Kelli A. Wilkins's Blog: Kelli's Quill - The Blog!

Hi everyone!

All this month I'm sharing bits about my Amber Quill Press romances set during the hot and sultry summer months. Today I'm taking a peek inside the often misunderstood world of professional wrestling with my novel,

A Perfect Match


.


I grew up watching wrestling and several years ago I had the opportunity to hang out with real life wrestlers. At the time, I wasn't writing books, and the thought of creating a wrestling romance never even entered my mind. But I've always been the nosy and curious sort, so I kept my eyes and ears open and my mouth shut.

I learned a lot from observing the guys as they traveled to and from matches, dealt with zealous fans, and talked about the internal workings of the business. But two things stuck with me most: 1: when it came down to it, they were regular people (granted, very large regular people) and 2: 95% of the world doesn't understand what they do or why they do it. I filed all that away in the back of my mind and carried on with my life.

So how did

A Perfect Match

come about? Years later (after I'd been writing for a while) I woke up one morning with the entire book in my head. I knew the plot, the characters, and even the subtle backstories of everyone. I had everything I needed to write the book, so I did. (And the hero, Vinnie, is not modeled after any one particular wrestler - although it's fun to see who readers think he 'really' is. His character is a combination of about 5 different wrestlers. The other characters are all compilations, too.)

The book made the rounds to 'big name' publishers who all said the same thing: "Wrestling? Who wants to read about wrestling?" (Even though the book was a top ten finalist in the first "American Title" book contest.) Their rejections only solidified my theory: people just don't understand it.

But I'm happy to say that the book got excellent reviews and several people have commented on how it opened their eyes to what goes on behind the scenes.

A Perfect Match

isn't just for wrestling fans - it's for anyone who loves a good romance.

Here's a summary, a steamy excerpt, and a few of those nice reviews!



 A PERFECT MATCH
Falling for the wrestler she had been assigned to interview wasn’t part of Danni’s plan, until Vinnie Valentine pinned her heart in a flash.
Disgruntled with her job as the office gopher for a national sports magazine, Danni Stone impersonates a reporter to prove herself to her boss. Her assignment? Spend thirty days on the road with Vinnie Valentine, a sexy professional wrestler.

Life isn’t going well for the Heavyweight Champ. Vinnie is struggling with a manipulative boss, prepping for the most important match of his career, and feuding with his arch-enemy, Thorn. The last thing he needs is a nosy reporter following him around—even if she is hot.

Thrown together in close quarters, Danni can’t help falling for Vinnie. Their mutual attraction grows, and Danni gives in to the lustful feelings she’s repressed for years. As their relationship deepens, she finds herself drawn into Vinnie’s world and becomes a key player in his title bout. But before Danni can tell Vinnie that she isn’t the reporter she claims to be, he discovers her deception. Her lie threatens to destroy everything between them. Is their fragile love destined to fail, or are they a perfect match?

***
Danni hurried down the hall to the locker room. She hadn’t meant to be late picking up Vin tonight, but the moron lot attendant wouldn’t let her back into the parking area. She pushed open the locker room door and rushed inside. “Vin, I’m sorry I—”
Her tote bag slipped through her fingers and dropped to the floor. Vin stood less than three feet away, soaking wet. A white towel barely covered his waist. “Oh, my God!” Her entire body flushed as a tingling sensation built deep in her belly. Vin was practically naked and dripping wet from the shower. “I…um…you’re…I…oh God,” she muttered and whirled around. Why wasn’t he saying anything? Vin’s warm hand settled on her shoulder. He gently turned her to face him. Beads of water dripped down his chest, and she longed to lick them away. “Um…you…you’re wet.” She glanced at the towel and prayed it would fall off his waist. “And you’re not?” She squealed as Vin drew her to his chest. His mouth covered hers, and she lost all sense of reason. A wet heat built between her legs as Vin’s tongue entered her mouth. Her body surged beneath his touch. She clutched him tight and dug her fingers into the solid flesh of his back and ribs. He smelled like soap and water and yet there was a hint of something manly, musky about him. Vin moaned and cupped her buttocks through her sundress, melding her body against his. A high-pitched mewing sound escaped her throat as a long-denied lust flared within her. Was this really happening? She’d had this fantasy for so many nights, would she wake up and discover it was only another dirty dream? She slid her hands down Vin’s flat stomach to the edge of the towel. For a second, she hesitated, unsure. Did she dare do what every instinct commanded? Vin’s tongue plunged deeper into her mouth, wordlessly urging her on. She groaned and traced the outline of his rigid cock through the towel. Hard and thick, it was exactly what she craved. Without thinking, she tugged the towel away, freeing his penis. Vin moaned as she ran her hand along the length of him. It was so huge, it would never fit inside her—but that didn’t matter—she wanted to try. Vin scooped her into his arms and carried her across the room. She kept her eyes closed as he set her down on something padded. Her knees hung over the edge of something sturdy. Was she on the massage table? “You sure you want it?” he asked, his voice raspy. “Yeah. God, yeah.” Wide hands pushed up under her dress. Vin massaged her wet sex through her panties and she lifted her hips toward him. She needed him inside her—now. “Please, hurry,” she begged.  Read more on the book's buy page: http://amberquill.com/AmberHeat/PerfectMatch.html

