First I'd like to thank everyone who showed up for the LPI Blog Chats - they were a ton of fun!
Now...Someone asked me recently how I get my ideas.
That’s a darn good question. Sometimes I don’t even know. I envy those writers who talk about having more ideas than they know what to do with, I really do. I’ll admit, I have to struggle for mine. In many cases, I come up with the characters first, and then have to figure out what to do with them.
Once I know what kind of book I want to write, and who’s going to star in it, then I have to start generating a plot. I’m a major fan of TV series, and I will often spend an afternoon watching episodes that have similar settings or premises. Certain themes will start to appeal to me, and as they do, I jot down concepts and ideas that go along with them. After that, I pull together a playlist of music that fits the theme and do a whole lot of daydreaming.
When I get a core plot concept, it’s time to start asking questions. If I know I’m writing a mystery involving sabotage, then the questions are along the lines of “what are the most interesting kinds of businesses to sabotage?”, “What would the payoff be?”. I end up with a series of lists with several options and most of the time the right combination will jump out at me. Then the questioning method begins again on the next level.
Eventually, I’ll have generated enough lists and ideas, and it’s time to start pestering my friends. Believe me when I say I couldn’t plot a book to save my life without the help of my brainstorming crew. I run my ideas past them and invite them to challenge me, pick things apart and offer up suggestions. After a few more rounds of questions, I have my plot and I’m ready to start writing.
Until I hit a snag, and run crying to my brainstormers again….
Penny for your thoughts...please?
Live! Editor Event
Join us for live blogcast at 6 PM Central.
Tonight, viewers and LPI are invited to meet with Lyrical Press's acquiring editors.
To participate in the blog cast, you can Click Here to launch a full-size viewing pane.
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End of Summer Author Event
Join us tonight at 6 PM Central for the End of Summer Author Event.
This is a live blogcast event. Hit the play button on the viewing pane below to launch, or Click Here to access a full-sized viewing pane.
Trailer for Earthman's Bride
Earthman's Bride, the first novel in the Tusteyan Annals was released this month.
Author Profile: Wendy Ely
All Titles by Author:
Jesse’s Brother, Lyrical Press
Confessions, Lyrical Press
Favorite part of being an author:
Every book takes me on an unplanned journey. It starts with an idea and continues on from there. I never know what I’m going to learn while writing the book until the characters tell me write the last sentence.
Typical day in the life of the author:
Oh man! I work full time and attend college so I have a crazy schedule. On most days, I write during my day-job break. That’s usually two straight hours. The evenings and weekends are spent with my children and then more writing. I have to remind myself to have fun now and then.
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
I wrote stories since I could hold a pencil. My first romance novel was when I was 13. I’d carry an extra binder from class to class just for my novel.
What are you working on right now:
All summer has been filled with edits in preparation for Jesse’s Brother and Confessions’ release dates. I’m working on Lost and Found, the third book to Confessions. I also managed to write a short story.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
I had stopped writing for a few years and signed up for college. My college professor pulled me aside one day. She said I had some real talent and urged me to start writing again. That’s when I wrote Jesse’s Brother and started taking my writing seriously.
Strangest thing that ever inspired you to write:
My mom and I were taking my daughter to a dance performance. We passed a moving truck company that had been taped up by the police. My mom wondered what had happened while I was making up a plot. I’ll be writing that book soon.
Favorite place to write:
On my couch with the laptop and earphones on. I get to tune out my life and sink down into the book for awhile.
Any writing rituals/superstitions?:
I print of each novel so I can do one round of revisions by hand before sending it to my critique partners.
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
I went to a gun shop to try out a glock. I’d never even held a gun before and was so nervous to do it. The guy was more than helpful and delighted to help a writer.
Worst story idea ever:
My first novels, but those are a secret!
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
In Jesse’s Brother: I love the part where Samantha is in Jesse’s house and notices pictures of two little boys holding hands. She realizes the two men she’s in love with are brothers.
In Confessions: Chelsea and Jordan are discussing the search for their daughter. She’s upset and just wants to be forgiven while he wants her to understand how much it had hurt him when she’d taken off so many years ago. It’s such an emotional scene.
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
I’m so clutzy and air headed at times so I laugh at myself a lot. The other night I had turned off my bedroom light and turned toward my bed. I tripped over a large box I knew was there!
Three least favorite words:
“Squirt” but only if used in a certain context, “squat“, and “was“.
Three favorite words:
Delicious, when describing someone. I also like laugh, and stomped.
What are you reading right now:
Killer Dreams by Iris Johansen
Summer reading essential:
Tangled Up in You by Rachel Gibson
Favorite summer pastimes:
Swimming! We moved to an apartment with a pool in June and have been swimming every day since.
Favorite hobby:
I love photography. A camera is with us wherever we go. I also like to scrapbook.
Favorite online timesink:
Bejeweled on Facebook!
Advice to authors seeking publication:
Find time each day to write even if it’s only five minutes.
Most surprising thing you’ve learned about digital publishing:
The time it takes to put the book together is a lot faster. We don’t have to wait years for it to be finished.
Win a free ebook! Leave a question or comment for the author by Saturday morning (state-side), and be entered to win a copy of Jesse’s Brother.
Winners will be announced during Saturday’s 6PM Central Time live blogcast. Entrants need not be present to win.
Author Profile: J.J. Keller
JJ’s Facebook ID: jjkeller
All Titles by Author
The Watcher
Believe
Melody’s Song
The Ghost Inside
With Tease Publishing:
Dark Shadows—Tease Publishing http: www.allromanceebooks.com
Fall into my Arms—Tease Publishing http:www.allromanceebooks.com
With The Wild Rose Press:
The Tarot Card
Trade Agreement (Releases 8.28.09, but early release #4 on best selling)
With Lyrical Press, Inc.:
Latest Writing News:
I had a book signing at The Yorktown Public Library on August 4. I have a book signing at Barnes & Noble in
Favorite Part of Being An Author:
Storytelling.
Typical Day in the Writing Life:
I work full time at
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about?
I wrote my first story when I was five on my brother’s bedroom wall. It wasn’t a best seller.
What are you working on right now?
I’m changing a story called Primary Contact to add a little more suspense. The story centers on a single mother, rebuilding her life after the loss of family, even if it might not be best for her and discovering love through time instead of instant lust. The story is rife with emotions, contrariness and above all love found.
I’m co-authoring a sequel to Dark Shadows with my gal-pal Theresa Sallach.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
My young son being diagnosed with cancer and his trials. Paranormal became a key element for me to include in stories.
Strangest thing that ever inspired you to write:
A very large brown frog sitting at the edge of our pond, eyeballing me. I wrote a Free Read for The Wild Rose Press call Clarissa and Riley as a result. It’s a very cute story.
Favorite place to write:
At my desk in the den.
Funnest thing you've ever done in the name of research:
Went to talk to a fortune teller.
Worst story idea ever:
What have you heard?
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
The end of Undercover Housewife when the detective hero, Josh, saves the heroine, Nikki. He wants to make amends, instead of bending to his will she introduces a new case for them to pursue.
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?
Everyday…if you can’t laugh at yourself and foolishness, then life is boring.
If you could ask anyone who ever lived any question, who would you ask, and
what would you ask?
Kathleen Woodiwiss, who was your favorite character and why?
Three least favorite words:
No. Can’t. But.
Three favorite words:
Love. Yes. Happy.
What are you reading right now?
Unconscious Communications in Everyday Life
Three summer reading essentials:
Sandra Brown, Smoke;
Stephenie Meyer, New Moon;
Favorite summer pastime(s):
Gardening. Star Gazing. Nature walks.
Favorite non-writing-related hobby:
Crafting, using dried herbs and creating wreaths.
Favorite online timesink:
Checking my horoscope at www.ivillage.com
Advice to authors seeking publication:
Join a quality critique group.
Most surprising thing you've learned about digital publishing:
How popular downloading books is, and how easy to market the books.
J.J. is giving away five book thongs and two goodie bags. Attend Saturday’s live blogcast for your chance to win.
Author Profile: Syd McGinley
All Titles by Author:
“What Worse Place Can I Beg in Your Love?” Lyrical Press, 2008.
“Ain’t Misbehavin’” in the Toy Box: Beads. Ed. M. Rode. Torquere, 2009.
Another Fine Mess. Ed. Syd McGinley. Torquere, 2008.
Attitude Adjustments. (Serial Novel) Torquere, 2008-09.
“Back and Forwards.” Hot Gay Erotica. Ed. Richard Labonté. Cleis, 2006 & single story e-book, Torquere, 2007.
“Blinded by the Light.” Eternal Darkness. Ed. Rob Knight. Torquere, 2006. Individual story re-released in 2009.
“Bys Vyken.” Peridot in the Birthstones series. Torquere, 2008.
“Catch and Release” in Toy Box: Kitchen Sink. Ed. M. Rode. Torquere, 2008.
“The Chariot.” Arcana Series. Ed. S. A. Clements. Torquere Press, 2007.
“A Cheap Racket” in Hard for the Money. Torquere, 2009 (forthcoming).
The Complete Dr. Fell. Volume One: Lost. Torquere, May 2009.
The Complete Dr. Fell. Volume Two: Found. Torquere, 2009. (Forthcoming in Winter 2009.)
“Epithalamion.” Torquere, 2008.
“A Jolly Good Idea” in Another Fine Mess. Ed. Syd McGinley. Torquere, 2008.
“The Leash Has Two Ends” in Broadly Bound. Ed. Beth Wylde. Phaze, 2009.
“Lost and Found 1: Pet Rescue.” Torquere, 2008.
“Lost and Found 2: Exotic Pets.” Torquere, 2008.
“Lost and Found 3: Teacher’s Pet.” Torquere, 2008.
“Lost and Found 4: Deeper Submission.” Torquere, 2008.
Mimosa. Torquere Press, 2006. Out of print. To be re-released in 2009.
“Mis En Place.” Men in Uniform. Ed. M. Rode. Torquere, 2006. Individual story re-released in 2009.
“Not Sir.” Torquere Press, 2009. Originally in Put Some English on It.
“O Night More Lovely than the Dawn.” Originally Put Some English on It. Re-released as a standalone in 2009.
Out of the Woods. (Serial Novel) Torquere, 2009-10.
“Pet Sitting.” Torquere, 2007.
“Pink.” Torquere, 2009 (forthcoming).
Put Some English on It. Torquere Press, 2006. Anthology out of print. Individual stories re-released in 2009.
“Rude Mechanicals” in The Summer Solstice Taste Test. Ed. Mychael Black. Torquere, 2008.
“Samhain.” Torquere, 2007.
“Sea Change.” Torquere Press, 2009. Originally in Put Some English on It.
“A Secret Vice” in Toy Box: Nipple Clamps. Ed. M. Rode. Torquere, 2008.
“A Short Leash” in Toy Box: Rings. Ed. M. Rode. Torquere, 2007.
“Sirens for Laney.” Torquere Press, 2008.
“Sol Invictus.” Torquere, 2007.
“Swordsmen.” Play Ball. Ed. CB Potts. Torquere, 2006. Out of Print. Individual story re-released in 2009.
“Trip Trap” in Torqued: Twisted Fairy Tales. Ed. S. A. Clements. Torquere Press, 2007.
“un bel di vedremo” in Toy Box: Silk. Ed. M. Rode. Torquere, 2009.
