by Sarah | Jun 20, 2013 | Character Interview, Guest Authors, Writing
I always get a little giddy when an author chooses a character interview. Today it’s Arianna Calin of [amazon_link id=”1939194970″ target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Fire Within (Guardian Witch #2)[/amazon_link].
*~*
1. Tell us a little about yourself. How did you come to your author’s attention? Occupation?
It wasn’t easy getting her attention. She wanted to write some boring story about a woman named Samantha who hadn’t a single witchy power! I’m not even sure this Samantha was going to be a cop. Imagine that—trying to solve crimes with no supernatural powers and no badge.
Occupation? I’m a Guardian, a supernatural cop sworn to keep the peace between the Otherworlders and the human population. My heritage is useful on the job, since I’m a fire witch. Not only can I do magic like spells and potions, but I can shoot magical fire from my fingertips and summon the fire spirits if I’m in major trouble.
2. What or who is the greatest love of your life? Why? What drew you to them?
Um, I suppose you mean a guy. I’m not sure love is the right word, but Andreas, the really hunky vampire prince of Riverdale, and I have this “thing” going. Our magics really like each other, and the chemistry is definitely there, but more than that, who knows? I don’t have much time to think about it.
3. What’s your greatest fear?
That some time I won’t be good enough, that I’ll come up against some evil creature I can’t stop, and people I care about will die.
4. What’s your motto in life?
Live and let live. But that’s only if the other guy is doing the same.
5. How do the other characters in your book view you?
Depends. I guess most of them would say I have an attitude, that I don’t hold much back. It doesn’t stop anyone from coming to me when there’s trouble.
6. What do you prefer? To spread & hear gossip, or be the creator of gossip fodder?
Being a cop, I’m more interested in the facts. I hate gossip because it causes too much trouble. But if I had to choose one, I’d rather hear it. I like to know what’s going on in my town.
7. What is it about you that is going to draw us readers in?
I live in a really interesting world, full of unusual beings. They do things and think thoughts that are sometimes foreign to readers, which I think makes them interesting. Readers also seem to enjoy the police procedural aspects, like the crime lab. Of course, I hear a lot about Andreas and where our relationship is going. Who knew readers would be so interested in that?
8. What was your happiest moment?
Our family was at the lake when I was five and my parents were still alive. I found a big caterpillar and my father paid me a nickel for it. It was nice being together that day. By the next summer by parents were dead, my brother and sister lived with my grandparents, and I was in training with Great-Gran. But I still remember that day.
9. What trait in others do you find most deplorable?
Deceit, disloyalty. I can’t imagine a good enough reason for turning against those who depend on you.
10. The random question: If you were a color, what color would you be and why?
I’d be red for fire. The ability to call fire is an integral part of who I am.
*~*~*~*
| Trailer | [amazon_link id=”1939194970″ target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] | B&N | ARe | Kobo |
Book Blurb: Ari Calin refuses to believe her human friend Eddie murdered a vampire—in spite of his confession. Her human partner Ryan thinks the case is a slam dunk, even though there’s no weapon and no witnesses, but Ari’s not about to let her friend take the rap without finding out more.
When Ari attends a charity event on the arm of a handsome werewolf, she finds someone she never expected to see again—Andreas De Luca, the charismatic vampire she used to date. When their eyes meet across the room, memories come rushing back. His kiss, his touch, a savage death…and a terrifying magical bond. A reconnection is the last thing she wants. Only by staying away and forgetting Andreas can she hope to avoid the Legend of Ramora.
But when vampires keep dying, one thing becomes clear: Riverdale has a serial killer on its hands, and Andreas could be next. Ari begins to fear there’s more to it, though. Something truly evil is stalking the city, waiting to take control…
Excerpt:
Ari paused when she spied a champagne dinner for two from Club Dintero. She wouldn’t be bidding on that. Claris’s attempt to hurry them past, to skip that particular auction item, brought a frown to Ari’s face. Like she wouldn’t notice. Apparently, Claris wasn’t convinced the past was in the past.
Ari’s frown deepened. She knew she had been a little touchy on the subject of Andreas and his club. Unbidden, a series of scenes flashed through her head: strong arms holding a grief-stricken young witch; a dark figure singing on stage, the crowd captivated; the same sexy figure sipping Chianti; a forbidden kiss. Ari determinedly brushed aside such highly selective memories. Those were only the good things—and there were some not so good. She flashed a reassuring smile at Claris and turned her attention to the next item, a spa package.
