Eden Baylee's Blog, page 96

Get Inside the Mind of Everett Powers (@EvPowers)

Mr. Powers was a man of mystery until this interview. We’d known each other for some time, crossed paths on Twitter, and supported one another’s writing. I can say after reading his responses, he’s every bit as honest and forthright as I imagined he would be.

Learn more about a wonderful writer and a stand-up guy, Everett Powers.

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In Everett’s own words … 

After managing a fast-food restaurant for a couple of years, I knew that wasn’t the life for me and decided to become a doctor of chiropractic. After graduation, I purchased a practice in Modesto, CA, and practiced there until 2012.

I finished my first novel, Canals, in 2004. My second novel, The Mighty T, was finished in 2010. I decided to self-publish both novels and did so in 2011. My third novel, Death of a Matador, was completed and published in 2012. I’ve done all the work on my novels: I took the photographs for the covers of the two Grant Starr thrillers, did the formatting for both Ebook and paperback editions of all three novels, and published them.

I moved with my wife, Penny, to Utah in 2012. I’m working on my third Grant Starr novel, working title Sunset Hill, while marketing my published work. I have three sons and two step-daughters. Two of my sons are married but there are no grandkids: one couple is trying while the other couple is newly married.

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BUY links for Everett’s books on his website

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Inside Everett’s Mind

[eden] So great to finally have you here, Everett. Since I really like your answer about happiness, let’s start there. 

Your idea of perfect happiness is? Wow. “Perfect” happiness? I’ve rewritten this answer a dozen times, yet it should’ve been easy.

I’m happy when things are humming along nicely and I’m surrounded by people I love, yet have enough time to myself to write and work on promoting my novels. One unique thing about my wife and I is, we really enjoy each other’s company. We worked together for fifteen years and people were always commenting on how they could never work with their husband/wife. I think it helped that we had fairly defined roles; I tried not to step on her toes and she tried not to step on mine.

I’m happy when what I’m writing feels good, right. I don’t mind having to go back and fix things, rewrite a scene or two I later realized should have gone a little differently, if the work feels good and I’m excited about it.

I’m happy when I’m exercising and feel good about what I’m eating. Exercise is such a wonderful thing. Not only do you feel and look better, your mind is sharper, and it’s easier to get up in the morning and hit the computer or editing pencil. Everything seems to work better when I’m exercising.

I’m happy when the bills are paid on time, there’s some money in the bank, we have a vacation planned for the year, and I can help my kids if they run short at the end of the month.

What turns you on creatively? Knowing a scene is really working, that it flows. You feel good, almost tingly. I also love it when a character turns out well. I read a quote on Facebook recently by a woman I assume is an author. Regardless of whether the quote was real (and who really knows?), it struck a chord with me. The quote said she didn’t know how her characters were going to turn out until she started writing them and by the end of her book, she loved them and hated to see them go. When that happens, it’s a creative turn on.

When I wrote my first book, Canals, I wrote in the style Stephen King calls “a found thing.” Others call it writing by the seat of your pants. That was a thrill ride for me! I’d sit at the computer and have no idea what would happen next, start typing and type until the inspiration hit, then finish out the session at full speed. Canals was my most imaginative novel.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse? Early in my writing career I had to learn to watch for overuse of a lot of words. The worst offenders were “then,” “suddenly,” “all,” directional words such as “down” and “up,” and I’m sure many others I’ve forgotten because I kicked the habit of using them. I’m picky about using the same adjective too close together, such as a paragraph or two apart. It sounds awkward to the ear. I can usually spot a rookie writer due to their overuse of certain words or phrases.

There are on-line tools a writer can use to check for the overuse of words or phrases as well as passive language and the like. They’re useful to the new writer but after you’ve written a couple of books you shouldn’t need them anymore.

[eden] You’re like me in this way. I also hate repetition, and reading my work aloud helps me pick out those words too close together.  

What quality do you most admire in a man? Honesty. I don’t like liars. I like to see a little toughness in a man. He should be willing to stand up for his family, even when he’s outmanned and sure to get his ass kicked. A man should also take care of his kids. He should take his turn at getting up for night feedings and to change diapers. A man should respect his wife’s feelings and desires, which may not always make sense to him. This should, in my opinion, be fleshed out in detail before marriage but feelings can change over time and a man should be flexible enough to adapt.

What quality do you most admire in a woman? Honesty. I really don’t like liars. A woman often has to be a master diplomat, depending on the dynamics of the relationship. When a man is being pigheaded, and his woman knows he’s wrong, she has to keep her cool and gently lead him in the right direction. I’ve seen my mother do this with my dad countless times. She’s almost always gets her way, which is always the right way.