*** “5 stars! Kelli A Wilkins’

A Perfect Match

is one of the best books I read in awhile. It’s romantic, sweet and HOT!! Vin and Danni have it bad for each other and once they both give into their passion, its hot and heavy. I really enjoyed this book, it has a great storyline and I loved all the characters.” – Wanda, Reviewer, Romance Writers Reviews
 “4 stars!
A Perfect Match
is a how-to manual of what goes on in the professional wrestling world. I found it fascinating. You don’t need to know or like the sport to enjoy this tender, yet fierce love story, with a ‘HEA for now’ ending. I hope you like it as much as I did.” – Patrizia M., Reviewer, Manic Readers

“Kelli A. Wilkins writes a daring romance. She gives her readers ringside seats to a spectacularly sexy main event. Danni may have her reasons for being deceitful, but her treachery will not allow her to obtain what she honestly wants. Vinnie may be on his way out, but he will not surrender without the fight of his life. Together, they create a tag team that cannot easily be defeated. Ms. Wilkins certainly pins her readers and keeps them down for the count. I definitely could not stop reading once I was caught firmly in the grasp of the entangling romance. 
A PERFECT MATCH
throws out all the rules and shows just how no-holds-barred love can be. This was a fun, fast, and feisty tale.” Melissa K., Reviewer, Noveltalk

I hope you'll check out the book - and give wrestling a try!

Next week, I'll be sharing a summer romance...with a vampire!


Until next time!


-Kelli

Hi everyone, Today I’m taking a look back at my first Amber Allure romance,

Four Days with Jack

. I always knew that one day I’d write a gay romance, and I’ve been batting ideas around in my head for a while. I was in between books and had just finished editing
A Perfect

Match
when I heard about the Amber Allure “Postcards from Paradise” line, and I knew I had my next project.
A lot of people cringe when they learn that I write erotica – “You mean porn?” No. I write hot love stories that don’t skimp on details. Then when people find out that I write GAY erotic romances – that really freaks them out. “But why would you do that? You’re not a man or gay.” So? I wrote a Bigfoot romance, and I’ve never seen Bigfoot. 
As a writer, I approach a same-sex love scene (m/m or f/f) the same way I would if I was writing about a hetero couple. For me, it’s not about the gender or the anatomy of the characters – it’s about creating a believable, intimate scene where two people express their love for each other.


Four Days with Jack

is one of the very few books I wrote without an outline. I think not having an outline let the characters write their own story (so to speak), and took the book in new directions. As I wrote, David quickly revealed a major conflict – inner turmoil.
David has kept his true desires a secret from himself and everyone else. He is afraid of what people will think about him if they know (or even suspect) that he’s gay. How will they react? Will they judge him? If so, how will his life change?
These aren’t the typical types of questions that my straight characters have to deal with in their romances. And this line of thinking really got me wondering about what it’s like for people to come out in real life. Will they be shunned by friends and family? Should they tell anyone? Live a lie? Move to a new state? What if they live in a state that’s more traditional and not gay-friendly? What will their coworkers think? Is their preference really anybody’s business?
I picked up on this theme of “what will people think?” and ran with it. In the book, David points out that Jack’s family (and some friends) disowned him when he came out, and David doesn’t want to go through the same type of heartache. Jack’s reply is pretty much: “So? They’ll get over it.” 
As I was writing this story, I considered “what people would think” about this book. How can a woman write a gay romance? What will people think about the m/m love scenes? Then I reminded myself that I’m a writer, and I create the characters and scenes that make up the book. Basically, the story needs to be told, and I’m the one telling it. I’ve made up all sorts of things: an erotic Bigfoot story, detailed ménage m/m/f scenes, a first-person vampire love story, and coming soon even a m/m werewolf romance.
Writers need to turn off their internal editors and forge ahead with the story as it should be (and needs to be) told. If we constantly worried about what grandma would think about our writing, or if we were afraid to open up and let the characters and story take us into the bedroom, we’d never write anything except G-rated bedtime fables. And if a friend/relative/whoever has a problem with the subject matter, Jack’s right: they’ll get over it.
Recently I read a blog where a woman was “confessing” to writing an erotic romance, even though she couldn’t tell anyone about it and wouldn’t “dare” put her real name on the story. I got to wondering…why? Why hide your writing? And if you’re “ashamed” to be writing in a particular genre, why invest the time in something you’re not going to stand behind?
Some people are offended by gay romances and consider them “icky” or immoral. My philosophy is pretty simple when it comes to that:  it’s a free country, so read whatever you want – but don’t expect me to censor what I write because you have a problem with it. 
If you don’t want to read gay romance, then don’t. But I’ll still write them. And if you want to read about centuries-old vampires hanging out at high school dances – that’s fine for you – but it’s not for me. Everyone has different tastes, preferences, and beliefs, and everyone should be entitled to live life to the fullest without the fear of being picked on, teased, ashamed, spied on, or otherwise bullied into thinking they’re not good enough and shouldn’t do this or that based on other peoples’ standards.