As if Ari’s traitorous thoughts had conjured it, a surge of Otherworld power touched her. Vampire. And not just any vampire. Sensation raced across her skin, her witch magic singing in recognition as the air shimmered with his dark, slightly wicked energy. She whipped her head around, focused on the front entry, and there he was.
Andreas’s dark eyes captured hers from across the room. Her breath caught, and like always, that compelling swirl of power wrapped itself around her, beguiling, irresistible. She barely registered the presence of the other vampires with him. Seconds, perhaps hours or years, passed with her caught in his gaze. As suddenly as it came, the magic withdrew, leaving a void. Andreas turned away and said something to the woman at his side. His companion laid a possessive hand on his arm.
Shaken, Ari took a shallow breath. After eight months she’d thought her reaction to him would be diminished. She’d be the last one to deny Andreas De Luca was heartbreakingly attractive, despite being one of the undead. That still didn’t explain his almost paralyzing effect on her.
*~*
Author Bio: Ally Shields was born and raised in the Midwest, along the Mississippi River, the setting for her urban fantasy series. After a career in law and juvenile justice, she turned to full-time writing in 2009, and Awakening the Fire, the debut novel in her Guardian Witch series, was released in September 2012. Ally still lives close to the Mighty Mississippi with her Miniature Pinscher, Ranger. When not writing or reading, she loves to travel in the US and abroad. Way too often she can be found on Twitter.
Author contact links:
Website: http://allyshields.com
Blog: http://allyshields.com/blog.html
Twitter: http://twitter.com/ShieldsAlly
Facebook: http://facebook.com/AllyShieldsAuthor
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6527209.Ally_Shield
by Sarah | Jun 13, 2013 | Character Interview, Guest Authors, Writing
I have Sapphire Phelan here today, and she brought along Fluffy. I admit, I wasn’t sure what to expect when she brought along a demon that looks like a fluffy bunny…but damn if I wasn’t laughing right away. I’m snatching up her books, I’d suggest you do the same…they look hilarious.
*~*
Tell us a little about yourself. How did you come to your author’s attention? Occupation?
My name is Fluffy. I am a demon. The author found me one day when she found this hole in her backyard and was poking in it with a stick. It was actually a portal to Hell and I came out of it, snapping. After she smacked over the head with a shovel and realized I hadn’t died and found I could talk (she fainted for a few minutes and I had to wait until she awoke), saw an opportunity to put me in a story. Except she didn’t make me the hero—she wrote that stupid Familiar, Charun in it.
By the way, I wonder can I eat you? I know Tina and Charun said I can’t eat humans, but it’s been a long time and you smell delicious.
What or who is the greatest love of your life? Why? What drew you to them?
That horse feeding on grass in that pasture in the country. He tasted good. Best damn loveliest food ever!
What’s your greatest fear?
Bigger demons. They can whip my butt.
How do the other characters in your book view you?
Can I be trusted? But I prove I can. You have to read the book to find out how.
What do you prefer? To spread & hear gossip, or be the creator of gossip fodder?
Spread and hear gossip.
What is it about you that is going to draw us readers in?
That I look like a cut, fluffy white bunny that they want to hug and cuddle. Then I pretend to sniff at their neck, like giving a kiss, but open my mouth and chomp on them with my fangs.
What was your happiest moment?
When Charun untied me from the chair they had in front of the TV and he turned off that dumb Barney the Purple Dinosaur DVD. I’m gonna go find that stupid dinosaur and pit him in a stew and cook him good.
What trait in others do you find most deplorable?
Not enough flavor to them. Some humans are so bland.
The random question: If you were a color, what color would you be and why?
Red, like blood. Cause blood is so tasty. Oh Lucifer! Here comes Charun. No, no, I don’t wanna watch that stupid purple dinosaur anymore. Please, I’ll be good. Really. See, I didn’t eat the nice interviewer. I like her. Can we keep her and take her home? No, no, no, don’t wanna go. . .
