Seelie Kay's Blog, page 5

This week in The Loft: Author VR Tennent!

Joining me today in The Loft is fellow Extasy author VR Tennent. She writes contemporary romance filled with love, heartbreak, and spice. She never promises a happy ending, but guarantees a rollercoaster ride of emotion. The third decade of this century marked a lot of changes for VR. In 2020, she emigrated from Scotland to Spain. In January 2022, she decided to put pen to paper and write a book after joining the writer’s group of her favorite author. Five months later, she was offered a publishing contract. VR lives in the Spanish campo with her husband, young daughter, and ever-growing animal family.

Author VR Tennent

S:  Good morning, VR. Thanks for joining me today!

Why did you start writing romance?

VR:   For years I have been an avid reader, and in January 2022, I came across a writer's group headed up by TL Swan. It was a place for women who were interested in writing to come together. I watched her videos and felt completely inspired to try, not that I ever planned to publish the book I wrote. Fast forward 22 months and here I am having just released book eight. It is safe to say, I am hooked on creating stories for people to read.

S:  Wow, eight books in 22 months. That's amazing.

How do you determine the "heat" level in your books?

VR:   I don't. I let readers determine that, and it is completely subjective. My books always contain an adult content warning and will have consensual open-door scenes. However, when I read reviewers' opinions on how spicy they are, they differ. Plot will always come first, and the spice will occur when it suits the story.

S:  I agree with you. If the storyline isn't enhanced by a scene involving sex, leave it out.

What's the best advice you've ever been given?

VR:   As far as being an author goes, it came from TL Swan, when I was lucky enough to meet her in June this year. There was a get-together for the girls in the Cygnets writers' group. She told us, "You wrote a book. How cool is that?" A simple but clear message. What we do is subjective, but we do it. And that is awesome.

S:  If you could choose to do it again, would you write books?

VR:  One hundred percent yes. Writing has opened up a part of my brain I didn't know existed. I have made friends across the world. And found something I truly love to do.

S:  Are you self-published or traditionally-published?

VR:   I'm both. My first three books were traditionally published by Extasy books. Gaining the publication contract gave me confidence that someone wanted to read my stories. I am extremely grateful for the opportunities I was offered. I also self-publish. This gives me the freedom and flexibility to create a book that is one hundred percent mine. There are benefits to both routes. I am glad I have explored both.

S:  What inspired "Harrison?"

VR:  " Harrison" popped into my head back in January this year. What inspired him, I don't know. In the beginning, he was a rockstar but something didn't sit right. I knew I wanted to write a morally grey man, but I wanted him to love his woman fiercely. Underneath it all, he had to be a good man but the situation he found himself in made it impossible to live a normal life. I looked at all the reviews from my other books. At what readers liked and what they didn't, then tried to create a blend of the good. Harrison morphed into a mafia lawyer, and 90,000 words later--his story was told.

Here's the blurb--

Violet Chase has always been off limits. The girl I wanted...but could never have.

In my teens, her father warned me to keep my hands to myself. Boys like me, don’t get girls like her. His family saved me, and I owed them. Her brothers, my best friends, made it clear where I stood - below them.

We had one stolen moment of passion, then I ran. That was fourteen years ago, and I’ve regretted it ever since. Now, she’s back in London, but life for both us is very different. Her past decade has been filled with lies - that she thought were true. The last place she ever expected to return to was here, begging her family for help.

As my career blossoms, my world darkens. Whether being a lawyer for a mafia don was a wise move remains to be seen. A booming bank account is accompanied by an ever-increasing target on my back. External pressures pull in all directions while my heart knows what it wants. It always has. Violet.

The question is, can we navigate the challenges to be together? Or once again, will we both run?

S:  This sounds like a suspenseful tale! Where can readers buy "Harrison?"
VR:  "Harrison" is free with Kindle Unlimited. Here's the link--https://mybook.to/Harrison.
S:  VR, I'm so pleased you could join me today! If you'd like to learn more about VR and her books, please visit--
Link Tree:   https://linktr.ee/vrtennent

Amazon Author Page:  https://www.amazon.com/author/vrtennent

Goodreads:   V.R. Tennent (Author of Loving Dr Jones) | Goodreads

Facebook Business: Facebook

Facebook Personal: Facebook
Instagram:  VR Tennent (@vrtennentauthor) 

TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@vrtennentromanceauthor
BookBub:  VR Tennent Books - BookBub

This week in The Loft: Author Amber Daulton!