Four Days with Jack

deals with issues of homophobia, self-doubt, and self-acceptance. I’m proud that I wrote it, and I’ll be proud of the next gay romances I write. Why? Because I’m a romance writer – and in my books, everyone deserves to be in love and live happily-ever-after.
I’m pleased to say that
Four Days with Jack
has received great reviews. Here’s a snippet from one:
“...I thought that (Kelli) Wilkins did a very good job portraying the confused David and the wary, but hopeful, Jack. David’s inner turmoil and fears about outing himself were so heartbreaking. I definitely felt for him. A strong romance with very likeable characters. I’m quite glad that I went ahead and read this story. I learned that as a romance fan I can definitely appreciate and enjoy those that feature two male heroes. An emotional, yet sexy coming-out story about two men finally opening themselves up to the possibility of a great love. It was an excellent introduction into the world of M/M romance.”--Jennifer, Romance Novel News
The book blurb and a tame excerpt are below. Check out a HOT excerpt on the book’s page: http://amberquill.com/AmberAllure/FourDaysWithJack.html
FOUR DAYS WITH JACK
When David invited his best friend along on vacation, he never expected them to fall in love…
Spending four days in a tropical paradise with Jack is a dream come true. For years, David lived a lie and denied his attraction to Jack. Now that they’re together in an isolated Caribbean resort, he finally sheds his denial and admits what he really wants—to be Jack’s lover.
Jack is more than willing to introduce David to the life he has always fantasized about. Their sizzling nighttime encounters confirm David’s long-hidden desires. But what will happen when they leave the resort? Will David sacrifice everything to start a new life with Jack? Or will he go back to his old ways and risk losing the best friend he ever had?
The Excerpt:David popped open the champagne and poured them each a glass. "A toast. To us. To our new beginning."
"To us," he said, clinking David's glass and taking a sip of champagne. The bubbles tickled his nose. "This is excellent, nice and sweet."
"Like you." David set his glass on the cart and gathered him into his arms. "I want to prove how much I love you. How much I've always loved you."
Jack closed his eyes as David kissed him. It was gentle, tender, and made his skin tingle. David really did love him, and he was thrilled that he was opening up about it. David kissed him a few more times, then picked up the bowl of strawberries. "Hungry?"
He opened his mouth as David fed him the sweet fruit. His taste buds came alive, and he sucked on David's fingertips as he pulled away.
"My turn," David said. He took a strawberry and ran it along David's lips. David's tongue darted out and licked a droplet of juice off the end of the strawberry. He wrapped his lips around it and sucked it from his fingers.
Jack grinned. "Lovely."
They took turns feeding each other the tangy fruit and washing it down with champagne. After their third glass, his head started to buzz. "I think I'm getting drunk."
"Good," David said, drawing him into his arms for a kiss.
They kissed tenderly at first, then gave in to their passion. He groaned and kissed David deeper, aching and yearning for more. David's hot mouth tasted like strawberries and champagne.
David bent his head and kissed the soft spot on the side of his neck. "Tell me what you like," he said, grinding his erection against him. "Let me know it's right."
"You're doing fine," he replied, yanking David closer. He kissed him hard and plunged his tongue into his mouth. Kissing was fine, but he wanted more.
"Why don't we go to bed?"
"No. Not yet." David stepped back. "Tonight will be different. Tonight I plan on seducing you."
He closed his eyes. "Go right ahead. I'm all yours."
***
On May 17, 2012 the Amber Quill Press author blog took part in the "Hop Against Homophobia" blog hop. To find out more about the event, you can visit this link: http://hopagainsthomophobia.blogspot.com/2012/05/purpose-of-this-hop.html
I hope you’ll check it out. Next week, I'll share a bit about my summer romance,
A Perfect Match
.
Happy Reading!Kelli A. Wilkins
See all of Kelli’s romances here: Amber Quill Press Author Page: http://amberquill.com/AmberHeat/bio_Wilkins.html
Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Kelli-A.-Wilkins/e/B001JSAB24/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_3?qid=1326933452&sr=8-3

Hi everyone!
Here's part two of our look at my hot and steamy summer romances.

Trust with Hearts

was my 10th romance with Amber Quill Press, and it was a lot of fun to write. It's a sultry romance that takes place in West Virginia. The hero is a sexy, cowboy-like country singer who wears incredibly tight jeans. This novel is available in paperback and various electronic formats.




I had an idea for a mini-sequel, so if you've read it and would like to read more about Curtis, Sherrie, and Dave, post a comment or send me an email.


Here's a summary, a tame excerpt, and a few reviews:




Trust with Hearts






The premise:
After a bitter breakup, Sherrie Parker seeks refuge at her cousin Dave’s house in rural West Virginia. Early one morning, she runs into Dave’s other houseguest, a singer named Curtis Taylor. The last thing Sherrie wants is to share living quarters with a country music crooner – even if he is sexy, in a cowboy sort of way.  Thrown together by circumstances, Sherrie and Curtis get off to a rocky start, but soon discover they have more in common than they ever imagined. Unable to fight their growing attraction, they give in to their desires and start a sizzling summer romance.  Everything is perfect between them until Sherrie discovers that Curtis is keeping secrets from her – and his biggest secret of all will change everything. Can their newfound love survive, or will destiny keep them apart forever?   An Excerpt from Trust with Hearts
Sherrie relaxed and closed her eyes. Would Curtis see it as a sign of submission and kiss her? Although she tried to deny it, she had a crush on him. His deep voice and mesmerizing blue eyes stirred feelings in her she thought were long dead and buried.

Her wish came true as Curtis’s kissed her. A low moan escaped her throat as his warm lips moved against hers, tender and slow. A tingling sensation built inside her, and she responded to his gentle embrace. Her lower body flared with a growing need.

Curtis slid his wide hand across her belly and up to her chest. He squeezed her left breast lightly, then slipped his tongue into her mouth. She wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling him closer. Now more than ever, she wanted him to touch her, to kiss her, to take her right here. She’d only known Curtis a few days, and yet she wanted him in a way she’d never wanted Rick.

