Roxanne Rhoads's Blog, page 546

Interview and Giveaway with Laura Kaye

Can you tell readers a little bit about yourself and what inspired to write in this particular genre?

Let me start by thanking you for having me here! I write paranormal, contemporary and erotic romance and had four books release in 2011. I'm also a wife, mom of two young girls, college history professor, and complete vampire addict! *grins* My latest book, NORTH OF NEED, is a contemporary fantasy romance. Paranormal stories have always been my first interest as both a reader and a writer, and the thing that most draws me to romance is the fantasy aspect of a great love story. So those are some of the things that drew me to write a story based on Greek mythology.

What is it about the paranormal, in particular Greek gods, that fascinates you so much?

I've always been fascinated by Greek mythology. It's really the soap opera of the ancient world, full of illicit affairs, political intrigue, backstabbing, and secret babies! As a lover of the paranormal, Greek mythology intrigues me because it is totally full of cool monsters with awesome powers. And, because there are so many versions of some of the stories, it's easy as an author to put your own spin on the mythology as I'm doing with the Anemoi, wind gods the Greeks associated with the seasons.

Please tell us about your latest release.

I'd love to! NORTH OF NEED tells the story of the snow god Owen, who is the adopted son and destined successor of the Supreme God of the North Wind and Winter, Boreas. Owen falls in love with Megan, a grieving widow spending Christmas alone in her family cabin. Here's the blurb:

Her tears called a powerful snow god to life, but only her love can grant the humanity he craves...

Desperate to escape agonizing memories of Christmas past, twenty-nine-year-old widow Megan Snow builds a snow family outside the mountain cabin she once shared with her husband, realizing too late that she's recreated the very thing she'll never have.

Called to life by Megan's tears, snow god Owen Winters appears unconscious on her doorstep in the midst of a raging blizzard. As she nurses him to health, Owen finds unexpected solace in her company and unimagined pleasure in the warmth of her body, and vows to win her heart for a chance at humanity.

Megan is drawn to Owen's mismatched eyes, otherworldly masculinity, and enthusiasm for the littlest things. But this Christmas miracle comes with an expiration--before the snow melts and the temperature rises, Megan must let go of her widow's grief and learn to trust love again, or she'll lose Owen forever.

Is there a character that you enjoyed writing more than any of the others?

Heroes are always my favorite to read and to write. In this book, I absolutely loved writing Owen. I loved how everything was a new experience for him. He was playful and enthusiastic and appreciative, all inside an incredibly powerful, hot, masculine package. And what Megan meant to him…that was just great to write. I have to say, I also developed a real love for Boreas. I didn't realize just how big of a role he would end up playing in the story, so he was a real pleasant surprise to write.

What is your favorite scene from the book? Could you share a little bit of it, without spoilers of course?

I have a lot of favorite scenes in this book. I adore the igloo scene. I love the ski resorts scene. But, even so, my absolute favorite is the book's Black Moment. All I can say without giving it away is that Owen comes face to face with his greatest weakness. As I wrote it, the angst and pain and sadness of the scene totally gripped me, and I hope it will do the same to the readers, too.

Did you find anything really interesting while researching this or another book?

I researched a number of fun topics while writing this book. In addition to reading up on my Greek mythology, I researched a number of cultural traditions' beliefs about the deities of winter and weather. I also did research on how to build a good snowman, how to build an igloo, and how to ski.

Can you tell readers a little bit about the world building in the book/series? How does this world differ from our normal world?

Based on Greek mythology, the world of the Hearts of the Anemoi series posits the existence of the Greek gods in the modern world. Sometimes they interact with people in the human realm, and sometimes they remain among their own kind in the Realm of the Gods. If you know anything about Greek gods, you know that almost ever natural event on earth had a god supposed responsible for it. So, in the series, all things wind, weather and season related are the purview of the four Anemoi gods. And, while the series focuses on these particular gods, other mythological figures you'll recognize will appear from time to time.

Do you write in different genres?

I do! In 2011, I've published books in paranormal romance (FOREVER FREED, vampires), contemporary romance (HEARTS IN DARKNESS), erotic romance (JUST GOTTA SAY), and fantasy romance (NORTH OF NEED). In 2012, I'll have two more vampire stories, and the final three Anemoi books releasing. I also have a completed women's fiction novel I hope to start querying soon. I enjoy the varying challenges different romantic subgenres raise, and I think writing in more than one has strengthened my writing in them all.

When did you consider yourself a writer?

I've always considered myself a writer. As a teenager, when I wasn't reading, I wrote stories. But as I went off to college, I became immersed in the academic discipline that would shape my professional life as an adult—history. Really, just another form of storytelling. It wasn't until three years ago that I started writing romantic fiction for publication. And my first manuscript I wrote was also the first I sold, FOREVER FREED.

What was the last amazing book you read?

My absolute favorite books are J.R. Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood series. I adore the characterizations, love the voice of the stories, and think they're hot as hell. I've just reread up through Vishous's book for maybe the fourth or fifth time, so that definitely counts as the last amazing gook I read. Among the brothers, Zsadist is my fave, and I'll warn you in advance I'm a wee bit territorial about him, so back off. Haha. No, really, stay away from him. *grins* *Pointed stare*

What can readers expect next from you?

I have two books releasing in the first several months of 2012. The first book in my Vampire Warrior Kings series, IN THE SERVICE OF THE KING, releases February 1. And the second book in the Anemoi series, WEST OF WANT, will release in the spring. I have a lot of other things in the works that I can't share just yet, but there are great things on the horizon! *grins*

Where can readers find you on the web?

Buy Laura's Books

Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter SignUp

Would you like to leave readers with a little teaser or excerpt from the book?

I sure would! Here's a bit that showcases one of Owen's talents…

Owen's flaring eyes stole Megan's breath. Already, the air around them sizzled. Something was happening.

Did she trust him?

"Yes," she heard herself say. Her answer was instinctual. She didn't need to think about it to know.

His heated, brilliant smile eased the nervous energy rushing through her veins. This day with him at Wisp had been unequivocally the best she'd had in two years. She had loved every minute of it.

Her body felt awake and powerful. Her heart, full and warm. She was alive. He'd brought her back to life.

"I want to share myself with you, Megan. I want to share everything," he whispered, his voice nearly that same reverent intonation as when he'd murmured those foreign words against her heart.

"Yes," she said again.

"It's going to feel odd to you, like a tingling weightlessness. But it won't hurt and I'll bring you back the very instant you desire. If you want to say something to me, just think it. And I promise I won't let you go." He bent down and scooped a handful of snow, packed it into a loose ball.

Owen's words did little to staunch the anxious excitement bubbling up inside her. Every nerve and muscle on edge, she could barely stand still. But she yearned to know what he wanted to show her. Something told her she was about to have a once-in-a-lifetime experience. "You lead, I'll follow," she said, echoing his earlier words.

The flare behind his eyes intensified. He dropped the snow into her bare palm. "Here, eat this, please."

Megan brought the snow to her mouth with a shaking hand. The way he dragged his tongue back and forth against his bottom lip made what they were doing feel like foreplay. As soon as she'd closed her lips around the last bite, his mouth was on her, kissing, probing. Then, he pulled back, laced his hands around her neck and leaned his forehead against hers.

"Megan Snow, I love you."

Megan gasped at his declaration. Her brain scrambled, tried to figure out how to respond.

Before she could, she ceased to be corporeal.

Owen! she screamed in her mind.

I'm here angel, and I've got you. Just feel. Take it all in.

I'm scared. Though she was no more than consciousness adrift, she would've sworn she felt his lips and hands caress her. The impossible sensation squelched the fear, left only a mystical thrill in its place.

I would never let anything happen to you, Megan. On my honor. On my life.

I believe you. What's happening? The world glided under her, around her, like she was a bird soaring on the ebbs and flows of air currents.

We are the wind.

WANT TO WIN NORTH OF NEED?