*~*~*~*
Find The Witch & The Familiar at Phaze Books , BarnesandNoble.com and at [amazon_link id=”B003XNTSX6″ target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] and Books A Million For those in Uk, can find it at AmazonUK
If want it as an eBook, it is available at Amazon on Kindle, Nook on Barnes and Noble, and at Phaze Books as Being Familiar With a Witch and its sequel, A Familiar Tangle With Hell.
Blurb:
Mortal woman Tina discovers she is part of a prophesy that says she and Charun, her demon Familiar, must make love so she can become the witch she is fated to be. If she doesn’t do it and stop the demon army bringing Armageddon to the Mortal Realm on Halloween, she won’t stand a chance in Hell.
A year later, just when Tina and Charun thought it was all over and that their life would be normal—another prophesy pops up. If Lucifer snatches Tina and mates with her before the last chime before midnight of the new year and gets her pregnant with his son, that the real Armageddon would begin, spelling the end of life as they knew it. This time they get help from an archangel, Jacokb, but with demons, Lucifer, and a cute demon bunny with fangs out of a Monty Python nightmare, out to stop them and Heaven not lending a hand, will Tina this time lose the battle and become the mother of the Antichrist and the start of a new Hell on Earth?
Excerpt:
She flung herself on the bed after shutting the door. Crushing the pillow beneath her head, she stared up at the ceiling. Tears burned her eyes and blurred her vision. Slowly, her magic rose from the pores of her skin, saturating the room. Pieces of furniture flew around in circles, like on some mad carousel. Soon, they were joined by the lamp that stood on her bedstead, along with her brush, comb, and various cosmetics. Her favorite stuffed animal, a black cat that Charun had bought her for her birthday, pranced in frenzy on her laptop. She didn’t seem to noticed, so into what would happen to her world if Lucifer got her this time.
Why do all these demons want me? Me. There are other Witches in the world but it has to be me. I’m the fate of Earth, Heaven, and whatever else.
Tears rolled down her cheeks. She scrubbed at them, furious.
“I wish I never agreed to become a Witch!” she yelled, the words echoing back at her.
“Do you really wish that, Tina?”
Tina sat up. Charun stood in the doorway. He had opened the door and she never heard.
Hurt colored his eyes and his shoulders drooped. She felt his pain coming off him in waves. Her heart clenched and a few more tears rained from her eyes.
Reaching out, she said, “Charun, I didn’t mean to hurt you. It’s just that—”
“You feel that you’re the cause of another possible Armageddon,” he finished for her. “I know. I too wished I can take us back and had never touched you and made you what you are today. You’d be safe and still mortal, your only concerns working in that bookshop and your day-to-day bills.”
She frowned. “Do you really wish you never made love to me?”
He came all the way in and closed the door behind him. Looking serious, he approached the bed and stopped to stare down at her. “Oh, no, never. That was worth everything. But I would give up my existence to keep your safe.”
About Sapphire:
Sapphire Phelan has published erotic and sweet paranormal/fantasy/science fiction romance along with a couple of erotic horror stories. Her erotic urban fantasy, Being Familiar With a Witch is a Prism 2010 Awards winner and a Epic Awards 2010 finalist. The sequel to it is A Familiar Tangle With Hell, released June 2011 from Phaze Books, Both eBooks were combined into one print book, The Witch and the Familiar, and released April 24, 2012. Her male/male paranormal romance novella, Dark Leopard Magic, second book in the Beast Magic series was just released as an audio book.
She admits she can always be found at her desk and on her computer, writing. And yes, the house, husband, and even the cats sometimes suffer for it!
Find out more about Sapphire Phelan at http://www.SapphirePhelan.com.
by Sarah | Jun 12, 2013 | Character Interview, Guest Authors, Writing
I am so thrilled to have Eden Summers here today. I met her just over a year ago and have been thrilled to see the rapid climb her career is taking. So today just sit down and enjoy yourself as Mitchell Davies of the band Reckless Beat makes all of our hearts flutter and our mouths salivate…
1. Tell us a little about yourself. How did you come to your author’s attention? Occupation?
*Mitch leans back on the sofa and smiles*. “I’m the lead guitarist for Reckless Beat, so I’m pretty sure I would’ve came to Eden’s attention via some form of social media. We can’t seem to catch a break from the pap’s lately.”
