of 2 books about the return of Mayan alien vampires and how their plot to destroy humanity gets foiled–these are also romances!
Fun (Crazy, odd questions just for fun)
Be able to retire and get a small camper to travel around the country with my husband, maybe taking any grandbabies that might come along, with us.
Quick Questions
- I even do crosswords in pen.
Summer, when going camping is so easy, and the outdoors is so wonderful!
Rural-I don’t like big cities.
- Facial hair or clean shaven?
Barely-growing in facial hair…and a mustache.
Marvel, of course! Have you seen any of the recent spate of super-hero movies? Those are MY favorites! I’m a sci-fi and action movie nerd and proud of it!
***************
Blurb: For The Love Of His Life
Can a sexy Hispanic action movie star find himself in the BWCA of upper Minnesota? Will the local woman he grows to love believe someone who “lies for a living”?
Buy Links:
http://www.eternalpress.biz/book.php?isbn=9781615729210
http://www.amazon.com/For-Love-His-Life-ebook/dp/B00CMHMGXI/ref=tmm_kin_title_0?ie=UTF8&qid=1369855652&sr=8-3
Blurb: Only One Man Will Do
Tough-as-nails businesswoman by day, Alexandra is a biker queen by night. When a large Russian man inserts himself into her life, she follows her instincts to some explosive sex. But he’s not willing to share her with her gang, and she’s not willing to give up other men. When two of her bikers are killed, Dmitri is the main suspect. How far is he willing to go to keep her to himself? And has she really fallen in love for the first time ever…with a murderer?
Buy Links:
http://www.amazon.com/Only-One-Man-Will-Do-ebook/dp/B00GKNPO2A/ref=sr_1_12?ie=UTF8&qid=1384304195&sr=8-12&keywords=love+fiona+mcgier
Excerpt from Only One Man Will Do:
Alexandra is attending the yearly charity ball at her father’s country club. She told Dmitri she was going alone, because he’s too “rough” and wouldn’t “fit in”.
Alexandra was so busy with her thoughts that she didn’t hear her Father approaching her from behind. When he cleared his throat she turned and almost swallowed her tongue.
“Alex, I’ve been looking for you all over! I know you don’t like when I introduce you to men not directly in our business, but this man here represents a conglomerate of interests from Russia. They aren’t big in the US market yet, but if they ever get to the point where they need our expertise, it would be nice if we knew we would be in the running at least for an interview. Isn’t that right, Dmitri?”
Dmitri was wearing a European-styled power suit so tailored to him that it had to have been hand-made. It was flawless and hugged every part of his body, accentuating his broad shoulders and tapered waist. The trousers had generous pleats in the front for a smoother line, amply covering up what Alexandra knew was under them, making her mouth go dry as she forced herself to not stare. His shoes looked to be hand-tooled Italian leather oxfords, and his conservative tie was held in place by a tack that had a diamond encrusted on it. As he held out his hand to shake hers, Alexandra idly noticed that the cufflinks on his sleeves had the same diamonds on them as his tie tack. The overall impression she got from looking at him was that this was a man born to wealth, who only walked among the plebeians when he had to; otherwise he stayed on Mt. Olympus, within his own social group.
She tried to speak, but had no voice. She cleared her throat and tried again, her hand still held in Dmitri’s massive paw as both men waited patiently for her to acknowledge him.
“I’m please to meet you, mister…” she began then turned to her Dad, her hand still being held. “What did you say his name was?”
“Dmitri Illyanovich,” her Father smiled at the man. “I did pronounce it right, didn’t I?”
For Dad to be so ingratiating, he’s totally under Dmitri’s spell! Either that, or I’ve been played for a fool in a major way. What the fuck?
Alexandra felt her face begin to hurt as the fake smile she was wearing caused muscle fatigue. Her eyes searched Dmitri’s face but he kept up the act of having never met her before.
****
Copyright 2013, Fiona McGier
Find out more about all of my books, including excerpts, reviews and buy links, along with a free erotic short story at my website: http://www.fionamcgier.com
by Sarah | Nov 14, 2013 | Author Interview, Friday Dialogues, Guest Authors, Writing
Personal
- Can you tell us a little about yourself? I’m a mom of five, grandmother of nine, and I like to keep busy! But sometimes I’m so busy that I get very unorganized.