[eden] I can tell from your answers that you REALLY, REALLY don’t like liars.

What is your greatest regret? Putting my kids through a divorce. I understand there are worse things than that, like chronic abuse and abandonment. But what many of us forget is, what is nothing more than a speed bump to one child is a towering mountain to another. When my kids had friends whose parents were splitting up, their mother and I assured them we would never do the same, yet we did. When kids think their family is secure only to learn, in a moment, that it isn’t, it can be devastating. I still carry a lot of guilt over this, all these fifteen years later.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? I lack discipline. I think it stems from being self-employed for twenty-three years. Yeah, I had to be at the office by a certain time, but there was no one to tell me what to do when there were no patients to see. So I would like to change this fault and be more disciplined. To me this means structure my day and then follow the plan.

What is your greatest fear? I fear losing the respect of people I care about. Getting caught in some lie, being proven a crook, having some great sin of mine plastered across the papers. That kind of thing. I have family who love me unconditionally, but I still fear embarrassing them or causing them shame.

Which living person do you most admire? No doubt my dad. It’s not that he’s some great statesman who brought lasting peace to the Middle East, balanced the U.S. budget, or ended senseless gun violence. He’s been steadfast in his course in life and is far down the path he set himself upon many years ago. And he’s honest. Want to know what his greatest insult would be for another? Calling them a crook.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? Well, I’m not a full-time writer yet so I choose that profession. I’m sort of between gigs, moving in the direction of writing full time. The problem is, too few people are buying my books. My royalty check from Amazon UK for 2012 paid for one-third of my new iPad 3. I have the long-term view in mind, though, and while I’m a little discouraged I know I write good novels and that they will eventually provide a continuous income stream for myself and my family after I’m gone.

If you could choose what to come back as, what would it be? A cat that goes to a good home. We have a cat and other than all the butt-licking she seems to never tire of, she has a good life. She’s fed regularly and while we tend to buy fairly cheap food, she seems to enjoy it. She gets to lay in the sun as long as she pleases, usually gets the attention she desires, and runs away at the first hint of danger so she never has to act tough. As I write this she is laying on her blanket, which sits on a chair next to me. I’m in our basement office, which is cold, so I have a portable heater on and it’s nice and toasty in here. What a life she leads.

[eden] Another person who likes cats, easily the most popular answer of authors! 

What do you consider your greatest achievement? Raising sons who turned out great. I can’t claim this achievement for just myself, their mother had a lot to do with it, but it’s the greatest thing I’ve had some hand in. My oldest has turned out to one of the best men I know. The middle boy is a work in progress but has so much potential (I recall many saying that about me at that age, and look how I turned out). The youngest has already exceeded the expectations of many who knew him as a child, and he’s only twenty-one.

What is the trait you most deplore in others? I dislike subversive people. You know the type. They start gossip and pit coworker against coworker, just to amuse or aggrandize themselves. They tattle on others when it isn’t their job. They poison customers or clients so they never return to your business because they feel you aren’t paying them what they’re worth or are working them too much. Or they’re just lazy and don’t want to give a fair day’s work for their pay. They plant seeds of doubt in the minds of family members. You know the type.

What is your greatest extravagance? I’m pleased to report that right now I don’t have any. We’ve recently moved to a new state and my wife has started a new career, and I’m trying to start a new career, which means we’re on a tight budget. In the past we might have kept up our old lifestyle by charging trips and dinners and the like, but we no longer do that. We get a movie or two from Red Box and snuggle in for the night.

I have a collection of watches I’m happy with, purchased during more financially robust times. I have a few Rolexes and a couple of Breitlings. I should probably sell most of them, but… I also have a collection of nice fountain pens I bought back in the 90s. I paid $650 for one. Most of them need servicing and I do plan on selling several that no longer see the light of day. If you write with expensive fountain pens you need to take proper care of them. They should be cleaned and serviced once a year. It’s not expensive, about $15 plus shipping, but it’s a hassle. I have several Omas pens, a number of Montblanc pens in the writer series, purchased before I started writing, a couple of Parker pens and one or two others.

What is one thing you want to do before you die? Write a wildly popular book, one that will entertain generations to come.