Joining me today in The Loft is author Amber Daulton. Amber writes romantic suspense, including the series, Arresting Onyx, and several standalone novellas. Her books are published through Daulton Publishing, The Wild Rose Press, and Books to Go Now. They are available in eBook, print on demand, audio, and foreign language formats. Amber lives in North Carolina with her husband and her demanding cats.
Author Amber Daulton
S:  Good morning, Amber. Thanks for joining me today.
How do you determine the "heat level" of your stories?
A:  It all deals with language. If I use euphemisms for body parts and keep the characters’ bedroom actions short, then the heat rating is 3 flames. For 4 flames, I use more descriptive language and give more detail to lengthen the scenes. Five flames takes that even further with scorching love scenes that leave nothing to the imagination. Erotic romance features explicit language and a high number of sexual scenes, as well as toys, anal play, BDSM, multiple couplings, etc. My books typically range between 4 and 5 flames, but I do have a few clean romances and erotic ones, too.
S:  Book banning is back in the news and even some very popular romance authors' books are being removed from school libraries. How do you feel about this trend? How do we fight it?
A:  It’s horrible. Books are meant to be an escape from everyday life. Everyone has different tastes, and that’s fine, but that doesn’t mean one group of people should censor what another group reads. When it comes to children, it should be the parents’ responsibility to monitor what the child reads, not the state or school. If the child reads an adult book and has questions, then show them some respect and answer them honestly. Open communication is key in any type of relationship, whether it’s between a romantically involved couple, or a parent and child. How to fight this trend? Education and self-discovery! The people who are making waves and trying to restrict the type of media other people choose to partake in need to take a long, hard look in the mirror. Instead of blaming the woes of life on books, movies, video games, and other media, take responsibility for your own actions. Not only does censorship hurt creators, but other readers and viewers who may have enjoyed that book/movie/game but never got the chance to try it for themselves.
S:  I can't help but think back in history when censorship and book banning were used to prop up fascist regimes. Have we learned nothing?
Do you think romance books have become “too spicy?”
A:  (Laughs.) No way. The spicier the better. While I do read and enjoy clean romances, I always prefer the hot stuff.
S:  After the publication of the “Fifty Shades” trilogy, it was reported that some readers ventured into the BDSM world seeking their own Christian Grey. Some were scammed, sexually assaulted, or otherwise harmed. Does an author bear any responsibility for those types of consequences?
A:  Does the author bear responsibility? Not technically, but I do think the author should feel sympathy for the readers who were wronged or harmed. Authors should also be aware that their books may encourage readers to try out new things, but that’s why safety disclaimers are so important, and often found at the beginning of books with questionable material. I’ve read countless books over the years, and many were BDSM books. I find that world fascinating, and though I’ve never personally ventured into it as in going to private clubs, I certainly wouldn’t lay fault at an author’s feet if I did and things went badly. Everything in life is a choice, and there are consequences to those choices. Be smart, weigh your options, and follow your gut. If the book you’re reading isn’t a self-help book, then don’t trust it to be a guide in how to live your life--not that you should trust self-help books in full either—always use your best judgment.
S:  It's so easy to blame others when things go wrong. However, steamy stories don't dictate behavior. Those who embrace the ideas set forth in BDSM tales have to take personal responsibility for their own actions. As my mom used to say, "If XYZ told you to jump off a 12-story building, would you?" A certain amount of common sense is called for.
What inspired "Trevor’s Redemption?"
A:  I never meant to write "Trevor’s Redemption." As I was revising the last book in the Arresting Onyx series, a pestering voice in the back of my head kept telling me to squeeze in two novellas into the middle of the series. Believe me, I fought this—hard—but that little voice wouldn’t stop. You see, I’d introduced two secondary characters in Book One that I had no intention of giving a HEA. Shea, however, wasn’t having any of that and had already picked out the perfect man for herself—albeit, an unconventional one. So, since I’ve long learned to obey my characters when they threaten to nag me to death, I jotted out a plot for Shea and her man, Trevor. I had a blast bringing their romance to life, so I’m grateful I let her have her way.
S:  Is there anything special you would like people to know about "Trevor’s Redemption?"
A:  Yes. It can be read as a standalone, so if you haven’t read the previous books, you can jump right into this one and follow along without problems. However, the couples from the other books return as secondary characters, so you might get a few spoilers. For the sake of enjoyment and fully immersing yourself in my fictional world, I do suggest you start at the beginning with "Arresting Mason," but it’s not necessary.
Here's the blurb--
The danger and lies are more than she can handle.

Shea O’Bannon feels like a fifth wheel around her romantically paired-off friends, but there’s too much slime in the dating pool for her to bother with it. Then she sees her two-timing ex, Trevor Madero, serenading the mostly female crowd at a live-music bar. God knows trouble follows him around, but her desire for him rushes back in anyway. After he rescues her from a handsy drunk, temptation takes over.

Determined to prove he never stepped out on Shea, Trevor slides back into her life—and her heart—with forever in mind. Even with the wall he keeps up to protect her, his secret criminal life weighs heavy on his soul and drives a wedge between them.

When the truth comes out and his enemies target them both, they’ll have to fight for their love, or kiss it goodbye.

S:  This sounds like a good read! Where can readers buy your book?
A:  It's available at major booksellers, including--
Universal Link:  https://books.amberdaulton.com/trevorsredemption

Amazon:  https://amzn.to/3WKxXqg

Barnes and Noble:  https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/trevors-redemption-amber-daulton/1143581784?ean=2940160981512

iTunes:  https://books.apple.com/us/book/trevors-redemption/id6449718746

Kobo:   https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/trevor-s-redemption

Google Play:  https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=AjbCEAAAQBAJ

S:  Amber, thanks for visiting today. If you'd like to learn more about Amber and her books, please visit--
Universal Link:  https://linktr.ee/AmberDaulton

Happy Halloween!

This month, I'm participating in two Halloween giveaways! Stop by and enter to win paranormal romance books!

https://www.kate-hill.com/halloweenpage

https://ellenmint.blog

This week in The Loft: Author Madison Michael!