- What do you like to read? What’s your favorite genre? I love to read romance, either historical or contemporary.
- What’s your favorite place, real or fictional? I would love to be able to visit Robyn Carr’s Virgin River. It’s full of strong, honorable men and equally strong, resourceful women!
- What’s the best thing you’ve done in your life? I think my greatest achievement has been to raise two intelligent and talented daughters, guiding them into motivated, compassionate adults.
- What has changed for you personally since you wrote your first book? I used to wonder how I’d find story lines to write, but now I can’t find enough hours in the day to flesh out all the ideas that pop into my head!
- Where can people find you on the web? Where can they read more about your books? Readers can find out more about me and my books on my website, blog, facebook, and twitter @PatriciaKiyono
Your Novel
- What inspired you to write this particular story? I wanted to write a Christmas book and was mulling over ideas this past spring. My youngest daughter, aged twenty-six, announced she planned to quite her lucrative job as a technical writer for a very successful industrial firm and move to southern California and try her hand as a screenwriter. My husband and I don’t want her to go, but we can’t stop her from pursuing her dream. So I did the next best thing – I made her the main character in my story!
- Are the names of the characters in your novel important? Since the story is set in west Michigan, several characters as well as the names of the towns have Dutch names. That’s because immigrants from the Netherlands settled the area between Holland and Grand Rapids in the 19th century, and there are still several Dutch language churches and organizations.
- How much of yourself is hidden in the characters in the book? There is a LOT of me in Sophie – I directed many Christmas programs both as a music teacher and as a mom helping out in my kids’ Sunday School. I also toyed with the idea of trying to “make it big” in the big city, but decided I’m better suited for a quiet family life in the ‘burbs.
- You got the call – your novel is being made into a TV series or movie – who’s in your dream cast? I think Amanda Seyfried would make a good Sophie, and I’d love to see Jake Gyllenhaal as Mitch.
Writing
- Are you a pantser or a plotter? I guess I’m more of a plotter. When I try to write without a plan I tend to go off in too many unrelated directions. I need to have a clear idea of where the story is headed and an idea of how the characters will get there. Sometimes the characters surprise me, but for the most part I stay with my outline.
- Are there any occupational hazards to being an author? I suppose being sedentary is the worst hazard for me. In order to write I have to research, and then I have to brainstorm, research some more, and then I have to actually do the writing. All of this involves sitting. I’m not an active person anyway, so my doctor is continually telling me to get up and move.
- Where do you get your ideas? I start with the conflict – I know that’s not the route most authors take! I take a problem –external one, like the production of a church Christmas pageant. Then I create characters who are affected by that problem, and give them each an internal conflict, such as Mitch’s insecurity as a single parent and Sophie’s desire to “make it big”. Finding conflicts is not difficult – I just watch the news!
- Have you written any other books? I’ve published seven other romances. Three are historicals (The Samurai’s Garden, The Patridge and the Peartree, and Love’s Refrain) and four are contemporary (The Legacy, Aegean Intrigue, The Christmas Phoenix, and The Calico Heart, co-authored with Stephanie Michels).
Quick Questions
- Sing in the rain or dance in the streets? Neither. I’m totally an indoors kid.
- Pen or pencil? Pencil. I make too many mistakes.
- Summer or Winter? Summer!
- Movies or TV? TV. I can’t sit still long enough to watch a movie!
- Theater or DVD? Theater!
- Rural or Urban? Rural for living, Urban for entertainment. I guess the ‘burbs are a good fit.
- Facial hair or clean shaven? I’m not picky about that, as long as the facial hair is neat and trimmed.
- Marvel or DC? DC
- Cowboy or Bad Boy? Cowboy.