“Unmasked” in Boys in Heat. Ed. Richard Labonté. Cleis and E-book in Bend Over Big Boy. Ed. Kit Zheng. Torquere, 2008.
“The Wrong Customs.” in Toy Box: Costumes. Ed. M. Rode.Torquere, 2009 (forthcoming).
Latest Writing News:
Hmmm, not much new—just slow and steady!
Favorite part of being an author:
Doing what I like best and calling it work.
Typical day in the life of the author:
Fight off the furry alarm clocks, feed the furry alarm clocks, coffee, write, shower, teach, write, grade, write, lesson plan, write, read, sleep. Squeeze in food and e-mails. That's pretty much it except at weekends when you can drop the teach part and add more writing. I am very thrilling, no?
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
I was eight, and it was about a soldier falling off a motorcycle. Um, that was about it...
What are you working on right now:
I'm completing the Dr. Fell series, beginning a sci-fi m/m story, wondering about an m/m regency, and juggling several shorts.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
Robert Mapplethorpe's Polaroids and John Preston's fiction -- then I knew I wasn't alone!
Favorite place to write:
My study.
Any writing rituals/superstitions?:
Nope, just Ass in Chair and write, don't talk, your story.
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Bungee jumped
Pierced my nipples
Got a tattoo
Funnest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Umm... censored...
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
Dom by Default by Tymber Dalton. Modesty forbids me to explain ...
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
I am constantly amused by myself because I am quite quite silly.
Three favorite words:
discombobulate
eggplant
bugger
What are you reading right now?:
Metamorphoses by Ovid
Three summer reading essentials:
The Persian Boy, Mary Renault
Servant of the Seasons by Lee Benoit
The Complete Jane Austen (or at least Northanger Abbey)
Favorite summer pastimes:
Staying in a cool dark room writing.
Favorite online timesink(s):
Surfing for smut!
Win a free ebook! Leave a question or comment for the author by Saturday morning (state-side), and be entered to win a copy of What Worse Place Can I Beg in Your Love?
Winners will be announced during Saturday’s 6PM Central Time live blogcast. Entrants need not be present to win.
Author Profile: Natasha Bennet
Natasha’s Facebook ID: Natasha_Bennett
All Titles by Author:
War of the Soulites, Lyrical Press
Latest Writing News:
A couple of weeks ago I submitted War of the Soulites 2: Ouroboros for consideration for publication. I'm also doing chats every Saturday during the month of August.
Favorite part of being an author:
The favorite part of being a published author is having the opportunity to meet several different people while advertising my book. I've made a lot of new friends while doing do, and helped several aspiring writers along the way.
Typical day in the life of the author:
During the weekdays, I work full-time as an inventory control specialist. A typical writing day is jotting notes madly on the bus, going to work, coming home, and transcribing them to my laptop. Weekends are usually dedicated towards promoting War of the Soulites, but I try and get some writing in when I can.
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
I wrote my first story when I was in grade four, which was a fantasy story. It didn't sell too well.
What are you working on right now:
I'm working on a horror novel, currently untitled involving demons and humanity's poor choices which could lead to the destruction of Earth. I have a few projects lined up after that as well.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
Nothing specific, but when I usually hear a new piece of music, I want to write for a couple of hours. This usually lasts for a few days until I get bored of the song.
Strangest thing that ever inspired you to write:
Usually drinking massive quantities of caffeine. After that, thousands of words fly by on the computer, and sometimes I have no idea how it happens.
Favorite place to write:
I have a little garden on the balcony outside my apartment, and I love to write there.
Any writing rituals/superstitions?:
Every second Saturday, after my paycheck, I buy myself an extra-tall red bull to start the morning.
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Nothing yet, but I'm planning to talk to a few paranormal investigators for one of my upcoming books I'm planning to write, and maybe go on another ghost tour.
Worst story idea ever:
Any idea involving the author being the actual character. I've seen it done a few times and find it egotistical. By the way, Best Story Idea-Bunny rabbits with rockets in space. It could happen.
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
Speaking from my own book, War of the Soulites, there's a scene where the Captain of the Vigilant meets his first officer for the first time-Marcus Collingway. Trouble is, Marcus is a terrorist and a mass-murderer. Renolds tries to guilt-trip Mark by talking about his sister who died in the war. Mark shrugs it off, and asks if he can talk about his sister next, who sells hot dogs in Iowa. Another choice would be from another book I read, Earth V2 by Malcolm Ducard. Without giving too much away, in one scene there's a colony ship headed to Earth V2, and the ship has a horrifying technicality.
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
Recently, Rogers canceled my internet, which is probably due to the fact that I haven't paid the bill in three months. I paid off the bill and arranged a six-hour writer's chat, thinking that I could get my internet reconnected the day before. Naturally, that didn't happen, and I spent six hours straight at a Serious Coffee. It was free internet, but I felt bad for the staff. They couldn't get rid of me.
If you could ask anyone who ever lived any question, who would you ask, and what would you ask?:
I would probably ask Stephen King if the drug rumors are true...
Three favorite words:
I'm a writer. I like all my words
What are you reading right now?:
Sad but true, I haven't read a lot of things recently. A book I recently finished is Extreme Liquidation by Gary Starta.
Three summer reading essentials:
1) Like Coffee and Donuts by Elle Parker
2) Foodie's Guide to Kitchen Magic by Sandra Sookoo
3) Unseen World by Sean Cummings
Favorite summer pastimes:
Swimming at the beach. I live right next to the Pacific Ocean, so the last time I went there eighty people were sunbathing, afraid to touch the water. Naturally, I did a few laps just to show them.
Favorite hobby:
Taking long walks. The strange thing is, when it comes to exercise I'm kind of lazy, but when my hubby and I have a walk it's really nice.
Favorite online timesink(s):
In my spare time I like watching funny reviews of movies and video games. The angry video game nerd, zero punctuation, and the nostalgia critic are my top three.
Advice to authors seeking publication:
Be patient. Try and build up your reputation first by submitting stories to free magazines. Then, go for magazines that pay. Your chances will be significantly better than a first-time writer.
Most surprising thing you’ve learned about digital publishing:
Probably the idea that people could download books onto pocket readers, and that some people buy thousands of books this way. My family is still trying to understand the concept!
Win a free ebook! Leave a question or comment for the author by Saturday morning (state-side), and be entered to win a copy of War of the Soulites
Winners will be announced during Saturday’s 6PM Central Time live blogcast. Entrants need not be present to win.
Author Profile: K.C. Wildwood
All Titles by Author:
Demon Heart; Lyrical Press (coming Spring 2010)
Latest Writing News:
Currently, in addition to Demon Heart, I have three major works under consideration with various publishers. Avalon is looking at Cowgirl Up, a sweet western contemporary romance; Five Star is considering Out of the Dark, a paranormal romance trilogy about modern-day elves; and Harlequin is reviewing Texas Hold 'Em, a fun, flirty cowboy romance set in Oklahoma.
This is a really exciting time for me, since all the above mentioned works made it through their respective 'slush piles' and were requested by the publishers. Am now holding my breath and anxiously checking my e-mail twenty times a day...LOL!
Favorite part of being an author:
My license plate. It reads: Smart women read romance. I write it. *smiles*
Typical day in the life of the author:
My schedule is insane! Full-time work, live on a farm, and two teen-aged daughters. So, mostly I wake up early to write, before the insanity starts. Then reality takes over and it's off to work, etc... In the evening, I steal a few hours to work on re-writes and write query letters and follow up on the business end of being a writer.
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
Huh. My first story? I don't recall. BUT...my first romance was written long-hand in cheap, dollar store notebooks about fifteen years ago, when I was a military wife down in Texas. It was a grand, over-blown, sweeping historical, and a total piece of crap, to put it nicely, LOL! (It is amazing how much I've learned since then.) But, on the bright side, I did love writing it, and it sparked an interest deep within me to keep on writing, no matter what.
What are you working on right now:
Right now I am doing research on a historical/inspirational/western series I am considering writing. I'd like it to be set in Kansas, my home state, and am playing around with breaking SLIGHTLY out of the typical inspirational mold by having my main characters be more conventional than is currently allowed in the genre. I dunno. We'll see what happens with that.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
I was diagnosed with Stage 2B cervical cancer in September of 2008. Although my prognosis was good (60% survival rate), battling the disease and facing the very real possibility of my imminent death really made me sit up and take a good, hard look at my life. The one thing that stood out as my deepest regret was that years before I had given up on my writing. I mean, I was a good mom, sister, daughter, blah, blah. I liked my career, was comfortable with my morals (or lack thereof) and was even okay with how I felt about my ex husband(s). But by quitting writing I had given up on my deepest love and let myself down.
So.
I squared my shoulders, drug out 'the old stuff', and dusted it off. I got serious, started doing the necessary research and learning, and started honing my craft for real. I wrote like crazy, through the chemo and the sickness and the pain...I wrote. In short, I decided to believe in my dream, and nothing...not even hell, high water, or even cancer...was going to stop me, this time.
The rest is history.
Lyrical picked up Demon Heart and the calls started rolling in on my other work.
Oh, and about that cancer-thingie? Well, I'm happy to say that I am officially six months into full remission and cancer free.
Go, me! (momentary pause so I can pat self on back. now, back to business...*laughs*)
Strangest thing that ever inspired you to write:
My daughter's big toe once inspired me to write a really, really bad poem about love, personal growth and letting go. She was newly born and all fresh and pink. I used to play with her feet and wiggle her toes and I thought she was the most beautiful creature I had ever seen. (still do) I think I named the poem 'ode to a toe' or something. (I used to drink a lot *winks*) Fortunately, the poem is long gone. The toe, I am happy to say, is still firmly attached to the eldest daughter.
Favorite place to write:
Anywhere. Give me a laptop and a card table and I could write on the deck of a sailing ship in the middle of a hurricane.
Any writing rituals/superstitions?:
2000 words a day, soldier. 2000 words a day. Enough said.
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Not much. I just people-watch, a lot. Fascinating creatures, they are.
Funnest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
I had a lot of fun bartending, back in the day. A lot of what I saw go down there has made it into my books. We'll call that research, then, okay? (body-shots are research, right?)
Worst story idea ever:
For the sake of originality I tried last spring to come up with an old Norse romance, something about the Gyllerhorn and Oden. I spent weeks looking into Norse mythology and digging through moldering texts on their mythos. Nothing ever came of it...and a lot of time wasted.
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
When Jenna finally caves to temptation and awkwardly attempts to seduce Valkan. I love the gentle humor and genuine caring between the two of them.
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
I laugh at myself daily and could not imagine doing otherwise. Life is stressful, and I long ago learned to look at things through the rose-tinted lenses of humor.
If you could ask anyone who ever lived any question, who would you ask, and what would you ask?:
I would ask the person who invented Cheetos why they did not bake the orange, dusty stuff into the puffs in the first place. It would have saved everyone a lot of mess and confusion that way.
Three least favorite words:
Can't. Don't. Never.
Three favorite words:
Courage. Determination. Margarita.
What are you reading right now?:
Dean Koontz. Love him.
Three summer reading essentials:
Stephen King; Just After Sunset
Dean Koontz; Odd Hours
Dean Koontz; Your Heart Belongs To Me
Favorite summer pastimes:
Horseback riding (we barrel race) County fairs (the family is in 4-H and FFA) Yearly trip to the ocean (usually Lauderdale. LOVE the Pelican Grand Resort!!!!) Reading (in the shade on the porch swing) Nagging daughters to mow lawn (love to watch them roll their eyes in disgust. Ah. Memories)
Favorite hobby:
It's gotta be the horse-stuff. We have seven over-sized lawn ornaments, and love each one, dearly.