Joining me today in The Loft is Chicago's own Madison Michael. The author writes steamy romance, including the Beguiling Bachelor series, and several stand-alone romance novels. Today, Maddy is visiting The Loft to chat about "Tall, Dark and Rich," a billionaire romance anthology that includes stories from 25 romance authors. Born and raised in Chicago, Maddy covered the four corners of the U.S. before returning to her roots, friends, family and the best pizza anywhere. She loves cats, cat jokes and cat videos, anything with too much sugar, and everything writing. 
Author Madison Michael
S:  Good morning, Maddy! It's so nice to chat with you again.
You write "spicy" romance books. How do you determine the heat level of your stories?
M:  I have a rule that I follow on this one, but I freely admit it is based on my own biases about love and sex. My heroes, and heroines have been around the block. They are usually in their late twenties or older, and I feel at that age, romance includes sex. So, rule number one, for me, is that with older couples, I assume they are already sexually active. Number two, I write pretty explicit sex scenes, but they must contain elements of romance and promote the love story. Otherwise, they are gratuitous, and frankly, writing hot sex scenes is too much work to make them superfluous to the story. When I write sex, I try to make it about the  connection. For example. they "caress" instead of "touch." I use the scene to show how the pair gives to each other, takes care of one another. Oh yeah, and I make it sizzle!
S:  Like you, I believe romance includes sex. In most instances, it's the natural progression of a romance--mutual attraction, dating, love, sex--but not necessarily in that order.
Do you think romance books have become too steamy/spicy?
M:  I think there is no such thing as too spicy, but I also believe we have a responsibility as authors to be clear with our readers what they are getting. Readers can make their own decisions about what they read, including the level of "spice." That said, I think many of our sexiest books lose sight of the story, the characters, and the plot in their effort to write about sex. These elements need to go hand in hand.
S:  Book banning is back in the news and even some very popular romance authors' books are being removed from school libraries. How do you feel about this trend? How do we fight it?
M:  I have a big problem with the way that state governments are engaging with educators and librarians around the U.S. I have the benefit of a great, broad education, and access to libraries. In fact, my mother was a librarian. She is responsible for teaching me to love books. As for banning, and threats to libraries and everything else people are attempting to restrict knowledge, I believe it will come back to bite us all—with an aroused curiosity for banned books, with an uneducated population and workforce, and by diminishing authors, teachers and librarians from pursuing their work. How do we fight it? The same way we fight over-encroachment in every aspect of government. Learn where your candidates stand on issues, become an informed electorate, and then vote. Don’t let anything stop you from voting, be it for school board, governor, or president. Local elections matter. Just ask your local librarian!
S:  Every time I read about book banning/burning, moments in history flash through my mind. If we truly prize freedom of speech in this country, we must be willing to fight for it at all levels.
What is the best/worst thing that has ever happened to you as a writer?
M:  Best and worst sounds so dramatic, but my first fan letter was pretty exciting. Finishing each book I actually publish feels like the best thing, in that moment. The worst was my first bad review—but I read the feedback, realized the reader was right, and did a complete overhaul of my first books. How else do we learn, right? But it was painful.
S:  Have you ever shelved or thrown out a manuscript? 
M:  I have three shelved books right now. One simply needs my attention, one I put away half-finished because I wasn’t clear about what I was writing, and the third got away from me. It was supposed to be a short story, but it keeps growing. So I put it away for a while with the hope of having a fresh perspective when I return to it. Many writers shelve manuscripts so that they can return to them with fresh eyes. I try to do this whenever I can.But throw one away? Never!
S:  When a story idea strikes me, I quickly write the first chapter and then jot down plotlines and character ideas. Sometimes, the idea leads to a book, sometimes it doesn't.
What inspired "A Crazy Rich Dilemma," your contribution to this anthology, "Tall, Dark and Rich?"
M:  I was very excited when author Stephanie Morris announced she was doing a billionaire romance anthology this year and invited me to be included. I was in the middle of my All’s Crazy in Love series, about eight childhood friends who meet at a reunion an dare one another to get married within a year. It only made sense to write a billionaire romance that was adjacent to the Crazy series. So, I created a sister for one of the characters and went looking for a suitable plot. Lucky for me, a friend had a great truth is stranger than fiction story of how she met her boyfriend. Using Leah’s story for inspiration, “A Crazy Rich Dilemma” was born. 
S:  Is there anything special you would like people to know about “Tall, Dark and Rich?”
M:  I hope readers with order and share this limited-time offer with their friends, book clubs, or anyone who loves indulging in addicting love stories. Over one third of the writers are already best-selling authors, and as of this writing, more than 25 of us are contributing. Also, the anthology will be available for a short time and at an unbelievable cost of only $ .99. "Tall, Dark, and Rich" is available for preorder now.
Here's the blurb:

Money, suits and style.

Possessive, dominant, and used to getting their way.

Tall, dark and rich.
These powerful men will stop at nothing to claim the women they want. From boardrooms to bedrooms, these billionaires live a life of luxury and excess, but it's the women who captivate them and hold their hearts.
Follow the journeys of these powerful men as they navigate the turbulent waters of love, lust, and power while they explore their deepest desires.
With intense chemistry, blistering sensuality, and unforgettable characters, this anthology is a must-read for anyone who loves their romance with a healthy dose of heat. So pour yourself a glass of wine, get comfortable, and be swept away by the intoxicating world of steamy billionaire romance.

The anthology includes stories from--
Melissa Stevens - NYT bestselling author
Stephanie Morris - USA Today bestselling author
Megyn Ward - USA Today bestselling author
Sahara Roberts - USA Today bestselling author
Gina A. Jones - USA Today bestselling author
Dawn Brower - USA Today bestselling author
Zee Irwin - USA Today bestselling author
Lenora Cowan - USA Today bestselling author
Charmaine Louise Shelton
Madison Michael
TL Reeve/Michele Ryan
Grace Grahme
Anne Roman
V.K. Holt
Kitt Lynn
Erika Vanzin
MacKenzie Stowe
JC Jaye
Jess Peters
Eliza Renton
Anika Lynn
Susanna Eastman
E.S. McMillan
Vic Leigh
Elizabeth Kozloff

S:  The anthology sounds amazing. Where can readers purchase it?
M:  It's available at-- 
Universal Link:  https://books2read.com/TallDarkRich

Amazon:  https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0C353BFGL

Apple:  https://books.apple.com/us/book/tall-dark-and-rich-a-limited-edition/id6448006622

Kobo:  https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/tall-dark-and-rich-a-limited-edition-collection-of-billionaire-romance

Barnes and Noble:  https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/tall-dark-and-rich-stephanie-morris/1143373865

Google Play:  https://play.google.com/store/books/details?id=xVO6EAAAQBAJ
S:  Maddy, thanks for joining me today. If you'd like to learn more about Madison Michael and her books, please visit--

Website:  www.madisonmichael.net
Facebook:  www.facebook.com/madisonmichaelromance
Instagram:  www.instagram.com/madisonmichaelromance
Pinterest:  www.pinterest,com/madisonmichaelromance

BookBub:  https://www.bookbub.com/authors/madison-michael

Amazon Author Page:  https://www.amazon.com/Madison-Michael/e/B01EVUGG6G

Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15221601.Madison_Michael

"Seelie Kay has plunged straight into the deep end!" (A book review)

This week in The Loft: Author T. S. McNeil!