What is your favorite music (genre/artist/album/song)? My favorite music genre is opera, though I don’t listen to it as often as I used to because my wife doesn’t care for it. The only other person in my family who likes opera is my oldest son, and he doesn’t listen to it much anymore because his wife doesn’t like it either. The sacrifices we make. I listen to it when I’m alone, or, if people are around, with my Bose QuietComfort headphones. Most consider it rude to use headphones when others are around, so I rarely do that. I listen to it occasionally when exercising, but have to be careful because I often end up listening to the music instead of working out.

I don’t have a broad taste in opera. I like Italian opera and some French. I rarely listen to an entire opera, instead preferring to hear arias, mostly tenors or baritones. I’m not big on sopranos. My favorite opera is probably La Bohème by Puccini. Lastly, I don’t listen to much contemporary opera, preferring the masters of the bygone eras.

My favorite performers are, not listed in any particular order, Franco Corelli, Mario Lanza, Luciano Pavarotti, Jose Carerras, Richard Tucker (mostly his live performances when he’d really let go), Bryn Terfel, Jussi Bjorling, and Placido Domingo. I also enjoy a little Thomas Hampson and Sam Raimy. My son and I saw Terfel in Marriage of Figaro at the San Franciso Opera, and it was an event for us.

[eden] You are the first person I’ve interviewed to say opera is your favorite. I love La Bohème too.

What are some of your favorite curse words? Right now it’s “asshole.” I use it a lot in my writing and admit it creeps into my own language now and then. (Hopefully my mother doesn’t read this.) A wordy-type has written an entire book on the word, tracing its history and current usage. It’s a good swear word because it’s descriptive—who doesn’t know what an asshole is?—yet it’s acceptable enough in polite company, if not overused. We don’t like to curse at home, whether the kids are around or not, so we use abbreviations: “He’s an AH; I can’t stand how smug he is.” If the kids are around we’ll abbreviate calling someone a butthole. “He’s a BH.” Aren’t we clever?

I use the F-word in writing, but not in my own speech. If I personally don’t use it, why use it in my writing? Because other people use it, and use it a lot. Especially bad guys. Just because I don’t use it doesn’t mean my characters shouldn’t. And “bitch” creeps in now and then.

I admire writers who write well without using curse words. I think Grisham does this well, though I haven’t anything of his for at least seven or eight years. However, I don’t think it’s realistic for most people. I suppose it depends on the company you keep, but a lot of people swear. Again, especially bad guys. That’s one reason why they’re bad.

I think characters should be written as the author conceives them. If the reader doesn’t like the language, they should find a different author. I’ve read many one-star reviews for books because the reader was offended by foul language. Nothing was said of the writing or story other than the author used foul language. I disregard those reviews but unfortunately they unfairly reduce the overall rating for a book.

What is your motto? If I consciously had one it would be “stick with it.” I think the path to making a living writing is to write enough good books that the world can no longer ignore you. I plan on stickin’ with that.

Great motto, Everett! Thanks for being so sincere and open with your answers. It’s a delight to learn more about you.

Readers, please say “hi” to this lovely man and connect to him. He is a supportive author to know.  

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Connect to Everett

U.S. Amazon author page | U.K. Amazon author page

Barnes and Noble | Smashwords | Blog | Twitter @EvPowers | Goodreads

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Filed under: Author & Artist Interviews

WIN a copy of Spring into Summer ~ Story 1: A Season for Everything

Each Wednesday this month, starting today, I’ll highlight a story from Spring into Summer, the companion piece to my first book, Fall into Winter.

It’s comprised of four distinct novellas; two take place in the spring and two in the summer.

I’ll also give away a FREE book each week. Four chances to win! Find out how at the end of this post.

Now, let’s learn more about the first story in the book.

A Season For Everything

The Inspiration

My love of poetry has connected me to some amazing poets, and their words have seeped into my subconscious. “A Season For Everything” was heavily influenced by my affection for poets, older men, and important life lessons I’ve learned.

A Review

“… I can’t begin to tell you how much the first story “A Season for Everything” touched me. It was so poignant and passionate that it stayed with me throughout the entire book … The love between Claire and Stephen was just so real and I felt it in every part of me. I mean, it truly was the best story in my eyes. I read it three times because I just couldn’t let it go. Call me a sap, because this story was wonderful…” ~ Diantha Jones of Masquerade Crew

An Excerpt

Flipping the pages of the book, I chuckled when I realized I’d picked up one of the many iterations of the Kama Sutra, widely regarded as the most famous work on erotic pleasure ever created. I blushed as I stared at the pages of explicit sexual positions, each beautifully illustrated with stunning color photographs and step-by-step instructions.