The North of Need Book Launch Blog Tour runs through November 20.

Today I am giving away

1st Prize an ebook copy of North of Need

Open Internationally

2nd prize: A complete set of trading cards for all four of Laura's books open to US & Canadian residents.

Please follow Laura's social sites for extra entries

1 bonus entry for each follow

Release Day Blitz and Genesis Excerpt

GENESIS EXCERPT

Chapter 1

The three teens burst out of the darkened hallway, squinting after the darkness of the hallway. Christin Kinsey drew a sharp breath to ask her brother Matt just what was going on, but a sharp look from the younger boy and the question died on her lips. He hurried across the blacktop parking lot toward her battered old Chevy truck, waving at her to hurry up as he stood by the passenger door, bouncing from one foot to the other like he had to pee or something. Christin unlocked the door, then slid over to let Matt in. He scooted over to the middle and his best friend Dave hopped in beside him.

"What's going on, Matty? And what is he doing here?" Christin asked, keys dangling from her fingers.

"No time, sis. If I'm right we've only got a little time before things get really bad, and we need to be out of here before that happens."

"Before what happens? Matt, we're not going anywhere until you explain exactly what is going on here?"

"Please, Chris, just trust me and go home. Now. I know it's weird, but it's really, really important."

"Weird doesn't even begin to describe this morning, little bro."

"And it's probably going to get weirder before it's all over, sis."

"You still haven't told me what he's doing here." Christin jerked a thumb at Dave, who was ducked as far down in the seat as his lanky frame would allow."

"He saw me sneak out of Trig class and tagged along."

"Wherever you go, adventure follows, Matty-boy. And Adventure is my middle name!" Dave replied.

"Too bad your first name is Dork, then." Christin muttered as she cranked the truck and pulled out of her parking space. She looked around the nearly deserted lot, smirking a little at a couple of the preppy kids trying to crank their new Priuses and Lexuses. Her truck might be old, she thought, but it was as dependable as her dad had been. Her smirk dipped a little at the thought of her father, but she pushed those thoughts to the back of her mind and pointed the nose of the truck towards home.

"Okay, Matt, we're rolling, how about you explain what's going on?" Christin said as she pulled out of the parking lost onto the main road.

"I can get part of the story by the time we get home, but then you've got to go with me, okay?" Matt asked, his eyes flickering between the dark storefronts and the stalled cars all around them.

"Depends on how good your explanation is, so get to it." Christin said, steering around a stalled Volvo.

"Well you know how all the lights went out all at once, right?"

"Yeah, kinda hard to miss that. So?"

"So did you notice that your cell phone is dead, too?"

"Yeah, but I figured I just forgot to charge it last night. You know how I am about that."

"Fair enough, but when was the last time I didn't charge mine?" Matt asked, holding up his phone for her to see the darkened screen. Dave reached into his pocket to show that his phone, too, was completely dead.

"Okay, so the power went out at the same time the cell phones died, that's kinda weird, but why are you so panicked?"

"Turn on your radio." Matt said. Christin reached down and snapped on the radio she'd had out in at Best Buy last month, and nothing happened. No lights on the front, no noise, not even static.

"It's dead."

"Yeah, sis. I think an EMP has knocked out all electronics in Asheville, and maybe a bigger area. That's why I want to get out of town."

"An E-what? And why do you want to leave town?"

"Because if there's no electronics, no computers, then there's nothing. No power, no communications, most cars won't work. That means no police. And no hospitals, and no way to get there. So the more people are around, means more people that could go nuts and do bad things. So I want to get out of town before people figure out that there are no cops and decide to do whatever they want to whoever they want. Is that enough explanation for now?" Matt said as they pulled into their neighborhood. The trip had taken twice as long as usual because it seemed like every traffic light in Asheville had gone out at the same time, and at least ninety percent of the cars were stalled in the streets.

"Park at the end of the drive, nose out, sis." Matt said as they approached the end of their cul-de-sac.

"What? Why?"

"I don't want anyone blocking us in. Dave, get to your house, load up like we talked about and get back here in half an hour. No later, I'm not waiting on you. You got it?" Matt's dark eyes were unusually serious under the shock of brown hair that he usually wore flipped around like a skateboarder or something.

"Got it." There was no humor in Dave's eyes either as he bolted down their street toward his house.

Christin knew he only lived a few blocks away, but he was running like his life depended on it. She got out of the truck and looked at her brother over the hood. "Matt, is it really that bad?"

"Have you read Lord of the Flies? Because we're on that island. If I'm wrong and everything goes back to normal tomorrow, we'll come back and face the music about skipping school. But we have to go now." Matt turned and walked quickly to the front stoop, fumbling with his keys in his haste to get the door open.

Christin caught him on the step and yanked the keys away from him. "No, little brother. I don't know what Doctor Who episode you think we're trapped in, but we're not going anywhere. We're going to go in this house, pick up the phone, call Mom, make sure she's okay, and then we're going to chill in our house until the power comes back on. You understand me?"

The expression on Matt's face as he looked up at her chilled Christin as much as the words that came out of his mouth. "Chris, you know in disaster movies how there's always the one guy who sees what's coming before anyone else and tried to tell everybody about it, but nobody listens and then they're all screwed? And the guy manages, against all odds, to save his loved ones from the apocalypse?" He had hold of both her arms now, and was looking straight in her face, as if to drive his point home.

"Yeah, so?" Christin was starting to get really worried, now.

"Well in this movie, I'm that guy. I'm Jeff Goldblum in Independence Day, John Cusak in 2012, Jake Gyllenhall's dad in The Day After Tomorrow, all rolled into one because this is real, it is happening, and I have a plan. So please, stop being my big sister for a couple hours and just believe me so I can keep you alive!" He almost broke down at that, but pulled himself together after a moment and looked back up at her. "Please?"

She didn't know if she believed in what was going on, or if he was right, but he sure seemed sure of himself, so Christin just took a deep breath, nodded, and said, "Okay. What do I need to do?"

"You've got ten minutes to pack clothes and camping gear. We don't need tents, because we're going to Grampa Don's cabin, but you'll need all the clothes you can pack into two duffel bags. That's all you get. Forget about makeup and conditioner and crap like that, just think of it like a long camping trip. Pack as light as you can, but don't forget anything essential. Figure we'll be gone for about six weeks. By then it should be safe to come back into town." He turned and ran inside and up the stairs to his room.

"Safe from what?" Christin murmured as she watched her little brother run into the house. It was only then that she noticed the absolute quiet that had settled over the town. No car horns, or highway noise broke the afternoon silence. No humming of central AC units from the nearby houses, no refrigerator noises from her own. It was as if the world had been turned off by a giant switch.

Ten minutes later she dragged her two duffels down into the den to find Matt loading the contents of their father's gun cabinet into a long bag originally designed for baseball bats or something similar. She dropped her bags and crossed over to him, angry. He looked up as she headed his way.

"Good. That was quick. Go to the pantry and load up the boxes of canned goods in the bottom of the closet into the truck. Once I've got the guns and ammo loaded this bag will need to ride on top, just in case." He went back to his work, ignoring the stunned look on her face.

"Just in case of what?" She asked very quietly.

"Just in case anyone tries to stop us or steal the truck while we're on the way to the cabin. While you're in the kitchen, take a dry erase marker and write 'Plan A in effect, C&M' on the fridge. That's the signal Mom and I agreed on in case this happened." He was in the bottom of the gun case now, loading shotgun shells and rifle ammo. He picked up their father's 9mm, checked the chamber like he'd done it a thousand times before, and clipped the holster onto his belt.

"Mom's in on your plan? Why didn't you ever talk to me about this?" Christin asked as she headed to the kitchen.

"It's not like she was in on it, in on it, it's more like I told her what my plans were, from A to C, just in case something like this happened and she was away when it all went down. Like today. I don't think she ever believed it could happen, which was why I never brought it up to you, because you'd have just made fun of me."