Favorite online timesink(s):
Absolute Write Water Cooler. The site is both a writer's dream come true and whirling vortex/time portal. It traps you in there and does not let you go. For hours. You come up for air groggy, blinking your eyes at bright lights and wondering where your family is. (you have not been fairly warned. Seriously. If you are even vaguely interested in writing, check the site out)
Advice to authors seeking publication:
Do. Not. Quit. Trying. Ever. And... Research, research, research, etc...
Most surprising thing you’ve learned about digital publishing:
How friendly and encouraging fellow authors are. People genuinely want to see you succeed and do their best to welcome you and give you good advice.
Author Profile: Charlotte McClain
All Titles by Author:
As Charlotte McClain:
One Ring To Rule, Lyrical Press
Three Alarm Tenant, Lyrical Press
Spark Of Desire, Lyrical Press
As Belle McClain:
Trio, Liquid Silver
The Rock Star's Retreat, Freya’s Bower
Latest Writing News:
Writing feverishly, as always.
Favorite part of being an author:
When my characters take over.
Typical day in the life of the author:
Between work and school, I write whenever I can.
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
Oh, I'm so embarrassed. I was about 10 when I wrote a story about a girl stranded on a tropical island. Then when I was around 12, I got serious and started doing rock band and Star Wars fan fiction.
What are you working on right now:
I finished the second book in The Rock Star's Retreat series last night so I started the third this morning. Any second now I expect the first round of edits in for Trio.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
My grandmother had utter faith I was going to be the greatest writer in history.
Strangest thing that ever inspired you to write:
Getting held by Customs for an extended search of my baggage.
Favorite place to write:
I used to love to write in the Caribou Coffee in the Gangnam area of Seoul, South Korea. Now, my office is darn good.
Any writing rituals/superstitions?:
I don't like to finish one project and start another on the same day.
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
I asked a woman with a brain tumor what it felt like black out. And she told me, in detail.
Funnest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Stalking the neighborhood fire station.
Worst story idea ever:
There are no bad story ideas, just bad execution.
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
I loved the scene in One Ring where Kent chased Lindsey through the covered walkway. It was based on the walkway at the Chicago Comicon that everyone referred to as the habitrail. Of course I loved the end too. In fact I loved the whole thing. In Three Alarm Tenant I loved when Jack and Kate were talking and Archer walked around them tangling them in his leash. And there the scene in Spark Of Desire where Kevin has to deal with Jessica and her friends after breaking up with her. And there was the scene with the green icing at his birthday party.
This is like choosing a child.
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
At lunch today I was reading and a line made me laugh out loud. And then I snorted. And then the managers of the place I was eating at turned from their meeting at the next table. And then I laughed at myself for being a spectacle, again.
If you could ask anyone who ever lived any question, who would you ask, and what would you ask?:
I'd love to ask Paul McCartney how the heck he does it. Honestly, the man has been wildly creative for over fifty years.
Three least favorite words:
taxes
late
bliss (I don't like the way that one tastes.)
Three favorite words:
Chaos
Creation
Ecstasy
What are you reading right now?:
The Spellman Files by Lisa Lutz
He, She And It by Marge Piercy
and a back issue of Cosmo.
Three summer reading essentials:
Here Be Dragons by Sharon Kay Penman
Anything by Christopher Moore
Ender's Game by Orson Scott Card
Favorite summer pastimes:
Long walks in the woods
Favorite hobby:
Depending on my mood, sewing or travel.
Favorite online timesink(s):
Pogo.com
Advice to authors seeking publication:
Don't be shy. Talk to other authors and submit, submit, submit.
Most surprising thing you’ve learned about digital publishing:
How long it can take from contract to release date.
Win a free ebook! Leave a question or comment for the author by Saturday morning (state-side), and be entered to win a copy of One Ring To Rule.
Winners will be announced during Saturday’s 6PM Central Time live blogcast. Entrants need not be present to win.
Editor Profile: Pamela Tyner
What compelled you to become an editor?
I love books, and I love editing.
Favorite part of being an editor:
discovering wonderfully talented writers to add to my author roster
Typical day in the life of an editor:
The first thing I do every morning is check and reply to email, which I continue to do throughout the day. From that point what I work on varies and is dependent on deadlines. I work on several books at the same time. In addition to actual editing, there are forms to deal with (a necessary evil in every business), weekly editorial meetings, submissions to review, etc.
Three least favorite words:
Today my least favorite word is “mom”, but that’s in my real life. In writing, my least favorite word is “save” used in place of “except”. Other than that I dislike any word—whatever it may be—that’s repetitive in the writing.
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?
A few months ago when I had to give our insurance agent my age, and I couldn’t remember what it was. I had to calculate it.
What are you reading right now:
I’m reading Red Sage Secrets Volume 27, which I bought because a friend of mine, Nicole North, has a story in it, which is fabulous, by the way.
Favorite summer pastimes:
Eating ice cream :)
Favorite non-work related hobby:
Listening to music. I enjoy most everything, except for rap. And sometimes I try to pretend like I can sing, but…frankly, it’s not pretty.
Favorite online timesink:
blog hopping, and once I get started it could last for hours.
What excites you about digital publishing?
I’m excited that it’s growing by leaps and bounds, and every day it gains more recognition.
What type/genre of submissions are you hungry for?
Contemporary romance (sensual to erotic), dominate/submissive stories, and stories with paranormal elements
List three things you wish authors would do before submitting work to LPI?
Make sure the dialogue tags are punctuated correctly, weed out the repetition (both general repetition and word repetition), run a spell check and then double check for homophone errors.
List three things you wish authors wouldn’t do when submitting to LPI?
Don’t start the manuscript with backstory, don’t submit unpolished work, don’t forget to include a synopsis.
Author Profile: Nyki Blatchley
Nyki’s Facebook ID: Nyki Blatchley
All Titles by Author:
The Faery Princess, Lyrical Press
Kaydana and the Staff of Ishlun, Lyrical Press
Kaydana and the Ruby of Beguilement, Lyrical Press
Kaydana and the Crown of the Worlds, Lyrical Press
Kaydana and the Dragon Prince, Lyrical Press
At An Uncertain Hour by Nyki Blatchley, StoneGarden.net Publishing, 20th April 2009
Latest Writing News:
I’ve just signed a contract with Lyrical Press Inc. for my fourth Kaydana story, Kaydana and the Dragon Prince, which should be out early in 2010.
Favorite part of being an author:
That’s easy: creating people who have never existed before. I love every one of my characters (even when they’re horrible) and it still feels the closest I can get to a divine power to create them. Then again, seeing my work in print or download is pretty awesome too.
Typical day in the life of the author:
There’s really no such thing. I work full time (and not one of those jobs where I can skive and write half the time) so I try to write during my journey home on the train. With the best will in the world, though, I can’t be creative at seven in the morning. I also try to do some writing in the evening, as well as keeping up with several writers’ groups I belong to. At weekends, I try to write more, usually in the afternoon and evenings, as well as things like shopping and housework. I’d love to be able to set myself eight hours each day to write, but that’s just a dream at the moment.
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
I was four years old, and it was about a horse called Stephen Trotter, who pulled a cart driven by a man called Joe, in spite of being able to speak and wearing clothes and a top-hat. I still have it.
What are you working on right now:
Several things. I’m making plans for my fifth Kaydana story – I have a rough plot, though no title yet. I’m also preparing a presentation for a TV series: I want to start by pitching it to the BBC, though I’ve no doubt I’ll have to come down a few notches after that. I thought it was ready to go, but apparently they need outlines for at least six episodes, so I’ll have to come up with those. I’m also preparing and revising a collection of my short stories, related to my novel At An Uncertain Hour, in the hopes I can get that published. And then there’s my unfinished fantasy trilogy, which I must get back to, not to mention the starts of half a dozen short stories. So, er... mostly playing games on the computer.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
I had a dream when I was about thirteen, which was for me unusually vivid and stuck in my memory. It involved being pursued, but with a lot of details which, in hindsight, seemed to be telling me things about myself and my life-choices. I made several attempts to write an account of it, first as a poem, then as a short story, and I ended up making it the central episode of a rather surreal novel.
Strangest thing that ever inspired you to write:
That would be a ghost-story called She, which was based on an experience over about twenty years of being visited by a presence. Not really a scary presence, though very eerie – all it seemed to want was to snuggle up to me. I only actually saw it once, the last time, when it said goodbye, and it was incredibly beautiful. The story itself was fictional, but I used a similar presence in it.
Favorite place to write:
As I prefer to write straight onto computer, and I only have a desktop, that would be where my desktop is, in my living-room. I have music available at arm’s length, coffee within reach, and a picture of Shakespeare on the wall above, giving inspiration. Then again, I can write pretty much anywhere, including in exercise books on the train. Not erotica, though: it can be rather embarrassing writing erotica in public.
Any writing rituals/superstitions?:
Not really, although I normally have coffee available and music on. I’m not particularly fussy about the music though, as long as it’s something I like.
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Well, it wasn’t purely for research, but doing Civil-War re-enactment has helped me as a fantasy writer (English Civil War, that is). I mostly fought in the pike-block, which was a bit like a rugby scrum carrying sixteen-foot weapons, but I’ve also fired a matchlock musket. Experiencing hand-to-hand combat gives you a feel, even if the weapons are different, and I know how to hold and present any spear-type weapon. And it’s huge fun.
Funnest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
I don’t think I could tell you on a PG13 site.
Worst story idea ever:
I can’t really think of anything offhand. That’s certainly not because I haven’t had bad ideas, but I tend to forget them. One bad call I did make, back in my teens, was to try to write an epic fantasy novel in blank verse. There was nothing basically wrong with the story idea (I’ve rewritten it since) but the medium was definitely off-message.
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
The scene from Kaydana and the Staff of Ishlun where Tati seduces Kaydana.
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
Just now, at the idea of doing this interview like some kind of celebrity.
If you could ask anyone who ever lived any question, who would you ask, and what would you ask?:
I think it would probably be Shakespeare, but I’m not sure which one question I’d ask him. I’d probably just go for having an evening with him in the Mermaid Tavern, getting drunk and talking about things in general.
Three least favorite words:
literally – in the completely wrong sense it’s used now, such as a sports commentator saying “It’s literally a massacre.”
horrendous
megadeath
Three favorite words:
slubberdegullion
silver
dream
What are you reading right now?:
The Romance of Tristan by Beroul. It’s one of the 12th century versions of the story, but I suspect not one of the best. He certainly wasn’t close in quality to his contemporary, Chrétien de Troyes, who created both Lancelot and the Grail, among other things, and wrote one of the funniest episodes I’ve ever read. For anyone who knows his work, that's the little girl who gets a crush on Gawain.
Three summer reading essentials:
Lord of the Rings by J.R.R. Tolkien
Rats & Gargoyles by Mary Gentle
The Crow Road by Iain Banks
Favorite summer pastimes:
Fell-walking (especially in the Lake District)
Watching cricket
Exploring the countryside
Picnics
Favorite hobby:
Music, wide-ranging but especially classic rock, folk, blues, folk-rock and acid folk; including (but not limited to) Bob Dylan, The Incredible String Band, Roy Harper, Fairport Convention, Richard Thompson, Leonard Cohen, Sandy Denny, Robert Johnson, Joni Mitchell, Strawbs, Blind Willie McTell, Waterboys, Circulus. I also play keyboards and percussion, though not espcially well.