- Sunrise or Sunset? Sunrise
- Fall leaves or Spring flowers? Fall leaves
- Peanut butter or jelly? Peanut butter
- Spender or Saver? Saver
*~*~*~*
| [amazon_link id=”B00GGNA44C” target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] | BN |
Blurb:
Mitch Carson is tired of the big city. In his former life, he’d been a news photographer in Chicago, where the dangers are endless. But now, he just wants to settle down in this quiet town with his daughter, Angie. Here, his only fear is losing his daughter to his scheming mother-in-law.
Sophie Gardner wants to be a screenwriter. She’s ready to leave small town Zutphen, Michigan and go to Hollywood. With a theater degree under her belt, she’s busy writing scripts while helping out her sister Joanie, who’s bedridden with a difficult pregnancy. Unfortunately, Joanie has somehow coerced Sophie into directing the Christmas pageant at Zutphen Community Church.
When Sophie and Mitch meet, the attraction is instant and mutual. But each wants what the other is trying to get away from. Can they deny their feelings and pursue their dreams? Or will the holiday prove to them that their true wishes might not be what they’d thought?
Bio:
In a previous life, Patricia Kiyono taught elementary school students by day and changed diapers at night. Now she teaches college students part time and changes diapers only when she’s taking care of grandkids. She loves to do anything that doesn’t involve exercise. Right now her favorite activities, other than writing, include scrapbooking, sewing, and making music. She and her husband live in southwest Michigan, near their five children and nine grandchildren.
by Sarah | Oct 9, 2013 | Author Interview, Guest Authors, Thursday Tell All, Writing
Today G.D. Ogan stopped by to talk a little about himself.
*~*
Personal
*
Can you tell us a little about yourself? As a youngster I loved to run long distance events up to marathon length (gets the endorphins really flowing) and I continued my running during the military, I’m a retired Air Force Major. I have a pair of graduate degrees unfortunately not in English or Literature. I’m also retired from a second “calling” as a psychologist with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice where I evaluated inmates for various treatment programs and in another area of work I wrote treatment programs for overcoming addictions.
* What do you like to read? What’s your favorite genre? Well Vampire Novels, as long as they’re not the “slasher” type novels. Like humans there would be good as well as bad vampires, at least in my novels there are many extremely good vampires! I also like steamy romance where humans care for each other enough to share passionate love and sometimes with a vampire and human or vampire and vampire, all of which are found in my books. I also like novels with action and political intrigue (also found in my own works), also some non-fiction, such as military hitory.
* What’s your favorite place, real or fictional? Why? I MUCH prefer being inside the world of my novels be it in Prague, The Czech Republic, or Cayuga, Canada, with Magdalena, Eviana and members of the coven or all of us fighting the Chinese Communist invaders in Siberia. It is world where people and vampires fight for what they believe in and let the passion flow!
* What piece of advice would you give your teenage self? This may seem weird: “Get better running shoes…that way you may not have the hip and knee problems in your later years!”
* What’s the best thing you’ve done in your life? From a personal perspective, having two wonderful children with my wife of 45 years (and counting). From a military perspective, serving as the Logistics Project Officer helping set up the first B-1 Bomber Base.
* Describe yourself in 5 words. Passionate about freedom and animals.
* Where can people find you on the web and read more about your books? Book 1: http://amzn.com/B006ZCBT6G Book 2:http://amzn.com/B00A4IEHL6 Book 3: Out in October. Web: http://immortalrelations.blogspot.com/ http://amazon.com/author/guyogan http://facebook.com/writervampire http://twitter.com/thecarphotoguy1
Your Novel
* What is your book about? Finding Love, passion and new reasons for “Living,” even when you had thought you were on life’s downhill slopes.
* What about your book might pique the reader’s interest? What started the series was when I found out that my late father had participated in a “tryst” while stationed overseas at the end of WW-II, it confirmed some things my mother had said those many, many, years ago, but which I was too young to understand. The photographic evidence and a discussion of that event are on the first two pages of the first book (you can see and read that in the “Look Inside” feature on Amazon and the facts are mentioned again in the second book).