He's right, I would have. Christin thought as she started loading canned food into boxes in the kitchen. Suddenly there was a loud knock at the front door, disturbing the unnatural stillness that was all around them. Christin jumped and squeaked a little in surprise, but Matt was already on his feet with their dad's 12-gauge in his hands, pointed at the door.

"Answer it, Chris. If I yell duck, I need you to drop to the ground immediately, because I'm gonna shoot whoever's at the door." Christin looked at him like he was nuts, but nodded as she went to the door. She opened it to see Mrs. Alldren, their neighbor from three houses down.

"Oh Christy, I'm so glad you're home! Whatever is going on everywhere? My power is out, my telephone is out, and I can't even get my cellular phone to work. And of all times, now my car won't start! Could you be a dear and run me up to the corner so I can call the power company from a pay phone?" She started looking around Christin into the house like she always did whenever she came along to snoop, but Matt's voice from the den stopped her.

"I'm sorry, Mrs. A, but we can't help you today. We're packing for an unexpected vacation and have to meet our mother at the airport in 45 minutes. So we'll be rolling out of here in the next ten minutes. I think if you just head on home you'll be okay in a couple of hours." Matt came forward, shotgun nowhere to be seen, and gently but firmly pushed the door closed in the old woman's face. The kids heard a muffled hrmph! from the other side of the door, and then saw her blue hair totter off down the sidewalk through the windows by the door.

"What are you doing, Matt? If it's going to be as bad as you say, shouldn't we take her with us?" Christin grabbed his arm as he turned to go back to the gun cabinet.

"Take her with us for what? She's almost eighty, Chris! If I'm wrong about what's going on, she'll be fine by morning. But if I'm right, she won't last the winter regardless of if she comes with us or stays here. And we can't take care of her. It's going to be all we can do to take care of ourselves. I know that's kinda cold, but it's about to be a very cold world." He headed back to the den to finish packing up. I think that kid has seen Red Dawn too many times. Christin thought as she went back to the kitchen to finish loading boxes.

GENESIS
By John Hartness


The end of the world was just the beginning.

Now they have to stay alive.

17-year-old Christin Kinsey started the day with nothing more pressing than an English exam. But when an EMP attack knocked out all technology across the globe, she found herself in the mountains of Georgia trying to stay alive in a world suddenly thrown back in time a hundred years or more.

And when she starts shooting lightning bolts out of her hands, things get really weird. Christin, her younger brother Matt, and Matt's cute friend Dave have to figure out what this new world is about, why they suddenly have super powers, and what happened to their mom in this apocalyptic fantasy novel geared for audiences 16 and up.

Mad Max meets X-Men: First Class in the first book of the Return to Eden trilogy by the best-selling author of The Black Knight Chronicles.



AUTHOR BIO

John G. Hartness is a recovering theatre geek who likes loud music, fried pickles and cold beer. John is an award-winning poet, lighting designer and theatre producer, with a theatre career spanning three decades.

His first novel, The Chosen, is an urban fantasy about saving the world, snotty archangels, gambling, tattooed street preachers, immortals with family issues, bar brawls and the consequences of our decisions.

He followed up The Chosen with Hard Day's Knight, a new twist on the vampire detective novel and the first book in the highly successful series The Black Knight Chronicles. The second book of The Black Knight Chronicles, Back in Black, landed in March 2011 and enjoyed immediate success. Knight Moves, the third Black Knight book, was released in August 2011.

John has been called "the Kevin Smith of Charlotte," and fans of Joss Whedon and Jim Butcher should enjoy his snarky slant on the fantasy genre.

He can be found online at www.johnhartness.com and spends too much time on Twitter, especially after a few drinks.

www.johnhartness.com

www.facebook.com/johnhartness

@johnhartness

Guest Blog and Who Do, Voodoo? Giveaway with Rochelle Staab

The origin of the curse I created for WHO DO, VOODOO? dates back to 19th century New Orleans, an era when voodoo doctors and priestesses held secret moonlit rituals on river banks, and threw all-night orgies in the mansions of Louisiana politicians. Creole servants sold gris-gris from the kitchens of New Orleans' wealthiest citizens. Cuckolded husbands snuck into graveyards to collect dirt for revenge spells on cheating wives and their lovers. And in the French Quarter, Callia—a half-French, half-Haitian, young mother desperate for money to feed her children—sold the powerful spells she secreted out of the mountains of her Haitian homeland. The spells Callia exchanged for money came with a sinister threat: death to the client who exposed Callia as the source of the voodoo. Callia passed her cursed spell book to her daughters, and they to theirs, until the female-to-female lineage brought the spells to 21st century Los Angeles.

***

In this excerpt from WHO DO, VOODOO? Liz Cooper, a down-to-earth psychologist with a cynical view of the supernatural, encounters Callia's spirit at a séance:

Madame Iya' rocked back and forth, shaking a small brass rattle. "We humbly ask you to send the spirit of our beloved Sophie to join us." A full minute passed then Madame Iya' spoke again. "Sophie is here."

A candle popped. Shadows flickered on the walls outside of the circle. A draft swept across the floor and flickered the flames of the candles. I thought I saw a shadow move behind Jimmy and Tawny. I brushed away the sensation that someone else was in the room with us. I tensed up.

"Nola. Sophie wants you to publish her spell book." Madame Iya' let out a deep sigh. "She wants me to help you complete it."

Linda's body went rigid. She clenched her hand over mine and began to rock. She spoke in a deep and insistent voice; a voice I didn't recognize. "No. I don't want that. My secrets have to be protected. There will be danger. No."

"What are you talking about, Linda?" Nola said.

Linda stared across the room. "Linda's not here, my treasure."

"Who are you?" Nola's words came unsteady, searching. "Sophie?"

"Not Sophie. I'm Callia."

The back of my neck tingled. Who was Callia? Linda gazed around the circle. She stopped when she got to me. Her face had changed: the softness drained from her features. She looked tired, older. Her eyes were vacant. A small terror edged my rational mind aside. I had a fleeting sensation that someone else's eyes were staring at me from Linda's face.

"You have to keep my secrets safe and with my family. Your question is answered inside." She held her eyes on mine. "Promise me."

I nodded warily, not knowing what she meant. "I promise."

A door down the hall slammed shut with a force so hard it rattled the windows. Tawny screamed. I jumped.

***

WHO DO, VOODOO? is the first novel in Rochelle Staab's thrilling new Mind for Murder Mystery series features no-nonsense Liz Cooper, a Los Angeles psychologist forced to embrace the occult to clear her best friend of murder.

When Liz Cooper's friend Robin Bloom finds an unusual tarot card tacked to her front door, Liz writes it off as a prank. Robin refuses to ignore the omen—her late husband drew the same card, the three of swords, in a reading the night before he was killed in a car accident. As more cards and darker threats appear, Liz realizes someone very dangerous is upping the ante.

Liz turns to her brother's old college roommate, occult expert Nick Garfield. As Nick leads her into the voodoo community to locate the origin of the deck, she can't ignore their attraction to each other. Then a woman is found murdered and Robin becomes the prime suspect. Determined to clear her friend, Liz joins forces with Nick to unravel otherworldly secrets and seek help from beyond—or risk being outwitted by a cunning killer.

PRAISE FOR WHO DO, VOODOO?