Favorite online timesink(s):
I don’t waste much time actually online, but I spend rather too much time playing silly little games on the computer – various obscure types of solitaire, draughts and things like that.
Advice to authors seeking publication:
Keep trying, and develop a thick hide when it comes to rejections. It’s worth fifty rejections to finally get that acceptance.
Also, if an editor offers you advice with a rejection, consider it seriously and be grateful – it means they’ve taken time out of their busy schedule to help you.
Most surprising thing you’ve learned about digital publishing:
That there’s so much of it. Before I got involved with being published digitally, I’d no idea how widespread it was.
Win a free ebook! Leave a question or comment for the author by Saturday morning (state-side), and be entered to win a copy of Kaydana and the Ruby of Beguilement
Winners will be announced during Saturday’s 6PM Central Time live blogcast. Entrants need not be present to win.
Author Profile: Nancy Wald
All Titles by Author:
Life’s Breath, Lyrical Press
Latest Writing News:
I am working on another paranormal romance.
Favorite part of being an author:
I enjoy sharing the characters who live in my head and bringing the images to life.
Typical day in the life of the author:
I work in education so I have summers off to spend time with my four children. I play a lot of Batman and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. Writing is limited to after bedtime. During the school year I try to write during lunch and in the evening.
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
At 35 I attempted to write my first book. I actually finished it but looking back I am amazed at how much I've learned since then. My book included a macho horse rancher and a shy, assult victim looking for safety.
What are you working on right now:
I am working on a sequel to my first book and a mystery romance involving a trucker.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
My sister and I share books. One had a very weak plot and we decided we could write a better story. I started that night and I enjoyed the process so I kept going.
Strangest thing that ever inspired you to write:
After reading the first Harry Potter book I thought eventually Harry would need a girl. It ended up so twisted Harry turned into a medieval sorceress in love with a nonmagical prince.
Favorite place to write:
I like a spot with a comfy chair, not too bright and very quiet, usually a rocker in my bedroom.
Any writing rituals/superstitions?:
I stretch a lot, before during and after. It gets the blood flowing.
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
The best information I found on medieval castles came from children’s nonfiction picture books. I own three.
Funnest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
In researching dragons and demons on the internet I stumbled through several bizarre and scary sites.
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
In the Quickening by Antonia Tiranth I enjoyed the scene when Aer first reveals he is a dragon.
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
Anyone who tries to entertain four children has to laugh at themselves all the time. I think I make a very humorous Joker from Batman.
If you could ask anyone who ever lived any question, who would you ask, and what would you ask?:
I'd like to ask Ben Franklin what he believes is his most valuable contribution to our world.
Three least favorite words:
Stupid & This sucks
Three favorite words:
Freedom, logic & Amen
What are you reading right now?:
"The Battle of the Labyrinth" by Rick Riordan and "Eclipse" by Stephenie Meyer
Three summer reading essentials:
The Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer
Janet Evanovich, "Fearless Fourteen" & "Finger Lickin Fifteen”
Favorite summer pastimes:
Camping with my family
Favorite hobby:
Logic puzzles
Favorite online timesink(s):
Mahjong
Win a free ebook! Leave a question or comment for the author by Saturday morning (state-side), and be entered to win a copy of Life’s Breath
Winners will be announced during Saturday’s 6PM Central Time live blogcast. Entrants need not be present to win.
Author Profile: Karen Hulene Bartell
All Titles by Author:
Untimely Partners, Lyrical Press
Sovereignty of the Dragons
Fine Filipino Food
The Best of Polish Cooking
American Business English
The Best of Korean Cuisine
The Best of Taiwanese Cuisine
Latest Writing News:
Am really excited! Received a 5-Tombstone (5-Star) review for UNTIMELY PARTNERS:
"I loved this book!....[It] has lots of intrigue and several unexpected twists, but all mysteries are solved at the end, though not in the way you might have expected. Keep an eye on the small white dog!"
Saturday, September 10, am addressing the Wimberley Book Club, whose members are reading UNTIMELY PARTNERS.
Favorite part of being an author:
My favorite part of being an author...writing endings the way I want the story to work out - hah!
Typical day in the life of the author:
Hmm...I write whenever I can, but I juggle a day job, as well as a nonprofit mustang rescue organization: http://texash2oasis.org/
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
An only child, born to rolling stone parents, I wrote my first novel when I was nine. What was it about? A family of twelve children who crossed the plains in a covered wagon.
What are you working on right now:
Have finished my first children's book, based on rescued mustangs being adopted.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
I was in Taiwan in the 90's, when China was conducting war games. I wokke one night to the sound of thunder - and then realized that it doesn't thunder in Taipei. What I heard were warships target practicing. SOVEREIGNTY OF THE DRAGONS is about that frightening experience.
Strangest thing that ever inspired you to write:
The strangest thing that inspired me to write was a white dog that I met at the top of the Pyramid of the Sun in Teotihuacan that actually became one of the central characters in the plot in UNTIMELY PARTNERS.
Favorite place to write:
My favorite place to write hotel lobbies or cruise ship libraries. Traveling always gives me ideas for stories. The locations spark ideas/plots/characters/conflicts. You could say that geography is the basis for my ideas.
Any writing rituals/superstitions?:
Writing rituals...I need my "mews" to inspire me - all five cats.
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
The strangest thing I've done for research...I walked through an overgrown jungle, as the guide chopped our way through with a machete, to participate in an authentic Mayan steam bath and then swam in a cenote to cool off.
Funnest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
The funniest thing I've done for research...I posed as a newspaper reporter when I was 16 to interview Mayor Daley for my HS newspaper. I ended up appearing in a picture on the front page of the Chicago Tribune...interviewing Mayor Daley.
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
The crystal grotto love scene in UNTIMELY PARTNERS.
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
Last time I laughed at myself - about an hour ago, losing at cards to my husband (three hands behind)...although I made a comeback and won!
If you could ask anyone who ever lived any question, who would you ask, and what would you ask?:
What's the key to success?
Three least favorite words:
"I can't." Hey, it isn't really two words; it's a contraction of three...kinda' ;^)
Three favorite words:
"I love you."
What are you reading right now?:
Night of Sorrows by Frances Sherwood.
Three summer reading essentials:
Playing With Fyre by Mina Carter
Delora's Necklace by Susan Blexrud
Untimely Partners by Karen Hulene Bartell
Favorite summer pastimes:
Traveling, horseback riding, and reading are my favorite summer pastimes.
Favorite hobby:
My favorite non-writing-related hobby is ground training rescued mustangs.
Favorite online timesink(s):
Procrastination 101: scrupulously pore over emails and put off doing any *real* writing.
Advice to authors seeking publication:
Keep trying - the only sure way to fail is to stop.
Win a free ebook! Leave a question or comment for the author by Saturday morning (state-side), and be entered to win a copy of Untimely Partners
Winners will be announced during Saturday’s 6PM Central Time live blogcast. Entrants need not be present to win.
Author Profile: Candice Gilmer
Facebook ID: candice gilmer
MySpace ID: candice gilmer
All Titles by Author:
Unholy Night, Moonlight and Shadows, Book One, Lyrical Press
A Darker Trinity, Moonlight and Shadows, Book Two, Lyrical Press
Broken Shine, Moonlight and Shadows, Book Three, Lyrical Press
Mission of Christmas, Lyrical Press
Fantasy Girl, Samhain Publishing
A sequel to Fantasy Girl is in the works, for release in 2010.
Latest Writing News:
Well, I'm very excited about my contracts for Mission of Christmas, a contemporary romance, and Broken Shine, the final book in the Moonlight and Shadows series with Lyrical Press. And I am working on a sequel to my Samhain release Fantasy Girl, a contemporary romance set both in the States and abroad. Quite a challenge, that's for certain, but I'm having a blast with it. I have my first booksigning coming up in Wichita KS, on August 29th, for my print release of Fantasy Girl. I'll be appearing with Michelle Pillow for the signing, and I'm excited/thrilled/estatic/nervous and all those things all wrapped up into one.
Favorite part of being an author:
My most favorite part of being an author? I get to fall in love all over again, all the time. I get to write about new love--whether it's something that's been brewing for years, like in Mission of Christmas, or a different idea of what love is, like in A Darker Trinity, (a M/F/M romance). I get to watch it unfold and develop as my characters fall in love. Since I write a lot in first person, many times I feel a lot more of the emotions as well. I also get to take from my own neurotic nutty life, building on the heartache, the worries we all have had as a single person. And heck, some of them we still have now.
Typical day in the life of the author:
Well, I stay home with my children during the daytime, my son is fifteen months, and my daughter is seven, so this summer has been spent trying to keep both of them happy. School starts soon, so I can't wait for that! But during the day, we go to the YMCA in the mornings, and do whatever errands that need to be done. (There's always errands...) Then home for lunch and nap time. In that time, (roughly about two hours) I try to get some writing done. Then when the boy wakes, I start with the afternoon chores, like finishing laundry. When my husband gets home, it's off to work, where I work as a hairdresser. After I get home, there's dinner, put children in the bath, and then bedtime for the short people. I usually try to spend some time with my husband, before playing a little online, and eventually, when he goes to bed, taking the quiet and working more on whatever story I'm trying to get done. The next day? Repeat.
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
The first story I remember writing, I was about twelve. It starred me and the teen heartthrobs of the day, The Two Coreys. It was about me becoming a super movie star. I was a kid--the story was written on whatever paper (or cardboard) I could find, holes punched in it, and stuck in a 3-ring notebook. I don't remember finishing it, but it was terribly cheesy (isn't everything when you're twelve?).
What are you working on right now:
I'm finishing up a sequel to Fantasy Girl, as well as working on editing Broken Shine, and am in the middle of edits for Mission of Christmas.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
I read Timothy Zahn's Star Wars book, Heir to the Empire. I have always been a huge Star Wars fan, and this was the first book I came across that told about what happened to Luke, Han and Leia after Return of the Jedi.
And me, having always adored Luke Skywalker's sweet and noble character, wanted to see him fall in love. So I started writing my own love story for L
uke. Eventually, this evolved into one of my first novels, Unified Souls. It was briefly published by an ebook company that shut down, and eventually, I'll do something with it again. When I get some time.
Strangest thing that ever inspired you to write:
A stick.
I was trying to think of an elegant weapon a character would use in a story. She would have something smooth, that didn't look like a weapon until she activated it. I found a stick, shaped roughly like a "7" and started playing with it, and I figured out what it would do. How it would look like a jewel-encrusted wrist band, but it pivoted into a small blaster in her hand.
Favorite place to write:
In a karaoke bar, on napkins. Don't ask me why, but something about the utter chaos allows me to completely zone out and write. Several of my books were started on napkins in karaoke bars. Otherwise, I usually need a fair amount of quiet.
Any writing rituals/superstitions?:
I tend to change my passwords frequently online, and something I've noticed, if I change a password to something (a town name, a character, for example) in a WIP, I never finish the story. So I no longer change passwords to anything from WIP's.
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Looked up how condoms were made.
Funnest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Looked up how condoms were made.
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
In Unholy Night, I just love, love, love the scene where Deanna, Marissa's best friend shows up in her dead prom date dress, ala "Roseanne." That always paints a perfect visual for me because I can see that episode every time.