(Hot & spicy excerpts are on the book's page at the Amber Quill Press site!)

Reviews for Trust with Hearts

"Trust With Hearts is a must read. You will laugh, cry, and in the end, you will totally fall in love with the story, characters and all. Trust With Hearts is typical Kelli A. Wilkins work. It is character rich, and full of drama along with some sizzling scenes to spice it up. The relationship with her characters helps us see that Curtis and Sherrie may not make it, but then, as the drama unfolds, and she shows us their hearts, we realize there just may be more there than meets the eye. This book will remain on my favourites shelf for a long while, and it is a definitely recommended read from this reviewer.” - Rose, Reviewer, Romance at Heart.com “

"4.5 stars! Trust With Hearts is beautifully written. You struggle with Sherrie as she tries to regain her footing, and Curtis’s charm is intoxicating as it flows off the pages. I am always thrilled when I get the chance to discover a new-to-me author who I can’t wait to read more from.” - Emily, Reviewer, SingleTitles.com


You can see all my writings on my Amazon author page

http://www.amazon.com/Kelli-A.-Wilkins/e/B001JSAB24/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1

- or visit my site: www.KelliWilkins.com


Next week, I'll be sharing a peek at another hot summer romance!
Happy Reading,
Kelli

Hi Everyone! Happy May!
To celebrate the unofficial start of the warmer summer weather, I’m devoting the month of May to hot summer romances!
Quite a few of my Amber Quill Press romances take place in the summer. Maybe that’s because the weather’s warm and people can go outside and have fun. Or maybe it’s because the nights are steamy and humid and people need to get out of their clothes….
We’re starting things off (appropriately enough) with a look at A Midsummer Night’s Delights. This scorching-hot Amber Quill Press novella was a November 2008 best-seller and also appears in my Naughty Nobles anthology, along with A Most Unusual Princess and The Dark Lord.
Here’s a summary, a very mild excerpt & some great reviews!


A Midsummer Night’s Delights


The Premise:
At this Midsummer Ball, couples pair up everywhere—but not for dancing!
Young newlyweds Julian and Annabelle are miserable. Their arranged marriage is lacking everything—especially sex. Julian suffers from a lack of confidence and is harboring a secret urge. Annabelle’s longings go unnoticed and unfulfilled, no matter what she tries. But all that changes when they are invited to a Midsummer Ball. Their unconventional hosts, Vincent and Sabrina, introduce them to a world where their most intimate desires and hidden passions are explored—and fulfilled. Swapping and naughty games are just a few of the surprises awaiting them…
An Excerpt from A Midsummer Night’s Delights
Julian pressed his eyelids shut. His heart hammered so fast it felt like it would burst. His lower body ached and pulsed, burning with a raging need. He slipped his hand into his breeches and stroked himself. Vincent’s words swirled through his mind. Could he, should he, go into the bedchamber and take part in this wild sexual game?

Lord knew he wanted to. His body was ready…but the thought of taking charge and making love to Annabelle in front of another couple scared him. What if they mocked him or told someone what he’d done?

And how had Annabelle been convinced to do these things with another woman? Until today, she’d seemed so proper and innocent. Had she been waiting for him to unleash this lustful side of her?

He opened his eyes and glanced at the wall separating the two bedrooms. Everything was quiet in the other room. Annabelle wasn’t making whimpering sounds anymore. What was going on in there?

Reviewers Say:
Smokin’, 4 Stars! Looking for an author who isn’t afraid to push the envelope in erotic romance? Then take a stroll down the latest literary lane and you’ll find the blazing talent of Kelli A. Wilkins who has gifted us with her take on a secret summer ball that opens the eyes of two unsure newlyweds.

 A Midsummer Night’s Delights is a story that unknowingly draws you in. Subtle teases and heated scenes ebb and flow around the central characters and before you know it, not only are you eagerly turning the pages to see what sexual situations unfold, but also there grows a strong concern for Annabelle and Julian’s outcome. You won’t be disappointed with this piece – you’ll be curious, become titillated, and leave aroused.”
- Natalie, Reviewer, EroticRomanceWriters.com

“For those of you who delight in erotic romances, A Midsummer Night’s Delights by Kelli A Wilkins is a book you won’t want to miss. Kelli is an author who brings a huge amount of joyful imagination to her writing, an equal part of enthusiasm, and a lot of talent, as well. Her love for her characters shines through in her words, their plights so wonderfully explained, and the resolution of the problems so innovative and erotic. A Midsummer Night’s Delights is no exception. This latest creation of Kelli's is available at Amber Quill Press and is a must-buy for Kelli Wilkins fans everywhere, as well as those who enjoy a truly excellent erotic romance. A Midsummer Night’s Delights is a keeper, so get your copy today.”
- Rose, RomanceatHeart.com

4.5 Blue Ribbon Rating! “What a romp! A Midsummer Night's Delights is a delight in itself! I really felt for poor Julian and loved how he “rose” to finding the solution to his predicament. And Annabelle proved to be an apt pupil for her lessons. They are endearing characters with a real problem and a rather thrilling, fun answer. Good writing and lots of action make this a book to recommend!”
- Kris Jones, Romance Junkies Reviewer

And for those of you who are looking for even more spice... I wrote a sequel called A Midwinter Night's Delights – and that story is even hotter than this one! 
Read about all of my romances on my website: www.KelliWilkins.com
I also made book pages for my romances on the blog!
Until next time,
Kelli
  

Hello again everyone!