"The first in the Mind for Murder mystery series set in Los Angeles grabs your attention from the start with creepy tarot cards, voodoo priestesses and cursed spell books. A fresh and entertaining premise for a new series that is cleverly plotted and executed."
 —RT Reviews (4 stars)

Let Staab's debut cast a spell over your readers with its spirited pace, likable heroine, and Los Angeles backdrop. VERDICT: Staab sets her fairly sophisticated blend of the occult in a flashy West Coast locale for great escape reading. Fans of Juliet Blackwell and Rebecca M. Hale will get a kick out of this one. ~ Library Journal

"A spellbinding blend of voodoo and tarot traditions, Who Do, Voodoo? is a superlative supernatural mystery." ~ Cleo Coyle, author of the national bestselling Haunted Bookshop and Coffeehouse Mysteries

BLOG TOUR:

11/11 Get Lost In A Story http://getlostinastory.blogspot.com/

11/13 Lipstick Chronicles http://thelipstickchronicles.typepad.com/

11/22 Seeing Night Reviews http://seeingnight.blogspot.com/

11/23 Dollycas's Thoughts http://dollycas.blogspot.com/

11/25 Pensfatales http://www.pensfatales.com/

11/28 Mysteries & Margaritas http://www.mysteriesandmargaritasblogspot.com/

12/13 Jungle Red http://www.jungleredwriters.com/

12/28 Under the Tiki Hut http://underthetikihut.blogspot.com/

APPEARANCES:

11/12 Book signing at Mysterious Galaxy/Redondo Beach, CA with Linda O. Johnston

11/15 WTMJ-TV/Milwaukee "Morning Blend" on-air interview

11/15 Book signing at Mystery One Bookstore in Milwaukee

11/26 Meet & Greet, 12-4p, Barnes & Noble/Westside Pavilion/Los Angeles

Rochelle Staab, a former award-winning radio programmer and music industry marketing executive, blended her fascination with the occult and a love for mystery in WHO DO, VOODOO? the first novel in her Mind for Murder Mystery series for Berkley Prime Crime. BRUJA BROUHAHA, the second novel in the series will be released in August 2012.
Website: www.rochellestaab.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rochelle.staab
Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/rochellestaab
Goodreads

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Interview with Elizabeth J Kolodziej

Can you tell readers a little bit about yourself and what inspired to write in this particular genre?

Well, I always tell people that I blame my mother. She was into the paranormal long before I was even born! So I kind of grew up on knowing of and then learning it all. It was just fascinating to read the folklore of vampires, witches, and werewolves. When I was eight was when I began to write little stories and since authors write what they know best I wrote about the supernatural.

What is it about the paranormal, in particular vampires (or insert the paranormal creature featured in your book here instead), that fascinates you so much?

I think it is the mystery of it all. It's the idea of a creature so powerful but so gentle all at the same time (depending on which story you read). And it's not just vampires but witches that really fascinate me too. Just the idea of being able to light a candle by blowing on it, or levitating in the air, who wouldn't be fascinated by that?

What inspired you to write this book?

I can honestly say I have no friggin' clue. I started it when I was around 19 and the way I come up with stories is by fantasizing. I almost want to say it was just fated and I am lucky for that. Ever since the first book the ideas for the next book and the ones after just keep coming to me.

Please tell us about your latest release.

My latest release is Werewolf Descent, the second book in The Last Witch Series. This one was actually a lot of fun to write since my own abilities as a writer had grown since Vampyre Kisses. It's packed with a lot more romance and tons more action.

Do you have a special formula for creating characters' names? Do you try to match a name with a certain meaning to attributes of the character or do you search for names popular in certain time periods or regions?

Actually, when I come up with a character I find out where they are from and a little on their background. Now sometimes I will go through names and connect the persons name by region. However, what I love best is when the character tells me the name themselves, which happens more times than not. It's normally what holds up my writing when a character is talking to me but won't tell me their name. That can be terribly frustrating.

Is there a character that you enjoyed writing more than any of the others?

I think the character I normally enjoy most is writing Faith or Kane (an no not Cain from biblical times, my story of Kane is drastically different). Faith I really can relate to when it comes to problems she goes through so it makes it easier but Kane is so loud and demanding that when he says you're going to write this then I write that.

What is your favorite scene from the book? Could you share a little bit of it, without spoilers of course?

I think I can do that; here is a scene between Louis (a slayer) and Faith (the main witch) straight from the book: (if it is too long you can start it later or end it earlier)

"Daughter like mother and all that." He quickly bit his lip. He must have seen the shocked expression on my face. "Sorry."

"I'm nothing like her." I bent down and came back up with the Jack I kept in one of the pots-and-pans cabinets. After reaching up for a couple of shot glasses, I looked at his face. He seemed upset.

"She wasn't that bad."

"Hmm. Being in the same business as her, I can see why you would say that."

"Faith." He stretched out my name in almost a whine. "Let's just…agree to disagree." He took one of the shots of Jack from the counter and raised the glass. "To your mother."

"To my father," I countered and downed my shot. After feeling like I was breathing out fire, I was finally able to speak again. "Want another?" He nodded and I poured us both one more.

After that shot, I took his glass and turned around to rinse them both out. With the water running I asked, "So what brings you here, Louis?"

Turning back around I was shocked to see Trent holding Louis up by his throat. Lucky for me he had worn his boxers while sleeping this time.

"Trent!" I screamed at him while rushing over. Louis had both his hands on Trent's wrist. "Let go of him!"

His blackened eyes met mine. "He is a slayer, Faith." His fangs showed through every word.

"I know that."

His expression became perplexed. "What?"

"This is Louis, that slayer I told you about." I heard a few gags come from Louis, and I looked up to see his face starting to turn a pastel bluish color. "Let. Him. Go," I demanded with enough emphasis that he must have known better than to disagree with me.

"Fine." He let Louis go, but not in the way I'd intended. He fell to his feet and lost his balance, sending him to his butt.

"That was not what I meant and you know it!" I went to my knees and put both hands on either side of Louis's face. "Are you okay?"

He put a hand to his throat and rubbed the reddened area. "I'll be fine," he choked out. "So this must be your vampire boyfriend. He seems nice." I rolled my eyes and linked an arm through his to help him up. "It's okay, I can do it."

While Louis got to his feet, I noticed Oran run by and onto Trent's shoulder. Trent looked at him with as much amazement as I did.

"What are you doing?" I asked.

I agree with Trent.

"Oh for heaven's sake," I blurted out without thinking.

Trent looked at me and then at Oran before a righteous smile found its way to his face. "I guess he agrees with me."

"Bite me."

"Maybe later."

"Faith, you don't…" Louis let his words trail off.

"It doesn't matter." I was looking at Louis but talking to both of them.

"It will when he brings his little swarm to your place. We are going to have to move again."

"No, he won't," I said while sighing. "I trust Louis. He helped us."

Trent took a few steps closer. "Did you ever stop and think that he helped us to further his own plans?" I looked at Louis, but before I could say anything Trent added, "And by the way, Louis…" He said his name in a mocking way. "She is nothing like her mother."

Crap. How much had he heard? The phone rang and I was glad for the interruption. It was Trent's cell phone coming from his bedroom. He stormed off to answer it.

"I only came here to give you some information about Lilith. I was sure you would want to know about her."

"What information?" My anger was lost in my need to find the vampire who'd saved Morgan.

Louis just shook his head. "He has a little bit of a temper." Louis began making his way to the door.

I followed behind him. "Well, you are a slayer and all, out to kill him and all of his kind."

"Is it any wonder we want to kill those monsters off? He just attacked me for no reason."

Now that pissed me off. "Wait a minute." I grabbed his arm and pulled him around to face me. "He only attacked you because you are a slayer, and even though it isn't your sworn duty to kill a witch, it wouldn't be the first time one tried to take my life. Trent was only protecting me." By the way his mouth dropped open, it looked like I had surprised the hell out of him. "Now, what information do you have on Lilith?"

Did you find anything really interesting while researching this or another book?

Yes! While researching alchemy for this book I came by a book by Robert Bartlett. Well! I contacted Robert because I had questions. This gentlemen and his wife are real alchemists and even teach classes on the subject. That just sent me through a loop. Both of them were so helpful in answering all my questions (even if some of them were hypothetical). I even wrote Robert into my book to show my appreciation to him.

What is the most interesting thing you have physically done for book related research purposes?