2. What or who is the greatest love of your life? Why? What drew you to them?
*Mitch’s expression changes from a cocky arrogance to a beaming smile that reaches his hazel eyes.* “Alana Shelton has stolen my heart. She was in the front row at the first performance of our latest album. Amongst a sea of cleavage and gyrating bodies, she stood out like a beacon of beauty. Her dimples are my undoing.”
3. What’s your greatest fear?
“Promotional interviews, without a doubt. I hate those fucking things…Well, not this one, of course. But as soon as I walk into a studio it’s like I’m a deer in headlights.”
4. What’s your motto in life?
*Mitch raises a brow*. “Umm, all you need is love?…And music.”
5. How do the other characters in your book view you?
“The guys of Reckless Beat are a bunch of smart-mouthed assholes. I love the bastards, but they are the first to make fun of my failures. It’s kinda how we roll.”
6. What do you prefer? To spread & hear gossip, or be the creator of gossip fodder?
*Mitch shakes his head with vehemence and repositions himself on the sofa*. “I hate gossip. Hate it! The paparazzi are a bunch of vultures who distort facts and make up whatever shit they like. But in saying that, I would love to start a rumor about Lynch being a hermaphrodite.”
7. What is it about you that is going to draw us readers in?
*A snicker echoes through the room*. “Ahh, I dunno. I’m told I have talented hands… In relation to my guitar skills, of course.” *He winks and the cocky smile comes back his lips*. “I think readers who love sarcastic humor will really enjoy the things we get up to. I also know how to heat up a bedroom.”
8. What was your happiest moment?
“Since Alana entered my life, I’ve had many. But you’ll have to read our story to get the inside scoop.”
9. What trait in others do you find most deplorable?
“I hate fake people. I’m constantly surrounded by those who want something from me. One way or another, I always end up seeing their true colors. Better off to be straight with me from the start.”
10. The random question: If you were a color, what color would you be and why?
“Cherry red. Just like my fav guitar.”
*~*~*~*
|[amazon_link id=”1484842812″ target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] | Barnes and Noble | Smashwords | All Romance Ebooks | Goodreads |
Blind Attraction
(Reckless Beat #1)
by Eden Summers
He can seduce with a single glance.
Peering down at a sea of fans, rock star, Mitchell Davies can’t deny the innocent beauty of a woman in the front row. He’ll stop at nothing to get to know her. When a public altercation leaves her weak and defenseless, he takes the opportunity to be her savior.
She’s been sheltered from the world.
Alana Shelton wants to spread her wings and experience life away from her restrictive upbringing. But she isn’t prepared for a gorgeous stranger to sweep her off her feet while at her most vulnerable.
Attraction will bring them together, but their pasts will try to tear them apart.
He wants to teach her how to trust, but she’ll show him how to love. In a glamorous world of rock-and-roll, only time will tell if they’re up for the challenge.
Check out Blind Attraction here:
[amazon_link id=”1484842812″ target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link]
Barnes and Noble
Smashwords
All Romance Ebooks
Goodreads
Want more information on me?
Eden Summers Website
Facebook Page
Twitter
*~*~*~*
a Rafflecopter giveaway
by Sarah | Jun 10, 2013 | Character Interview, Guest Authors, Writing
1. Tell us a little about yourself. How did you come to your author’s attention? Occupation?
*Rolls eyes* Oh that Vicki Batman was traveling to San Diego and just felt she had to write a story about all the great places she’d visited there. She plays this game What If??? and then voila! I appear.
I’m Jill Grant and have planned a wonderful getaway to San Diego with my beloved.
2. What or who is the greatest love of your life? Why? What drew you to them?
*sigh and clasping hands to chest* Davis Griffith Swansea III. He seemed so perfect. Everything a girl could dream of. Puppies, kitties, and old people just love him.
3. What’s your greatest fear?
That Davis wouldn’t propose.
4. What’s your motto in life?
Life is an adventure-go forth and live.
5. How do the other characters in your book view you?
Another guy on the plane helped me with my tote when it decided to explode open. There was a huge line behind me and they weren’t nice, especially Mr. Obnoxious Person who kicked my seat the whole flight. Anyway, the other guy and I chatted while waiting for our luggage. I think he thinks I’m funny. And he’s being sweet about possibly hitting on me.
6. What do you prefer? To spread & hear gossip, or be the creator of gossip fodder?
Neither. Gossiping really isn’t nice.