Today I'm sharing part 2 of my interview with Coffeetime Romance. I'm sharing an inside look at the writing process, and offer advice to beginning writers.

(Wanna hear what else I have to say about the writing life? Links to all of my interviews are on the News page of my website: http://www.kelliwilkins.com/news.html)



What is your favorite part of being a published author? What is your least favorite part?I love the process of writing the story. Creating characters, worlds for the characters to live in, and telling the story of their adventures is a lot of fun. It’s interesting to see what the characters do, watch them fall in love, and learn how they overcome their troubles to have a happy ending. 
However, once the “fun” part of writing is over, then the real “work” begins. Revising, editing, and proofreading the story is necessary, but it’s not terribly creative. You have to pull yourself out of the story and focus on wording, the plot, and other details that make the story “work” as a whole. This painstaking process has its rewards in the end, though. I have a phrase I use when I’ve finished a story: “I love having written.” This means I love having it all finished, polished, and done!
How have your friends and family responded to your becoming a published author?My friends and family have been very supportive. My husband is proud to call me the “resident writer” in the family. I have a few close friends I turn to for encouragement and guidance about my writing, and family members are always asking about my latest (or next) project.
What do you think is the hardest thing about writing romance?I think one of the hardest things about writing romance (aside from creating the story in general) is to write love scenes. The intensity, details, and descriptions have to be tailored to the genre and heat level of a story.  Plus, you have to make the scene develop naturally and fit the personalities of the characters. 
If you’re writing a tender historical romance, love scenes are handled quite differently than if you are writing a super sizzling erotic romance. The heat levels and intensities vary among all my books, so I’m able to experiment with different scenarios in the love scenes. Sometimes you have to set aside your “internal editor” and write the scene that’s appropriate for the book and the characters, regardless of what other people think you “should” write.
What would you like your readers to come away with after reading one of your books?Ideally, I’d like my readers to become involved in the characters’ lives and fully engrossed in the story. I’ve had some great reader feedback about my books. People were surprised at the twists and turns in The Pauper Prince, and wondered how (or even if) Claudette and Allan would end up together. One person confessed to tearing up during parts of Dalton’s Temptation. Those are great things for a writer to hear. It tells me that I’ve created believable characters that readers care about.  
What advice would you give to an aspiring author?The best advice I can give to any writer (regardless of what genre he or she likes to write) is to keep writing. It takes a lot of dedication and determination to sit down every day and write something. But the more you write, the easier it gets. (And don't just talk about writing "someday" - sit down and do it! The stories won't write themselves.)
Writing classes are a great way to learn the basics and meet other writers. If possible, join a writer’s group or a critique group to get feedback on your stories. A lot of times an outside person will notice something wrong with your story when you don't. If someone makes suggestions on how to improve your story, listen with an open mind, and don't take any criticism personally. 
When you’ve written the best story you can, submit it! You can’t get published if you never submit, and you never know when your first acceptance will arrive.

Remember, if you have a topic you'd like to see me address on the blog or a question about the writing life, drop me a line. I may answer your question here!
Until next time,Kelli

Hi Everyone!
Today I'm sharing an excerpt from my interview with Coffeetime Romance. It offers an inside look at my writing process, a bit about my background, and more!

Enjoy!



What made you decide you wanted to be a writer?I never actually decided to be a writer—it was just something that seemed natural to me. I’ve been writing stories since I was in elementary school and writing always interested me. I’ve been blessed with a lot of ideas and I just kept writing story after story as they came to me. Oddly, I never tried to get any of my writings published until I enrolled in a commercial writer’s program as an adult. People liked reading my short stories, and I liked writing them, so I decided to submit them for publication. From there, my “official” writing career was born.

Do you have a favorite genre or two that you like to write in?I write in several genres: horror, romance, sci fi, and non-fiction. I have a lot of ideas, so I’m able to diversify and switch gears now and then. In romance, I like to write historical/fantasy stories. My “Royal Desires” trilogy from Amber Quill Press (A Most Unusual Princess, Dalton’s Temptation, and The Pauper Prince) is a “medieval” fantasy. I liked writing the series because it allowed me to create a whole world for my characters. My romance novella, The Dark Lord, is historical, and The Sexy Stranger is contemporary.  Although I’m drawn to historical/fantasy settings, if I get a great idea for a story I’ll go with it, regardless of the genre. My novella, A Midsummer Night’s Delights, is also a fantasy story.
What actually motivates you to write? Do you have a muse or muses that keep you going during those times when you may experience writer's block?I’m self-motivated. I keep a folder of ideas, and if I’m ever at a loss for my next project, I read through the folder and see what story/plot/idea appeals to me to write next. Whenever I get stuck on a story or need to work out some details (of plot, characters, or whatever), I take a break from writing and go for a walk to clear my head. Usually the “writer’s block” clears up on its own and I get clarity on how to fix the story.
Where do you think you get the ideas for your books?Ideas are everywhere. I’m constantly observing what goes on around me, listening to other peoples’ stories, seeking out unusual settings, and noticing what most people don’t see. All of that, plus my overactive imagination, leads to story ideas. Once in a while, a story idea will just come to me out of nowhere. Sometimes I take two ideas and combine them into one, or I take an idea and ask myself “what if” to invent new scenarios.
When I wrote A Most Unusual Princess, I knew I wanted to write a story about a headstrong princess who was far from typical. (And boy, was she ever!) I fell in love with Elara and the other characters, and from there, created an entire trilogy. For The Dark Lord, I wanted to evoke a feeling of gothic mystery and suspense. Sometimes stories aren’t necessarily based on a concrete idea as much as they’re based on a character, mood, or setting.
Who are your favorite authors and how have they influenced your own writing style?I read a lot of books in all genres, horror, mystery, romance, general fiction, and non-fiction. I think I’ve been influenced in some way by everything I’ve ever read. Each time I pick up a book I notice how the author draws me into the story, if he/she keeps me interested, what works for the story and what doesn’t. I think reading helps me develop my writing skills.
Look for part 2 of the interview next week!
Do you have a topic you'd like to see me address on the blog? Have a question about getting published, writing, or my books? Send me a note or post it in a comment and I'll make your suggestion part of the blog!
Until next time,Kelli 