I wanted to go skydiving to see what it was like to fly but I couldn't afford it so I went parasailing. Then there was the time I went to Ireland for a month after college to see where Trent came from and get a good look at where a certain battle would take place. I don't think there is much I wouldn't do (if I can afford it) to do research for a book. I love hands on research!

Can you tell readers a little bit about the world building in the book/series? How does this world differ from our normal world?

I think the big difference in my book compared others would be the mix of Greek mythology. I have goddess like Aphrodite and Zeus, while I have gods I made up like Kane, god of vampires, and Daeka, god of werewolves. Something about that element really intrigues readers.

With the book being part of a series, are there any character or story arcs, that readers jumping in somewhere other than the first book, need to be aware of? Can these books be read as stand alones?

I get mixed reviews about this but if I went by the majority I would say Werewolf Descent could be read as a stand-alone. It gives great back-story to the first book so I don't think the reader will feel like they are missing too much.

Do you write in different genres?

I have tried to! Haha. I always come back to making someone a vampire or something though. However, even though I do put the paranormal in my writing I do try other genres. For instance, The Hunger Within (part of an anthology book, I Believe in Werewolves) forced me to write horror when I didn't think I could. Then there is another short of mine that got accepted by Sizzler about a half demon and that is considered Erotica. So yes, but no at the same time.

What can readers expect next from you?

Next, I will have short stories and novellas coming out in anthologies but the biggest of my writing (coming out in 2012) is going to be Witch Devotions. Werewolf Descent was left with a major "incident" that happened at the end. One that made my fans apparently want to kick me in the shins. Witch Devotions is going to solve a lot of the questions my fans have.

Where can readers find you on the web?

http://www.vampyrekisses.com

http://www.facebook.com/ejkolodziej

http://www.twitter.com/ejkolodziej

My book are available on amazon, b&n, and smashwords..com. So whatever eReader you have you can get this book and if you still love paperbacks (like I do!) they are available too.

VAMPYRE KISSES

1st Book in The Last Witch Series

ELOQUENT PUBLISHINGMAY, 2010

Vampyre Kisses is an enthralling story about a young woman named Faith, who was content with her life, but deep down craved more excitement. Then a mysterious man named Trent enters her life and everything changes. Surprising to Faith, Trent is a green-eyed vampire from Ireland. She is even more surprised to find out that she is a witch, and the last of her kind.

Faith finds out that she is destined to restore her witch line and becomes more powerful as she gains confidence and knowledge, but danger lurks everywhere. Especially when unknown assailants steal the most important gems from the vampire master and werewolf royalty.

Now surrounded by a world full of mystifying vampires and werewolves, can Faith gain enough power to help her friends and rescue the stolen gems?

"Kolodziej created a mystical tale full of magic and mystery. It's a fascinating world, completely unique compared to the cookie cutout worlds most vampireauthors use." – Vampires.com

"The storyline was full of action and excitement, clearly described, and I would be interested in reading more about Faith and Trent's continuing journey." – Bitten By Books

You can buy this book at any of the following (just click on it):

Amazon.com

Publisher's Website

Barns and Nobles

Kindle Edition

Interview with B Jane Lawson

Can you tell readers a little bit about yourself and what inspired to write in this particular genre?

I consider myself a lover of all things outrageous, weird and entertaining. I'm also a sucker for romance. A good book should have all of those elements. Secondly, I'm happiest when I'm feeling intellectually stimulated or challenged physically. So that's why, as a lifelong book lover of all genres, the heroines of this genre particularly appeal to me. They're witty, tough and smart. I like the clash between an intelligent, independent woman and a man who's transcendent to your average male physically but wars with an innate need to protect that is a bit atavistic in nature.

What is it about the paranormal, in particular werewolves, that fascinates you so much?

Their barely contained second side is what gets me. I like that they're not just a little bit uncivilized. I like that they're territorial. I love that they're brooding. I believe that the canon of literature on werewolves typifies them as something that is appealing to women - dangerous and exciting, but also aggravating.

What inspired you to write this book?

I feel like a seed was planted in my head named Morganna Cork, and it took root and grew almost of its own nature. I'd catch my mind wandering to the characters and the story at the strangest of times. They became like real people to me over the course of many months. What finally inspired me to get it down on paper was watching a number of women in and outside of the entertainment world doing inspiring things.

Please tell us about your latest release.

To the Cliffside is the first Morganna Cork Novel. In this book, 24-year old Morganna moves to Northern California to work for her cousin Maeve. She is enveloped in a world of magic and intrigue as she realizes nearly every resident in town is a Magick - a person who has magical lineage of one sort or another. Morganna is a magical healer and is reeling when she finds out that she's not the only one of her kind.

Then there's Callupo Stone - the first person she meets in Puesta del Sol - their instantaneous chemistry and unwillingness to give an inch to the other makes for an interesting ride.

I'm currently writing the second novel - working title Over the Cliff's Edge - which I'm working to release in early 2012.

Do you have a special formula for creating characters' names? Do you try to match a name with a certain meaning to attributes of the character or do you search for names popular in certain time periods or regions?

Its a combination of a few things. Many of my characters have strong ethnic backgrounds so their names have a particular meaning in their native tongue which is aligned with their character. Some of the names are ancestral names from my family - Bond is one of those. Morganna's name stems from one of the most famous mythological charactesr of all time - Morgan le Fay.

Was one of your characters more challenging to write than another?

Morganna was the most challenging to write about - capturing her complexity and making her a realistic character that one can like despite her imperfections was difficult.

Is there a character that you enjoyed writing more than any of the others?

Callupo Stone. I sometimes don't know what he's going to do or say until I've written it. He's so sexy that I can only write about him in short bursts!

Do you have a formula for developing characters? Like do you create a character sketch or list of attributes before you start writing or do you just let the character develop as you write?

I describe my writing style as marinating. I get an idea, a concept or a person in my head and it marinates like a roast until it's done. I can't write a single thing about it until I've thought about it while I'm jogging, riding in the car, biking, showering, you name it. By the time I get to the computer, I've developed this full character sketch that encompasses their physical characteristics and persona. They exist as a real person in my mind at that point in time. During this 'marination' process, I am inspired from things ranging from a woman in front of me at Starbucks to a magazine ad to a phone call I've had at work.

What is your favorite scene from the book? Could you share a little bit of it, without spoilers of course?

The scene is outside the local pub - Bar None. I like this scene because its the first time Morganna realizes that Callupo isn't easily fooled or thwarted.

Anya and I high-tailed it out the door and into the parking lot. Had we known then what we knew now, we'd have fared the fight for sure.

Directly in front of where Niko had parked the car was a black pickup truck. The minute I recognized it, I took one step back and tried to re-route us.

I felt the familiar crackle of magic even before I had finished turning around. When I did it, was just as I had suspected. Callupo and Ralph stood there, arms folded, matching scowls and black t-shirts. Didn't they know it was like forty degrees outside? And why was his upper body so jam-packed with muscle? This man incited a reaction from me that was damned frustrating.

"Going somewhere ladies?" Ralph asked softly.

"Bu-hic-sted." Anya hiccupped out. I must have missed how drunk she was, which ruled out playing it cool.

With more confidence then I felt, I replied, "We were just getting the car started while our ride closed the tab, but thank you for asking."

While supporting both my weight and Anya's, I again reversed directions back to Niko's car. It was like dragging a dead body.

That man had a way of moving like the wind, and I hadn't even made it a full step before I was boxed up, my back pressed to the car. He inhaled deeply, taking my scent in. Apparently, it wasn't to his liking.

His hands on my shoulders were like fire despite his inadequate attire and the cold night. He shook me softly as he pronounced each word, "I thought we made it clear that you girls weren't to go out without letting one of us know first."

For a split second I wondered what he would do if I just kissed him. I'm always thinking something bad or disruptive when he's talking to me. He makes me act like a goon. "While your perspective on the matter was made perfectly clear, I don't think mine was." I made the mistake of glancing up and got caught in a state of momentary hypnosis. In the dark, his eyes took on an eerie glow.