7. What is it about you that is going to draw us readers in?
How many of us have dated Mr. Right only to find out he’s not? Bet most of us have been there. So readers out there are going to want to know what I did about the wrong Mr. Right.
8. What was your happiest moment?
I wouldn’t say totally happy happy. I’d say mucho relieved that– I can’t say!! It would giveaway the story. Lol. Let’s just say the happiest moment is when I’m by myself and get a text.
9. What trait in others do you find most deplorable?
It’s all about me attitude. (And I don’t mean me.)
10. The random question: If you were a color, what color would you be and why?
Red! It explodes and gets attention. And it’s flattering to me. *fanning face*
| [amazon_link id=”B00BXNNO2Y” target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] | BN | Smashwords | MuseItUp |
Blurb:
When a young woman plans a romantic getaway with her boyfriend, disaster strikes, and she soon finds Mr. Right could be someone else.
Excerpt:
My boyfriend is a dirt wad. I just decided.
With a humpf, I dragged my pink tote up the narrow aisle to the plane’s exit, accidentally banging it into the seats along the way. The relieving notion of being back home in Sommerville caused the tension in my chest to fade a smidgen.
A quick peek to the exit told me where Davis, my boyfriend, stood waiting for the okay from the ground crew to head out. His glance my way didn’t look at all pleasant. Similar to one wrapped in disappointment with a downward tilt of his mouth.
I didn’t care much. I just decided.
The words creep, jerk, moron, and “why in the hell am I still dating him??” jumbled my thoughts around. My heart pounded as anxiety ratcheted inside me again.
Maybe I shouldn’t. Maybe I should not put up with him anymore.
The deepest part of me knew I shouldn’t be with Davis Griffith Swansea, III any longer. I was just in denial. Over the past year, I’d had brief, momentary twinges of dumping him; then, he’d go and do something incredibly romantic like bring me Godiva chocolates—“I know how you love these.” Or buy me a new book by my favorite author—“I happened to see this today.” Or whisk me off to an intimate dinner à deux at the latest and greatest bistro–“I know you’ll like this place.”
My head had gone stupid.
Bio:
Like some of her characters, award-winning author, Vicki Batman has worked a wide variety of jobs including lifeguard, ride attendant at an amusement park; a hardware store, department store, book store, antique store clerk; administrative assistant in an international real estate firm; and a general “do anything gal” at a financial services firm–the list is endless.
She has completed three manuscripts, written essays, and sold many short stories. She is a member of RWA and several writing groups and chapters. In 2004, she joined DARA and has served in many capacities, including 2009 President. DARA awarded her the Robin Teer Memorial Service Award in 2010.
Most days begin with her hands set to the keyboard and thinking “What if??”
by Sarah | Jun 2, 2013 | Character Interview, Guest Authors, Writing
Melissa Keir was good enough to loan out Lissa Vincent Hunter of her book [amazon_link id=”B00CTCDHVQ” target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Three’s a Crowd[/amazon_link] for an interview, and Alex was good enough to join her. It’s a lovely interview, please enjoy.
*~*
1. Tell us a little about yourself. How did you come to your author’s attention? Occupation?
(Lissa) Hello. *waves* You don’t mind if Alex sits in with me, do you? I came to Melissa’s attention when she wrote my first book, Second Time’s the Charm. That’s the story where I met Alex and fell in love. Melissa and I met at a counseling session. I work as a nurse at a local pediatrician’s office with Alex’s ex-wife, Chloe, who is also my best friend. She helped me through my horrible divorce. We used to sit around and talk about our ex’s. It was so nice to have someone who understood.
(Alex) I was just waiting for the perfect time to charm Lissa and prove I wasn’t all bad. *smirks*
2. What or who is the greatest love of your life? Why? What drew you to them?
(Lissa) Other than my two little boys, Alex Hunter is the love of my life. *blushes* Who would have thought that my best friend’s ex-husband could have been the love of my life. While I had my reservations about Alex, especially since Chloe spoke so badly about him, he proved my fears wrong. When you see a man with his child, you can see into his soul.
(Alex bends and kisses Lissa on the lips)
(Lissa) The first thing that drew me to Alex was the twinkle in his eyes. He appeared to have a private joke and was always so positive. After a bitter divorce with a man who hurt me emotionally, Alex’s positive outlook drew me to him.