Hi everyone, As most of you know, I’ve published thirteen erotic romances with Amber Quill Press, four non-fiction pet care guides, and dozens of romance, horror, and sci-fi short stories. You can probably imagine that I’m a very busy author with a messy desk!
Over the years my desk has witnessed a lot of triumphs, agonies, long hours, characters being born (and getting killed off), and all the other ups and downs writers go through as they create stories.
My desk is situated under the window in our guest bedroom. The view isn’t particularly inspiring (I can see the street, some trees, and the occasional squirrel), but that’s okay because when I’m at the desk I’m usually “just” typing.
Unlike most authors today, I write everything out in longhand. When I get an idea for a story, I grab a pad of paper and several pens and start writing an outline. People ask me why I write like this when “everyone else” types. I think the act of putting the pen to paper helps me get in touch with the story and the characters. It’s also easier for me to write anywhere, at any time. If it’s nice outside I’ll sit in the backyard and scribble under the trees. If I’m stuck waiting for someone, I can pull out the pad and start writing, or just jot down ideas.
I give myself permission to write the first (usually very rough) draft on paper, then I go back and start typing. When I head into the guest room to work on a book, I tell my husband that I’m going to “chain myself to the desk” for a few hours.
Drafting the story and creating adventures for the characters is the fun part of the writing process. Typing, editing, revising, and proofreading are what make writing anything “work”. But I’m not alone at my desk.
Ages ago, my mother bought me two small cherub statues that now sit on either side of my monitor. One angel is reading a book and the other is writing in a book with a feather pen. They remind me of why I’m there – to write and to produce stories that people read. I also share my desk space with a squirrel statue I call Dave. I like squirrels. They’re hardworking, determined, motivated, and pretty crafty. These are all qualities that writers need. When I get discouraged, tired, or feel like giving up, Dave reminds me to “keep on keeping on” as the phrase goes. 
As I type the manuscript, I add, delete, or rearrange scenes and fill in with missing character descriptions or setting details. By the time I have a first typed draft, the story is in pretty good shape. But while I’m typing the book, my desk gets a workout. Highlighters, pens, scraps of paper, and stacks of marked up manuscript pages cover every visible surface. As I finish a scene or chapter, I staple the pages together and plop them on the nearby dresser to get filed later.
After a story is finally done and off to the publisher, I take a day or two to sort through the piles of manuscript pages, outlines, notes, and whatever else has accumulated on my desk. I keep what I need, recycle the rest, and give my desk a good dusting. A clean and clutter-free surface mirrors my mental state at this point. That story is finished, and now I have the time and energy to start thinking about a new piece of writing, to fill up another notebook, and start the process all over again.
I hope you enjoyed this “insider look” at where writers create the stories you love!
Happy Reading!
Kelli A. Wilkins

Hi everyone,As most of you know, I've published thirteen erotic romances withAmber Quill Press, four non-fiction pet care guides, and dozens of romance,horror, and sci-fi short stories. You can probably imagine that I'm a very busyauthor with a messy desk!
Over the years mydesk has witnessed a lot of triumphs, agonies, long hours, characters beingborn (and getting killed off), and all the other ups and downs writers gothrough as they create stories.
My desk is situatedunder the window in our guest bedroom. The view isn't particularly inspiring (Ican see the street, some trees, and the occasional squirrel), but that's okaybecause when I'm at the desk I'm usually "just" typing.
Unlike most authorstoday, I write everything out in longhand. When I get an idea for a story, Igrab a pad of paper and several pens and start writing an outline. People askme why I write like this when "everyone else" types. I think the act of puttingthe pen to paper helps me get in touch with the story and the characters. It'salso easier for me to write anywhere, at any time. If it's nice outside I'llsit in the backyard and scribble under the trees. If I'm stuck waiting forsomeone, I can pull out the pad and start writing, or just jot down ideas.
I give myselfpermission to write the first (usually very rough) draft on paper, then I goback and start typing. When I head into the guest room to work on a book, Itell my husband that I'm going to "chain myself to the desk" for a few hours.
Drafting the storyand creating adventures for the characters is the fun part of the writingprocess. Typing, editing, revising, and proofreading are what make writinganything "work". But I'm not alone at my desk.
Ages ago, my motherbought me two small cherub statues that now sit on either side of my monitor.One angel is reading a book and the other is writing in a book with a featherpen. They remind me of why I'm there – to write and to produce stories thatpeople read. I also share my desk space with a squirrel statue I call Dave. Ilike squirrels. They're hardworking, determined, motivated, and pretty crafty.These are all qualities that writers need. When I get discouraged, tired, orfeel like giving up, Dave reminds me to "keep on keeping on" as the phrasegoes. 
As I type themanuscript, I add, delete, or rearrange scenes and fill in with missingcharacter descriptions or setting details. By the time I have a first typeddraft, the story is in pretty good shape. But while I'm typing the book, mydesk gets a workout. Highlighters, pens, scraps of paper, and stacks of markedup manuscript pages cover every visible surface. As I finish a scene orchapter, I staple the pages together and plop them on the nearby dresser to getfiled later.
After a story isfinally done and off to the publisher, I take a day or two to sort through thepiles of manuscript pages, outlines, notes, and whatever else has accumulatedon my desk. I keep what I need, recycle the rest, and give my desk a gooddusting. A clean and clutter-free surface mirrors my mental state at thispoint. That story is finished, and now I have the time and energy to startthinking about a new piece of writing, to fill up another notebook, and startthe process all over again.
I hope you enjoyed this "insider look" at where writerscreate the stories you love!
Happy Reading!
Kelli A. Wilkins