Joining me in The Loft is fellow Extasy author T. S. McNeil. A writer of romantic comedy, his stories center around likeable misfits finding love and a place for themselves in a largely random and uncaring world. Born in the far north, T.S. McNeil grew up on novels and comedy movies. Moving down south, he earned a degree in Art History form the University of Victoria in 2009. Discovering the legit jokes in "Four Weddings and A Funeral," and realizing romance really could be funny, he took on romantic comedy as his main genre. He lives in a cabin in the woods with his dog and several squirrels, and firmly believes The Smiths would have been better as a trio!

Author T. S. McNeil
S:  Welcome to the Loft! 

Book banning is back in the news and some very popular romance authors' books are being removed from school libraries. How do you feel about this trend? How do we fight it?

TS:  I absolutely hate it and it represents the sort of thing I am most against. I fight it by, with a large group of like-minded friends, going through the banned list and doing everything we can do to bolster banned and potentially banned books. Whether it means letting others know about a potential or current ban, or going out of my way to read them, whether or not the ban has officially gone through or not. No book should be illegal. Regulated and annotated like "Mein Kampf "and "The Anarchists Cookbook," but not illegal.

S:  It's hard to believe that book banning has again reared its ugly head. You expect that in dictatorships, not in the "free" world.

Are you self-published or traditionally published? Why did you choose that path?

TS:  Technically, I am traditionally published, but I have found a bit of a middle-ground by focusing on either eBook publishers or at least publishers who do eBooks. I am much better at novellas than longer books and am far more likely to get them published in digital form. eBooks also have the advantage of a relatively quick turnaround compared to print publishing. 

S:  Do you write in other genres?

TS:   Not anymore, at least in fiction. Romance, with all its various sub-genres, gives me everything I need. I do still write a lot of nonfiction though, particularly in terms of literary history. It is something I have always done and have a deep interest in. It's sometimes a bit of a challenge to balance between fiction and nonfiction.

S:  Do you think romance books have become too spicy?

TS:   I don’t think there is such a thing as too spicy. Like food, it is more of a matter of taste and preference. I only care if the writing is good and properly researched, consistently representing the characters and the reality of the world.

S:  After the publication of the “Fifty Shades” trilogy, it was reported that some readers ventured into the BDSM world seeking their own Christian Grey. Some were scammed, sexually assaulted, or otherwise harmed. Does an author bear any responsibility for those types of consequences?
TS:  Absolutely. It was a total misrepresentation of BDSM and how it is done. Christian isn’t a dominant, he is a sadist, as he said. The author clearly knows as much about BDSM as I do about nuclear physics. The difference is, I don’t claim to know anything about nuclear physics. Anastasia never signed the contract which is a huge no go, and some of the things they imply, like using zip-ties for bondage, are just plain dangerous and potentially fatal.
S:  I have to admit, the scene where he shops for zip-ties was alarming. However, by the time I finished the entire series, I was irate. Sure, it was fiction, but it was also misleading. 
How do you get in the mood for writing?

TS:   Music, usually something neoclassical or some of  the more  melodic/atmospheric m etal.

S:  My son is a metal musician. Between practices and house shows, it is always playing in the background. Unfortunately, not all of the bands who play know what a melody is and that is not conducive to writing. They make noise-deafening headphones for a reason.

What do you want inscribed on your tombstone? How do you want to be remembered?

TS:  " Don’t Let the Buggers Get You Down." I want to be remembered as someone who was who they were and stood up to bullies no matter what guise they might take.

S:  I like that.

What inspired you to write "Sweet Memories?"

TS:   There were two things that inspired me to write Sweet Memories. The first was a desire to try and do a modern version of the classic pastoral novel. The second was the idea for a subversion of the small-town girl in the big city trope. As fun as tropes can be, they also perpetuate some stereotypes, both fair and not. My goal was to confirm the fair ones and subvert the negative ones.

Here's the blurb--

Following the sudden death of her beloved older sister, big city girl Astra Read relocates to a tiny town fuelled by cottage industries, inheriting her sister’s house and bespoke teddy bear business.

Focused on doing her dearly departed proud, which are some big shoes to fill, Astra vows to keep her head down, but love works in mysterious ways and more than one sort of temptation lurks in the bakery across the street.

S:  That sounds like an entertaining story.

Where can readers buy "Sweet Memories?"

TS:  It will be released October 20 by Extasy Books ( https://www.extasybooks.com/Sweet-Memories)  and will be available shortly thereafter at all major booksellers. 

S:  T. S., thanks for joining me today and good luck with sales on "Sweet Memories!" If you' like to learn more about T. S. McNeil and his books, please visit  https://www.linkedin.com/in/t-s-mcneil-5a1552259/.

This week in The Loft: Author RM Olivia!

Joining me today in The Loft is author RM Olivia. She writes erotic, LGBT, contemporary, and paranormal romance. A part-time author, RM has contributed to several anthologies, and has also written for a variety of publishers. In addition, she has self-published on Amazon Kindle. RM currently works in sales. When not writing she enjoys sleeping, shopping, watching black and white movies, reading, and exploring new restaurants. RM lives in Pennsylvania with her two Siamese cats.
The logo for RM Olivia
S:  Welcome, RM. I'm so happy you could join me today!
Why did you start writing romance?

RM:  I enjoy writing about interpersonal relationships. I feel that romance in particular has many interesting possibilities for writing.

S:  The number of sub-genres in romance certainly confirms that. 
I know you are self-published and traditionally published? Why did you choose that path?

RM:  I chose the path of self-publishing as some of my stories did not fit a publisher’s criteria, such as word count and themes. I chose traditional publishing because I wanted to work with a particular publisher.

S:  Do you write in other genres?
RM:  I am looking to branch into other genres with time. It is usually not a planned thing. My writing takes me in different directions.

S:  I think you need that flexibility. 
If you had to do it all over again, would you still choose to write books?

RM:  Yes. I love expressing my creativity through the written word. I enjoy the outlet and escape writing provides.

S:  How do you get in the mood for writing?

RM:  I get in the mood by having a snack, and my pen and paper ready. I like some R&B in the background or some 90’s hip hop.

S:  What inspired "Healing His Broken Heart?"

RM:  My imagination inspired "Healing His Broken Heart." Besides my imagination, the news influenced me. I have a bad habit of obsessing over tragedies such as accidents and deaths. I can read the newspaper and my mind starts clicking.