* What inspired you to write this particular story? “Immortal Relations, Love and War” continues the characters in “Immortal Relations.” It is a story I felt compelled to write and as the love and passion between the characters grows, they will not be denied their existence, if only in print. They have become more than just friends and lovers, they are the breath of life itself! I could no more cut them off than cease loving my own children…maybe that is what the characters have become for me (I care for them that much)! IMHO the world would be a far, far, better place were my characters “alive” on the surface of the planet rather than locked up inside the covers of my novels. If I could wish it so…I’d be with them!
* How much of yourself is hidden in the characters in the book? Nothing hidden about Gary Logan, he is me with just a tweak of the name. His desire to save the dogs in books one and three are examples of our shared passion for animals.
* You’ve gotten the call, your book will be made into a series! What is your dream cast? OH WOW! How I would love that…not for the money but to see my “friends” animated on the movie or television screen! The male characters are not as important in my book as the female characters but if I could have anyone I wanted play the parts:
From the movie RED: Helen Mirren as Grandmother
From the Underworld Trilogy: Kate Beckensale as Magdalena (if she was unavailable, then from Lost Girl: Anna Silk)
From Lost Girl either Anna Silk as Eviana or Ksenia Solo (also from Lost Girl) If neither of them were available, then Candice Accola of Vampire Dairies (would need a dark wig or a dye job)
From Vampire Dairies Ian Somerhalder* as Gary (his eyes speak volumes!) If he wasn’t available then John Malkovich (the consummate actor)
From the movie RED
James Remar as Adam
*okay, I know, Ian Somerhalder is probably too good looking and too young but THOSE EYES!!! So we’d go with John Malkovich for Gary.
Writing
* Are you a pantser or a plotter? Pantser. Since I’ve had Attention Deficit Disorder all my life I have a million ideas bouncing around in my head all the time…writer’s block is not something I’ve ever had, just the opposite, I have to pick from among all the possible scenarios.
* Are there any occupational hazards to being an author? I can think of several, first I like to sequester myself alone in a quiet area, and my propensity to being a hermit can upset my wife. Second, unless you write like Fifty Shades of Grey author E. L. James; Harry Potter’s J. K. Rowling; The Vampire Diaries, L. J. Smith or the prolific action writer Tom Clancy, then it is doubtful you will make money writing novels. For me, as a storyteller, getting my unique stories out into the hands of those interested in reading them is my motivation.
* Where do you get your ideas? They really do just continually pop into my head and I have to use, modify or discard each one (I mostly use or modify, rarely discard).
* What is the most difficult part of the writing process? The easiest? I think you will hear the same thing from almost all indie authors on this one: “Writing the stories is the easiest, doing all the ‘commercial development’ (trying to sell the books) is the hardest.” Of course if you are like the authors mentioned in the previous question and answer, you’ll have minions to do all that ‘little stuff’ and your books will automatically make the best seller’s list even before they are available because of all the pre-paid orders! LOL
* What are you working on now? I’ve sent my third in the series, “Immortal Relations Coming Out” to the publisher (Create Space) and it should be on Amazon & Kindle in October.
* Have you written any other books? Yes, in addition to my “Immortal Relations” series, when I was working in the field of Psychology I wrote a book titled, “Can Anyone Help My Child” on assessment and potential treatments for Attention Deficit Disorder. The book has been out of print for many years but I still have some copies of it.
Fun (Crazy, odd questions just for fun)
* Any unusual or hidden talents? Don’t know if either qualifies; however, I used to have a pretty good singing voice (choir) and I loved to dance.
* Most frequently played song. Led Zeppelin’s “Whole Lot of Love” (mentioned being Gary Logan’s often played song in book three).
*
If you could be any comic book character, which one would you be? Captain America
Quick Questions
* Sing in the rain or dance in the streets? At this stage of my life, I’d better stick with Singing in the Rain.
* Pen or pencil? Pen
* Summer or Winter? Winter. Here in my part of Texas it never gets all that cold but it does get SWELTERING HOT!
* Movies or TV? TV
* Theater or DVD? DVD
* Rural or Urban? Rural
* Facial hair or clean shaven? Facial hair
.