In A Darker Trinity, though, for me, the favorite scene is in the club, where James and Joseph dance with Nicole, and she's sandwiched between them both. :::waves hand:::: hot hot hot!
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
Do I really have to reveal that? Really? Okay, I laugh at myself constantly. The other day I had to laugh at myself, because I couldn't figure out what the date was. Seriously. I was so confused. My watch said it was the 31st, and the calender said it was the first. I had to be corrected by my coworkers when I gave a client the wrong date for her check.
Three least favorite words:
Edits. Deadlines. Schedules.
Three favorite words:
New Contract. Release Date. Royalties.
What are you reading right now?:
Um, Serenity, the book based on the Joss Whedon film Serenity.
Three summer reading essentials:
1. Star Wars Republic Commandos series by Karen Traviss. (There's four in total, book five will be out in the fall) If you're a Star Wars fan, you'll never look at the Clones the same way again.
2. The Stephanie Plum series by Janet Evanovich (there's fifteen now) because everyone needs a laugh.
3. Somebody's Lover, by Jasmine Haynes. A trilogy of stories about brothers, hot and steamy, great summer reading.
Favorite summer pastimes:
1. Reading.
2. Going out with my girlfriends for coffee and shopping.
3. Taking kids to the pool.
Favorite online timesink(s):
Texas Hold'em Poker on Facebook.
Wait. Facebook in general.
Advice to authors seeking publication:
First... Read. Read books in your genre. Read books outside your specific area, read everything you can.
Write every day. Don't whine, don't fuss. Just do it.
Do your research on publishers and agents. The Internet is an amazing tool, there's tons of publishers out there as well as agents. Look them up. Learn about them. Know what they're looking for. So you don't waste their time or yours.
Go to conferences. Some say networking is key. And while that's important, the purpose of a conference isn't to party or network, it's to learn. Go to the classes, take in as much as you can get. Inhale everything you can.
And most of all, remember, this is a business. Just like your 9-5 job, it's a business, and you wouldn't send nasty emails to your boss if he told you he didn't like your pitch.
Win a free ebook! Leave a question or comment for the author by Saturday morning (state-side), and be entered to win a copy of A Darker Trinity.
Winners will be announced during Saturday’s 6PM Central Time live blogcast. Entrants need not be present to win.
Author Profile: a.c. Mason
Facebook ID: a.c. Mason
All Titles by Author:
Aequitas I: Betrayal, Lyrical Press
Latest Writing News:
Aequitas I Betrayal is:
# 6 Bestseller in Paranormal
# 9 Bestseller in Mainstream
Favorite part of being an author:
I’m still figuring that out.
Typical day in the life of the author:
I wake in a cold sweat with an idea and must go write that very moment but I can’t see because I haven’t had coffee.
Any number of strange things happens until the end of the day when my eyes are burning and I can no longer type.
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
I was thirteen. The story was called Valor.
The story of young Arab girl living in America in the early 90’s, about to be shipped home to marry a much older man. With help from a high school friend, she changes her identity and becomes Valour Jones. She finds herself drawn to a troubled older man Dave whose wife Alicia died under suspicious circumstance.
Dave is haunted by nightmares of the night his wife fell from the cliff. The FBI believes he killed her because she’d been having an affair with his younger brother Tony and was pregnant with his child.
Tony was raised by his brother after his parents’ tragic car accident and later seduced by his older brother's wife. He returns, from a tour of duty to find his brother has shacked up with the haunting resemblance of his dead wife.
Will Valour figure out which of the brothers killed Alicia before she becomes the next victim?
What are you working on right now:
Aequitas II Punishment.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
At some point before I was thirteen I saw a biography of Mary Shelley, you might have hear of her she wrote this novel called Frankenstein; or, the Modern Prometheus, which she finished at the age of 19. Discovering Mrs. Shelley was a life changing moment. Yes. I was still weird but I wasn’t alone in this.
Strangest thing that ever inspired you to write:
Me. I’m a little strange.
Favorite place to write:
In the dark.
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
I’ll never spill the beans on this one.
Funnest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Wild horses couldn’t drag this out of me.
Worst story idea ever:
I plead the fifth.
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
Right now. I can’t plead the fifth we don’t have . Shh, don’t tell anyone.
If you could ask anyone who ever lived any question, who would you ask, and what would you ask?
Mary Shelley. What have you always wished people would ask you about but they never have?
Least favorite word:
kudos
Favorite word:
Peace
What are you reading right now:
How I Write, by Janet Evanovich
Three summer reading essentials:
Claiming Of Sleeping Beauty by A. N. Roquelaure (Anne Rice)
Memnoch the Devil by Anne Rice
The Handmaid's Tale by Margaret Atwood
Favorite summer pastimes:
Hitting the open road without map or a GPS.
Favorite hobby:
Politics.
Favorite online timesink:
Checking my horoscope. Sagittarius.
Advice to authors seeking publication:
Be a student of the craft. I mean read books on writing. I checked out everything I could find at the local library and bought a bunch more.
Join a writers group(s). I learned a lot from author writers and critiquing their work.
Many authors have workshop on their websites do them. I’ve done many of them.
Know your genre(s) and the business of being a writer.
The most important thing is don’t get discouraged by criticism, evaluate what the person has said. Ask your self is the comment true and be prepared to learn and do better then apply the new knowledge.
Most surprising thing you’ve learned about digital publishing:
How global the readership is. Hello world.
Win a free ebook! Leave a question or comment for the author by Saturday morning (state-side), and be entered to win a copy of . Aequitas I: Betrayal.
Winners will be announced during Saturday’s 6PM Central Time live blogcast. Entrants need not be present to win.
Author Profile: Malcolm Ducard
Malcolm’s Facebook ID: earthv2
All Titles by Author:
Earth V2, Lyrical Press
Latest Writing News:
I had a Release / Reading Event in Los Angeles this month in August. Book generating very positive feedback.
Favorite part of being an author:
I love science fiction - because in this day and age, it isn't fiction. The story of technology is developing so fast that I love trying to keep up and stay ahead. Plus, I am a media/technology executive, so my writing (for the digital format, no less) helps keep my mind nimble for what the future future might bring.
Typical day in the life of the author:
I write during odd patches of weekend nighttime.
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
I was about 7 or 8 years old and it was an action story about someone chasing someone else. Much of the story contain the refrain, "and he kept running and running and running..."
What are you working on right now:
Marinating some new ideas right now. Watch this space.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
My mother's story-telling when I was young. Rich, folk, memorable, orally passed down tales that amazed and sparked my imagination, fears and aspirations. If I ever capture a tenth of that, I'd consider myself successful.
Favorite place to write:
A quiet house where everyone is asleep, Starbucks, random cafes.
Any writing rituals/superstitions?:
I like to wear a hat.
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Google satellite mapped a number of buildings in specific towns to make sure detailed scene backdrop descriptions were absolutely accurate. Also did lots of light speed, outerspace calculations to make sure the detailed "space" descriptions and travel could happen hypothetically. The places are real and possible.
Funnest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Developing character names - everything from ancient Egyptian legends to a guy who once stole my girlfriend.
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
Parole by Barton Paul Levenson
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
I laugh at myself all the time - not because I'm funny but because I like to beat others to the punch. :)
Three favorite words:
Jazz (I like the way it sounds and looks, and I was once a jazz radio dj), Robust (full and healthy is nice), Paranoia (what's lingering beneath, what hovering above...)
What are you reading right now?:
Made to Stick: Why Some Ideas Survive and Others Die, by Chip Heath
Three summer reading essentials:
Little Brother by Cory Doctorow
Wastelands of the Apocalypse - by various writers, Stephen King, Octavia Butler, others
Pride and Prejudice and Zombies: The Classic Regency Romance - Now with Ultraviolent Zombie Mayhem! by Jane Austen and Seth Grahame-Smith
Favorite summer pastimes:
Hanging out with my kids.
Favorite online timesink(s):
TV, hulu.com, tmz.com, many many others
Win a free ebook! Leave a question or comment for the author by Saturday morning (state-side), and be entered to win a copy of Earth V2
Winners will be announced during Saturday’s 6PM Central Time live blogcast. Entrants need not be present to win.
Malcolm will also be giving away an Earth V2 t-shirt at Saturday’s live blogcast. Be there to win!
Author Profile: Yeva Wiest
All Titles by Author:
Billy Bong, Lyrical Press
Dangling, Lyrical Press
Practical Purposes, Lyrical Press
"Miss Bubbles" in Summer Flings - Alyson Books
"A Creamy Concoction" in Tales of Travelrotica for Lesbians Vol. I - Alyson Books
"Teide's Shadow" in Tales of Travelrotica for Lesbians Vol. II - Alyson Books
"S'More" in Ultimate Lesbian Erotica 2008 - Alyson Books
"Bloom" in Wetter - Alyson Books
Coconuts Over You - All Romance eBooks
Tide of Desire - All Romance eBooks
Apache Eyes - Phaze Publishing
Whipping the Cream - Phaze Publishing
"Behind the Beard" in Phaze Fantasies Vol. III - Phaze Publishing
Paybacks are Hell - Phaze Publishing
"Drawn" in Sapphistocated - Phaze Publishing
Tiny Horrors of Desire - Phaze Publishing
"To the Edge" - Clean Sheets eZine
"Her Little Hand" - Clean Sheets eZine
Latest Writing News:
My partner and I recently attended the Houston Pride Festival and handed out promo. We are working on give aways for the Dallas Pride and Galveston pride coming up soon. In a few weeks, I will be writing the weekend away during the International Novel Contest.
Favorite part of being an author:
The feeling when a story comes together and the characters come alive is awesome. Also, seeing my name in print at Borders is such a rush.
Typical day in the life of the author:
A typical day for me starts before six - My work is really intense, because I work with people living in an inner city housing complex. Anything and everything can happen. Some days I teach, some we dance or play games, and others we deal with the horror of poverty. Most nights I either teach or write. I have to find stolen moments to write. Weekends are hectic but usually fruitful.
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
I wrote a play in the third grade. It was a comedy based on the fairy tale The Princess and the Pea. My music teacher let me direct the play using her class as the cast. I still remember hand copying the scripts
What are you working on right now:
I have several stories in progress. One book has been and on and off project for about a year now. It was intended as a light romance, and it sort of went into some dark territory. I'm playing with another satire, and of course I'm writing erotica in my spare time.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
The Blue Mosque in Istanbul. I wrote a poem about it. You can read it at Goodreads.com
Strangest thing that ever inspired you to write:
A news report about some kids stealing a skull with the intent to make it into a bong. I could not get the idea out of my mind.
Favorite place to write:
My office. It has great lighting, loads of space, and it's very quiet.
Any writing rituals/superstitions?:
I write in 60 minute segments while I do laundry. Folding clothes or loading the washer gives me a tiny break.
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
I wrote a story using a spatula in an erotic scene, so...
Funnest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Cut out heads. I'm an avid head hunter. I love going to bargain bookstores looking for magazines with interesting faces.
Worst story idea ever:
Bob's Earache, a murder/suicide. It was so bad.
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
Dangling: Gabi infiltrates Exit Only, a reparative therapy workshop.
Practical Purposes: The Western Auto scene when James Cole's lover tries to buy a gun.
Billy Bong: Gayle and Betsy Wetsy go to Mass.
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
Not long ago, I danced the Harlem Shuffle with some kids. I am such a geek, but I had a blast.