S:   Is there anything special you would like people to know about "Healing His Broken Heart?"

RM:  The special part of "Healing His Broken Heart" is that the story is being told through the male prospective, the lead male protagonist. Usually, I have found the story is being told through the female protagonist. Another point is that the story has an open ending, a happy for now. I believe that in real life there is no such thing as a permanent happy ending. We all experience different situations with the passing of time. People change. I wanted to express that in my writing.

Here's the blurb--

In an effort to move on from a painful past, Randy decides to put his photography skills to good use and advertises for a model in the local paper. Little does he realize that a sexy photo shoot would be just the thing to reunite with his childhood sweetheart, begging the question—does time heal all wounds?

S:  That's a question I've often ask! 
Where can readers buy your book?

RM:  It's available at most booksellers, including--

Publisher:  https://www.extasybooks.com/Healing-His-Broken-Heart

Barnes and Noble:  https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/healing-his-broken-heart-rm-olivia/1143821791

Amazon:  https://a.co/d/cxNnOEl

S:  RM, thanks for joining me today. If you'd like to learn more about RM Olivia and her books, please visit--

Amazon Author Page:  https://www.amazon.com/stores/R.M-Olivia/author/B01DOHMBIE

Twitter:  https://twitter.com/rmoliviawrites

Facebook:  https://facebook.com/rmolivia

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/rmolivia

This week in The Loft: Author Kayla Cunningham!

Joining me today in The Loft is author Kayla Cunningham. Kayla just published her first contemporary romance novel with Extasy Books. A former high school history and adult English as a Second Language teacher, she now works in an adult prison as a GED instructor. She also volunteers as a Hostage Crisis Negotiator. Kayla is currently working on her Ph.D. in Teaching English as a Second Language. She enjoys taking flying lessons with her husband, and also has a passion for traveling and meeting people from different cultures around the world. She is an advocate of exploring issues of racism and current events, including the rise in Asian hate crimes caused by the pandemic. 

Author Kayla Cunningham

S:  Good morning, Kayla! Thanks for visiting my loft today!

Let's start at the beginning--Why did you start writing romance?

K:   I started writing romance with the aim of bringing diverse voices and underrepresented couples into the genre. It's essential to me to showcase a wide range of love stories, representing different backgrounds, cultures, and experiences. Love knows no boundaries, and through my writing, I hope to celebrate the beauty of love in all its forms while providing readers with stories that resonate and reflect the rich tapestry of human connections.

S:  Love does come in all shapes and sizes, and that makes diversity in romance books essential.

Book banning is back in the news and even some very popular romance authors' books are being removed from school libraries. How do you feel about this trend? 

K:   Words are powerful. As adults, we should have the fundamental right to choose what we read. Freedom of choice in reading is a cornerstone of individual liberty and intellectual freedom. It allows us to explore a wide range of ideas, perspectives, and genres, which can enrich our understanding of the world and our own lives.  As an author and advocate for free expression and diverse literature, I have deep concerns about the recent trend of book banning, especially when it affects the work of popular romance authors. Literature is a powerful medium for exploring diverse perspectives, challenging societal norms, and promoting empathy. Therefore, attempts to ban books, particularly those that belong to the romance genre, are concerning for several reasons. Firstly, banning books limits the freedom of readers to access a wide range of voices, experiences, and ideas. Romance novels, like all forms of literature, have the capacity to educate, entertain, and enlighten. They often explore themes of love, relationships, and personal growth, which are relevant and relatable to many readers. By removing such books from school libraries, we deprive students of the opportunity to engage with these narratives and potentially broaden their understanding of the world. Secondly, book banning sends a troubling message about censorship and the suppression of free speech. It suggests that certain topics or viewpoints are unacceptable, which is contrary to the principles of open dialogue and intellectual freedom. Literature, including romance novels, should serve as a space for readers to explore different perspectives and make informed judgments.

S:   How do we fight book bans?

K:   To combat this trend of book banning, it's essential for authors, educators, librarians, and concerned individuals to take action, including raising awareness, supporting libraries, organizing "Read-Ins," lobbying for inclusive curricula, c ollaborating with advocacy groups, engaging in respectful dialogue with those who support book banning, and promoting author voices.

S:  All worthy strategies.

Do you think romance books have become “too spicy?”

K:   As a romance author, I believe that the spiciness or sensuality of romance books is a matter of personal preference and choice. Romance is a diverse genre, and it caters to a wide range of readers with varying tastes and comfort levels when it comes to intimate content. The popularity of the "Fifty Shades" trilogy highlighted that there is indeed a significant audience for more explicit and adventurous romance narratives. However, it's essential to remember that the genre is not homogenous. There are countless romance novels, from sweet and chaste to sizzling and steamy, allowing readers to find the type of romance that resonates with them. The key here is choice and consent. Readers should have the freedom to select books that align with their preferences, and authors should have the creative freedom to write the stories they are passionate about. It's all about offering a variety of romantic experiences to cater to different tastes. Ultimately, what matters most is that readers can find the romance novels that speak to them personally, whether they prefer mild or spicy narratives. Romance is a genre that celebrates love and human connection in all its forms, and it should continue to do so in a way that respects individual choices and desires.

S:  Choice and consent are indeed key words here.

After the publication of the “Fifty Shades” trilogy, it was reported that some readers ventured into the BDSM world seeking their own Christian Grey. Some were scammed, sexually assaulted, or otherwise harmed. Does an author bear any responsibility for those types of consequences?

K:  As a romance author, I believe it's essential to approach this question with sensitivity and responsibility. Authors have a profound influence on their readers, and while they may not bear direct responsibility for the actions of individuals, there is an ethical obligation to consider the potential impact of their work. While authors create fictional worlds and characters, it's crucial to remember that readers can be deeply affected by what they read. In the case of the "Fifty Shades" trilogy or any similar work exploring complex relationships, authors should take care to provide clear disclaimers or content warnings if the material deals with sensitive or potentially harmful themes. This helps readers make informed choices about what they are engaging with. Additionally, authors can use their platforms to encourage responsible exploration, consent, and communication in real-life relationships. Promoting healthy relationships and emphasizing the distinction between fiction and reality can be a responsible way to handle the potential consequences of their work. Ultimately, while authors cannot control the actions of readers, they can contribute to a responsible and considerate literary environment by acknowledging the potential impact of their stories and taking steps to mitigate any harm that may arise.