"At this point in time I have not signed over my rights to anyone, so unless I'm breaking a law, I'm going to continue do as I please."

"Up to and including throwing temper tantrums?" He finished just as quickly. "Do you think we asked to escort you to every destination because we've got nothing better to do than entertain you? You know better than that."

His put down was as direct as it was biting. The worst position to be in a fight was wrong.

We stood deadlocked like that for what seemed like an eternity; over his shoulder I could see that Anya had given up any pretense that she could stand and was just passed out in Ralph's arms. Lucky girl.

"I…" I began, but Niko cut in as he made his way across the parking lot. "They weren't alone Cal, they were with me." His shirt was ripped and his right eye was swelling shut. There was no sign of the three men he fought.

Callupo stiffened and dropped his hands from me like I'd sprouted lesions all over my skin.

"And a terrific job you've done of it. We found them out in the parking lot by themselves." Ralph quipped. The look in his eyes as he alternated back and forth between Niko and me was pure disdain. Anya was like a sister to these two. Of course they were seething.

Niko didn't answer, and just kept looking back at Callupo whose expression was a sufficient portrayal of his feeling.

Callupo yanked the keys from my hand and the force with which he hurled them to Niko was the only sign of temper. "I'm sure you can find your way home from here."

Niko, without further regard to me, made his way to the car. Coward. Ralph climbed into the back with Anya and laid her gently across his lap. I was left with the prospect of walking home alone or getting into the car. Callupo slid into the driver seat and started the engine. Seeing my breath on the wind, it was an easy choice.

Did you find anything really interesting while researching this or another book?

A wolf can smell an animal that has been gone from a spot for three days.

Can you tell readers a little bit about the world building in the book/series? How does this world differ from our normal world?

The nice thing about Puesta del Sol and The Cliffside Inn is that they are imaginary places in our existing world. The difference being that this town is filled with Magick residents. I liked writing about the Inn the most because it has a slew of secrets, of which I've only revealed a few.

With the book being part of a series, are there any character or story arcs, that readers jumping in somewhere other than the first book, need to be aware of? Can these books be read as stand alones?

This is the first book so I think it fairly necessary to read this before reading anything that comes out next.

Do any of your characters have similar characteristics of yourself in them and what are they?

Morganna has a temper and I certainly do, as well. Ralph eats a lot - and I'm a notorious lover of all types of foods and large quantities of them.

Do you ever suffer from writer's block? How do you deal with it?

Not really. I think about the story so much that by the time I've sat down to right it flows pretty naturally.

Do you have any weird writing quirks or rituals?

I cannot write if my closet is unorganized. My mind will think about that instead of the story so I need to fold and hang everything appropriately.

When did you consider yourself a writer?

When I sold the first copy of the book that a family member did not purchase.

What are your guilty pleasures in life?

Reading romance novels is highest on the list. Chocolate chip cookies, red wine, and reading US weekly are the others.

Other than writing, what are some of your interests, hobbies or passions in life?

I love fashion, bicycling and traveling. In that order. I also love a terrific romantic comedy and I don't think anything beats a live music show. The best concert I've been to this year was Florence + the Machine.

What was the last amazing book you read?

I just finished The Immortal Life of Henrietta Lacks. It was pretty amazing. In this genre, I recently finished the Downside Ghosts trilogy and that was wonderful, too.

What can readers expect next from you?

Over the Cliff's Edge, book two of the Morganna Cork series.

Where can readers find you on the web?

bjanelawson . posterous . com

twitter . com / bjanelawson

http://www.facebook.com/B.JaneLawson

Would you like to leave readers with a little teaser or excerpt from the book?

The excerpt above I think tells it all!

Blurb for To the Cliffside
Morganna Cork has lived twenty-four uneventful years in Los Angeles under the thumb of her overbearing mother. The only thing barring her from a totally average existence is that she's got a secret, magical ability to heal herself and others.

An encounter with her mother results in exile to the small coastal town of Puesta del Sol. There, she will be a guest and employee at the Cliffside Inn, owned by her estranged cousin Maeve. Morganna resigns herself to a winter of work and boredom in this one-horse town.

Everything changes when she accidentally pulls into the driveway of the devastatingly sexy Callupo Stone. Instantly she is attracted to the infuriating man who makes no bones about his lack of interest, even if he seems to be right behind her at every turn. The sparks fly as she does her best to thwart his every attempt to corral her.

She soon discovers that she's not the only one with gifts. There is an entire community of people known as Magicks, each unique and powerful in their own right.

As Morganna undertakes a journey of self-discovery and determination, she befriends Anya, the spunky, sassy, sometimes employee of the Cliffside and bearer of town gossip. Together, they begin to unearth the mysteries surrounding the strange reappearance of a vindictive villain, on a quest for power, in which Morganna finds herself directly in the middle. Simultaneously, they witness the succession struggles of a secret society, in which Callupo and many of their close friends are members, whose existence and purpose eludes them.

Morganna undergoes a radical transformation of self as she becomes an unsuspecting participant in a Magickal war that has been thirty years in the making.
Barnes and Noble: http://search.barnesandnoble.com/books/e/2940013357709

Smashwords: https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/88272

November Book Tours

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Guest Blog and Giveaway with Natasha Larry Author of Unnatural Law

How Laziness Inspired a Showdown of Equals

One of the most common questions writers are asked, particularly in the paranormal/fantasy genre is… "Where did that idea come from?" For me, the real answer is that the ideas sort of fall into my head and I write them down. However, I'm not always that lucky and I have to put thought into things and do a little research. Every once in a while I will get an idea from a family member or a close friend.

This is not a story about any of those times. This is a story about flat-out laziness and how my fiancé is responsible for chapter fourteen of Unnatural Law: A Showdown of Equals.

Apart from being a writer, I'm also a mother and a horrible cook. One day, I wasn't particularly in the mood to cook. I was in the mood to write. My fiancé, who had been to work all day, looked at me in annoyance before asking, "What do you want to do for dinner?"

"Whatever you want," was my response. Eyes still glued to the monitor.

"You going to cook?"

We both already know the answer to this.

"How about KFC?" he asks now.

"Sure."

"Do you want to go get it?" he asks… not really as a question, but to let me know he isn't going to get it.

"Can you go get it?"

"No."

"Please?"

"Uh, yeah… no."

"If you go get dinner and let me finish this, I'll let you make something happen in the second book," I tell him desperately.

Yes, I said it… and yes, I was that lazy and in the zone on that particular day.

"Anything?" my fiancé asks me.

"Anything," I tell him.

When he comes back, he puts the chicken and biscuits in front of me, and we sit down to a nice dinner.

"I want Jaycie and Allison to battle. Not in a training exercise… I want the real thing," he tells me.

Well, that was the very last thing I was expecting… but I wasn't about to go back on my word. At first, I didn't know how I was going to fit it into the storyline... but I did, and it actually worked out nicely.

Here is a brief sample of that chapter inspired by laziness. Enjoy!

"What the hell was that?" Haylee complained.

Jaycie didn't answer because her eyes were wide with fear. Allison Young was walking toward her with a murderous look in her eyes. "A-Ally?"

Before she had time to blink, Allison grabbed her arm and applied a reckless amount of pressure to it.

Jaycie shrieked wildly in pain as her bone snapped. She shielded herself when Allison came after her again. The shield threw Allison back one hundred yards, and the ground shook under their feet.

"What the hell?" Haylee asked.

"Run," Jaycie whispered, her eyes watering in pain.

"No way!"

Jaycie's pain started to mess with her concentration. Her shield grew weak right when Allison was coming for her again. "Run!" Jaycie yelled, and shot herself into the air. Allison snarled, jumping up after her. Jaycie shielded herself in time and dropped to the ground. "Allison! It's me, Jaycie!" she cried out in desperation.