“Are you learning anything?” said a deep voice near me. I slammed the book shut like a teen-aged boy caught with his first dirty magazine. Slowly, I turned around to stare into the dark brown eyes of the man behind me. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you,” he said and smiled; tiny crow’s feet only made him more alluring.

“I was just flipping pages.” I felt more heat rush to my cheeks and hoped to god I was not turning beet red. I slid the book back into its place on the shelf.

“My name’s Stephen Taylor. Brenda said we should meet.” He held out his hand but couldn’t even extend his arm fully as he stood too close to me. I took a step back until my body hit the bookshelf and I could move no farther.

“I’m Claire—Claire Pelletier.”

“Nice to meet you Claire,” he said. “You don’t have a drink. Would you like me to get you one?”

“No, that’s fine.” I cleared my throat. “I haven’t eaten a thing today. I’ll get one later.” I noticed he didn’t have a drink either.

“That’s a good idea. There’s a line-up for the wine, but I’ll push my way in if you want me to.” Laugh lines creased the corners of his full lips.

“Thanks, that won’t be necessary,” I said, my eyes downcast. “Are all English men so chivalrous?”

He threw his head back and laughed. “I don’t know about that, but I wouldn’t be surprised if some pushed in line for a drink.”

I snickered, feeling more at ease. “Brenda told me you’re a professor?”

“I am, but I’m currently on leave.”

“I see.” I didn’t want to be forward, but my curiosity got the better of me. “What subject do you teach?”

“English Literature and Poetry—18th Century Romanticism.”

“Hmm … ” I bit my lower lip. “Of course you would.”

Win an ebook of Spring into Summer

Since “A Season for Everything” is a story about poets, tell me your favorite poet or poem, or feel free to comment on this post in general.

You have until May 13th to comment.

I will assign each comment a number and use Random.org  to choose the winner and announce it next Wednesday when I blog about the second story “Unlocking the Mystery.“

Remember, you don’t need a Kindle to read ebooks, FREE Kindle Apps allow you to read them on all devices.

Thanks so much for stopping by and good luck!

eden

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Filed under: -Promo of Spring into Summer

Music Monday ~ Everyday I Write the Book with @RonSexsmith

This is my favorite song by Elvis Costello, and I’m surprised I haven’t featured it already.

Fortuitous however, as I found a beautiful acoustic version where he plays with Canadian singer/songwriter, Ron Sexsmith.

I’m a fan of both their music, and you can buy tickets to see Ron Sexsmith now on tour.

Enjoy the performance … as everyday, I write the book.

You can find my current titles on Amazon, where FREE Kindle Apps allow you to read them on all devices.

eden

Buy links: 

US | UK | Canada | Germany | France | Japan | Italy | Spain

Filed under: Musical Mondays

Interview with Author, Editor, Friend ~ Annetta Ribken (@netta50)

I first featured Annetta (Netta) on my blog waaaay back. We’re talking over two years ago. I adored her then, and I adore her even more now.

Netta is a constant source of information and support. She edited my second anthology, Spring into Summer. Without her, the stories of that book would be nowhere near as good as they are. I owe her a lot for how she whipped me,  I mean beat me, I mean … helped me improve my writing.

Since our first interview, Netta has written more books and is undertaking a project near and dear to her heart—Allegories of the Tarot. You’ve heard me talk about this project here and here. I’m writing in this anthology along with 21 other authors. We all want to see it come to life, but no one wants it more than Netta.

Her passion and energy are infectious.

If you don’t know Netta, you’re in for a treat. If you do know her, you’ll love her even more.

Let’s welcome back the amazing, Annetta Ribken.

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eden:  Thrilled to have you back, Netta! I know you’re super busy, so it’s great you stopped by. In a recent interview, you said your friends describe you in the following way. “She is one crazy biotch, and I mean that with the utmost love and respect.” I loved this response! Please elaborate on it.

Netta:  I wish I could, but the court has imposed a gag order at the request of the goat. There was an incident, you see, in which I was not involved. I admit nothing.

Seriously, I love and respect my friends, who are as crazy as I am. You know what they say about birds of a feather. Heh.

eden:  True that!  Inquiry minds want to know more about you. What is your working environment like? Is it neat or cluttered, noisy or quiet, and what are three things you must have at hand?

Netta:  My desk is situated in the back of a tiny house, in front of a window, and it is very quiet. I have to admit to a certain level of clutter, but I’m surrounded by the things I love like books, pendants (I’m a bit of a magpie), posters of my client’s work, pictures, books…did I say books? I know where most everything is until I try to look for it.