S:   If you had to do it all over again, would you still choose to write books?

K:   Absolutely, without a doubt. Writing has been a remarkable journey for me. It's a way to bring stories to life, explore complex emotions, and touch the hearts of readers. It has also been a form of activism for me. While it comes with its challenges, the ability to create worlds, characters, and narratives that resonate with readers is a privilege I wouldn't trade for anything. The joy of sharing these stories with readers is immeasurable. If I had the chance to do it all over again, I would wholeheartedly choose to write books, especially in the romance genre, where the power of love and connection can truly transform lives.

S:  What inspired "Fated to Love You?"  

K:   “Fated to Love You” was born out of a tumultuous time in our world’s history. When the pandemic swept across the globe and schools closed their doors, I found myself teaching from home and working on my YA fantasy novel, “Storm Breaker.” However, with everything happening in the world, I needed a break from fantasy. It was during this time that I stumbled upon an old journal from my high school creative writing class and rediscovered a nineteen-page short story I had written as a junior called, “Broken Dreams.” The story was about a college-aged male who found out he had cancer. As someone in my thirties, I was fascinated to come across a handwritten story that was 20 years old. It was a window to the past, a reminder of simpler times before the pandemic had upended our world. My aunt was battling cancer at the time, and as I read the handwritten story from my high school journal, I reflected on the struggles that people like my aunt had to endure during the pandemic. It was truly heart-wrenching to imagine the added challenges they faced, including the sudden requirement of masks, restrictions on visitations, and constantly changing mandates in hospitals, treatment centers, and doctors’ offices. The thought of battling cancer during such unprecedented times was unimaginable, and yet so many people had to do just that. 

During the pandemic, our country also saw a rise in Asian-related hate crimes. As a teacher and basketball coach, I had the honor of hosting six young men from various Asian countries. These students quickly became like brothers to me, and their presence in my life was incredibly meaningful, especially since I had grown up as an only child. My parents welcomed them into our family, and we celebrated holidays, birthdays, and special events together. While some of them continued their studies in the United States, others returned to their home countries. I even had the privilege of visiting a few of them in China and Taiwan, strengthening our bonds even further. One of them, Jimmy from China, lived with me for over six years. He completed his degree at an American university and has since returned to China, where he is now married with a beautiful daughter. The surge in anti-Asian racism during the pandemic deeply affected me. I witnessed the hurtful and derogatory comments made towards my "brothers" solely because of their nationality. This experience filled me with a sense of shame and guilt for not doing more to effect change. It became clear to me that I had a responsibility to utilize my voice and platform to shed light on this issue. That's when I made the decision to write "Fated to Love You," a novel that not only explores the intricacies of contemporary romance but also delves into deeper themes such as cultural identity, family dynamics, and the resilience to overcome adversity. Through this book, I aimed to take readers on a journey through different countries and cultures, providing a window into the incredible diversity of our world.

This novel is a testament to the power of love and resilience, as it follows the journey of a relatable and complex character who faces her own challenges and triumphs in the midst of real-life events. From the very first word to the final page, “Fated to Love You” became more than a love story between a biracial couple. It’s the journey of Cassandra “Cassie” Temperance Steel, a multifaceted character who escapes to Colombia to mend a broken heart. The novel’s setting is interwoven with real-life events that occurred between 2016-2019 (Book 1) and 2020-2023 (Book 2-3), crossing borders and cultures, and showcasing the diversity of our world. The first book, “Fated to Love You,” is set before the pandemic, while the second book, “Threads of Fate,” chronicles the main characters navigating through the pandemic and other significant events, much like Forest Gump

S:  The world changed so much during and after the pandemic. I think that is worth exploring.

Is there anything special you would like people to know about  "Fated to Love You?"  

K:   The Chasing the Comet series will consist of three books. "Fated to Love You" serves as the first book in the trilogy, and I'm delighted to announce that I have already finished writing Books II and III. The second book is titled, "Threads of Fate," while the third book is titled, "The Invisible Thread." The second and third novels will be combined into a special 2-in-1 edition, scheduled for release in 2024. I am eagerly looking forward to sharing the remaining chapters of the story with my readers as the characters delve deeper into the intricacies of fate and the profound strength of love.

Here's the blurb for "Fated to Love You"--

Cassandra Steel’s passion for science opens doors to an incredible opportunity—a study abroad program in Colombia’s Amazon Rainforest. Still reeling from a devastating breakup, Cassie throws herself into research, convinced that love is not in the cards. However, fate has other plans.

Enter Zhang Xuan, a captivating fellow scientist who unexpectedly captures Cassie’s heart. As they begin to explore their feelings for each other, they are forced to confront the harsh reality that their time together may be limited.

With their time abroad coming to an end, Cassie undertakes a final humanitarian project, delivering school supplies to local children. But tragedy strikes when a devastating mudslide hits. Against all odds, Cassie and Xuan cling to the hope that their connection is more than mere chance—a result of a powerful twist of fate.

Join Cassie and Zhang on a journey of true love, blazing as fiercely as the stars, as they navigate the complexities of destiny and defy the odds that stand in their way.

S:  Where can readers buy  "Fated to Love You?"  