* Marvel or DC? Marvel
* Cowboy or Bad Boy? Cowboy
* Sunrise or Sunset? Sunset (I write at night)
* Fall leaves or Spring flowers? (I like Winter but love Spring Flowers)
* Peanut butter or jelly? Peanut butter
* Spender or Saver? Spender
*~*~*~*
| [amazon_link id=”B00A4IEHL6″ target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] |
Blurb: In “Immortal Relations, Love and War,” in order to help those who haven’t read the first book, “Immortal Relations,” there is a conversation between Magdalena and Gary discussing a few major events in book one. It isn’t long before our guardian vampires discover that their old friend Field Marshal Kolukov was dying of cancer. He had been instrumental in ending the evil vampire gang when they sought to steal biological weapons to use on innocent populations. Our guardian vampires immediately made arrangements to travel in order to make him an offer they hoped he wouldn’t refuse. Not really having the time to even settle in, our vampires were surprised when a gang of terrorists effectively decapitates the government of the Russian Federation. This forces the dying Field Marshal into heading a wartime government as it is learned that the Chinese troops have invaded Siberia to gain control over not only the vast oil and gold reserves there, but other mineral wealth and room for a burgeoning population. The Marxist regime in Washington acts like they may have had prior knowledge of the pending invasion and rather than trying to stop it seem to be somehow supporting the take over of Russian resources by the Communist Chinese. If stopping a war between two nuclear powers isn’t frightening enough, there are ecological disasters poised to do ruinous things to Western Economies if not the outright destruction of mankind. There is an ancient Chinese Curse which says, “May You Live In Interesting Times” and times are highly interesting in this “fictional” novel. Still, with all the dangers of war and threats of ecological disasters,“life” goes on, Magdalena and Gary become wed and there are new little vampire feet heard in the halls of the Residency once again.
*~*
Excerpt:
Maggie laughed and said, “You know you’re an incurable romantic.”
Around you, how could I be anything other than that?”
Maggie laughed her musical laugh again and that made me smile and we kissed. I said, “Well, you certainly were dressed to the nines,’ as they say.”
Maggie replied, “It’d been years since I’d worn that dress to attend an opera or symphony. Several lady friends and I had spent all night in town, but we were about to head back to the Residency since the Sun was rising, not that it caused any concern, unlike Vampire lore. That is when Evy called me about seeing you.”
I said, “That was a beautiful dress you were wearing when I saw you, your appearance took my breath away, as it always does.”
She teased, “Since you no longer have to breath, that shouldn’t be a big thing anymore, but would you like me to put the dress back on and model it for you?”
“I don’t know if my wild, still beating heart, will withstand you looking more beautiful than you are now, but yes, I’d love to see you in that dress again.”
At a speed that would have made her invisible to faulty human eyes, Maggie flew to her closet and then into the bathroom. Within minutes, the bathroom door opened and she appeared in the doorway looking both sultry and sophisticated.
I jumped out of bed, arranging the top sheet around me like a Roman Senator going to the Forum. I carefully approached the vision of loveliness before me, and put out my hand to touch the dress. Maggie grabbed my hand and wagged the finger of her other hand saying, this dress was hand made for me decades ago and is too delicate.”
I backed up, dropping my hand, and asked Maggie to turn around for me. As she pivoted, I sucked in a ragged breath at her beauty, accentuated not only b the light blue, lacy, scalloped, and layered, haut-couture dress, but perfectly quaffed hair and makeup she’d done in only minutes. Vampire speed and accuracy certainly helped in many aspects of our existence.
Appraising me as I watched her, she saw my ardor rising. To protect her dress, she quickly retreated to the bathroom and changed. I was sitting on the edge of the bed when she next appeared wearing the sexist red lingerie I’d ever seen. I couldn’t hide my reaction and she giggled as she pounced on me.
An hour later she said, “What was that you were saying about even if we never had physical relations again you’d still feel the same way toward me?”
Spent, but feeling better than I had a right to, I merely smiled at her and shook my head in disbelief at the fabulous lover she was. “You know, I consider myself the luckiest man who has ever lived, human or immortal, because you love me.”