The three things I MUST have close to hand are a specific pen, a yellow legal pad, and a chair for my evil feline overlord, Athena.

eden:  Do you have one resource—book, website, or other essential item you think every writer needs in order to succeed?

Netta:  Resources can help you succeed, but what you NEED is discipline and determination. Without those two things, you can have all the resources in the world at your feet and they won’t help you one bit.

eden:  Love that response, Netta. You’re a hard-working woman, so when you’re not reading or writing, what might we find you doing?

Netta:  Editing. Reading or writing. When I have extra time (hahaha!) I do like to quilt, but since time is at such a premium, I work on a crazy quilt, one block at a time. Yes, I know. How appropriate is that?

eden:  Hmm…a crazy quilt? Why am I not surprised? You’re the author of several books. Can you tell us about your latest release?

Netta:  My latest release was THE TRAILER PARK TIARA AND THE GOAT INCIDENT, a novella about a unique young woman named Sally Mae Riddley. She is a hoot to write. I’m currently working on the next installment in her story, as well as the sequel to ATHENA’S PROMISE. Editing comes first, so I have to fit in the time when I can.

eden:  And speaking of editing, you’re known in the industry as an editor who doesn’t pull her punches or take any shortcuts. Your integrity was a key reason I chose you to edit my book. What are some of the qualities in writers you most love working with?

Netta:  I respect fiction too much to pull punches or take shortcuts. I feel like it reflects badly on the indie community and what we’re trying to accomplish—there’s a bigger picture here. So many authors have affected my life in a positive way with their stories, I feel strongly about paying it back by paying it forward in my own work.

The writers I love to work with have a stellar work ethic and the same amount of respect for fiction. They’re open-minded about the editing process and understand you have to leave your ego at the door. It’s all about the story. I want the very best out of you when I edit. I won’t let you settle for less.

eden:  I’m glad you didn’t let me settle. Painful as it was at times, the final product was well worth it. Let’s talk about Allegories of the Tarot. You’re the brains behind this writing venture, which I’m honored to be part of. Please tell us about your passion for this project.

Netta:  For a long time I’ve had the idea of pairing twenty-two writers with the twenty-two cards of the Major Arcana. The Tarot is fascinating to me; the images of the cards and what they exemplify are a fantastic representation of the human experience. It’s a writer’s paradise.

I’m lucky in that I know a multitude of hella talented writers. I wanted to showcase new and established authors and I knew the stories they’d write would be ass-kicking. I LOVE FICTION.

The truth is, once the idea took hold, it would not leave me alone.

eden:  I understand that feeling. What have you done to help increase the probability of success for Allegories of the Tarot?

Netta:  This is my first Indiegogo campaign and before I even started I mapped out a solid plan of action and a budget—all writers will be paid pro-rates. I picked the brains of people who had conducted successful campaigns, and scoured the site for tips and information. I lined up all the writers first for a solid TOC (Table of Contents) because I knew with that behind me, it would show people the commitment of both me and the writers to seeing this project completed.

In all reality, this has been a team effort from the beginning. I created a Facebook group and involved everyone in the process. Their input and generosity has been invaluable, and with such a diverse group, we’ve been able to come at this from all angles.

It took less than 24 hours to fill the slots—that’s how much the writers believed in me and the project. I do not intend to let them down. No matter what happens, there WILL be an Allegories of the Tarot.

eden:  Your determination is amazing. You’ve assembled incredible and original perks for the Indiegogo campaign, some for donations as low as $25, even personalized jewelry for only $50! Tell us more.

Netta:  I knew I had to think outside of the box in order to stand out. It seemed like a no-brainer to name the perks after the cards. I asked for donations from the participants, and they came through in a big way. Not only will you find great fiction perks, but services and swag. The personalized jewelry idea I stole straight from Patti Larsen and she donated the labor and I donated the supplies. Kris Austen Radcliffe lent her photographic skills; Lon Prater has donated critique services and Jennifer Wingard was kind enough to donate two copy-editing slots. I’ve also donated two full content edits of a manuscript; and there’s so much more. We’ll have a very special auction for something special coming up. I wanted to appeal both to readers AND writers.

eden:  Ooh, a special auction, can’t wait! I’m so impressed with the time and energy you’ve spent raising money for this project. Why do you think it’s important indie authors support one another this way?