K:  It's available at all major booksellers, including--

Publisher (eXtasy Books):   https://www.extasybooks.com/Fated-to-Love-You

Bookshop Santa Cruz (Paperback):   https://www.bookshopsantacruz.com/book/9781487437633

Amazon: https://a.co/d/8KpeXap
Barnes & Noble:  https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/fated-to-love-you-kayla-cunningham/1143739174?ean=2940167396821
Kobo:  https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/fated-to-love-you
Two Birds Books at Pleasure Point:  https://twobirdsbooks.com/
S:  Kayla, thanks for joining me today and good luck with your series! If you'd like to learn more about Kayla and her books, please visit--
Website:  https://kaylacunninghamauthor.com/Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/7686921-kayla-cunninghamInstagram:  https://www.instagram.com/authorkaylacunningham/Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/authorkaylacunninghamLinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/kayla-cunningham-42b932167/TikTok:  https://www.tiktok.com/@authorkaylacunninghamPinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/kcunninghamauthor/

This week in The Loft: Author Christina Lynn Lambert!

Joining me today in The Loft is author Christina Lynn Lambert. Christina writes the Stranger Creatures series, which features stories of suspenseful, paranormal romance. She also writes poetry and science fiction. After working in sales, and as a case manager and a personal trainer/running coach, Christina turned to writing romance. She loves creating imperfect but determined characters who find the courage to love and the strength to survive in a world where there are no guarantees. When not writing, Christina enjoys spending time outside and finding ways to avoid cooking. She lives in Virginia with her husband, two teenagers, a sweet hairy monster of a dog, and two devious cats.

Author Christina Lynn Lambert

S:  Welcome, Christina! I'm happy you could join me today!

Why did you start writing romance?

C:   I have always loved writing. For years, I wrote poetry and essays for fun then stored them in a folder, never to be seen again. I never planned on writing a novel until I got an idea for a story that wouldn’t leave me alone. Completely changing careers to enter a field I knew nothing about was hard and overwhelming at times but I found my passion. I love creating stories about characters who find the courage to love and be loved.

S:  That passion is so important when writing romance.

Book banning/book censorship is once again in the news. What can you, as an author, do to fight censorship? What can readers do?

C:   Authors and readers alike can keep calling lawmakers and politicians out on their attempts to gatekeep information and ideas. Continuously engaging in discussions that illustrate the truth about what information is being hidden and why these strangely fearful groups want to hide it can help illustrate that suppressing or censoring information that one groups feels goes against their beliefs does not make the material truly objectionable.  When I was a kid, my grandmother would send me books that highlighted different cultures and ideas as well as highlighting some of the tough issues people face and the sometimes heartbreaking decisions they have to make. These thought-provoking books taught me a lot about humanity and our flawed but persevering nature. I’ll do whatever I can to make sure politicians can’t continue to interfere with readers’ access to books.

S:  People have to speak up and take a stand. Otherwise, the book banners win.

Do you write in other genres? 

C:   In addition to romance, I also write poetry, essays, and speculative fiction short stories. Writing paranormal romance allows me to create worlds and possibilities beyond the everyday, beyond the mundane. Even though a character may be able to shape shift into a wolf or a bear, they still want the same things most of us want— love, acceptance, and of course, sometimes justice or revenge. I have only just started writing dystopian, horror, and science fiction short stories. For poems and short stories, I like the challenge of creating a substantial story in only a paragraph or a few pages. When space is limited, every word and every action is intensely important. Writing essays gives me a chance to take on an issue directly while using tone and vivid imagery to make my statement impactful.

S:  Do you think romance books have become too spicy?

C:   There’s a spice level for everyone’s preference now. I prefer spice in the books I read, and while plot is the most important detail to me when I write, I include plenty of steamy scenes because that’s what my characters require from me. If a reader wants a story with no steamy scenes, there a ton of great books to choose from that won’t leave them blushing in public if they happen to be reading at a coffee shop or on break at work. Writers typically do a great job of using their blurb, book cover, explanation, and keywords to inform readers what the spice level of a book is so that readers can choose stories they will be comfortable with.

S:  Exactly. People have the freedom to chose their "spice level." We need to ensure that opportunity is available for all readers.

What would you like people to know about you?

C:   I love animals--cats, dogs, snakes, birds, lizards--pretty much everything. There are occasional sightings of bears and coyotes where I live. I leave them alone and they leave me alone. I set food out for the foxes that roam through my woods and try to always remember to fill up the water dishes I keep outside for the bees. My favorite part of the morning is taking my dog, Yuki, for a walk and enjoying the fresh air with him. It rains a lot in Virginia, though, and the water makes his fur stink like wet wool, so I go through a lot of waterless wash foam.

S:  If you had to do it all over again, would you still choose to write books?

C:   Writing is what I was meant to do. I wouldn’t change it for anything. I spent many years in different careers completely unrelated to writing and had no formal training in fiction writing except for one fun, short story class in college that was an elective, so when I had an idea for a book, I had to spend a lot of time researching how to write fiction. I still got a lot of things wrong in the beginning. Luckily, I had a great editor who helped along the path. Even though I’ve written a few books now, I still get stuck or write chapters that I end up hating and have to start all over again, but I love what I do so much that it’s worth the pain and tears trying to create a story can sometimes bring.

S:  What inspired "Coyote’s Vow?"

C:   Trevor Ryland was a minor character in "Wolf’s Challenge (Stranger Creatures book 1)" and in "Tiger’s Last Chance (Stranger Creatures book 3)." The gruff coyote shifter really needed his own story. For Trevor, nothing is ever easy but he’s tough and he’s strong so he’s used to persevering and getting things done. When he falls for a psy, he is convinced he can forget about her. Kylie Claremont, a smart, beautiful web designer turns out to be unforgettable.

S:  Is there anything special you would like people to know about "Coyote’s Vow?"

C:  Each story in my Stranger Creatures series features a different couple as they fight for their happily ever after. "Coyote's Vow" is Trevor and Kylie's story. Love finds the telekinetic psy and the coyote shifter but they try hard to ignore every sign and clue along the way. If love is ignored for too long, the chance is gone and the loss is devastating. When their survival is at stake, Trevor and Kylie have to make some tough decisions. Trust doesn’t come easily for most people, especially not when life teaches so many painful lessons, but sometimes the universe sends a rare gift that requires a ton of courage to accept. Kylie and Trevor have to take a huge risk if they want the chance to be together.