If you could ask anyone who ever lived any question, who would you ask, and what would you ask?:
I would ask Del Shores to direct Practical Purposes.
Three least favorite words:
smirk - especially when every character in a story seems to favor this facial expression. angled - some writers have characters angling in and out of vehicles. Arrgh. being - for ex. Being she was going to town... being?
Three favorite words:
pungent - it's so sensory.
burst - I link this word to ripe, and I have a succulent and erotic viewpoint.
creamy - I love this word - love creamy breasts, creamy skin, creamy women...
What are you reading right now?:
I'm re-reading Janet Evanovich's Stephanie Plum novels. They are such fun.
Three summer reading essentials:
The Girl Who Loved Tom Gordan - Stephen King
Naked - David Sedaris
Sweet Thursday - John Steinbeck
I know these are not new books, but they are stories that I feel everyone should enjoy.
Favorite summer pastimes:
Sitting under an umbrella at the beach doing nothing and having margaritas and chicken diablos at my favorite local restuarant.
Favorite hobby:
Watching reality television shows: Project Runway, Top Chef Masters, and The Fashion Show
Favorite online timesink(s):
Watching youtube. I love The Guild. And Yahoo News is great
Advice to authors seeking publication:
Read, Plan, Research, Write, ReWrite, ReWrite, Let someone else read your story, Edit, Wait, and ReWrite. Never, ever fall in love with your words, instead let your story unfold as you work.
Most surprising thing you’ve learned about digital publishing:
The turnaround on a story is short. Print publication takes much longer.
Win a free ebook! Leave a question or comment for the author by Saturday morning (state-side), and be entered to win a copy of Practical Purposes.
Winners will be announced during Saturday’s 6PM Central Time live blogcast. Entrants need not be present to win.
Author Profile: Linda Lattimer
All Titles by Author:
Cheyenne and Her Prince Charming, Lyrical Press
Family for the Holidays, Lyrical Press
Running On Fear, Lyrical Press
Latest Writing News:
Running On Fear is my latest release with Lyrical Press
Favorite part of being an author:
Being able to tell a story from the heart, and having the readers enjoy what you have written.
Typical day in the life of the author:
Busy with trying to promote, while working on more stories and edits, as well as doing everyday routine stuff.
How old were you when you wrote your first story and what was it about:
I would say probably around ten and it was a mystery.
What are you working on right now:
A western historical
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
When my grandmother became ill, then my dad
Favorite place to write:
Along a lake or near some mountain area
Any writing rituals/superstitions?
Just watching TV when writing
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
In Running on Fear: The part where Melanie asked
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?
A long time ago at
Three least favorite words:
can’t, negative, impossible
Three favorite words:
can, positive, get it done
Favorite summer pastimes:
reading, fishing, traveling
Favorite hobby:
fishing
Advice to authors seeking publication:
Keep writing and never give up the dream
Win a free ebook! Leave a question or comment for the author by Saturday morning (state-side), and be entered to win a copy of Cheyenne and Her Prince Charming
Winners will be announced during Saturday’s 6PM Central Time live blogcast. Entrants need not be present to win.
Author Profile: Chandra Ryan
All Titles by Author:
Ink In The Blood, Lyrical Press
Latest Writing News:
Right now I'm working on a couple new projects that I hope to be submitting soon.
Favorite part of being an author:
My favorite part of being an author has been meeting other authors. There are so many wonderful authors out there that really wish you success in the field and they're very helpful, sometimes by giving advice in their blogs and other times by just giving support when you're having a rough day. They really are fantastic.
Typical day in the life of the author:
I almost always write in the morning. I've found between 9am and noon works best for me. After lunch we're, my two sons and I, are off to the park and usually the store for something I forgot the day before. By the time we get home the day's gone and it's time for supper.
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
I was ten when I wrote my first story, or at least that's the first story I remember. Our teacher told us to pretend we'd found a key in our front lawn and we were to write about what it unlocks. Mine unlocked a rock that was a doorway to another world. I remember picturing everything being bright and gold and shiny in the world, and the people were all very small.
What are you working on right now:
Right now I'm working on the edits for Ink in the Blood and writing the sequel to it. I love Izzy, the heroine of Ink in the Blood, and I'm really excited about the sequel, which is about her sister Nikki.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
The most powerful thing that's inspired me to write is my family. Their strength, courage, and support have always been an source of inspiration for me.
Favorite place to write:
My favorite place to write is my front room couch. The TV and Wii and all other distractions are in our family room, so the front room is my oasis.
Any writing rituals/superstitions?:
I have to be curled up in the corner of the couch with music playing on the stereo in order to write. And the music has to match the tone of the piece I'm working on. I'll go for months without changing the CD because I'm working on one piece in particular.
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
I've spent hours researching car makes and models since I started writing. I didn't realize how important cars were to me, but each of my heroes has a specific car and that car defines the character in a lot of ways to me.
Funnest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
When I was writing a space opera, I used 'research' as my excuse to watch hours of Battlestar Galactica and Star Trek Next Generation episodes I'd already watched countless times. My husband found it very amusing.
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
My favorite scene would be from Rae Lori's A Kiss of Ashen Twilight. Ariya wakes up in Jace’s apartment and finds him entertaining a female vampire. It's a great scene and is written very well.
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
Just last week I laughed at myself because I locked myself out of my house not once, but twice, in the same day.
Three favorite words:
Need, because it conveys a desire or hunger that's gut wrenching.
Family, because the word can invoke so many different emotions given context and the reader's own experiences.
Luminescence, just because it's fun to say.
What are you reading right now?:
I just finished reading Bid for Love by Savannah Chase, which I really enjoyed.
Three summer reading essentials:
Bid for Love by Savannah Chase,
Azazel by Dawn McClure, and
Cry Sanctuary by Moira Rogers.
Favorite summer pastimes:
My favorite summer pastimes are hiking and swimming. If I can do them both on the same day I'm in heaven.
Favorite online timesink(s):
My favorite way to procrastinate online would have to be twitter, that and reading people's blogs.
Author Profile: Toni Zuma
All Titles by Author:
Hot Summer Fling, Lyrical Press
Latest Writing News:
I've enjoyed the good reviews rolling in for Hot Summer Fling and have been a guest blogger on a couple of sites.
Favorite part of being an author:
The act of creation
Typical day in the life of the author:
In addition to being an author, I'm a freelance writer-editor, a mom, a wife, a daughter, a sister, a friend, and a work-out buddy, so I'm juggling various aspects of my life every day. However, writing every day is as important to me as brushing my teeth every day. When I'm not writing or editing, I'm thinking about writing or editing, dreaming up my next scene, character, or plot. My prime writing time is in the quiet hours after everyone is in bed, that magical time between 11 p.m. and 3 a.m. I don't do it often because it's nearly impossible to get up the next morning. However, I write anytime I can.
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
I wrote poems as a teenager, thick angst-ridden stuff that held my hopes, dreams, sorrows, tears, and fears. I was in college when I wrote my first story for one of the Trues confessions magazine. It was about a young woman who thought sex was the only way to show her boyfriend how much she loved him.
What are you working on right now:
I'm working on my next erotic novel, and my alter-ego is editing her completed spicy contemporary novel and beginning another.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
After visiting Juarez, Mexico, a few years ago, I came home and wrote a story about a profound moment I experienced there. I haven't published it anywhere; it was more a story to remind myself all that I have to be greatful for.
Strangest thing that ever inspired you to write:
I read a newspaper article about a woman who was arrested for beating up her fiancé at their engagement party when she caught him kissing one of the bridesmaids. That germ of an idea was the starting point for my alter-ego's second novel.
Favorite place to write:
My favorite place to write is at my computer, late at night, with all the lights off and some great music playing softly. I carry a small notebook with me so wherever I am can be my favorite place to write.
Any writing rituals/superstitions?:
I just jump into whatever piece I'm working on. I don't typically get writer's block because I just write, even if it's garbage. Soon, I'll be making sense again and can go back and edit out the trash.
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
I had to research vibrators for an upcoming novel.
Funnest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
I had to research vibrators for an upcoming novel.
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
I love Lily and Jack's pool scene in Hot Summer Fling.
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
I talk to myself, and sometimes I realize I'm doing it and I have to laugh.
If you could ask anyone who ever lived any question, who would you ask, and what would you ask?:
I'd ask Mary Magdalene about her role as a woman in Jesus' life.
Three least favorite words:
They're all good for something sometime.
Three favorite words:
Freedom
Love
Joy
What are you reading right now?:
I just finished Sarah Mayberry's *She's Got It Bad* (a Blaze); I'm re-reading one of my favorites: *Fruitflesh* by Gayle Brandeis; and I've just started Dwight Swain's *Techniques of the Sellng Writer.*
Three summer reading essentials:
Hot Summer Fling (by me!)
Anything by Tess Gerritsen
Favorite summer pastimes:
Beach
Pool
Reading
Hanging with my daughter
Staying out late
Sleeping late
Drinking gallons of iced tea
Eating fruit at its prime
Cruising at night with the windows open/top down
Favorite hobby:
Yoga
Favorite online timesink(s):
Playing word games on MSN
Advice to authors seeking publication:
1. Finish writing your novel
2. Polish it
3. Send it off to a publisher
4. Repeat steps 1-3
Most surprising thing you’ve learned about digital publishing:
The quality of the writing published.
Win a free ebook! Leave a question or comment for the author by Saturday morning (state-side), and be entered to win a copy of Hot Summer Fling
Winners will be announced during Saturday’s 6PM Central Time live blogcast. Entrants need not be present to win.
Author Profile: Morgan Q. O'Reilly
All Titles by Author:
Frozen, Lyrical Press
Chinook Wine and Sink Her, Lyrical Press
Halo in Her Pocket, Cobblestone Press,
Cowboys Dream Too, Lyrical Press
Six Foot Hero (w/a Shea McMaster), Lyrical Press
Latest Writing News:
Very excited to have just finished a first draft of a first person romantic suspense. Now to edit and submit.
Favorite part of being an author:
Playing with my imagination. I get to live in my head.
Typical day in the life of the author:
Stumble from bed, get a big cup of water, fall into chair in front of the computer, check email, play – um I mean check on FaceBook, then dive into latest WIP or edit or critique. Knit when reading, order teen to do chores, finally give in and go shopping when we run out of food. Once a week I do lunch with the local writers then knit and crit and gossip at a local coffee shop for a few hours. We love to brainstorm. We don’t really gossip. Well, not much.
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
In the sixth grade I wrote a sweeping western saga about crossing the prairie and my teacher told me it was very romantic. Also suggested I write out the word “and” instead of using “&”.
What are you working on right now:
Just finished a romantic suspense and going back to rewrite a contemporary romance set in California and England. I have on the books a followup to my novella Halo in Her Pocket, and another Alaska contemp involving a small woman and a large truck. It should be hilarious.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
Oh. Wow. A dream I had about fifteen years ago was the basis for Six Foot Hero. The dream was so clear, so vivid, I could see colors, smell flowers, and touch my hero. There have been several other such events and inspirations, not the least of which is NaNo each November.
Strangest thing that ever inspired you to write:
Steve McNair’s murder this summer.
Favorite place to write:
I have a little leather arm chair and ottoman in my living room where I can put up my feet and have everything from water, knitting, books, hand lotion and bills I’m ignoring all within my reach. It’s also a little too close to the kitchen for the comfort of my waistline.