But Allison was on her feet again. Jaycie grabbed her by the throat telekinetically and held her there. Allison thrashed wildly, and Jaycie struggled to keep her control. She knew that if Allison got close to her again, she would be dead.

Nov 2 Guest Blogwww.roxannesrealm.blogspot.com
Nov 6 Guest Blogwww.fang-tasticbooks.blogspot.com
Nov 7 Guest bloghttp://bellebooksx.blogspot.com/
Nov 10 Review and excerptAwesomesauce Bookshttp://www.awesomesaucebookclub.com/
Nov 12 Guest BlogThe Write at Home Momwww.thewriteathomemom.blogspot.com
Nov 15 Guest blogJeanzBookReadNReview http://jeanzbookreadnreview.blogspot.com/
Nov 19 Guest Blogwww.rainyofthedark
Nov 21 review and guest blogMy Neurotic Book Affairhttp://www.myneuroticbookaffair.blogspot.com/

November 22 - Interview Bookworm Lisahttp://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/

25th - Review of book 1 and promo for book 227th - Guest postUnputdownable Bookshttp://unputdownablebookies.blogspot.com/


November 28 - Book 1 Review + Book 2 PromoBookworm Lisahttp://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/

Nov 27 Interview and reviewBeverly @ The Wormholehttp://wormyhole.blogspot.com
Nov 30 interview and reviewWords 2 Follow



Unnatural Law Blurb
by Natasha Larry
Fantasy / Young-Adult
Book 2 Darwin's Children Series

Seventeen-year-old Jaycie Lerner's psycho-kinetic power surge is over, and her astounding powers are under control for the time being – sort of. As she struggles to maintain her humanity in the face of the awesome terror and responsibility of her abilities, she also yearns for the chance at a normal life – and a relationship with Matt Carter, the best friend she had to leave behind. But Matt's got a few tricks up his sleeve, and he's not about to give up on his feelings for Jaycie.

As Jaycie and her family grapple with the day-to-day routine of trying to keep their world together, Jaycie's mother figure, Allison Young, endures a personal crisis of her own. The superhuman blonde possesses the physical equivalent of Jaycie's awesome psychic power.

So evolved, at ninety-two she still looks twenty. But what good is extended life when everyone else around her is so fragile? With no one to share her unusual life, she's a uniquely lonely woman yearning for the romantic love she sees all around her. But in a dream she gets her wish – and it quickly turns to a nightmare for everyone else in her life. The memory of a rose is all she can hold onto in the storm of obsession that nearly sweeps her away.

Things quickly turn deadly for the vampires, but the Dey-Vah Guard fairies refuse to acknowledge there's an imbalance in the nature they protect. As the danger gets ever closer to Jaycie and her family, the race is on to find answers before a secret plot can destroy them



Author Bio

Natasha Larry resides in Huntsville, Alabama with her daughter and fiancé. She graduated from Tusculum College with a B.A. in History and is currently working on getting her certificate in education. Apart from writing, she is a self-proclaimed comic book nerd and urban fantasy junkie. Her poetry and short fiction has appeared in publications such as Writing Edge magazine and Escaping Elsewhere. Darwin's Children is her first work of novel length fiction.

Author Web Site:
http://www.paranormalwire.blogspot.com
http://natashalarrybooks.com/

Books by Natasha Larry
Darwin's Children ( Book 1 of Series: Darwin's Children )

Unnatural Law Book 2 Darwin's Children Series

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Darwins-Children-Series/145755472156223

Twitter: @natashalarry

Giveaway Time
one grand prize winner at the end of the Unnatural Law tour will win a $50 Gift card to the retailer of their choice and a signed print set of both books- Darwin's Children Children and Unnatural Law
Open to US residents only Void where prohibited

To enter fill out this form
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Guest Blog with Natasha Larry Author of Unnatural Law

How Laziness Inspired a Showdown of Equals

One of the most common questions writers are asked, particularly in the paranormal/fantasy genre is… "Where did that idea come from?" For me, the real answer is that the ideas sort of fall into my head and I write them down. However, I'm not always that lucky and I have to put thought into things and do a little research. Every once in a while I will get an idea from a family member or a close friend.

This is not a story about any of those times. This is a story about flat-out laziness and how my fiancé is responsible for chapter fourteen of Unnatural Law: A Showdown of Equals.

Apart from being a writer, I'm also a mother and a horrible cook. One day, I wasn't particularly in the mood to cook. I was in the mood to write. My fiancé, who had been to work all day, looked at me in annoyance before asking, "What do you want to do for dinner?"

"Whatever you want," was my response. Eyes still glued to the monitor.

"You going to cook?"

We both already know the answer to this.

"How about KFC?" he asks now.

"Sure."

"Do you want to go get it?" he asks… not really as a question, but to let me know he isn't going to get it.

"Can you go get it?"

"No."

"Please?"

"Uh, yeah… no."

"If you go get dinner and let me finish this, I'll let you make something happen in the second book," I tell him desperately.

Yes, I said it… and yes, I was that lazy and in the zone on that particular day.

"Anything?" my fiancé asks me.

"Anything," I tell him.

When he comes back, he puts the chicken and biscuits in front of me, and we sit down to a nice dinner.

"I want Jaycie and Allison to battle. Not in a training exercise… I want the real thing," he tells me.

Well, that was the very last thing I was expecting… but I wasn't about to go back on my word. At first, I didn't know how I was going to fit it into the storyline... but I did, and it actually worked out nicely.

Here is a brief sample of that chapter inspired by laziness. Enjoy!

"What the hell was that?" Haylee complained.

Jaycie didn't answer because her eyes were wide with fear. Allison Young was walking toward her with a murderous look in her eyes. "A-Ally?"

Before she had time to blink, Allison grabbed her arm and applied a reckless amount of pressure to it.

Jaycie shrieked wildly in pain as her bone snapped. She shielded herself when Allison came after her again. The shield threw Allison back one hundred yards, and the ground shook under their feet.

"What the hell?" Haylee asked.

"Run," Jaycie whispered, her eyes watering in pain.

"No way!"

Jaycie's pain started to mess with her concentration. Her shield grew weak right when Allison was coming for her again. "Run!" Jaycie yelled, and shot herself into the air. Allison snarled, jumping up after her. Jaycie shielded herself in time and dropped to the ground. "Allison! It's me, Jaycie!" she cried out in desperation.

But Allison was on her feet again. Jaycie grabbed her by the throat telekinetically and held her there. Allison thrashed wildly, and Jaycie struggled to keep her control. She knew that if Allison got close to her again, she would be dead.

Nov 2 Guest Blogwww.roxannesrealm.blogspot.com
Nov 6 Guest Blogwww.fang-tasticbooks.blogspot.com
Nov 7 Guest bloghttp://bellebooksx.blogspot.com/
Nov 10 Review and excerptAwesomesauce Bookshttp://www.awesomesaucebookclub.com/
Nov 12 Guest BlogThe Write at Home Momwww.thewriteathomemom.blogspot.com
Nov 15 Guest blogJeanzBookReadNReview http://jeanzbookreadnreview.blogspot.com/
Nov 19 Guest Blogwww.rainyofthedark
Nov 21 review and guest blogMy Neurotic Book Affairhttp://www.myneuroticbookaffair.blogspot.com/

November 22 - Interview Bookworm Lisahttp://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/

25th - Review of book 1 and promo for book 227th - Guest postUnputdownable Bookshttp://unputdownablebookies.blogspot.com/


November 28 - Book 1 Review + Book 2 PromoBookworm Lisahttp://lisaisabookworm.blogspot.com/

Nov 27 Interview and reviewBeverly @ The Wormholehttp://wormyhole.blogspot.com
Nov 30 interview and reviewWords 2 Follow



Unnatural Law Blurb
by Natasha Larry
Fantasy / Young-Adult
Book 2 Darwin's Children Series

Seventeen-year-old Jaycie Lerner's psycho-kinetic power surge is over, and her astounding powers are under control for the time being – sort of. As she struggles to maintain her humanity in the face of the awesome terror and responsibility of her abilities, she also yearns for the chance at a normal life – and a relationship with Matt Carter, the best friend she had to leave behind. But Matt's got a few tricks up his sleeve, and he's not about to give up on his feelings for Jaycie.