Netta:  For most writers up until the explosion of social media and the implosion of the traditional publishing model, writing has been a solitary experience for the most part. Now, there are more options and opportunities for writers than ever before. But no one does it alone. Indies don’t have the resources or backing of traditional publishing anymore, and for the mid-list authors, they never really had it to begin with. So it’s important to support your fellow indies, because we all need each other to be successful.

Just like this project—it’s a team effort. It’s not all me. It’s every single writer involved. As indies, we have to pull together to make it work. To put out the best product possible. To reach the readers and merge the artistry with the business aspect. When one succeeds, we all succeed.

eden:  Indeed. I know many people have said they are anxious to get their hands on this anthology. Aside from donating money, what else can they do to help?

Netta:  Spread the word! The more people we reach, the better our chances of reaching our goal. Sacrifice a chicken to the gods of Help Make This Happen For a Crazy Bunch of People Who Love Words (KFC counts)! Seriously, tell everyone you know. Shout it from your rooftop, send up smoke signals, as long as you don’t break any city ordinances. We aren’t budgeted for bail money.

eden:  Ha! I agree sharing is critical. The more people we reach, the greater the chance for success. This is a perfect segue to the final lightning round. Think fast, Netta!

Favorite season: Garlic. OH! Sorry. Autumn.

Proudest moment: Passing a human being out of my hoo-hah.

Favorite food: Nathan Fillion.

Your ideal mate:  See above. Because he’s just so damned purty!

Most embarrassing moment: The goat thing. I CAN’T TALK ABOUT IT.

Something that always makes you laugh: Patti Larsen’s poetry.

eden:  I’ve heard Patti’s poems are legendary! Huge love and respect, Netta. With just 30 days left on the Indiegogo campaign, I know you’re working tirelessly to help Allegories of the Tarot meet its goal of $5000.

For anyone who’d like to learn more, share, or donate to this wonderful project, please go to Indiegogo. Great perks and services are available at every price level!

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Connect to Annetta

Freelance writer and content editor of over seventy indie novels, Annetta Ribken has been writing since a tender young age, when letters were chiseled on stone tablets. A precocious student, Annetta earned her Ph.D in the School of Hard Knocks, with honors, in the early Age of Disco. Her mission: to take over the Universe, one word at a time. She lives and works just outside of St. Louis with her evil feline overlord, a rescued shelter cat named Athena.

Annetta

Website | Facebook Fan Page | Twitter @netta50 | About Me

Allegories of the Tarot

Website | Indiegogo | Facebook | Twitter @AllegoriesTarot

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Filed under: Author & Artist Interviews

Author @DianthaJones releases Solar, Defeated

Author and book reviewer Diantha Jones had a release slated for this month—a novella for her Oracle of Delphi series.

Imagine my surprise to learn she released it a couple of months earlier! The woman is just that talented and determined!

Find out more about Solar, Defeated and read the book summary below. Gorgeous cover, isn’t it?

Available in ebook and print:  Amazon US | Amazon UK

Summary



Before he was the guardian of the Oracle…


Before he fell in love with Chloe…


Before he was the disgraced Prince…

He was Solar, Prince of the Sun.

From the moment Strafford Law saw Chloe Clever, he knew he was destined to love her forever. But a dishonorable past and a bleak future threaten to destroy him before he gets the chance.

Looking back, he recalls his life before it came crashing down around him…a time when the one he now loathes most of all was the one he adored more than anything.

Discover ALL of Diantha’s books and how Solar, Defeated fits in the order of her Oracle of Delphi series.

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Connect with Diantha

Website | Facebook |  Twitter @DianthaJones | Goodreads

DJ’s Book Corner Review Blog | Authorgraph

Diantha was interviewed on my blog Nov. 16, 2012.

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Filed under: Author Promotions

Music Monday ~ THE WHO is part of My Generation

It’s the final Monday of April, and the last time I’m featuring The Who this month.

No list of their music would be complete without this song. Though The Who was a bit before my time, their music still speaks to me today.

Because music inspires me, it’s always a pleasure to write it into my stories. You’ll find music in both Fall into Winter and Spring into Summer.

Check out my books on Amazon, where FREE Kindle Apps allow you to read them on all devices.

Hope the rest of your April is wonderful, and enjoy “My Generation.”

eden

Buy links: 

US | UK | Canada | Germany | France | Japan | Italy | Spain

Filed under: Musical Mondays

Listen to my Podcast Interview with @RChazzChute

Last week, I was interviewed by Robert “Chazz” Chute for his Cool People Podcast. To be considered cool enough for this show was truly an honour.

Chazz and I had a great time chatting about erotica, the Feminist Porn Awards, and my favorite poet, Charles Bukowski.