3. What’s your greatest fear?
(Lissa) I have two boys. Having anything happen to them is my greatest fear. I saw firsthand how scary it was when Alex’s son was in the emergency room with meningitis. Thinking about my own little guys, I couldn’t live if anything happened to them. Now that Alex is in my life, I worry about him as well. He’s made me a stronger person.
(Alex) I agree with Lissa. It’s horrible to think about anything happening to your child. Parents are supposed to protect them. There are times when I’m not with my son, Joe and it is frustrating that I can’t fix all his problems.
4. What’s your motto in life?
(Lissa) Live, Love, Laugh
(Alex) Always kiss and make up!
5. How do the other characters in your book view you?
(Alex) I think my ex-wife was finally happy but she began to see me as the answer to the problems in her marriage. She started causing problems with Lissa. Frankly, I don’t care what she thinks of me, only Lissa matters. If Lissa hadn’t taken matters into her own hands, I’d have done something to really tick Chloe off.
(Lissa) *pulls Alex closer* You’re mine and I’m not sharing. *laugh*
6. What do you prefer? To spread & hear gossip, or be the creator of gossip fodder?
(Alex) I’d prefer to be a creator of gossip fodder. In fact, come here Lissa…let’s get started on some more gossip.
Lissa laughs* See he’s hard to resist.
7. What is it about you that is going to draw us readers in?
(Lissa) I’m a lot like you. I’m a mom, who wants the best for my children. I’ve faced challenges but didn’t let them keep me down. I’ve kept searching for love and happiness for my children and myself. Even with all that, I’m more the girl next door next to Chloe who is Angelina Jolie. And, who doesn’t love to cheer for the underdog!
8. What was your happiest moment?
(Lissa) My happiest moment was when Alex and I had our wedding in Las Vegas. We wanted to combine our families in a ceremony that was very different from our previous ceremonies.
(Alex) The honeymoon was pretty nice.
9. What trait in others do you find most deplorable?
People who cheat make me crazy. My ex-husband, Steve, cheated and used to tell me that it was my fault. I wasn’t a good enough wife or woman. But I’ve learned that he was wrong.
10. The random question: If you were a color, what color would you be and why?
I would be the color blue like the color of Alex’s eyes. He has the most beautiful eyes, which I can’t help falling into. That blue reminds me of the sky on an amazing summer day.
*~*~*~*
| [amazon_link id=”B00CTCDHVQ” target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] | B&N | ARe |
Blurb:
For Lissa, the second time at love was a charm but in marriage, three’s a crowd.
Single mother Lissa Vincent found her soul mate in her best friend’s ex-husband. Alex Hunter couldn’t believe his fortune when his ex-wife told him her best friend was available. After divorce, finding love again could be a challenge but it appeared Alex and Lissa had gotten lucky. Yet as they start their lives as newlyweds, Alex and Lissa don’t realize just how difficult it might be to blend a family.
When Alex’s ex new marriage begins to unravel, she sets her sights again on Alex. Does Alex still have feelings for the mother of his child? Will Lissa keep her best friend or lose her husband?
Fairytales promise a happily-ever-after. But what really happens after the after.
Excerpt:
Facing Chloe at work the next day was tough. Every time I saw her, I thought of her comment about Alex. Just because she’s having problems at home doesn’t mean she can lash out at me. What would Alex think of what she said? Was he still interested in her? They had a past and shared a child. Could he love her again? My stomach pulsed with pain as I worried about work, Chloe and my own marriage.
Hiding out at my desk, I avoided talking to Chloe as much as I could. Facing her was hard. Putting on my game face, I did my job and kept my mind on work. My hands shook anytime she came near me. Was she going to bring it up again?
A text message popped up on my phone. Love you and miss you, xoxo. It was from Alex. My heart tightened with emotion. It was nice he was thinking of me. I texted back love you more! It was a nice validation of our love to hear from Alex just when I was feeling bad.
****
“Hi, honey. I’m home.” I called as I entered the house. The boys were spending the night with their father but I could see Alex was on the phone and he quickly waved me toward him. Sitting down next to him on the couch, I listened patiently, curious as to what was going on.