As Jaycie and her family grapple with the day-to-day routine of trying to keep their world together, Jaycie's mother figure, Allison Young, endures a personal crisis of her own. The superhuman blonde possesses the physical equivalent of Jaycie's awesome psychic power.

So evolved, at ninety-two she still looks twenty. But what good is extended life when everyone else around her is so fragile? With no one to share her unusual life, she's a uniquely lonely woman yearning for the romantic love she sees all around her. But in a dream she gets her wish – and it quickly turns to a nightmare for everyone else in her life. The memory of a rose is all she can hold onto in the storm of obsession that nearly sweeps her away.

Things quickly turn deadly for the vampires, but the Dey-Vah Guard fairies refuse to acknowledge there's an imbalance in the nature they protect. As the danger gets ever closer to Jaycie and her family, the race is on to find answers before a secret plot can destroy them



Author Bio

Natasha Larry resides in Huntsville, Alabama with her daughter and fiancé. She graduated from Tusculum College with a B.A. in History and is currently working on getting her certificate in education. Apart from writing, she is a self-proclaimed comic book nerd and urban fantasy junkie. Her poetry and short fiction has appeared in publications such as Writing Edge magazine and Escaping Elsewhere. Darwin's Children is her first work of novel length fiction.

Author Web Site:
http://www.paranormalwire.blogspot.com
http://natashalarrybooks.com/

Books by Natasha Larry
Darwin's Children ( Book 1 of Series: Darwin's Children )

Unnatural Law Book 2 Darwin's Children Series

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Darwins-Children-Series/145755472156223

Twitter: @natashalarry

Guest Blog with Natalie J Damschroder

The Importance of Wordsby Natalie J Damschroder

I asked Roxanne what kind of topic she wanted from me today, and she said I could do anything, and her list of suggestions included "wiring." I laughed at her. She claimed it was supposed to be "writing." I guess we should give her the benefit of the doubt, right? :)

I told her it gave me an idea for a topic, which I think probably scared her. But I'm not going to talk about wiring (though I am proud to say I've swapped out outlets and dimmer switches in my house :) ). No, I'm going to talk about the importance of words.

It kind of boggles my mind what kind of stuff gets out there. I mean, if you want to be a sign painter, you need to know that you don't put an apostrophe in plurals. It's "home of the best subs," not "sub's." That drives me nuts!

I can't watch commercials for very long. It's not because I hate commercials. I mean, a lot of them are clever or cute or heartwarming or some combination. (I LOVE the Old Spice Guy and the Macs vs PCs.) But some of them spent a LOT of money to make themselves look ridiculous. To people like me, anyway.

Take that credit card commercial on a pirate movie set. The woman doing the voiceover says, "I have a small part in a big movie." And then the scene shows her doing the actor's makeup, and standing behind the scenes with a makeup belt on. So she's not IN the movie. She has a part ON the movie. Two little letters, huge difference in meaning.

There are some songs out there that bug the heck out of me, too. I know we're supposed to give lyrics a pass. Creative license, right? But I can't help it if "you're on my heart just like a tattoo" makes me think too literally and squicks me out. Then there's "When I die/bury me in satin/lay me down in a bed of roses/sink me in the river/at dawn..."

Uh...which one? Okay, we can lay roses in the grave, wrap you in satin, and bury you, but then it's not possible to sink you in the river without digging you back up, and that's kind of hard on your loved ones, hon.

I'm sorry! That just completely ruins what's actually a sweet song. Mostly. Except for the part where she's gonna sell her thoughts for a dollar because they'll be worth much more when she's a gonner...

I could go on and on, but really, do you want me to? LOL I'd rather hear YOUR word-based pet peeves. Tell me what bugs you the most!

Hopefully, you won't find any huge snafus in my new books!

Behind the Scenes
Kennedy Smyth's firm provides security for companies and charities in seriously dangerous countries. She doesn't usually take on "frivolous" jobs, but when an old friend asks her to protect his son's movie shoot, she finds it hard to refuse. Also hard to resist is the film's charismatic star, Rogan St. James. The handsome actor piques her interest, while the strange actions of the terrorist threatening the set raise her suspicions.

Even though he's a successful actor, Rogan wants more a real woman to love, the type he doesn't think exists...until he meets Kennedy. She intrigues him with her confidence and passion for her work, and frustrates him with her refusal to let him get close.

But Kennedy finds herself in a vulnerable position when she discovers that the terrorist isn't actually out to derail the film. She's the real target and if he finds out how much Rogan means to her, he could be next...

Carina Press | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Audible coming soon.


Under the Moon November 15, 2011
Their power gives them strength…and makes them targets.

Quinn Caldwell is the epitome of a modern goddess. Her power source is the moon, her abilities restricted only by physical resources and lunar phase. She runs a consulting business and her father's bar, serves on the board of the ancient Society for Goddess Education and Defense, and yearns for Nick Jarrett, professional goddess protector and the soul mate she can never have.

But someone has developed the rare and difficult ability to drain a goddess of her powers, and Quinn is a target. With the world thinking Nick has gone rogue (whatever that means) and that Quinn is influenced by "family ties" she didn't know she had, keeping themselves safe while working to find the enemy proves harder each day.

But not as hard as denying their hearts…

Interview with Chloe Neill Author of the Chicagoland Vampires Series

I am thrilled to have Chloe Neill here today as part of her Drink Deep tour, the newest book in the Chicagoland Vampires series.


Welcome Chloe, thanks for being here. Can you tell readers a little bit about yourself and what inspired to write in this particular genre?

Sure! I'm the author of the Chicagoland Vampires series. The fifth book, DRINK DEEP, is now on shelves. I enjoy
writing urban fantasy because I get to make up the rules, and we get different than our usual day-to-day drama.

Do you have a special formula for creating characters' names? Do you try to match a name with a certain meaning to attributes of the character or do you search for names popular in certain time periods or regions?

I try to make sure the name matches the person. Merit was originally "Kate," but I knew "Kate" wasn't the right name for her. Merit, however, stuck. I keep a list of names I might want to use in the future, and I also have a baby name book just in case. If I'm creating a character from a particular location other than the US, I'll research appropriate names for that area.

Was one of your characters more challenging to write than another?

I always think Mallory is the hardest to write. It can be difficult to get the right mix between her flightiness and intelligence.

Is there a character that you enjoyed writing more than any of the others?

Ethan is a joy to write because his voice is so profound. There are things he can say that no other character could pull off.

Do you write in different genres?

I do. I'm also the author of the DARK ELITE, a magical young adult series. The third book in that series, CHARMFALL, will be released in January.

Do you find it difficult to write in multiple genres?

It can be a challenge to switch from YA to adult writing, and I find writing YA much more difficult. There are so many more rules to obey--like keeping kids in school and drivers' licenses.

When did you consider yourself a writer?

Not until I started writing fiction in 2005. :)

What are your guilty pleasures in life?

Diet Coke, baking very fattening desserts, great handbags, and lots of books!

Where is your favorite place to read? Do you have a cozy corner or special reading spot?

I have a full time job, so I don't have much time for reading. I try to steal 15 minutes before bed each night, so I'm usually in bed with PJs on.

Where can readers find you on the web?

I'm on Facebook, Twitter and Goodreads, and fans can find links to all the above
on my website: http://chloeneill.com

Thanks for having me!

Thanks for being here today, Chloe.



My review snippet made it into Chloe's newsletter:
"Neill has created a complex world filled with vampires and magic, political subplots, heavy emotions, and a surreal reality thrown into turmoil that make this book a quick paced read you just can't put down. -- Fang-Tastic Books