Have a listen, and be sure to subscribe to the RSS feed so you never miss an episode.

Hope you enjoy!

Listen to my interview by hitting the logo.

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Connect to Robert “Chazz” Chute  

Website | Twitter @RChazzChute | All That Chazz | The Plague of Days

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Filed under: Eden's Guest Blogs & Interviews, Important Announcements

Music Monday ~ I Can’t Explain THE WHO

Continuing with The Who for April Mondays, “I Can’t Explain” was their  first single, and it holds up after almost fifty years.

It’s funny to see this black and white video with all the dance moves of the day. I had  good laugh and I think you will too.

Laughter and humor are important to me, and I always infuse some into my stories. Sex should arouse and be fun, right?

Find out what I mean by grabbing a copy of any of my eight erotic books.

FREE Kindle Apps allow you to read my books on all devices.

Have a wonderful week,

eden

Buy links: 

US | UK | Canada | Germany | France | Japan | Italy | Spain

Watch on YOUTUBE if the video doesn’t open here.

Filed under: Musical Mondays

Get Inside the Mind of Author @LaynaPimentel

I first met Layna when she interviewed me September 2011. At the time, she was in the process of writing and publishing her books, and I’m happy to finally return the favor. Her gorgeous first book is A Gift From Fate, and just earlier this week, she released Hardened Desire.

Layna is a fellow Canadian, a gracious woman, and an extremely supportive author. Please make her feel welcome and learn more about her books.

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What is Layna working on next?

I’m working on the second installment of my Pleasure Garden Follies series, A Sinful Education. The series takes place in the regency era and is going to be super hot. The first book Scandal at Vauxhall will be releasing this July, so make sure to stop by my site for latest updates.

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Read about Hardened Desire here.

Now, let’s discover Layna’s debut novel, A Gift From Fate.

Buy links

Secret Cravings Publishing | Amazon | ARe | Barnes and Noble | Bookstrand

Blurb

After colliding with a stunning vision in white, retired Staff Sergeant Brent Daniels offers to drive the beautiful stranger to a hotel for the night, but instead discovers he’s with one very lost creature. He’s bewitched by her sinful curves, her dark and mesmerizing eyes, and the pull at his soul with each minute passing. Nevertheless, he can’t shake the feeling she’s hiding something.

Melpomene, daughter of Zeus, finds her handsome rescuer resembles the man who has continuously haunted her dreams. Before long, she’s in his arms, wanting more. Knowing their days are numbered, desperation leads her to reach out for help by an unlikely ally.

Just how far will these two lovers go, and what will they sacrifice to be together?

Excerpt

“My name is Melp—Mel Pomene.” She’d nearly given herself away. Zeus, her father, would have heard had she whispered her name. Her father. Heavens, he’d turn the mortal realm upside down if he suspected she was here. And right now, she desired nothing more than to stay a little longer. With any lucky, I’ll return before he notices.

“Well, Mel, it’s a pleasure to make your acquaintance. Your last name is rather unusual. I assume you’re not from these parts?”

His question silenced any thoughts drifting through her mind at that moment. A new kind of tension rose within her. She couldn’t disclose her origins or who she was. Guilt settled in her stomach for leaving her sisters behind, but she wasn’t given a choice. The Fates dropped her here, only mentioning an experience for three days…provided Zeus didn’t find out. Only the Gods knew what he’d do if he found her cavorting around without a proper escort.

“Earth to Mel? Are you all right?”

“Yes, I am. I’m just thinking of home, which is Greece. I’ve come to the United States for an adventure, it would seem.”

He chuckled before she’d finished speaking.

“What is so amusing?”

“The mere mention of seeking adventure after getting lost is rather comical, nothing else, sweetheart.” He removed his right hand from the wheel and petted her knee. The warmth of his hand stirred an unfamiliar emotion within. This was the man from her dream. Those hands had touched parts of her body no mortal would have dared, and here she sat, wishing he’d do more than pat her.

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Inside Layna’s Mind

[eden] Happy you’re here Layna, and congratulations on both your books! So tell me … 

What turns you on creatively? Sexy images; slow, deep and sensual music; my husband in his chef uniform. What can I say? He’s got a nice ass.  

[eden] Haha! Sweet.  

What is your idea of perfect happiness? My idea of perfect happiness is having the opportunity and freedom to pursue my dreams.

Which words or phrases do you most overuse? For the sake of keeping things brief here is just a few examples: “had”, “that”, “was”, “just”. Oh, wait, I can’t forget the word “it”.