Any writing rituals/superstitions?:
I try to be careful about what I read while writing. If I’m writing a comedy, I stick to lighter romances to keep my mood peppy.
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Drove to Circle, Alaska, looked around for 30 minutes then turned around and left. Not much to see, but we drove a LOT of miles to see it. It was a three day trip. One day to Fairbanks, one to Circle and back, then finally one day from Fairbanks back to Anchorage. It was lots of fun, but a whole lot of driving!
Funnest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Most recent fun thing -- Got a policeman to pose for a picture.
Worst story idea ever:
Preacher’s abused wife and her doctor lover. Too many issues dealt with at once.
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
Not fair! We’d be here all day, and night, discussing scenes I love. Okay, okay. Probably the tantric massage scene in Cowboys Dream Too.
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
At least once a day. Usually because my teen points out some absurdity. He’s good at that.
If you could ask anyone who ever lived any question, who would you ask, and what would you ask?:
Oh I hate this question! Cary Grant, what’s the sexiest thing about a woman.
Three least favorite words:
Sorry, no money.
Three favorite words:
Sure, buy it!
What are you reading right now?:
Christina Dodd Texas Heart series and the books from the Alaska Heatwave Contest!
Three summer reading essentials:
The Chicago Stars Series by Susan Elizabeth Phillips
Loads and loads of ebooks from LPI
Bad Boys of the South anthology with JoAnn Ross
Favorite summer pastimes:
Planting flowers, enjoying the Midnight Sun on my balcony. Nights are getting dark much earlier now and my flowers are feeling the bite of winter coming on. I'm going to miss them when the world turns white and cold in a few weeks.
Favorite hobby:
Knitting and a bit of jewelry making.
Favorite online timesink(s):
*Groan* FaceBook
Advice to authors seeking publication:
Be positive and don’t give up. Also, listen to your crit partners and contest judges with a grain of salt. If you keep hearing the same thing, take a closer work and find the lesson.
Most surprising thing you’ve learned about digital publishing:
How much work/time it takes to take one little file and turn it into so many formats. Kudos to the editors who make it work!
Win a free ebook! Leave a question or comment for the author by Saturday morning (state-side), and be entered to win a copy of Cowboys Dream Too
Winners will be announced during Saturday’s 6PM Central Time live blogcast. Entrants need not be present to win.
Author Profile: Elle Parker
All Titles by Author:
Like Coffee and Doughnuts, Lyrical Press
Waxing Jack, Toybox: Candles, Torquere Press
Latest Writing News:
I am hard at work on my next novel, as well as in the planning stages for several others. I recently attended WriterCon in Minneapolis, MN where I shared a vendor table with authors Martha Wells and Racheline Maltese, and got to talk to several fans. This month I’ve been taking part in the August-long scavenger hunt to celebrate the third anniversary of TwoLipsReviews.com.
Favorite part of being an author:
Playing with words. I love the actual writing process when I get to tell the story and create the characters, but I also really enjoy editing because it lets me play with the language and fine tune the words. It’s a bit like sculpting.
Typical day in the life of the author:
Survive, write, sleep. I fit my writing career in and around my day job, so there are no typical days. I own my business, so I’m able to do most of my writing communications and promotion while I’m working the day job. In the evenings, I’m usually able to carve out some chunks of writing time. Those and the weekends is when I get my books written, which makes for slow going, but it’s the only way for now.
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
I honestly can’t remember what it was about, and I don’t think it was actually written, but when I was very small, I made a book for my dad. All I can remember is that it was on pink paper, and I was extremely proud of how I’d bound it together with a stapler.
What are you working on right now:
I’m working on a second Dino Martini novel, which is going well. I’m also in the plotting stages of a possible third one, and a paranormal romance.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
The most powerful thing that inspired me to write was a dream I had. It was just a short scene, but the scenario of the dream was so clear, and when I woke up the ideas just started bombarding me. I’m still at work on that novel, but it’s what kicked me back into original writing.
Strangest thing that ever inspired you to write:
A dead and frozen rose I found in a parking lot.
Favorite place to write:
My favorite place of all to write is up on the loft of my family cabin. I’ve done some of my best work there, and I wish I could work there more often. I love it so much I put a photo of it on my website so I could visit it when I’m not there. Feel free to go take a peek.
Any writing rituals/superstitions?:
I always make several photo pages for my novels that I print off and hang around my office. They’re pictures of locations, buildings and people that inspire my work. I also make soundtracks to go with each novel and listen to them while I write.
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Planned my funeral.
Funnest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
I write erotica, I’ll let you guess…
Worst story idea ever:
I once wrote a short story about a business man having an interview at a fancy firm. His name was Timothy, and he wore a sharp suit…and he was a tiger.
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
One of my favorite scenes from Like Coffee and Doughnuts is the scene where Dino gets invited to dinner with the old ladies who share his apartment building. It was so much fun to write, and I have to admit it made me fall even more in love with Dino.
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
I laugh at myself constantly, mostly for lack of grace, or for stupid mistakes.
If you could ask anyone who ever lived any question, who would you ask, and what would you ask?:
I would ask Ron White if he’d tell me a bedtime story.
Three least favorite words:
not right now
Three favorite words:
gin and tonic
What are you reading right now?:
I’m about half way through Robert B. Parker’s Blue Screen, a handful of books on sustainable building practices, and Time Magazine’s yearbook for 1969.
Three summer reading essentials:
Fried Green Tomatoes at the Whistle Stop Café by Fannie Flagg, Clive Cussler’s Inca Gold (or Sahara), and the marvelously trashy romance of your choice.
Favorite summer pastimes:
Reading on patios with fancy drinks, playing at the beach, grilling corn at the cabin, floating on a pontoon boat.
Favorite hobby:
Crafts, jewelry making, art – anything visual and non-verbal.
Favorite online timesink(s):
LiveJournal, hands down.
Advice to authors seeking publication:
My advice is to read as many blogs as you can and learn what’s going on in this business, pay strict attention to submission guidelines, and take pride in your work.
Most surprising thing you’ve learned about digital publishing:
I was never aware of the incredible amount of work that goes into constructing the various digital files that make up ebooks. They’re much more complex than I realized.
Win a free ebook! Leave a question or comment for the author by Saturday morning (state-side), and be entered to win a copy of Like Coffee and Doughnuts.
Winners will be announced during Saturday’s 6PM Central Time live blogcast. Entrants need not be present to win.
Editor Profile: Mary Murray
Latest editing news:
a.c. Mason's Aequitas I: Betrayal is #6 in Paranormal, #8 in Mainstream on the OUAB Bestseller list.
The Feline Fugitive by Esmerelda Bishop is #6 in Romance/Paranormal on the OUAB Bestseller list.
Secrets, a historical romance by Erin Grace soon to be released, as well as Lonestar Trouble, a contemporary romance by Autumn Piper (aka Piper Denna.
Next year, Broken Angel, the first in the House Phoenix Series by SW Vaughn releases.
Also next year, Blame It On Venus, by Autumn Piper releases
What compelled you to become an editor?
Actually, my pal and CP extraordinaire Piper Denna, author and editor at Lyrical compelled me. Once here, I realized she was right, as usual. I can help authors and their stories reach their full potential.
Favorite part of being an editor:
That Woohoo! moment when an author realizes they've reached a new level in their writing ability, and when the good reviews come in and I get to say, "I told you so."
Typical day in the life of an editor:
Answering email while drinking coffee, then it's just me in my editing cave wrestling with words and adding lots of pretty colors with Track Changes to mss. More coffee, housework break, then back into the cave until I have to ask myself that eternal question, "What the heck am I cooking for supper?".
Three favorite words:
Infernal. As in, "that infernal housework".
Chocolate. (self-explanatory)
Scabiosa. Sounds like a disease, but it's really a beautiful flower. Can come in handy when riding public transportation and a chatty weirdo sits next to you.
Three least favorite words:
was
very
almost
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?
Just the other day, when I dropped a full gallon of milk. Had that 'ya can't cry over spilled milk' thing goin' on. My oldest said, "Don't worry, Mom. You're among friends." lol.
If you could ask anyone who ever lived any question, who would you ask, and what would you ask?
I would ask my late mother-in-law, a fabulous cook, to decipher her handwritten recipes for me. How much is a chunk of butter exactly? A scoop of flour? My whoopie-pies from her recipe are like whoopie-chips. Oy.
What are you reading right now:
Hello, Darkness by Sandra Brown
Lion Tamers by Sutton Fox
Three summer reading essentials:
Aequitas I: Betrayal by a.c. Mason
The Feline Fugitive by Esmerelda Bishop
All Fore Revenge by Piper Denna
Favorite summer pastimes:
Reading
Being in or on the water with my family
Gardening
Favorite non-work related hobby:
Sewing and knitting
Favorite online timesink:
Doing any type of research. So many articles...just gotta check them out.
Most surprising thing you’ve learned about digital publishing?
That dropping a document into Notepad scrubs it clean of stuff that could make that same file go haywire later. Simple, but brilliant.
What excites you about digital publishing?
The possibilities available for authors to reach tons of readers easily.
What type/genre of submissions are you hungry for?
Romance...historical, paranormal, contemporary. Romantic suspense. Tension-filled, heartwrenching stories loaded with imagery that'll make me forget I'm reading and wish I'd stocked up on chocolate.
What type/genre of submission would you like to see less of?
Horror submissions in which the prologue tells the reader a big scary monster is going to kill people. That just kills the suspense for me.
List three things you wish authors would do before submitting work to LPI?
Check spelling, and not just with spellcheck. Use a dictionary.
Make sure GMC for characters is clear and 'show' it, don't 'tell' it.
Have the toughest critiquers you know rip your ms apart, then revise it again.
List three things you wish authors wouldn’t do when submitting to LPI?
Tell us how wonderful the book is.
Underestimate our writing standards.
Disregard the submission guidelines.
Author Profile: Grayson Reyes-Cole
Grayson’s Facebook ID: grayson.reyescole
All Titles by Author:
Bright Star, Lyrical Press
The Builder, Lyrical Press
Latest Writing News:
I have a new release coming to Lyrical Press at the beginning of December 2009. Currently, this contemporary romance has no title, but it's a novel that's close to my heart and I think contemporary romance readers will enjoy it. There are a couple of other novels in the works, but I can't talk about those yet!
Favorite part of being an author:
I think my favorite part of being an author is going back and reading something I've written and subsequently deposited into the "back of my mind" then saying "Wow, I wrote that!"
Typical day in the life of the author:
My schedule is a hectic one, but I don't sleep much, so it works. Let's see, I roll out of bed, check my mail, go to my day job, which I love, or on weekends I run errands and shop and sometimes head out to the beach, then from around 6:30 (after I cook dinner) on, I'm writing until I happen to fall asleep. Sometimes if I get to sleep early, I wake up early, so writing in that 3:00 AM to 6:00 AM time frame is super productive and fun more me as well.