*~*
Author Bio: I’m a retired Air Force Major (if anyone would have told me I would someday be writing adult paranormal-romance novels I would have laughed at them). I have a pair of graduate degrees (none in English or Literature as my writing will clearly attest) and I also retired from a second “calling” as a psychologist with the Texas Department of Criminal Justice, where I was mostly involved with developing treatment programs for inmates with addictions in addition to determining what mental health services they might need. I enjoy collector vehicles (anything from antiques to modern “muscle cars”). I was a marathon runner “back in the day” and enjoyed racing motorcycles and cars in my youth. I have always enjoyed writing and have had articles published in “The Long Distance Log” and other running publications, I had many articles published in Florida’s “Cruising Style Magazine” about car show activities in and around Texas. Of course I did a lot of technical writing while in the service as well as in my work for the State of Texas. In addition to my “Immortal Relations” series, I wrote a book on evaluation and treatment of ADHD many years ago titled, “Can Anyone Help My Child?’98
Additional (random) Information:
I offer a comment by one of those who bought the book. His name is Richard Rasmussen: “Being a bit of a vampire-phile, I find myself constantly searching for the next vampire series to reach out and grab, or, more appropriately, bite me. I believe I have found my holy grail of vampire novels. You see, the Vlad books are typically a bit gory for my tastes, while the Twilight series is campy, sophomoric, and I feel, is most appealing to teenage girls. Mr. Ogan has delivered a tale at breakneck speed, one that jumps out of the starting gate and never loses steam. A tale filled with life lessons, love, sex, action and adventure. Complete with new insights into the powers of the immortal vamps, and fresh takes on the complex inner workings of their existence. From page 1 until the very end, Immortal Relations promises to have you on the edge of your seat and begging for more…”
by Sarah | Oct 3, 2013 | Author Interview, Friday Dialogues, Guest Authors, Writing
- Can you tell us a little about yourself?
What does it take to be a bestselling author? Determination, skill, talent, luck or taking a risk with a venture into a totally new genre. For me it was a little of some and a lot of the others.
In 2008 when I got two books published I thought it was due to skill; little did I know it was more luck than anything. Over the next three years I wrote, submitted, got rejected. I then did what I tell everyone who asks; I wrote some more. I didn’t give up.
More on a dare than anything I tried my hand at a regency, one of the most difficult genres because of the rules, which I might add I broke almost every one. Within two days of its release the book was on a best seller list and stayed there for two months.
Turns out it is all of the aforementioned.
After two failed marriages, one from divorce while with the other died unexpectedly I decided upon retirement to move. That opportunity came in September 2012 when I migrated to Texas.
For me, as a multipublished author, it was one of the best things I’ve done to date. Now, every day I can write, creating stories to take my readers to places they can only dream about.
I’m also a member of the Published Authors Network (PAN) by the Romance Writers of America (RWA).
- What’s the best thing you’ve done in your life?
Move to Texas for the weather and here I’ve gotten a lot more writing done than back in Connecticut
- Describe yourself in 5 words.
Different, unique, determined, committed, obsessed. Oh and a little crazy.
- Do you have a saying or motto for your life and/or as a writer?
Darkness is the absence of love
Where you can find me
Links to my books
Your Novel
- What about your book might pique the reader’s interest?
The heroine, Lady Sophia Gardner The Countess of Modbury, won’t stop until she learns who killed her first husband. How she goes about ferreting out the villains will shock and amaze you.
- What inspired you to write this particular story?
I’m not sure where the inspiration came from for this book but it ended up being the first in a series.
- Are the names of the characters in your novel important?
I’ve never been one to choose character names based on something about them. If I find a name I love and it fits then I’ll use it.
Writing
- Are you a pantser or a plotter?
Died in the wool panster. I’ve tried plotting but never stayed with the story line.
- How (or when) do you decide that you are finished writing a story?
When the main characters tell me to stop. I’ve learned that’s the best way to keep them happy so they’ll make an appearance in a sequel.
- What are you working on now?
I’m working on several different books, yes at the same time; Lady Jean and The Messenger, Book 3 in the Countess for the Crown series, The Duke’s Bride, the first in The Radcliffe series and finally, The Viscount and The Governess. What’s so interesting about this one is, besides being free you get a new episode every Wednesday.