Here's the blurb:

Kylie Claremont wants answers. She was the victim of a brutal experiment that caused her to develop telekinetic abilities. The position she’s offered as a liaison between Shifters United and the Psy Guild will give her the chance to find the elusive research company that disappeared after experimenting on her and bring them to justice. The only thing standing in her way is an arrogant coyote shifter who is convinced that Kylie is a threat to shifters and shouldn’t be allowed to be a part of Shifters United. She never expected to fall for the gruff, mistrusting man.

Coyote shifter Trevor Ryland will never trust the psy. Still, he knows the time has come to strengthen the tentative alliance between shifters and psy. He fully intends to ignore his attraction to the beautiful psy liaison, but he’d never forgive himself if something happened to her. His plan to protect Kylie from afar is wrecked when they’re forced to work together. She could be his mate but Trevor can’t let that happen. The struggle to deny his need for the one woman with the power to destroy him gets harder every day.

Trevor and Kylie uncover a web of greed and deceit during their search for a travelling research group. They’ll have to work fast and fight hard to stop the CEO’s latest plans or shifters and psy everywhere will suffer.

S:  The story sounds intriguing! Where can readers buy your book?

C:  It's available at--

Amazon:  https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BZT58GXZ

Barnes and Noble:  https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/coyotes-vow-christina-lynn-lambert/1143274092?ean=2940185830819

Apple iBooks:  https://books.apple.com/us/book/coyotes-vow/id6447381379?ign-itscg=30200&ign-itsct=books_box_link

Kobo Books:  https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/coyote-s-vow

Smashwords:  https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1370196

Google Books:  Coyote's Vow by Christina Lynn Lambert - Books on Google Play

S:  Christina, thanks so much for visiting me in The Loft! If you'd like to learn more about Christina and her books, please visit--

Amazon Author Page:  https://www.amazon.com/Christina-Lynn-Lambert/e/B01MCYK0K7

BookBub:   https://www.bookbub.com/authors/christina-lynn-lambert

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/christinalynnlambert

Goodreads:  https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15900423.Christina_Lynn_Lambert

Instagram:   https://www.instagram.com/christinalynnlambert

Pinterest:  https://www.pinterest.com/christinalynnlambert

Twitter:  https://www.twitter.com/chris4lamb

Wordpress:  https://christinalynnlambertwordpress.com

This week in The Loft: Author Reet Singh!

Joining me today in The Loft is author Reet Singh. Reet spent her childhood traveling to the postings of her father, who was in the Army. Those adventures provided experiences that begged to find a place in her romance novels. Now an eye surgeon in India, Reet makes time to pursue her passions, including reading and writing stories, watching romantic comedies, and doing creative things with wool and a crochet hook. She also loves solving cryptic crosswords and when her my muse is elusive, she enjoys pitting her wits against her husband's playing Scrabble. Occasionally, she can also be found in the kitchen putting together her "world-famous" one-pot meals, so named because no one else would consider combining the same ingredients in one dish!

Author Reet Singh

S:  Welcome, Reet! I am so happy you could join me today.

Why  did you start writing romance?

R:   Romance is my favorite genre to read. I grew up on Georgette Heyer, Lucy Walker, and Mills, and Boon. It was a natural transition for me to move from reading it to writing it.

S:  Are you self-published or traditionally published?

R:   I began to write for publication only about eight years ago. I got my big break when Mills and Boon® India announced the Passions Contest - they were looking for romance writers from India. I decided to participate and I won a two-book contract with them in 2013. The first book, "Scorched by His Fire," was released in February 2014, and the second, "The Cure was Love," came out in November that year. After these two traditionally published books, I took on self-publishing and I have never enjoyed myself more. As an Indie Author, I have tons of freedom. Tons of responsibility too. But it’s a much more transparent process and so you know what’s what when you self-publish. 

S:  What attracted you to your current partner?

R:   I adore the man I’m with--37 years and counting. I fell for his sense of humor, his groundedness, and his integrity.

S:  If you had to do it all over again, would you still choose to write books

R:   Definitely. In fact, I could stop writing any day and go do something else that fascinates me, but my imagination works overtime. So I just have to write.

S:  What do you want inscribed on your tombstone? How do you want to be remembered?

R:   Reet was fun, funny, candid, and kind. And she loved the Oxford comma.

S:  What inspired "Take One Suave Surgeon?"

R:   I was keen to write a medical romance. I taught medical students for decades and many of them clerked in the States, then either came back to practice in India, or relocated to the U.S. I was excited to see if I could cook up a romance around an intern from India and a surgeon in the U.S. I do hope readers enjoy the story.

S:  Is there anything special you would like people to know about "Take One Suave Surgeon?"

R:  "Take One Suave Surgeon" is an entirely refurbished, revamped, remodeled version of “The Cure was Love,” which was published by Harlequin/Mills and Boon in 2015. I’ve practically rewritten it. I have learned so much about the art of storytelling in the intervening years. When I got the rights to the book back, I decided to apply the new learning before republishing it as an indie book.

Here's the blurb--

Passion clashes with obligation in this trans-continental romance…

Simi Gill has had it with surgeons. In her opinion, the fewers surgeons there are in the world, the better for everyone. She takes a break from her medical studies in India to intern at a prestigious NYC cancer center for four months. In New York, her resolve to steer clear of surgeons, rooted in past heartbreak by an unscrupulous ex, is challenged when she crosses paths with Dr. Rudy Atwal.

A dashing surgeon with a complicated personal life, Rudy helps Simi navigate unexpected perils and pitfalls that seem to plague her. In return, he seeks her aid in escaping his dysfunctional family's schemes.

Saying no to Rudy is what she must do if she is to stay true to her goals. But Simi says yes, and that is her second mistake. The first is a tiny, accidental kiss…

Will Simi be able to return to India with her heart intact, or will the suave surgeon tempt her to break her own rules?

S:  I love these types of stories! Where can readers buy your book?
R:  It's available at  http://author.to/ReetSingh .
S:  Reet, thanks so much for joining me today. If you'd like to learn more about Reet and her books, please visit--
My WebsiteFacebook
Twitter
Goodreads
Amazon author page
Instagram
Google Play BooksBookBub