Hi Everyone!
Today, I'm the Guest Author Spotlight on the Amber QuillPress Yahoo Loop. I'll be posting excerpts, reviews, snippets from interviewsand who knows what else. 
You can follow along here: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/amberheatreaders

I'll be giving away a PDF of my historical/fantasy romance,
A MOST UNUSUAL PRINCESS
. The contest only runs on April 6 and ends at midnight(Eastern Time.) To enter, all you need to do is send me an email (off-list)with "A Most Unusual Princess contest" as the subject line. A winner will bechosen at random.
The FB event page is: http://www.facebook.com/events/142903419172541/

Be sure tospread the word to groups & other readers!
Happy Reading!
Kelli A. Wilkins
Visit Kelli's Amazon author page: http://www.amazon.com/Kelli-A.-Wilkins/e/B001JSAB24/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1

KELLI

'S QUILL
The Official Newsletter of Author KelliA. WilkinsMarch/AprilIssue (Vol. 5 Number 2) Happy spring everyone! The weather'sbeen really warm here and my flowers are in bloom. As we say goodbye to a mildwinter, I'm sharing some news, an interview excerpt, and more! 






SPECIAL NOTICE:
On Friday, April 6 Kelli will be theSpotlight Featured Author on the Amber Quill Press Yahoo group. Kelli will behosting a contest and giving away a PDF copy of her first AQP romance,
AMost Unusual Princess
. Want to enter? Check it out here: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/amberheatreadersCheck out the FB event page here: http://www.facebook.com/events/142903419172541/




FOR READERS:

 

Kelli'sBeen Blogging Like Wild:

OnValentine's Day, Kelli joined other Amber Quill Press authors for a group blog.She gave away a copy of her contemporary wrestling romance
A PerfectMatch
. (Why that book? Because the hero is named Vinnie Valentine!)
Kellialso guest blogged on Shannon Leigh's blog on Feb. 16. The link is:http://authorshannonleigh.blogspot.com/



Mark yourCalendar – The Viking's Witch isComing!:


Kelli's first romance with MedallionPress will be released in e-book format in August. The Viking's Witch (formerlyknown as The Witch & the Warrior) will be available for pre-order inJuly. You can visit Kelli's author page here: http://medallionmediagroup.com/author/kelli-wilkins/
Here's the plot summary:The Viking's WitchScotland,803 A.D.  Aboutto be burned at the stake by her fellow villagers, Odaria does what anybetrayed witch facing certain death would do. She calls down a curse. Withinseconds, rampaging Norsemen raid the village, capturing everyone except her. But herreprieve is short-lived, and Odaria lands in the clutches of the Norse leaderRothgar. Can she remain true to herself and fight her growing attraction tothis domineering man, or will she fall under his influence and be used for hisambitions?
AfterRothgar witnesses Odaria's powers firsthand, he strikes a bargain with her. Theraven-haired beauty will use her magical abilities to help him with his questin exchange for safe passage off the isle. But can this cunning woman betrusted, or is she using him to exact vengeance on her village?  Togetherthey must fight bloodthirsty villagers, battle a mutinous band of Norsemen,find a missing Norse ship, and learn to trust each other . . . before time isup.


Cats& Horror:

Kelli's horror story, "Just an Innocent Little Cat" was published in DARKTHINGS II: Cat Crimes: Tales of Feline Mayhem and Murder. The character ofChester is based on a real-life orange cat. All proceeds from sales of thisanthology go to several cat sanctuaries across the USA. Buy a copy (or three)on Amazon and help cats! The book link is: http://www.amazon.com/DARK-THINGS-II-Crimes-Feline/dp/1468055488/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1324187873&sr=8-1


What's in the Works?:

Kelli just submitted a few horror stories to anthologies and contests and iscurrently working on new romances (a m/m paranormal and a historical suspense….).Her website should be updated soon…really!
TheBlog& Other Web Places:

Kelli has added book pages to her blog! Links, covers, and summaries are therefor the reading. She also added a small tribute to Davy Jones of The Monkees. Kelli'son Amazon: Did you know that all ofKelli's writings are on Amazon? (Romance, short fiction, anthologies, horror,non-fiction, and everything else….) Visit her author page and catch up on booksand short stories you may have missed. The link is:
http://www.amazon.com/Kelli-A.-Wilkins/e/B001JSAB24/ref=sr_ntt_srch_lnk_3?qid=1326933452&sr=8-3