“Yes, I suppose we can switch days for Joe to come over. I’m sorry things are that way at your house. Joe’s always welcome here. Just let me know what I can do to help.” Chloe. Frowning, I listened for more. “Mike seems like a great guy. If you two are having issues, maybe you can talk to a counselor or something. Let me know what I can do to help. I’m always willing to listen. Bye.”
“What’s going on? Your conversation seemed pretty edgy.”
“She and Mike are having issues. She thinks he might be having an affair. She wants us to get Joe early and maybe keep him a few days extra so she can spend some time with Mike and try to talk things through. She doesn’t want to put Joe in the middle. You know how he feels about Mike.”
“I’m sorry to hear it. She mentioned the stress to me at lunch yesterday but nothing about an affair. I didn’t want to bring it up to you or share things I shouldn’t. The boys love spending time with him and it’ll be good for Joe to spend more time with you.”
Alex put his arm around me and kissed me softly. “You’re wonderful, Lissa. I know this will take more work on your part, but I really appreciate how you’re willing to do anything for my son.”
“I love Joe, you know that. But honestly, I’m worried about something. Chloe seems to want to rely on you for support. I don’t want you to get caught in the middle of their issues. The other day at lunch, she told me how much she still cares for you and warned me away from you. It was uncomfortable.”
“Lissa, I love you. Not Chloe. You have nothing to worry about.”
Author Bio:
Melissa Keir has always wanted to be an author when she wasn’t hoping for a career as a race car driver. Her love of books was instilled by her mother and grandparents who were avid readers. She’d often sneak books away from them so that she could fantasize about those strong alpha males and plucky heroines. In middle school and high school, Melissa wrote sappy love poems and shared them with her friends. She still has those poems today! In college, her writing changed to sarcastic musings on life as well as poems with a modern twist on fairy tales and won awards for her writing. You can find many of these musings along with her latest releases on her website and blog.
As a writer, Melissa likes to keep current on topics of interest in the world of writing. She’s a member of the Romance Writers of America, Mid-Michigan RWA and EPIC. Melissa is always interested in improving her writing through classes and seminars. She also believes in helping other authors and features authors and their books on her blog.
Melissa doesn’t believe in down time. She’s always keeping busy. Melissa is a wife and mother, an elementary school teacher, a book reviewer, an editor for a publishing company as well as an author. Her home blends two families and is a lot like the Brady Bunch, without Alice- a large grocery bill, tons of dirty dishes and a mound of laundry. She loves to write stories that feature “happy endings” and is often found plotting her next story.
Melissa loves hearing from readers!
www.melissakeir.com
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by Sarah | May 29, 2013 | Character Interview, Guest Authors, Writing
Today we have Chloe, the heroine from Katya Armock’s [amazon_link id=”B00BMVRTP0″ target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]To Hiss or to Kiss[/amazon_link]. Please welcome her!
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1. Tell us a little about yourself. How did you come to your author’s attention? Occupation?
I’m Chloe. I’m in my late 20s, introverted and a tad misanthropic. I’d much rather spend my days with animals, and I devote much of my free time to working with shelter pets. I can telepathically communicate with animals, and I’ve found I’ve become an animal shrink of sorts. My day job is as an office assistant.
I got Katya’s attention because she took a class with an animal communicator and became interested in the subject. She’s an animal lover too, so when I started sharing my thoughts with her, she listened up.
2. What or who is the greatest love of your life? Why? What drew you to them?
Jorge. I’ll admit I’m not the easiest person to get to know. I don’t trust easily and I hate being vulnerable. Jorge kept battering at my walls. The fact he was the first human I could ever telepathically communicate with initially drew me to him, and the fact that I felt the chemistry between us instantly certainly helped a lot. A healthy libido can trump a good deal of fear.
3. What’s your greatest fear?
Being hurt by someone I care for. Not that I believe all my problems can be blamed on my parents, but it’s safe to say my mother leaving my father and I when I was ten left some scars. My father withdrew a lot after she left, and our relationship has never been the same. With a little courage, I’d like to try to become closer with him.
4. What’s your motto in life?
The more I get to know people, the more I like dogs. OK, that’s probably not an appropriate motto. Maybe something more along the lines of humor keeps one sane.
5. How do the other characters in your book view you?
Hmm. My best friend Naomi has seen the worst in me already and she’s still my friend. Although I’m sure she’d like to give me a shove sometimes to take some risks with my heart. Until Jorge, I never even gave love the good ol’ college try. Everyone knows I have a big heart for animals, but I struggle with people and often keep myself fairly isolated.
6. What do you prefer? To spread & hear gossip, or be the creator of gossip fodder?
I guess the creator of gossip fodder, since I don’t really socialize enough to be an effective gossip. And there’s really not much to gossip about with animals. I’m sure if everyone knew about my ability I’d be creating a lot more gossip.
7. What is it about you that is going to draw us readers in?
I put my life on the line to save animals. I hope that readers see that underneath my bravado, I have a good heart. Sarcasm just gets me through the rough times.
8. What was your happiest moment?
The day I knew for sure that Jorge loved me back.
9. What trait in others do you find most deplorable?
Lying.
10. The random question: If you were a color, what color would you be and why?
Silver. I can be a tad bit pessimistic, but I’d like to think I’m learning to see the silver lining.
*~*
| [amazon_link id=”B00BMVRTP0″ target=”_blank” container=”” container_class=”” ]Amazon[/amazon_link] | BN | ARe |
BLURB:
Chloe can “talk” to animals…so why can she hear the thoughts of this hot, green-eyed man?
Abandoned by her mother and raised by a father who’d given up on life, Chloe doesn’t let anyone get close. Lucky for her, she can communicate with animals—telepathically. Animals are the only people she needs. When a suspected dogfighting ring comes to her attention, Chloe decides to do a little spying. In her rush to win the dogs’ trust, she almost gets caught.
Until a sexy stranger intervenes, and she finds she can overhear his thoughts. She’s never been able to hear people, and this man’s about as sexy as she’s ever seen. It’s more than intellectual curiosity that drives her to discover his secret: he’s a jaguar shape-shifter, and the presence of this cat among the dogs might be a bit too much to handle. But the animal attraction is just too hot to resist, and the passion between them makes both the sparks—and the fur—fly…
EXCERPT:
Jorge and I are fast asleep after our antics in bed, when I feel a wetness on my hand and I hear Ringo calling out to me.
“Chloe, wake up. I really, really, really need to pee.”
I moan and sink deeper into Jorge’s arms, pulling my hand back.
“Chloe, wake up. I’m dying here. I have to pee.”
Ugh, why won’t that voice go away? I crack my eyes open and see Ringo by the bed, prancing around, doing the doggy version of a potty dance.
Ringo starts hotfooting toward the bedroom door. “Thank goodness. I’ve got to go.”
With a sigh, I extricate myself from Jorge, which causes him to groan in his sleep. I get out of bed and throw on one of his T-shirts.
His voice is groggy. “Where are you going?”
“Ringo’s got to pee.”
He nods and closes his eyes.
Gee, thanks for the assistance. I roll my eyes as I head to the front door.
The other dogs all crowd around the door. Guess Ringo was just the messenger. They fly out when I open the door. I send out a telepathic reminder to stay close to the house.
Headlights flip on, and a van pulls into the end of the driveway. Ringo, who is closest, starts to bark and lunges toward the van.
“Ringo, no, come back!” I yell at him aloud, but he keeps on going. I mentally tap him, but he is in the zone and doesn’t respond.
I watch in horror as the van door slides open and a man catches Ringo with a rabies pole and then hauls him into the back. I scream as the door shuts and the van tears out of the driveway. It peels away, dust flying in its wake.
The van is still in sight when Jorge rushes up behind me. His hair is mussed, and he’s wearing only a pair of jeans. “What happened?”
“Ringo just got pulled into the van, and they sped off.” I don’t know if I’m more pissed off or worried.
*~*
Bio:
I like books that are funny and fun to read (and hot!) but also make me think or look at the world in a new way. I am influenced by magic realism, comparative mythology, and esoteric spiritual practices from around the world.
I spent too many years chasing someone else’s definition of success. My life simplified, I returned to my first love of writing.
These days you’ll find me writing, pet sitting, juggling a number of freelance gigs, and reigning as my home’s domestic goddess. I live in the Midwestern U.S. with my husband, dog and cats. Alas, I have, as of yet, been unable to teach my husband how to purr.
Website: http://katyaarmock.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/katyaarmock
Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/KatyaArmock