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
My first complete story was written and produced when I was in the fifth grade. We actually had to write the book, illustrate it, and build it. Mine had a card board cover and was bound with yellow yarn tied through holes punched through the cover and construction paper pages. -- There is a theme of bright yellow yarn in my life, I swear. Ask me about my weaving class, or just read Bright Star. -- Anyhow, the story was of course about a princess meeting her prince. I think that just might be the last blond leading lady I've written. :)
What are you working on right now:
I have three major works that I feel compelled to close out this year. Domina, the follow up novel to Bright Star has been "finished" for months, and by "finished" I mean that I should have stopped working on it and subbed it three months ago. The second is a novel called Appetite, which is built on the Pandora's Box mythos and has been subbed a little, but I'm still working on the complete manuscript. The last is the serial blog I started over at amusedauthors.wordpress.com called A Sharpest Wife. I ended the blog with every intent of turning the intriguing, dark, story into a novel. It's behind the first two pieces I've listed but I swear the story has a mind of its own and tries to take over my writing brainspace :) If you'd like to take a look at it, stop over and read the blog from beginning to end.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
The death of my father prompted me to write a story called the The Dead Father Trilogy. It was subbed once ten years ago to Story magazine, I got a lovely note from the EIC but it wasn't accepted. I haven't subbed it anywhere since and probably will not.
Strangest thing that ever inspired you to write:
It's a toss up between a cute little girl in a fountain.
And an evil old man who wanted to know my blood pressure.
Favorite place to write:
On my couch.
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Print out pages and pages of Physics rules and experiments.
Funnest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Spend hours googling names I made up in other languages to make sure international readers weren't shocked or amused by them.
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
That's really hard. I really enjoyed the descriptions of Morocco at the start of Rita Vetere's Ancient Inheritance. I love the description of the Alaskan wilderness in Morgan Q. O'Reilly's Chinook, Wine, and Sink Her. There are also some great moments in Cindy Jacks' Point of Distraction series. But, if I have to squeeze in one of my own, I'd have to say that I love every single scene in Bright Star! LOL
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
I laugh every day that I look at my Works In Progress (WIP) pile.
Three favorite words:
Tall, Dark, and Handsome
What are you reading right now?:
City of Ashes, the follow up to City of Bones by Cassandra Clare
Three summer reading essentials:
Song of Solomon, Toni Morrison
Tales of a Fourth Grade Nothing, Judy Blume
Eyes of the Dragon, Stephen King
Favorite summer pastimes:
Grilling and having drinks with friends on the deck.
Favorite hobby:
Cooking
Favorite online timesink(s):
MSN Games Jigsaw - do this daily puzzle on hard and get confused on where an hour of your life just went.
Grayson, who wins the coolest prize ever competition, will be giving away a small painting she’s just completed and posted on her site. Grayson will be selecting the winner from this thread, so be sure to leave a comment or ask a question for your chance to win.
Win a free ebook! Leave a comment for the author by Saturday morning (state-side), and be entered to win a copy of The Builder.
Winners will be announced during Saturday’s 6PM Central Time live blogcast. Entrants need not be present to win.
Author Profile: Joan Alexander
All titles by author:
Novels
1954 Fly Away Paul (Joan Pepper) Cassell
1955 The Choice and the Circumstance (Joan Pepper) Cassell
1956 Carola (Joan Pepper) Cassell (3 film options)
1957 Lewis’s Wife (Joan Pepper) (bought by John Huston to film in Spain) Casssell
1967 Thy People, My People (Joan Alexander) Jonathan Cape
1969 Where Have All the Flowers Gone? (Joan Alexander) Heinemann (2 film options)
1969 Strange Loyalty (Joan Alexander) Heinemann.
1970 Bitter Wind (Joan Alexander) Heinemann
1973 One Sunny Day (Joan Alexander) Heinemann.
2009 Cool Water, (Joan Alexander) Lyrical Press
Biography
1977 Whom the Gods Love. Boyd Alexander’s Expedition from the Niger to the Nile. 1904-7. His last Journey 1910. Heinemann.
1983 Voices and Echoes Tales from Colonial Women. Quartet.
1996 The Life of Mabel Strickland, the uncrowned Queen of Malta. Forward by the Duke of Edinburgh. Progress Press.
Contributed To:
Radio Programme: BBC: Morning Story: Woman’s Hour
Short Stories: Argosy: Woman’s Journal: Homes and Gardens: Fiction Magazine: London Mystery Magazine: Cosmopolitan: Woman: Here’s Health: Woman’s Own: Alfred Hitchcock’s Mystery Magazine.
Prize Winner of 2 short story magazines. Fiction: The European
Latest Writing News:
Cool Water, a thriller out with Lyrical Press August 2009
Favorite part of being an author:
Stimulating and being alone.
Typical day in the life of the author:
work from 10am – 6pm five days a week
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
Seventeen. A short story about three dressmakers published in The London Mystery Magazine
What are you working on right now:
Some short stories and another thriller.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
When my father wouldn’t let me go on the stage.
Strangest thing that ever inspired you to write:
The rhythm of Katherine Mansfiled’s short stories
Favorite place to write:
My study at home
Any writing rituals/superstitions?:
I like my small Tigger to be on the desk with me (Winnie the Pooh. I was always known as Tigger at school because I bounced so much!)
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Visited one hundred old people in Nursing Homes in the south of England
Funnest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
Got lost
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
I do it all the time.
If you could ask anyone who ever lived any question, who would you ask, and what would you ask?
Other than depression what made Virginia Woolf commit suicide?
Three least favorite words:
f….. bloody, c…t
Three favorite words:
dearest, darling, beloved.
What are you reading right now:
The Rescue by Joseph Conrad
Three summer reading essentials:
The Little Stranger by Sarah Waters
The Blue Hour, A Portrait of Jean Rhys by Lilian Pizzichini
Brooklyn by C. Toibin
Favorite summer pastimes:
Swimming. Walking in woods
Favorite hobby:
Exploring the country and collecting and listing wild flowers. Travel
Favorite online timesink:
Looking people up on Google
Advice to authors seeking publication:
Stick at it!
Most surprising thing you’ve learned about digital publishing:
The importance of one’s editor.
Author Profile: Sean Cummings
Facebook ID: Sean Cummings
All Titles by Author:
Unseen World, Lyrical Press
Shade Fright, Coming Soon from Snowbooks
Latest Writing News:
I've got the cover art up on my site for Shade Fright. Also completed a YA novel about a teen witch.
Favorite part of being an author:
I enjoy the challenge of creating something from nothing and the prospect of entertaining people with something that started out as an idea and eventually a premise. I like to see my characters evolve in what I am working on and I enjoy exploring new ways of bending my genre.
Typical day in the life of the author:
I am up at 3:00 AM - Write until 6:00 AM. Work all day. Write in the evening. Somehow find time to sleep.
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
8 - Superheroes. Always superheroes.
What are you working on right now:
Editing Shade Fright with Snowbooks editors and awaiting a response on the YA novel from an agent.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
A letter I received from a publisher in 1993 before the Internet that implied my writing was "good".
Favorite place to write:
My home office.
Any writing rituals/superstitions?:
Earplugs. Always earplugs. I need silence.
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
Every day because I am losing my hair. Tragic.
Three favorite words:
Get bent dude.
What are you reading right now?:
The Affinity Bridge by George Mann
Three summer reading essentials:
Time. Coffee. Quiet. Fluffy pillow.
Favorite summer pastimes:
Writing.
Favorite online timesink(s):
Drudge Report.
Advice to authors seeking publication:
Don't give up.
Win a free ebook! Leave a question or comment for the author by Saturday morning (state-side), and be entered to win a copy of Unseen World.
Winners will be announced during Saturday’s 6PM Central Time live blogcast. Entrants need not be present to win.
Author Profile: JD Williams
All Titles by Author:
Timestream, Lyrical Press
Latest Writing News:
I have two science fiction short stories coming up in two anthologies. More details will be available at my website once things are finalized.
Favorite part of being an author:
Writing
Typical day in the life of the author:
Writing, or trying to. Still trying to sort out a good schedule for that.
How old were you when you wrote your first story, and what was it about:
I was six or seven. It was a rather surrealistic fantasy. I’m amazed the teacher didn’t have me checked for illegal drug use. It was that bizarre. It involved turkeys. And that’s all I’ll say about it.
What are you working on right now:
Wrapping up a heroic fantasy novel, starting an epic space adventure novel, plotting out a sprawling science fiction sub-genre novel, contemplating which of my finished novels will be the first to get a sequel.
Most powerful/memorable thing that ever inspired you to write:
You know, that’s really hard to say. I’m always dreaming up ideas, and sometimes it’s something small that inspires me, and sometimes it’s something big. Nothing in particular really stands out in my mind.
Favorite place to write:
In front of my computer.
Strangest thing you’ve ever done in the name of research:
I guess I must be pretty tame in doing research. Nothing extraordinary yet.
Favorite scene(s) in LPI titles:
Being a recently acquired author, I haven’t had a decent chance to check out LPI’s catalog yet. I’ve been caught between starting edits on Timestream and wrapping up edits on another novel, plus all the usual stuff involving living, that I haven’t had much time to just read lately. Hopefully soon.
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?:
That would be every day. I don’t take myself too seriously. The littlest things can become a topic of humor to me. I’m laughing at what I type right now.
What are you reading right now?:
Works-in-progress by writer-friends.
Three summer reading essentials:
Reading any three books in the summer is better than not reading any at all.
Favorite summer pastimes:
Mowing the lawn. (I’m deluding myself here, but if I repeat it often enough...)
Favorite hobby:
Reading comic books, mostly The Amazing Spider-Man (I own every issue from 1966 to the present).
Favorite online timesink(s):
I read SciFi Wire, but that probably doesn’t take up enough time to qualify as a timesink.
Editor Profile: Piper Denna
Latest editing news:
I've got lots of great names on my roster list. One title which I'm very excited about, though, is Bitch Named Karma, a really fun chick-lit novel. And Six Foot Hero is now available - a fun story set in Alaska and California.
What compelled you to become an editor?
I thought it would be good to learn another aspect of the business, and figured editing would make my own writing stronger.
Ever been, or are you, an editor anywhere else?
I edit reviews at Coffee Time Romance.
Favorite part of being an editor:
I really enjoy digging through new submissions.
Typical day in the life of an editor:
I wear so many hats - Mom, Wife, editor, 2 different authors, day job... some days I don't get to put every hat on. No 2 days are alike.
Three favorite words:
House, LOST, M*A*S*H..... :)
Three least favorite words:
"No" - have a hard time saying it. Coming in tied for 2nd and 3rd would be the "p" word and the "c" word, both used as synonyms for female genitalia.... they just don't work for me.
When was the last time you laughed at yourself, and why?
When I was trying to disentangle my swimsuit cover-up at the pool so I could put it on. It was like one of those puzzles with the 2 nails tangled together!
If you could ask anyone who ever lived any question, who would you ask, and what would you ask?
I'd ask my Grandma to please specify in her will that I use the money she left me to go to college.
What are you reading right now:
The Help, by Kathryn Stokett
Three summer reading essentials:
Summer reads must have humor, be romantic, and easily interruptable so you can get back into the groove without too much head work.
Favorite summer pastimes:
Napping.
Favorite non-work related hobby:
Sewing.
Favorite online timesink:
Checking email.
Most surprising thing you’ve learned about digital publishing?
All the precautions we have to take to ensure books come out readable in multiple formats.
What excites you about digital publishing?
Enormous room for growth. These are the books of the future!
What type/genre of submissions are you hungry for?
Chick lit and women's fiction.
What type/genre of submission would you like to see less of?
I'll fly in the face of popularity here and confess: I'm sick to death of vampires and demons. Not that they were my favorite to start with, but... wow. Way overdone. And please, if you're writing a vampire story, make it believable. The heroine isn't going to fall for the Hero simply because he's a vampire. She needs some motivation.
List three things you wish authors would do before submitting work to LPI?