KELLI'sINTERVIEW:
Thismonth I'm sharing an excerpt from my interview with Whipped Cream. It offers aninsight into my views on what is romance and what's not. Enjoy!Q: How do you personally distinguish between erotica,erotic romance, and pornography?A:When I started writing erotic romance, I wasn't 100% sure what "officially"defined erotica, erotic romance, and porn. It seemed that everyone I talked tohad a different opinion – so I devised my own definitions.Iconsider 'erotica' to be stories that explore a character's erotic adventuresor exploits and contain explicit details – but romance isn't at the core of thestory. An example would be Anne Rice's "Beauty" books. The reader followsBeauty and the other characters through their sexual adventures, but they'renot involved in romantic relationships.Idefine 'erotic romance' as a sexually-charged story that has romance (eitherM/F or same sex) as the main focus. To me, an erotic romance needs to have aninteresting plot and character development that keeps readers wondering "Whathappens next? Will the couple get together? How will the story end?" Erotic romance has more (and more detailed!) love scenesthan a 'traditional' romance. And there are many different 'heat' levels toerotic romance. Some are tamer and only hint at what's going on between thesheets – or as in my book, The Sexy Stranger, the story builds sexualtension as the characters tease and flirt with each other. Some erotic romances(such as The Pauper Prince) include more explicit details and letreaders peek in on the sexual activities of the romantic couple, while others (AMidsummer Night's Delights) are scorching hot and include toys, multiplepartners and other sexual acts that might be considered "taboo" to somereaders.And porn? I think porn is basically people having sex.Usually there's no character development, story conflict, or backgrounddetails. The quickie definition I sometimes use is "The pizza guy shows up,finds half-naked horny women waiting to pounce on him, they screw, he leaves."It's a one-time encounter that doesn't aim to make readers care about who thecharacters are – the sole purpose is to show people screwing and… well, we allknow the rest.Q: Howdo you judge what makes a good erotic story when writing your own fiction?A: WhenI'm writing my stories, I generally look for a unique plot and interestingcharacters to support that plot. When it comes down to the basics, a readerwon't sit through any story (no matter what genre) that isn't attention-grabbingor that doesn't have appealing, believable characters. Readers like to get toknow the characters and identify with them as they have their adventures.Without a solid base, the story will fall flat, regardless of how exciting thelove scenes are. Once Ihave the story down, I let the characters have fun! When I write love scenes Isort of stand back and let the characters do what comes natural. I generallyknow how far the scene will go ahead of time, but I let the characters takeover and enjoy themselves. Later, when I edit/revise the story, I go back andcut anything that doesn't work with the scene. I think love scenes have to flownaturally from the plot and the characters. I avoid just plopping them in therefor the sake of spicing up a story.Q:What are the biggest public misconceptions about erotica?A:I can name several, but I can't pick just one! Some of the biggest publicmisconceptions about erotica are: that the stories are mindless scenes ofpeople having sex; that there's no "real" plot or characterization; and thatthey're "easy" to write. Other misconceptions are that the authors of eroticromances are basing the love scenes in the books on their own private lives,and that we 'act out' the love scenes in our books. Not true! The stories arefiction, not confessionals. And writing good romance is just as difficult andas labor-intensive as writing horror, sci fi, or mystery.  FOR WRITERS:
Something to Think About – Spring Cleaningfor Your WritingAre you hanging on to old stories thatyou'd swore you'd fix up "someday" and submit? Maybe you have a half-finishednovel or you've been saving up guidelines for markets that you "might" try…Well, it's time to make a commitment.Spend an hour (or more, depending on your schedule) revisiting the old andneglected stories. You know, the ones you abandoned because they weren't goinganywhere, or you got stuck on the plot, lost interest, the phone rang,whatever. Now's the perfect time of year to keep the best, get rid of therest. (Yes, that's my very own motto.) Cut theold stories loose or add them to your schedule. Read them over and make a serious evaluation. Are youreally going to finish the three-quarters done sci-fi story? Will you developthose scrawled notes into a novel? Perhaps you have old stories that just needa little help. If you like what you're reading, fix up the story and send itout. (You may discover a gem you'd forgotten about.) If the stories aren'tany good, let them go. If you'vebeen collecting market guidelines to use someday, but never submitted anything,let them go, too – especially if they're over a year old. When you have a storyready to send, you'll need new guidelines anyway.And what ifyou don't have any old stories hiding out? Now's a good time to write some! Hereare a few writing prompts to use for a fun writing exercise. Spend 5-10minutes on each one and see what you come up with. A woman buysa house with a haunted swimming pool in the back yard."I only hithim once. I didn't think it would kill him."The manstood next to the wall, watching. Janescreamed as the mouse ran across her desk and under the wall.Nobody knewwhere he was. If he didn't get help soon, he'd die.Take sometime to clear out the old writing projects that haven't gone anywhere and makeroom for the new stuff – you never know where some spring cleaning might leadyou! I hopeyou enjoyed this issue of Kelli's Quill. Be sure to visit my website (www.KelliWilkins.com)and blog (http://kelliwilkinsauthor.blogspot.com/)for more news and writing tips. Feel free to forward the newsletter to groups,friends, other writers, and anyone who likes to read!HappyReading!
Kelli
Gotquestions, comments, or suggestions? Contact the author at: www.KelliWilkins.com