- Have you written any other books?
I also write A Jessica Sales Novel series which is contemporary romantic suspense.
Quick Questions
- Sing in the rain or dance in the streets? Sing in the rain
- Pen or pencil? Fountain pen
- Summer or Winter? Yes
- Movies or TV? TV
- Theater or DVD? DVD
- Rural or Urban? Rural
- Facial hair or clean shaven? Clean shaven
- Marvel or DC? Marvel
- Cowboy or Bad Boy? Yes
- Sunrise or Sunset? Sunset
- Fall leaves or Spring flowers? Leaves
- Peanut butter or jelly? Yes
- Spender or Saver? Trying to be a saver
*~*~*~*
Blurb-
When someone tries to murder Lady Sophia Gardner, Countess of Modbury, James becomes her appointed protector. Little does she realize he’s not who he says he is.
After finding a cryptic message they depart for London where Lady Sophia learns James is the Marquess of Sussex. Angered, at first, with his deceit she falls in love with him wondering if the feelings are returned.
As they search for the clues to reveal who was selling secrets to the French which could have turned the tide at Waterloo James is confronted by his parents. Turning away from them so he to support the woman he loves another attempt is made on her life.
To ferret out the traitors they slip away to a tiny cottage where James learns there’s more to Lady Sophia than meets the eye. Sneaking into London they learn who the traitors are and bring them to justice.
by Sarah | Sep 12, 2013 | Author Interview, Friday Dialogues, Guest Authors, Writing
Personal
Can you tell us a little about yourself?
I’m a stay at home Mom from the Midwest. I enjoy all things vampire and paranormal and love to read (when I get the chance in between writing books)!
Do you have a day job?
As a stay at home mom that also home schools my daughter, I consider that my full-time job!
Do you laugh at your own jokes?
Occasionally. Sometimes when I’m writing and I come up with a good line…I can’t help but chuckle.
Where can people find you on the web? Where can they read more about your books?
You can find me at www.alexandra-anthony.com and all of my books are listed there.
Your Novel
What is your book about?
This book is a Companion to The Vampire Destiny Series. The book is written from my heroes POV…his take on Fated (Book 1) and Illusion (Book 2). It also features his backstory…his human death, his struggles with immortality up until he meets my heroine, Josephine.
What about your book might pique the reader’s interest?
Many of my fans love Stefan and wanted to hear his story…especially since my books are written in 1st Person POV. It was a fun journey to write as my dashing vampire hero.
You got the call – your novel is being made into a TV series or movie – who’s in your dream cast?
Stefan-Alexander Skarsgard
Josephine- Olivia Wilde
Lukas- Rupert Everett
Anna-Evangeline Lilly
Nikolaus-Adam Levine
Georgia-Catherine Bell
These are my core characters…I could go on and on!
Writing
How many people (i.e. characters) have you done away with in the course of your career?
Five.
Have you ever regretted killing one of them off?
No. Each character’s death was important to the story line…and had to be done!
What’s your writing schedule like? Do you strive for a certain amount of words each day?
My writing schedule is crazy. With school back in session, I now get up early to write or brainstorm…and then it’s school time. I also try to sit down in the evening and write for an hour or two. It’s hectic, but it works!
What is the most difficult part of the writing process? The easiest?
Editing is the worst. The easiest part is coming up with the story!
Have you written any other books?
Yes, I’ve written 4 books in The Vampire Destiny Series and 1 in The Dark Hart Chronicles. I’m working on Book 2 right now.
Fun (Crazy, odd questions just for fun)
Are you a neat freak? Or clutter-bound?
I’m a total neat freak…which does not work well with a writing schedule!
You were just given a yacht. What would you name it?
Mitt hjärtas önskan (My Heart’s Desire in Swedish)
If you could have a super power, what would it be?
Invisibility
Quick Questions
Sing in the rain or dance in the streets?
Dance in the street. My voice might scare innocent people!
Pen or pencil?
Pen
Summer or Winter?