What quality do you most admire in a man? Hmm… that’s a tough one. I think a man who has the courage to express his ‘feelings’ is one to be admired the most. Sometimes words don’t come easy, but a simple touch can go a long way to show their affections.

[eden] Word.

What quality do you most admire in a woman? The strength to move forward on their own. Whether a woman is leaving a relationship and taking her children with her, or simply breaking gender roles with employment, there’s much to be said about the courage it takes to break free.

What is your greatest regret? Not seeking out the advice of a freelance editor much sooner. They’re worth every penny they quote.

[eden] Agree. A good editor should be included in every writer’s toolbox. 

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be? Nothing. If I changed anything, then I wouldn’t be unique. I’d like to think my family would agree, though they might wish for me to lose my OCD tendencies when it comes to folding laundry and the way the dishwasher is loaded. LOL

What is your greatest fear? Other than snakes and spiders; I dread being alone.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt? I always did want to go back to school for Archaeology. I have the utmost fascination with museums and researching things of the past.

If you could choose what to come back as, what would it be? Okay, so this is totally going to be funny for some people and for others not so much. A flogger. Yes, I said flogger. To be the instrument of bringing someone immense pleasure would be an honor. But then again, wouldn’t chocolate have the same effect, sans the welts?

[eden] You’re the first person I’ve interviewed to give this answer!  

What do you consider your greatest achievement? My daughters.

What is the trait you most deplore in others? Negativity. I love to surround myself with optimistic, yet realistic people. I don’t believe in fluffing up ugly truths, and I’m not saying you have to be happy 100% of the time. At the end of the day, we’re all responsible for our own happiness. And if you aren’t willing to come up with a solution, then one can shove that negativity where the sun don’t shine.

[eden] Nice, spoken like a true optimist. 

What is your greatest extravagance? My books first, and then my shoes.

What is one thing you want to do before you die? I would LOVE to travel to Europe and visit all the great castles. Maybe even camp out a night or two, in any supposed haunted castles.

Who is your favorite writer/musician/film director?  I adore Sarah Brightman. She’s fascinating, versatile, and incredibly powerful. Did you know she’s been approved recently for cosmonaut training? Pretty fantastic, I know!

[eden] I did not know that! 

What are some of your favorite curse words? I’m Portuguese, so the obvious words would be: Cabrao, Foder, Puta, porra. Ordinary, but they’re used frequently.

[eden] Did you know I live in the Portuguese area of Toronto? You must come visit for some BBQ Churrasqueira,

and finally, 

Tell us your motto. You only live once, so just do it.

[eden] Well said Layna. Thanks so much for granting me this interview. It’s been a pleasure to learn more about you.

Readers, please say “hi” to this lovely woman and connect to her. She’s a great addition to your social network.  

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Connect to Layna

Born and raised in Toronto, Ontario, Layna discovered her love of reading at an early age. When she isn’t devouring salacious romance novels or writing, she enjoys losing herself in researching ancient history and mythology, weaponry, and hiking. She lives in Northern Ontario, with her husband and two daughters.

Layna is a member of the Romance Writers of America, and is a monthly contributor at 69 Shades of Smut. For updates on her upcoming releases, or to leave her a comment,  find her at all her virtual homes:

Website | Twitter @LaynaPimentel | Facebook | Google+ | Goodreads

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Filed under: Author & Artist Interviews

Update for Allegories of the Tarot – A Joint Writing Venture (@allegoriestarot)

On April 3rd, I announced I was joining a unique writing project called Allegories of the Tarot headed by friend and editor, Annetta Ribken. Each of the 22 authors involved will write a story based on the Major Arcana of the Tarot. A crowd-fundraising campaign was set up to make this happen.

It’s time for an update, especially since Annetta has been working so damn hard on this!

Allegories of the Tarot has raised over $1100 of its $5000 goal on Indiegogo. We have 46 days left to come up with the remainder. Annetta has stepped up her game.

We now have a website.
Google+ |  Facebook |  Twitter are set up.
All 22 writers will be featured here with their cards.
Now, we need your help.

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Please take a look at our campaign on Indiegogo and make a contribution if you want this project to succeed. There are wonderful perks available for every donation amount.

If you can’t give monetarily, it’d be greatly appreciated if you share the project via your networks.

I’m featured today on the website if you’d like to drop by and say “hi.” You can learn more about my card The Lovers as well.

As always, my sincere thanks for your support,

eden

Photo by Kris Austen Radcliffe

Filed under: Writing Joint Ventures