Winter
Movies or TV?
TV
*~*~*~*
Odyssey (The Vampire Destiny Series Companion Book 1)
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Book Blurb
In this first Companion Piece to The Vampire Destiny Series, we follow our hero, Stefan Lifsten, from the time of his human death, through his early years as a vampire until he meets Josephine Anderson, his fated mate.
We’ll travel along with him during his initial struggles to accept his immortality, his betrayals by friends and foes, and experience his joy of meeting the woman from his vision…experiencing Fated and Illusion through his eyes.
This book is a Companion to The Vampire Destiny Series and will feature missing scenes and character information. While this book can be read as a stand-alone, it is highly recommended that you read Fated and Illusion to fully experience this book.
*This book contains sexy vampires, graphic language and highly erotic scenes that are not for those 18 and under or are of the faint of heart. Consider yourself warned.*
Excerpt
“Lukas? What happened?” I demanded harshly. I needed to know who had done this to her.
“I don’t know. She hasn’t had the chance to tell me anything.”
“Kian,” she sputtered. “Stefan, let me show you.”
Giving me access to her memories, she replayed her confrontation with her father at the art gallery for me. I stiffened against her and was ready to find Kian and rip him apart piece by piece.
“What?!? Will someone tell me what’s going on?” Lukas asked, tapping his foot impatiently.
“Josephine had an argument with her father. He apparently has been following her and confronted her today,” I said, placing a kiss against the top of her head.
Lukas was on the floor beside of us before I even realized he had moved. His fangs had dropped and he looked terrifying, so unlike the sweet Lukas we knew. “If that bastard even thinks he’s going to mess with her, I’ll end him, Stefan.”
Letting out a resigned sigh, I reached to place a hand on my child’s shoulder. “No one is ending anyone, Lukas. Only the game has changed. We knew it would happen eventually.” I focused my attention back on Josephine, smoothing her hair back from her tear-stained face. “Vackra, did he harm you at all?”
As I comforted her, I knew in that moment that I would kill Kian Ahearne and rejoice at his blood on my hands. His demise meant freedom for not only Josephine, but also for me. Her fear, her agony gave me the justification I had been waiting for.
“No. But he’s a monster.”
“You are safe now.” I nodded towards Lukas, who stroked Josephine’s arm gently before rising gracefully to his feet and leaving the apartment.
I scooped her up in my arms and carried her into the bedroom, sitting her down carefully on the edge of the bed. I motioned for her to lie down and I sat next to her. I removed her ankle boots, placing them on the floor beside the bed. The bed shifted under my weight and I collected her in the strong embrace of my arms, whispering against my temple. “Han kommer aldrig att röra dig. Om det är det sista jag gör på denna jord, kommer jag att dö skydda dig. Du är mitt liv, min kärlek.”
She let out a shaky sigh as she breathed in the smell of my skin. “When you speak in your native tongue, it sounds so beautiful. What did you just say?”
I snorted and closed my eyes. “You will not be happy with what I said.”
She pushed against my chest. “I’m already unhappy. Unless you just told me we’re over, I think I can deal with whatever you said.”
I let out a weary sigh. “I used to be a much stronger vampire. I give in to every whim, every request you have.” Smiling sheepishly, I rested my face against her hair. “I told you that he would never touch you. If it is the last thing I do on this earth, I will die protecting you. You are my life, my love.”
*~*
About Alexandra Anthony
Alexandra Anthony is the independent author of two romantic, erotic book series: The Vampire Destiny Series and The Dark Hart Chronicles. Both feature sexy vampires to die for, steamy love scenes and follow the twists and turns of her character’s many adventures. Her books are not for the faint of heart.
She was most recently featured in USA Today in an article by Joyce Lamb titled, “It’s time to put some Paranormal Activity into your Reading” and was featured under Self-Published/Indie Authors for the release of Ascend (The Vampire Destiny Series Book 4). Her paranormal, erotic romance Tempted (The Dark Hart Chronicles Book 1) was nominated for Best Erotica in the 2013 Orangeberry Hall of Fame Contest.
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EXCERPT:
