Author Interview ~ Chelle Cordero

Hey y’all. Hope your weekend was great. And for those of you in the States, I hope your Memorial Day will be wonderful and that it’s well on the way to being gorgeous. Today Megan and I are lucky to have on The Menagerie couch with us, author Chelle Cordero. Let’s all make her feel welcome (pointing at the Cabana Boys :::narrowing eyes::: ) and we’ll all have a grand ole time.

So, Megan, m’girl, take it away.

Everyone has to start somewhere, so we’ll start here. Where are you from?

I was born and raised in the only NYC borough to begin with a “D” – da Bronx. I moved out of NYC when I got married and we settled in the beautiful Hudson Valley of New York State.

Ooh a New Yorker! I’ll bet you have the coolest shoe stores and yes, Kealie and I love shoes.

That we do… as evidenced by the huge amount I’ll be bringing to your house this week, Megan. LOL So, Chelle, Tell us your latest news!

We, Vanilla Heart Publishing and I, just released His Lucky Charm. This story was originally released in 2008 as Forgotten.

“What happens in Vegas doesn't always stay in Vegas... this time it follows Brandon and Caitlyn across the country and into a world of espionage and danger. The one thing that Brandon knows for sure is that he can't afford to lose his lucky charm, Caitlyn.”

The title “Forgotten” is VERY popular on Amazon and readers had difficulty finding it because it didn’t appear on the first page (all of my other novels appear on page one and often are in the number one spot!). His Lucky Charm has a catchy title and a dynamite cover. I’m very excited.

I love sexy covers and the Vegas/espionage angle has me intrigued. When and why did you begin writing?

I took Creative Writing in High School and Scriptwriting in college; I had my first newspaper article printed when I was 18. But it wasn’t until I was expecting our first child that I considered making a career of it. Simply, I wanted to be able to work from home and I always loved writing stories.

You’re not the first mom to decide to make a go of it from home when pregnant or dealing with little kids. When did you first consider yourself a writer?

The first time I saw my byline in print after I decided to write full time. It was a newspaper article. Then I considered myself a PROFESSIONAL writer the first time I received a check for my work!

Yes, and those checks are so nice. Do you have a specific writing style?

I create characters, throw them into some dire situations and let them write their own stories. LOL, I create my characters using the Stanislavsky Method (I was a theatre student in college) so they react to situations based on their personal histories.

Hey, whatever works, right? How much of the book is realistic?

Realistic as in CAN IT HAPPEN? Very realistic. I like to take real people in a contemporary situation and have them “live” through me. Most people don’t realize how exciting their lives really are, every day we see all kinds of possibilities and we hear of unexpected happenings. My characters are very multi-dimensional and no one is all good or all evil.

Just like real life... I love the baddies. *Sigh* If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

I was very fortunate to actually have a fantastic real-life mentor, the late poet Daisy Aldan. Ms. Aldan was my Creative Writing teacher during High School (I attended the HS of Art and Design in NYC). She was very inspiring, encouraging and pushed us to express ourselves.

How cool!

I have to agree! What book are you reading now?


I’m actually reading two – one as an editor, this book is by L.E. Harvey, her previous novels are Loving Her and Unbreakable Hostage. The second book I am reading is pure relaxation, it’s To Be Continued by Charmaine Gordon. Both writers have a terrific way of pulling the reader into the story.

Interesting. Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?

Aside from L.E. Harvey and Charmaine Gordon, I like reading books by Smoky Trudeau, Sandy Nicks, and Malcolm Campbell – all Vanilla Heart Publishing authors.

LOL, you’re very loyal. Do you have any advice for other writers?

Never allow yourself to get so discouraged that you stop writing. Just like you aren’t going to want to read every book in your local bookstore, not everyone is going to want to read your book – but some people will absolutely love it! So keep writing.

Very good advice. What do you like to do when you're not writing?

I like to read. And I like to LIVE and collect experiences.

I love to read too. All. The. Time. What animal do you think makes the best pet and why?

Well I must say cats, one of mine is staring at me right now and I wouldn’t dare say anything else! I presently have three pussycats. We’ve had cats all of our married life (34+ years) and they have all been such distinct personalities. Cats are fairly self sufficient so they really aren’t too demanding of time and yet every cat that I have had has loved to cuddle and stay near. It really is the best of both worlds.

Ah a woman after my own feline heart. And those kitties do have to be just the way they are in order to keep their humans in line. Do you hate how you look in pictures? Why or why not?

I definitely dislike what I look like in still pictures. While I certainly don’t think I am a raving beauty, I really do like what I look like – but… a still picture manages to catch the faults and imperfections that the “animated me” carries off so well.

Okay, note to self, use only moving pictures. Got it. :-D Do you have any strange handwriting habits, like capitalizing all your “r”s or dotting your “I”s with heart (or anything like that)?

When I sign my married name (not Cordero) I manage to write the first half carefully and then the balance seems to dwindle into a line that flies off the page.

LOL, you’re not the only one who does that, that’s for sure. When you looked in the mirror this morning, what was the first thing you thought?

Oy!

Hee hee. Is anyone really happy with what they look like first thing in the AM? What’s a saying you use a lot? Where did it originate from ?

(phonetically spelled) Ma-nischt-ta-na, ha-le-lo haz-ar mik-al haley-lot”, it means “What makes this night different from all other nights?” This line is from a Passover Seder and I use it often instead of saying “So what else is new?” whenever someone keeps doing the same thing over and over again.

LOL, hey at least you know where it came from. What is your heritage?

My dad was born in Fajardo, Puerto Rico and my mom in Charleston, South Carolina. Growing up I felt like I was living with Ricky Ricardo and Scarlett O’Hara!

I’ll bet that was a sight to see. Do you like thunderstorms?

I adore thunderstorms. When I was a little girl my parents told me that a thunderstorm was the angels bowling, the thunder was the noise of the ball hitting the pins and the lightning was a strike. It was always such a fun thought that the joy has always stayed with me.

I like thunderstorms too… something about that beauty. :::shrugs:::

So that brings us to the end of Chelle’s interview. We’re so glad y’all could stop by and hang out with us and make our author feel welcome. Chelle, make yourself comfy and bug our CBs for as long as you like. ;-)


Chelle says:

I love to create stories, I love the feeling of putting those words on paper, and I love knowing people are reading my words. I am lucky enough to be a full-time freelance writer – both as a novelist and as a journalist. My articles have appeared in newspapers and magazines throughout North America. I have eight novels on the market with Vanilla Heart Publishing and short stories in three anthologies.

Aside from my passion for writing, I love to spend time with my family (husband and two adult children plus significant others) and friends. I volunteer as an Emergency Medical Technician with my local ambulance corps. In my spare time I love to read.

You can reach Chelle on the web at: http://chellecordero.blogspot.com/ and at http://chellecordero.com/

A Chaunce of Riches by Chelle Cordero

The day that Ben Johnson was hired as a bodyguard for some rich widow and her kid, he never expected to be working for the woman who had abandoned him just when he had needed her the most so many years before. Damn it all, he still wanted her. Samantha Chaunce never thought she would see him again. She never thought she would have to explain why she married the rich man over the man she had sworn she once loved. And she certainly never expected to find out that her rich husband had been murdered and fingers were pointing to her former lover.

Book Commercial ~ A Chaunce of Riches by Chelle Cordero

A Chaunce of Riches by Chelle Cordero

The day that Ben Johnson was hired as a bodyguard for some rich widow and her kid, he never expected to be working for the woman who had abandoned him just when he had needed her the most so many years before. Damn it all, he still wanted her. Samantha Chaunce never thought she would see him again. She never thought she would have to explain why she married the rich man over the man she had sworn she once loved. And she certainly never expected to find out that her rich husband had been murdered and fingers were pointing to her former lover.

****************************

Want to see your book commercial here? Email us at menagerieauthors@gmail.com to find out how!

News!!!!

Okay, I've been about ready to climb right out of my skin, wanting to announce this, but I had to wait until it was official. My latest Wilder Roses submission, currently titled "Blue Light Special" HAS BEEN CONTRACTED!!!!

YAY!!!!!!!

Not that I'm excited or anything.

==================

In other news, I'm in the middle of a virtual for my release of "Shut Up and Kiss Me". If you've missed the first stops, you should swing by and catch up. I talked about dares, including a list I once made of public places I wanted to get naked with someone in, and why writing sex is harder than having sex as well as several clever interviews.

Even better -- I'm giving away a Wilder Roses gift certificate you can use to buy my story (or someone else's in case you already have mine *G*) to one person who leaves a comment during my tour. All my stops are listed below:

May 24: Whipped Cream Reviews Guest Blog
May 25: Wendi Zwaduk
May 26: Simply Sexy Stories
May 27: Amber Scott Project
May 28: Amber Skyze
May 31: Romance With an Attitude
June 1: Chris Redding Author
June 2: Jacqueline Paige
June 3: You Gotta Read Guest
June 4: Book Junkie
June 16: Happily Ever After

So come on by and visit. I hate to be lonely...

Happy Hump Day!

Be An Individual

Your Fashion Style is Girly

You dress to look beautiful and show off what you've got Dresses, skirts, heels... whatever it takes to turn heads You love feeling like a girl in any setting Even your workout clothes are cute and feminine!

What Kind of Fashionable Woman Are You?

Blogthings: We're Not Shrinks, But We Play Them On the Internet

What does this have to do with me and my writing? Not much, lol. Okay, I can figure out some way that it relates... somehow...

Anyway, the reason it came up was because of an experience I had with a good friend of mine. She is someone who is much more comfortable in jeans and t-shirts, but occasionally, she needs to dress up. So... we went shopping, and she dragged me along, cuz she doesn't do shopping very well. We ended up having to take two trips. But, that's beside the point.

A comment she made about my style and taste in clothing made me stop and think. I wear what I like, end of story... at least as far as I'm concerned. It could be something that others find trendy, or it could be something funky that caught my eye. I started thinking on how each character I write is as different from another as night is from day. I'm rather eclectic in my characters as well, or at least I seem to think so. :::shrugs:::

Spending time with my good friend reminded me that every story has the good friend, the secondary character. Yet in my mind they always end up with their own story and the main characters... become the secondary characters. Does that make sense? Each of my characters is an individual, just as each of my friends are individuals. I hope each time I pen a story that I've described a new character and that I'm not just regurgitating the same heroine over and over and over again. :::gag:::

I know that a bit of myself makes it into each heroine... but I just started to realize recently that my friends and family show up a bit in each of my secondary characters, who eventually become main characters in their own love story. My friend who is much more comfortable in blue jeans and sweats and has a total of three pairs of shoes is just as interesting as my friend who is up to date on all the latest fashions and has more shoes than even I think one can wear. (I know Megan and Mysti are laughing here) The main point is that each one is an individual, just as each character I write is an individual. I'm sure if each of my characters took that test up above... each one would have a different result. In the end, I just hope I can do them justice and let them be individual.

How about the rest of you? Do you ever struggle with making your characters each distinct and individual? Have you ever noticed that you DON'T succeed?

Author Interview ~ Yvonne Nicolas

Howdy howdy howdy… no, I don’t have a reason for saying it three times. I just felt like it. :-D I hope y’all are having a great Monday morning. Today we have with us author Yvonne Nicolas. Let’s all make sure she feels welcome.

Welcome to The Menagerie, Yvonne. Make yourself comfy. Grab a drink… grab a Cabana Boy… sit back and relax and we’ll have some fun. As usual, Megan has joined us today on the couch.

:::Megan waves:::

So let’s get started. Where are you from, Yvonne?

Orlando, Florida, but recently I’ve become a Georgia girl. :-D

From Georgia to Florida.... at least you like warm weather.

LOL! Absolutely nothing wrong with warm weather. When and why did you begin writing?

Well, I’ve always been an avid reader, and a collector of novels, but decided to try my hand at writing about 3 years ago. I honestly didn’t think I could write without straying off the beaten path, which to this day is true. Imagine my surprise when I finished a book that actually caught an editor’s attention.

Being a little off the beaten path is never bad. How did you come up with the title?

I had a ton of different titles on the board before I chose Designing Love, none of which went along with the storyline. Since the story is about the love created between an architect and Interior Designer, I thought Designing Love was perfect.

Oh, I have agree! I love how sometimes it just works that way!

Yup! That does sound perfect. What are your current projects?

Currently, I’m working on an urban fantasy, with a little bit of horror and a lotta bit of sex. ;o) I’m also working on a sequel to Designing Love, a story about my favorite character, Pete.

Ooh, I love sequels!

Me too! sequels keep me coming back to a great book series. Do you see writing as a career?

I’d say so…Writing is therapy to me and keeps me out of trouble. Well, most of the time.

What you need to be kept out of trouble, too? At least we aren’t alone, Kealie.

No kidding, nice to know there are others who may come and bail us out! Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

Yes, developing my characters. I want my readers to be able to connect with my characters on any level when they read my stories, and that alone is a challenge within itself.

Yup, definitely a challenge. Characters have minds of their own most days. What do you like to do when you're not writing?

When I’m not writing, I’m either reading, critiquing, or watching cartoons with my son. His favorite show and also mine is the Avatar, The Last Air Bender. You should see him try to bend elements like they do on the show. It’s hilarious. LOL!

LOL, my kids use The Force. Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

Yes. Love is color blind.

I would have to agree with that one. How much of the book is realistic?

60% And I dare not tell you what parts are based on real live events. LOL!

Aw come on... we dare you. Trust me. We dare you. Who is your favorite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?

Well I can’t just choose one. I’m a huge Ann Rice and Mary Ann Mitchell fan. I know I’m not alone when I say two of the coolest vampires ever created were Lestat and Marquis De Sade.

Ann Rice is so awesome. I love her vamps. What book are you reading now?

I’m deeply caught up in the Vampire Hunter D series, written by Hideyuki Kikuchi. I saw the movie and just had to read the books.

Hmmm... can't say I've ever heard of that one. Sounds interesting. Can you share a little of your current work with us?

Sure.

The pounding beat of the hard rock music did little to diffuse the fire storm raging within her core. Josephine continually clutched her thighs together and shifted in the leather seat, hoping to God the feeling would go away, but the longer she sat there, the worse it became.

He smelled so good, like a delicious man-meal on a platter. His cologne combined with his natural scent enticed her senses.

She kept taking involuntary glances at his masculine hands and long fingers. She wrung her hands feverishly in her lap, fighting the need to slip her fingers between her thighs to heal the ache dangling on the edge of her clit.

Huffing, she turned to stare out the window.

“You okay?”

Hell no! “Uh-huh, you have a nice ride.”

She couldn’t even look at him. It was best she didn’t. He was poison to her resistance. He had a way of sucking her into the deep blue fantasy called his eyes. It was too dangerous of a place to be, a place where she could easily lose herself in a heat of passion. Damn him. It wasn’t fair he had this kind of effect on her, especially when she tried to stay on the right path.

“Here we go.” They pulled up to the entrance.

“Thanks for the ride,” she uttered quickly.

Swiftly, she grabbed the handle in an attempt to make a run for it. His fingers wrapped around her wrist, forcing her to turn and look at him. His inky hair had fallen over his forehead, enhancing his sex appeal.

“I know this goes against what we discussed at the outlet, but – I just want to spend time with you, get to know you. And where we go from there, let’s – let’s just leave it to fate. I like you a lot Josephine, and I’m hoping you feel the same about me.”

His eyes were so sincere, so hopeful. Damn it, she had almost made it out of the vehicle. She closed her eyes for a brief moment to steady her thoughts, to think of something to say that didn’t involve the words, fuck me, please.

Hot!

You can say that again! Who designed the covers?

The multi talented T.D. McKinney.

Lovely job too. Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?
Oh yeah! If my story doesn’t make you squeeze your thighs together and shift in your seat, then I haven’t done my job very well. ;o)

We love stories that make us squirm. What animal do you think makes the best pet and why?

Shih-tzu. They are insanely loveable creatures, they’re easily house broken, and they’re great around kids.

Oh, so the answer isn’t men? They can be housebroken, too.

Oh, Megan, behave yourself! Yvonne, you can erase any horrible experience from your past. What will it be?

LOL! I’m not telling. Just know it’s horrible enough to erase.

Aw, you gotta tell us now. I’m dyin’ here. Alright, fine.

Yeah, that's not fair just leaving us hanging here. Now it's time for our "absolutely-nothing-to-with-writing" questions: When you looked in the mirror this morning, what was the first thing you thought?

English muffin. Mmmm.

Interesting.

LOL, yes, very interesting. What were you doing at midnight last night?

Watching anime and sipping on a glass of red wine.

Huh, seems like an interesting night. What’s a saying you use a lot? Where did it originate from?

“Everything happens for a reason.” I have no idea where it was originated from, but it’s something my mother taught me.

What is your favorite animal?

Black Panther.

Ohh, that's one of mine too! What is your favorite pizza?

Pepperoni.

Are you a morning person or a night person?

Definitely a night person.

Pretty sure most of us authors are night owls... Do you like thunderstorms?

Oh yeah. It makes a great soundtrack for hot, buck naked sex. :o)

Ah yes, I love me some thunderstorms. Plus it’s great moodlighting.

Absolutely it can be. Well, now it's time to say goodbye. Thank you so much for hanging out with us on the couch today at The Menagerie. It's been fun. :-D Don't be a stranger, and feel free to continue hanging out with our Cabana Boys, they live to serve.

Designing Love by Yvonne Nicolas
When world renowned architect, Devon Sparks meets Josephine Burnett, a brilliant interior designer, the attraction is instantaneous.

Devon reluctantly accepted the job of designing a house for his former lover who'd betrayed him with his best friend. Still a little emotionally battered, he is content to never love again, until Josephine shows up on his doorstep.

To be paired with Devon Sparks is Josephine's chance to showcase her talents. Devon comes off as rude at first, but she quickly finds out the man behind the cold, hard exterior is a man with the need to be loved.

Bound to a guy who doesn't deserve her loyalty, Josephine is hesitant to grasp the chance to be loved totally by a man who is not of her race, until Devon takes matters into his own hands and gives her a taste of the passion they could share.

But can he convince her?

Book Commercial ~ Designing Love by Yvonne Nicolas

Designing Love by Yvonne Nicolas
When world renowned architect, Devon Sparks meets Josephine Burnett, a brilliant interior designer, the attraction is instantaneous.

Devon reluctantly accepted the job of designing a house for his former lover who'd betrayed him with his best friend. Still a little emotionally battered, he is content to never love again, until Josephine shows up on his doorstep.

To be paired with Devon Sparks is Josephine's chance to showcase her talents. Devon comes off as rude at first, but she quickly finds out the man behind the cold, hard exterior is a man with the need to be loved.

Bound to a guy who doesn't deserve her loyalty, Josephine is hesitant to grasp the chance to be loved totally by a man who is not of her race, until Devon takes matters into his own hands and gives her a taste of the passion they could share.

But can he convince her?

****************************

Want to see your book commercial here? Email us at menagerieauthors@gmail.com to find out how!

Rambling...

A quick note about some awesome news: "Shut Up and Kiss Me" earned its first review and it was pretty darn good!

Got Erotic Reviews gave it 4 Diamonds and said, in part: The characters won me over early on and I found the internal and external conflicts believable. Plus there was the added bonus of some nice, hot sex while the characters struggled with their needs and their feelings.

In other not really newsworthy news, I'm finding it difficult to maintain any one train of thought lately. I'm bouncing between the release of "Shut Up and Kiss Me" (TOMORROW!!!!), completing interviews and guest blog posts for my virtual tour, editing one completed short, writing a new story and just day to day living.

More than once I've been in the middle of something, stopped and then wondered: What was I just doing?

Or stood and walked into another room and completely forgotten what I wanted to do in there.

The days are speeding by (how can it already be MAY?) and I don't know what it is that I do all day to keep busy, but I am certainly busy and the hours pass in a blur.

I'm thinking I need a set schedule. What do you think? Anyone else have this problem? If so, what do you do about it?

Happy Hump Day!

Author Interview ~ Juniper Bell

Good morning, everyone. Today we have with us for our interview, Author Juniper Bell. Let’s all make her feel nice and welcome here at The Menagerie! :::snapping fingers::: Caban Boys, make sure you take care of her!

Welcome Juniper, our boys will take good care of you, and hopefully so will we. LOL Megan’s gonna get us started today, so take it away, girl!

Hello, Juniper. (Ooh that sounded all Hanibal-esque... hee hee). We’d love to get to know you. Where are you from?

First of all, thanks for inviting me to your couch! It sure is cozy here. I’ve lived in so many places, I’ve lost count, but right now I live in Alaska most of the time, and Hawaii some of the time (not nearly enough.) We’re headed back there shortly, and I’m counting the days. In Alaska, I live outside of a little town known as the “Halibut Capital of the World.”

Sounds very interesting, although I’m sure you didn’t think so at the time.

I love me some sand and surf, too. Not too sure how I feel about halibut, but someone’s gotta live there. Tell us your latest news?

I’m very excited about my newest books, Her Three Lords is coming soon from Ellora’s Cave and Training the Receptionist, which is coming out on March 2 from Samhain Publishing. It’s an erotic novella about one girl’s naughty dream job and her two extremely naughty bosses. It was a ton of fun to write. If it’s okay, I’ll share the blurb:

It’s her naughty dream job—if they’re satisfied with her performance…
Eager to escape her miserable existence in Low-Life, Long Island, street-wise Dana Arthur jumps at an entry-level position with the consulting firm Cowell & Dirk. As her training period begins, she quickly discovers she’s required to do more than take messages and order office supplies. Her job description contains some deliciously naughty duties that give receptionist a whole new meaning.
Simon has almost given up on finding the right woman who will please his clients as well as his demanding partner and mentor, Ethan Cowell. No one measures up—until Dana. Her inner fire and fearless nature are perfect for the job. No matter what wicked punishment he devises to chastise her for her on-the-job mistakes, she accepts with a relish that leaves him wondering which one of them is really in control.
The last thing he expects to discover is that she’s a perfect sexual soul mate he can’t bear to share. But share he must—it’s part of his business agreement. Unless he makes Ethan the deal of a lifetime…
Warning: This title contains explicit sex, bondage, ménage, ingenious use of office furniture, lingerie, and the occasional sex toy. Oh, and did I mention the package delivery guy?
Looks interesting!

Saucy and a tad raunchy in a good way. I love those kind of books. But I gotta know, How much of the book is realistic?

LOL! None! Well, the office job setting and the dead-end town where Dana lives are realistic, but the things that go on at the firm of Cowell & Dirk are not exactly professional! Hopefully readers will keep in mind that this book is not meant to be a manual for proper on-the job behavior.

LOL that could cause some issues if they took it as a manual. *snor*

Not a manual... sheesh. Take all the fun out of it. Hee hee. Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?


That question almost made me spill tea all over my keyboard! Um, no, the events depicted in “Training the Receptionist” are completely fictional and based only on the kind of daydreams that flit through your head when you’re totally bored at work. I’ve done my time in office job cubicles, and sometimes my imagination gets a workout. This book is the result.

You mean you never … misbehaved in an office?

A worked out imagination is either the best thing in the world, or totally dangerous. I like dangerous. The book had my attention. Do you see writing as a career?

I do see writing as a career, and I’ve been a professional writer in one form or another since I started working. (Well, after the chambermaid and grill cook stints.) Mostly I’ve worked in TV news promotion, writing teases for upcoming newscasts. (You know, “Tonight at 11, Lose weight while you sleep! Plus, another robbery spree stuns local dry cleaners.” That kind of thing.) I started writing erotic romance about three years ago, and I hope I can make a career out of it because it’s so fun and so satisfying and I love it so much. But no matter what, I’ll be writing.

Seems like you have a lot of practice.

Yup, so glad you came on over to the dark side with us. We have cookies! How long does it take you to write a book?

Some books go quickly, some take longer because I decide they need more rewriting. I’m a big rewriter. I’m not satisfied with a book until I’ve let it sit for a while, then gone over it a few more times. Sometimes I change entire plot lines that don’t seem to work. I seem to be getting faster the more books I write. I admire authors who are able to write a lot of books while keeping the quality high. Maybe someday I’ll be like that!

See, that’s why I’m a pantser. I, too, never finish editing. Then again, maybe you can take a discarded plot line and use it for another book? Oh, but I’m getting away from topic.What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

Did you know that iridescent tattoo ink is hard to find and considered dangerous? I wanted a character to have an iridescent tattoo, but I had to change it. Maybe I’ll write a paranormal set in a future world where a non-toxic iridescent ink has been invented.

Hmmm... sounds all CSI to me, but I like it.

Me too, love that side of it. What animal do you think makes the best pet and why?

Besides a man? But seriously, I’m obsessed with yaks. We don’t have one but I want one. My sweetie thinks I’m insane. I know people here in Alaska who have yaks on their farms. Yaks like this climate. They’re playful and weird-looking and have curvy horns and shaggy coats. I think it would be the coolest thing ever to wake up in the morning and go play with my yak.

Some people might read that and think you’re referring to a wayward demon—curved horns and shaggy coat. Wait, that could be the next hero for a book!

Megan, lol, you crack me up. We are not here to mine ideas for our stories.

Yeah, yeah, back to the topic... When you looked in the mirror this morning, what was the first thing you thought?

I haven’t looked in the mirror yet today. I’m sure I look fine, but hm, maybe I should go check … AAAAAGGGHHH! Okay, I’m back. My first thought was maybe I should have done that earlier. How many people have seen me looking like this?

ROTFL, I think we all have to reaction at one time or another during the day!

Oh hon, you look fine to us. No one blames anyone else for wandering around in PJ’s. They’re comfy. Speaking of comfy, what is your favorite pizza?

I love pesto pizza. With black olives and feta cheese. No meat, no pineapples, no onions unless they’re caramelized, mushrooms are okay but not required, and please do NOT put a sun-dried tomato on my pizza. Those shriveled little things freak me out.

Ew... just the description sounds gross.

Yeah, no kidding, :::shudder::: But to each their own, yanno.

Blech, I’ll have nightmares thinking of shriveled things. On to less icky thoughts .Have you ever cried during a movie? If yes, which one and why?

I cry at almost every movie. I’m the type that cries during tampon commercials. The last movie I saw was Avatar, and yes, I cried. Several times. But when Home Tree went down … I could hardly watch for all the tears.

OMG, I am so glad that I wasn’t the only one sobbing when Home Tree goes down. I almost couldn’t see what happened next through the tears.

I’ll have to say. I haven’t seen that movie, but I can relate about the commercials. There are some that are total tear-inducers. Are you a morning person or a night person?

I used to be a night person, but I trained myself to become a morning person because when you’re working it’s the best way to get things done. So I used to get up at five every morning to write. Then I met my sweetie, who’s a total night person. So I’m having to retrain myself so we can actually spend time together. Turns out it’s not so hard to let go of years of getting up before you really want to. I’m liking the new schedule.

But you get to be with sweetie, so it’s all worth it. Can you taste the difference between Pepsi and Coke? If so, which do you prefer?

Pepsi all the way. Yes, I can taste the difference. Come on, blindfold me, I’ll prove it.

Never give us the option of using blindfolds... we’ll take you up on it. Hee hee.

Ah… yup, we will definitely pull Cabana Boys aside to… distract you while you’re testing. :-D If you could wish for anything, what would you wish for?

Other than a yak? I feel guilty wishing for anything because I’m very lucky. There’s a little prayer I like that says, “May all living beings be happy and free.” I’ll go with that. Oh, and I hope your readers will check out “Training the Receptionist” on March 2, it’s hot and it’s fun! Just don’t read it at work. I also have a linked Free Read called “Thanking the Receptionist” available for download on my blog.

Thanks so much for having me, it was a blast!

Thanks for hanging out with us today. It’s been a blast being here. So glad you enjoyed it..

Juniper Bell lives with her sweetie in a cabin in Alaska with no running water and a spectacular view of glaciers. She wound up in the frozen north after leaving her career as a stressed-out Los Angeles TV writer. Luckily, her love for writing survived the move. She’s been writing erotic romance for three years. “Training the Receptionist” is her third book, her second with Samhain Publishing after “Doll.” Her first book, “The Extremist,” was published by Liquid Silver Books. Visit her website at http://JuniperBell.com, her blog at http://AuthorJuniperBell.blogspot.com, friend her on FaceBook or follow her on Twitter.

My Three Lords by Juniper Bell

How is one innocent country girl to choose between a Duke, a Marquis and an Earl?

Must she?

When Miss Alicia Silverwood marries the Earl of Dorchester, he whisks her off to Notre Plaisir, a country manor where erotic surprises await at the hands of three powerful lords and longtime friends.

The young Earl needs a wife and heir. The cynical Marquis de Beaumont needs a playmate. And the commanding Duke of Warrington needs a reason to live. As for the new Lady Dorchester, she’s just beginning to discover the true nature of her own sensual needs. To complicate matters, she’s falling in love.
It might take a miracle for Lady Alicia and her three lords to come to an arrangement that makes everyone happy. Or maybe all it requires is a little scandalous rule-breaking…

One Week!!

It's only one more week before "Shut Up & Kiss Me" releases. How did the time fly by so quickly? If you're interested in finding out more about the story, you can look here.

I have to admit to being more nervous than excited right now. I know that the story has gone out to reviews sites, and I'm terrified folks will read it and say, "THAT REALLY SUCKS! HOW DID SHE EVER GET PUBLISHED?"

I'm not the only author who feels that way, right?

In any case, I'm rather trying to forget about all that and just keep writing new stuff ... hoping it will keep my mind off of my debut erotic romance offering.

What about you? How do you feel when you have a release? Excited? Nervous? Both? And what do you do to stop yourself from worrying about how it will be received?

Happy Hump Day!

Author Interview ~ Lakisha Spletzer

Howdy, everyone! I hope y’all had a wonderful Mother’s Day. :-D

Today we have with us on the couch author, Lakisha Spletzer. Let’s all make her feel welcome.

Welcome to The Menagerie, Lakisha. Make yourself at home, have a drink, sit back and relax and let our Cabana Boys pamper you a bit.

By now, all of y’all know Megan.

:::Megan waves:::

Okey dokey, let’s get down to brass tacks, ‘cause we are a nosy bunch here. Where are you from?

I was born in Wise County, Virginia and lived in a small town called Coeburn which is located in the southwestern corner of the state in the Appalachian Mountains.

A mountain girl? Bet there was lots of rustic...scenery.

LOL, and I’m sure you mean the trees, Megan. So, Lakisha, tell us your latest news!

I’ve made my debut as a published author with the first book in a planned series. It's called “Jewels” and the series name is “The Alien Encounters Saga.” Also, my newest book, Werelove: Dusk Conspiracy, a dark YA Paranormal about shapeshifters, has just released. Both titles are available at Amazon.com in print and Kindle edition, as well as smashwords.com.

Aliens and shapeshifters. Interesting. These are your first published books, but when and why did you begin writing?

I wrote my first fantasy story called “The Elf and the Fruit Bowl” when I was eight. I've written poetry, stories, fan fics, and participated in online writing rpgs on and off through the majority of my life. I write because I love it and it provides a great outlet for my angst when I need to vent.

Gotta love those outlets, ‘cause we all need them. It’s fun when you can do it through writing.

And that is the God’s honest truth! When did you first consider yourself a writer?

January 2004 when I decided that I wanted to become published.

What a big step.

And I have to admire the way you just… went for it. What inspired you to write your first book?

There's a story behind this question. My actual first book that I was inspired to write has yet to be completed as a first draft. It's a high fantasy story called “Moonbeams and Moonlight,” and it's the first book in a series which follows the main character who is half-elf female warrior. My goal is to finish it this year, at least a first draft of it.

As for the novel that will be released on February 19, “Jewels,” it came about due to open submission call for a Space Opera anthology from Samhain Publishing and a blog entry that I had written that explored writing in the first person.

Yep, a contest is pretty good incentive to get that story out of your head and down onto paper…. er, computer screen…

Space operas. I love new-to-me genres. Speaking of writing, do you have a specific writing style?

Not sure if I have a “style.” I know that I tend to use the third-person viewpoint rather than first person.

I’m still thinking of the space opera and picturing little green men and ray gun whipping heroines. Sounds exciting.

LOL, whereas the first time I heard that phrase I thought, “How can they have a SPACE opera? You can’t hear anything in space… yeah yeah, I’m blond.. How did you come up with the title?

The title is the name of the heroine and it is symbolic too. Jewels Enbran is unique and precious for various reasons and to different people. But also like a gemstone in the rough, she has to be molded and shaped to become the jewel that everyone knows she can be.

Heroine’s that grow through the story—nice.

Yup, gotta love when they actually mature throughout the story. Is there a message in your novel that you want readers to grasp?

I want readers to see that being different doesn't make a person or species evil and that when we set aside differences and work together, many things can be accomplished.

Yup, good things happen when you work together.

“Can’t we all just get along” is my CB’s favorite saying. Are there experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

The underlying themes about bigotry, racism, discrimination and lack of fulfillment in one's personal relationships, are all things that I have experienced first hand. On the flip side it also celebrates life, friendship, loyalty and love.

Speaking of loyalty and love, if you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

I would have to say Elissa Malcohn and Dianne Dykstra have both helped me the most when it comes to writing and to the publishing industry.

It’s so great to have authors you look up to. What book are you reading now?

Wow, I usually read about three books at once, I know bad multi-tasker, but right now I'm reading “Betrayals,” by Lili St. Crow, “The Virtu,” “The Sword and The Lady.”

LOL, I always have a lot of books going at once. You’re not the only one. Are there any new authors that have grasped your interest?

The authors Richelle Mead and Lili St. Crow, to name a few.

Yes, urban fantasy is a favorite of mine, too. I love things that are dark, mysterious and a little off-beat. What are your current projects?

“Moonbeams and Moonlight” I've been working on since 2004. It's a high fantasy story.

“Mine Dreamer” was started in November 2009 during NaNoWrimo and I'll probably have it done by April. It is set in the same universe as “Jewels” but deals with civilians.

My other story, “Sierra's Protection,” was started in September 2009 and will be finished some time during the summer. It's my first time using normal people as characters. So no superpowers or magical elements in this one.

Sometimes it feels like you need super powers to write and keep up with everything. Do you see writing as a career?

I would love to have it be one, but for now, I do have other work that I do.

Everyone says they’d change some things if they knew the outcome. If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book? Not really, I love the story the way it is.

We all gotta start somewhere. Do you recall how your interest in writing originated? I wanted to put down the stories in my head and share them with others.

Yup, we all gotta start somewhere, lol. Can you share a little of your current work with us?

I'm writing two things at once. Again, I know, multi-tasking, but “Moonbeams and Moonlight” is the top of the priority list.

I also have “Mine Dreamer,” which was my 2009 NaNoWrimo project. It lacks two chapters and the first draft will be finished.

Last but not least, I have “Sierra Protection,” which is my first attempt at writing a story that contains no fantasy or paranormal elements. I'm writing it because of a personal challenge Dianne Dykstra and my friend Angela Markham issued last year.

We all have our own little quirks. Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?

Grammar and those pesky commas. Also I love repetitive words so I keep a thesaurus nearby now to spice things up.

ROTFL, I have the same issues with commas (one CP likes to say, “Commas are our friends…. Use them!”) and with repetitive words (clenched anyone?). Nice to know I’m not the only one. Who designed the covers?

There is a story to that question. I put up a tweet/blast on Twitter, Myspace and Facebook, that I had finished writing “Jewels” and that I was going to start hunting for a cover artist. Within a day, a former college friend of mine, JD Hollyfield had myspaced me and said he wanted that honor. I was surprised and humbled.

He did not one but two covers and we ultimately picked the one you see today, though I liked both covers.

Isn’t it awesome to have friends with skills? Do you have any advice for other writers?

Don't be afraid of critiques. Join online support groups or local support groups for writers.

In fact, I started an online writer support community at http://writersupport.ning.com just for that reason.

Nope, can’t beat good CPs. Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

Enjoy the action, romance, and adventure of “Jewels.”

How long does it take you to write a book?

Each book is different. “Moonbeams and Moonlight,” I've been working on since 2004. Whereas “Jewels” took a total of six months from start to finish.

What is your work schedule like when you're writing?

My days are taking up by my kids. I'm a single parent so writing during the day is hard. I'm also attending college too so that takes time.

I'm a night owl, so once the kids are asleep it's just me and my characters.

I’m a night owl, too, which doesn’t come in handy since all the other Menagerie ladies are on the east coast while I’m on the West. What do you like to do when you're not writing?

When I'm not writing, I'm usually

A) teaching hip hop to beginners (adults and children)
B) reading
C) web designing (I have my own company Kichan Designz)
D) playing with my kids

Wow, busy girl! Do you have any suggestions to help me become a better writer? If so, what are they?

Use personal experiences, read up on the genre(s) you will be writing in, get someone other than you to read over and critique your work. And above all else, have fun.

God advice. What do you think makes a good story?

Plot that flows, characters need to be real and easy to relate to.

As a child, what did you want to do when you grew up?
I wanted to be a mommy, be a teacher and be married. I know, lofty goals for a 5-year-old.

LOL, but at least you knew what you wanted. :-D And now it’s time for our “absolutely-nothing-to-do-with-writing-questions”: What animal do you think makes the best pet and why?

I love cats and dogs but hands down a cat, if you want low maintenance but still one that you can love on. Fish don't count.

Ah yes, cat people. My favorites. Now, what I really want to know: what were you doing at midnight last night?

Writing “Mine Dreamer.”

LOL, Megan, you and your cat people… Lakisha, what’s the strangest thing you’ve ever eaten?

Vegemite that some of the Australian foreign exchange students were daring us Americans to try.

:::shudder::: I’ve had Vegemite… never again I tell ya.

Dares are the best. Gets me and Kealie in trouble all the time. Since we’re all animals here, what is your favorite animal?

Felines of all shapes, sizes and colors.

What is your heritage?

Native American, African-American, Caucasian and possibly some Hispanic. Basically I'm a mix.

You’re not the only mutt in the house, lol. Have you ever cried during a movie? If yes, which one and why?

I'm a very sensitive person and I will cry if it's emotional enough. The movie that gets me every time is E.T.

Even though I know he's going to wake up and phone home I can't seem to stop my tears from flowing.

HEY, I cry every time too, it’s heartbreaking to see Elliot sobbing his little heart out. What is your favorite pizza?

Meat lovers though in my household cheese pizza rules because my kids don't like anything else.

Yeah, the sacrifices we make for our children. Are you a morning person or a night person?

Most definitely a night person. I'm such a bear when I wake up first thing in the morning.

LOL, join the club… my kids steer clear of me for at least an hour in the morning… Lord help them if the wake me up before my alarm goes off. If you could wish for anything, what would you wish for?

Does wishing for my book to do well count? If it does that would be cool, but if not, hmm, I guess wishing that I could make enough money to pay off my debts and still living comfortably.

I don’t see why not! Makes sense to me. Well, we’ve come to the end of our interview today. Thank you so much for spending time with us today, Lakisha. Stick around, chat with our company, and keep the Cabana Boys on their toes. :-D

Lakisha Spletzer is a single mother of two, who keep her on her toes while inspiring her to write.

A native of Virginia, she moved to Citrus County, Florida in 2004 and has enjoyed the warmth ever since.

Lakisha has a Bachelors of Arts in Communications from the University of Virginia-Wise.

She can be found reading stories from authors Elissa Malcohn, K.L. Nappier, and Piers Anthony, to name a few. She loves writing down the adventures rattling around in her head as well as poetry that strikes without warning.

She describes her writing style as a blend of her favorite genres. This is her first novel.

You can keep up with her on the web at these sites:
Website: http://www.kishazworld.com
http://www.kishazworld.com/blog
http://www.twitter.com/kishazworld
http://www.myspace.com/kishaz_world
http://www.facebook.com/kishazworld

Jewels by Lakisha Spletzer

Special Lieutenant Jewels Enbran, a human telepath unable to shield her mind from thoughts, uses telepathic anchors who protect her vulnerable mind. Her current anchor, Colonel Jeremy Lingley, is nearing burnout. An alien race is seeking an alliance with Earth and the pair are assigned the mission of discovering the aliens' secrets.

Crown Prince Dex LoudRoar is a Gatoan warrior and a royal with a terrible secret. His people wage a constant war against their enemy, the Lupinious empire. But the tide of battle is turning and his people seek help from a new source: the humans of Earth.

With an interstellar war looming, Jewels and Dex seek salvation for their planets and find their destinies changed forever.

Book Commercial ~ Jewels by Lakisha Spletzer

Jewels by Lakisha Spletzer

Special Lieutenant Jewels Enbran, a human telepath unable to shield her mind from thoughts, uses telepathic anchors who protect her vulnerable mind. Her current anchor, Colonel Jeremy Lingley, is nearing burnout. An alien race is seeking an alliance with Earth and the pair are assigned the mission of discovering the aliens' secrets.

Crown Prince Dex LoudRoar is a Gatoan warrior and a royal with a terrible secret. His people wage a constant war against their enemy, the Lupinious empire. But the tide of battle is turning and his people seek help from a new source: the humans of Earth.

With an interstellar war looming, Jewels and Dex seek salvation for their planets and find their destinies changed forever.

****************************

Want to see your book commercial here? Email us at menagerieauthors@gmail.com to find out how!

Voting for the Best Hottie of March/April 2010

Whoops! I forgot to post the poll, voting for March and April, last week. I apologize. But, hey, y'all got a hottie to drool over last week, lol.

So, we don't have a lot of names per se... since I had a few mystery men this time around. But y'all can pick the one you like most. :-D So, here they are (if you click on the photo you can see the original post containing that hottie):

~ Drew Pare ~


~ Jax ~


~ Rafael Lazzini ~


~ Grinning Cowboy ~

~ Smiling Kilted Hottie ~

~ Not A Morning Hottie ~

~ In A Hurry Hottie ~

So, that's them... you can vote over ------------------------------->>>>>>>
in the sidebar. I'll announce next week who the winner of March/April was. He'll go into the hat for the end of the year when we vote for the best hottie of 2010!

Hope everyone is having a wonderful weekend. :-D

I'm a Free Read!

Yessir, I am the free read author over at Whipped Cream this week. This is my first ever firt person POV story and it's from the POV of the male sub. Kinky. I thought so. So here's the temp link: http://www.longandshortreviews.com/WC/story.htm

I hope you like it and tell me about it.

Thursday Thirteen: Promotion

Click on the banner to find more Thursday Thirteen participants!

I admit it...since "Shut Up & Kiss Me" releases in TWO WEEKS (!!), I have promotion on the brain. So today, I'm blogging about thirteen ways I'm going to promote my upcoming release for "Shut Up & Kiss Me".

1. A virtual tour with Goddess Fish Promotions.

2. My awesome book video!

3. An interview at Whipped Cream Reviews in June.

4. Visiting promotional loops and chatting about it.

5. A contest on our website (still forthcoming).

6. Banner ads on various romance sites.

7. Visiting on friend's blogs and having guest posts (anyone want me to come visit?)

8. Talking ad nauseum about it here, because I'm a little excited!

9. Bookmarks and other promo items to offer in giveaway bags, etc.

10. Sending out a press release.

11. Posting excerpts at various excerpt only blogs.

12. Writing and publishing MORE stories -- because that's always good for your backlist!

13. Begging shamelessly for help from my bloggy friends to share the news. (*G*)

What do you do for promotion? I'd love any advice!

Happy Hump Day!

Too Much?

Those of you who know me are wondering why suddenly I'm worried about too much... don't worry, it's not what you think. Today, I'm actually wondering about how much of your "real" life is too much to put into your work?

Recently, and over the last few months, I have been dealing with some pretty heavy issues in my own life. A lot of those issues seem to be finding their way into my work and writing. I am a firm believer that all experiences can (and usually are) fodder for the imagination. Every emotion you experience makes it easier to describe it in your work. But when is it too much? When do you run the risk of a family member or friend reading your work and recognizing something they went through with you, and possibly getting upset?

Is it wrong to experience the death of a friend and wonder if some day you'll be able to write about that time, or that experience without sobbing? I know that some days are harder than others, and we all have personal struggles. I just hope that my wish to someday be able to use those struggles to enhance my writing doesn't make me... callous.

Does anyone else out there have these struggles? Do you feel guilty when/if you do? Anyone? Bueller... Bueller?

Author Interview ~ Cate Masters

Howdy, everyone out there in the ether of the blogosphere. Hope everyone is having a fantabulous Monday. Yes, fantabulous is a word, and even if it isn’t… it should be :::nod::: . :-D Sorry, a bit wacky this morning. Anyway, today we have with us on the Menagerie couch author Cate Masters. Let’s all make sure she feels nice and welcome.

Welcome to The Menagerie, Cate. It’s so great to have you. I hope you’ve made yourself comfy and that the Cabana Boys have made you feel welcome. Megan and I are glad that we get this opportunity to get to know you better.

:::Megan waves:::

So, let’s get started, Cate: Where are you from?

I’m a Jersey girl, originally. I grew up in a little town called Lambertville, across the Delaware River from New Hope, Pa. Both are very artsy towns, like twin towns really. Growing up, I hated it, always whined there was nothing to do. Not until I moved to central Pennsylvania did I realize how incredibly lucky I was to grow up surrounded in such a rich cultural environment. All my friends loved music, poetry and books, so I took it for granted that everyone’s life was that way. So I used Lambertville/New Hope as the setting in two of my releases – Seventh Heaven and an upcoming release, The Bridge Between. You can see how gorgeous the area is in the trailer for Seventh Heaven, featuring photos from my hometown: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7Rqe63e63FU

We love artsy people—gotta support the arts.

Yep, absolutely! And those pics in the trailer are great, Cate! So, tell us your latest news?

I am incredibly psyched about this year’s releases! The Wild Rose Press just released Design for Life, a short contemporary. Whiskey Creek Press just contracted Surfacing, a contemporary fantasy novel about a mermaid and a rocker, and The Bridge Between, a contemporary women’s fiction novel. Eternal Press will release Fever Dreams, another contemporary novel, and Winning, a short with elements of magical realism. I recently signed a new contract with Eternal Press for a historical titled Follow the Stars Home, about Native Americans forced to attend the Carlisle Indian Industrial School. I’m still waiting for a release date from Freya’s Bower for Angels, Sinners and Madmen, the historical set in Key West, Florida. And because I felt I should give something back to celebrate my good fortune this past year or so, I contributed a short story, Love and War, to an XOXO Publishing anthology which will benefit charity, and a poem to an anthology Little Episodes will release, which aims to destigmatize addiction, depression and mental illness through the arts. Readers can keep up with news on my blog: http://catemasters.blogspot.com and web site: www.catemasters.com.

Wow, that is awesome! I think Megan and I are hoping your magic will rub off on us…

Whew, you’re definitely one busy lady. Since you are so prolific, when and why did you begin writing?

I was a very shy, quiet kid. Because my family lived out in the country, I was also a bit lonely. Maybe that’s what led me to writing. I certainly spent a lot of time in my own head (and still do!) and had a very overactive imagination (and still do!). Writing took a long breather while I raised my kids, but when I went back to it, it felt great. And I was more determined than ever – I took any classes or workshops I could squeeze into my schedule, bought many books on craft, joined writers’ groups and critique groups. Lots of rejection helped me grow a thick skin over the years. In 2009, my hard work finally began to pay off in a string of acceptances!

Ah, yes, the sting of rejection. We all know that one very well.

Huh, you’re not kidding there, Megan! And, Cate, I see nothing wrong with living a lot in your own head or with an overactive imagination… wait, okay I CAN see a problem with the overactive imagination thing. But, that’s mostly when I’m forced to go into a dark, creepy basement of a government building when it’s pretty much abandoned… Then, it’s not a good thing at all. Just saying. Soooo, what are your current projects?

I just submitted a contemporary romance novel to The Wild Rose Press, and another historical set in my local area in 1879 to the Amazon Breakthrough Novel Award contest. Driving past the gravestones of the Indian Industrial School in Carlisle, Pa., would always evoke such sadness for the Native American children torn away from their homes and lifestyles. My characters are completely fictional, but I wove their stories into actual events of the school’s fitful start. My fingers are crossed for good news on those!

My muse is hyperactive and has attention deficit disorder. She’s always throwing new ideas at me and doesn’t wait for me to fully concentrate (i.e., finish) one before sending more. We play tug of war a lot. :) But I love her like crazy! So at any one time, I’m working on about a dozen stories, and incredibly grateful for it.

We said it before, and will say it again, you are one super busy lady! Good for you.

No kidding! And let me say, I think your muse and my muse might be related! LOL, but mine backs off on the story after I at least write down all the initial ideas and preliminary research. Too bad they don’t have ADHD meds for our muses… Do you see writing as a career?

Absolutely. I am in it for the long haul. I intend to keep improving my craft and writing as long as I can, and aim to make every story better than the last.

That’s definitely the attitude to have. Can you share a little of your current work with us?

My latest release is Design for Life, a story I wrote for my youngest, Becca. She’s a very talented artist and so creative – she’s designed everything from gowns, to desks and beds (which my husband, a talented woodworker, has made for her). Here is the story blurb: Becca Lyndon puts her dreams on hold by leaving art school to care for her ailing mom. Working full time at The Flower Basket leaves precious little time, but she squeezes in night classes at the local college. When Mike Hunter fills in as a substitute teacher, she worries about a repeat of the critical reviews he gave her work when he substituted at her high school three years earlier. His reason comes as a complete surprise, but can she trust him? Or will he disappear like her father? When that possibility looms all too real, she’s determined never to let the design for her life unravel again. Following her bliss requires work, but pays off in more ways than she ever imagined. She also learns that one door might close, but another can open—and lead to unexpected opportunities.

This is now available from The Wild Rose Press, as part of its Flower Basket series: http://www.thewildrosepress.com/design-for-life-p-3850.html and its trailer is here: http://www.youtube.com/user/catemasters#p/a/u/0/mrVuP6dN5rQ

Sounds interesting and going on the TBR list.

Yeah, what Megan said, lol!

:::grins::: Let’s get down to the nitty gritty. Do you have any advice for other writers?

So many new authors don’t allow themselves to be called writers if they’re not published. If you write, you’re a writer. Never let anyone say otherwise. Keep reading and writing, and learning all you can.

What great advice.

And something I think a lot of us have a hard time with, but I’ve heard enough published AND unpublished authors say the same thing… so I tend to believe it, lol. What do you like to do when you're not writing?

I used to have so many hobbies! Now I concentrate mostly on writing, but can indulge my love of photography because it’s handy for making book trailers, which I find fun. For awhile, I was into beading and jewelry making, so was able to apply that craft to making jeweled book thongs. No more painting, piano or embroidery, though.

Love the cross of art and promotion.

And sometimes, that’s just how it works. You find that the writing is what you love the most, but I am a very strong believer that everyone needs another artistic outlet besides their writing… otherwise you become stifled. Your photography fills that void. What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

How much I love research. Now I’m a research junkie! I admit it. I get carried away with research—or vice versa. Sometimes it’s hard to tell. Case in point: a few years ago, my family vacationed at Key West, Florida. The island’s surrounded by a clear aqua-green sea and is so steeped in history, its streets almost seem like characters. While visiting a maritime museum, a story flashed in my head, and I spent the next two days in the Key West library copying old articles and letters while my family went parasailing and snorkeling. Do I regret it? Not in the least. I knew I wouldn’t be getting back there any time soon, so finding that information felt like unearthing sunken treasure! I was fascinated by the history of the wreckers, men who salvaged wrecked ships long before any diving equipment had been invented. All the careful research paid off. Soon Freya’s Bower will publish Angels, Sinners and Madmen, my historical romance novel.

No matter what genre I’m writing in, I always research some aspect of the story. Authenticating details help bring the setting into the reader’s imagination. A few stories are set in cities I know well, but others are in places that fit the story, or I wish I could go! Such as Hawaii, or in my latest contemporary, Malibu. Adding authenticating details for locations I’ve never visited is easy. If the Internet doesn’t provide all the information I need, I send for a Visitor’s Guide to the city to learn its restaurants, museums, clubs and other hot spots. For Wilderness Girl, I had to brush up on my camping info, and learn a bit about recycled art. One of the worst pieces of advice to writers is: write what you know. How would anyone ever stretch the limits of their imagination following that adage? There would be no speculative fiction, no fantasy, no scifi. The writer would get bored silly in a hurry. And when the writer’s bored, so will the reader be.

I never thought about it, but you have a point—writing about what you know only is rather narrow, but a great starting point.

Absolutely, and I can sooooooo relate to being a research junkie… only it’s bled over into most of my life. So, by nature of the beast I’m no just a knowledge junkie. How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

Hm, I’ve never actually tallied these up. So let’s see… I have three published novellas: Picture This, One Soul for Sale and Wilderness Girl. Four novels are contracted/published: Angels Sinners and Madmen, Surfacing, The Bridge Between and Fever Dreams. Four novels circulating with pubs/contests: Follow the Stars Home, Complicity, Rock Bottom and Orion Rising. Two older novels will never see the light of day (and rightly so!). More in the works. It’s an ever-changing list! Cruel to ask which is my favorite! Impossible. I’m not a big believer in favorites anyway. I fall in love with the characters as I write them.

Great answer and so true.

And again I say, WOW! Do you have any suggestions to help me, or any other writer, become a better writer? If so, what are they?

At a booksigning, I once asked Ian McEwan, the award-winning author, what the secret was to great writing. He responded: Keep writing. At the time, I thought he was merely blowing me off so I’d keep the line moving! But now I see how right he was. The more you write, the better you write. Beyond that, I’d suggest becoming involved with a critique group. Writing’s such a high that it can erase your perspective. You love your story so much, you can’t see its faults. Critique partners will ground you, gently but firmly, so you can revise and improve the story. Workshops and writing classes helped me a great deal too. Writing’s an intricate skill, and it’s important to always work on your craft.

That is awesome advice, and something I’ve already seen in action. And now it’s time for our “absolutely-nothing-to-do-with-writing” questions: What animal do you think makes the best pet and why?

Such a tough question! I’m an animal lover. We’ve had everything from fish, parakeets, hamsters and guinea pigs, cats and dogs, to a horse. We’ve loved them all equally, because each have such distinct personalities. If hard pressed to pick one, I’d say a dog. The latest addition to our family is a rescue dog named Lily, who was abandoned down south. I saw her photo online and simply fell in love with her. We traveled to the next state to pick her up, and she has been a joy ever since.

Awww, how sweet! What do you want to know about the future?

Knowing would take all the fun out of living it! In general, I would like to know that my kids will find their path in life, and that my hubby and I could finally go on that honeymoon we never had…

Sounds like something that would bring you comfort, but not make it hard to continue living your life to the best of your ability. :-D What is your heritage?

My sister can tell you better than I could! She’s the genealogist in our family and researched for years. It’s really interesting to read the things she finds – my grandmother’s grandfather was a fur trapper named Peter LeVert from Canada. One of my Dad’s ancestors fought in the Civil War. My mom’s maiden name was Narducci, so we have a strong Italian history, but I know little about that (except that no, we’re not part of the mob Narduccis!)

I have an aunt who does all our genealogy. It’s so interesting to see those names and ancestry and heritage. And LOL about your “mob” name. Have you ever cried during a movie? If yes, which one and why?

Oh geez, lots of them. At Christmastime, I get sucked in every year by the FaLaLaLa Lifetime holiday movies! (one of my guilty pleasures) And It’s a Wonderful Life makes me cry, P.S. I Love You… I could go on. I’m a sap. But I love stories that touch my heart.

Okay, don’t hit me or throw anything at me… but PS I Love You didn’t make me cry. :::ducking::: What is one thing scientists should invent?

Love this question! Although I was never great at science, I love reading about it, and grew up reading sci-fi writers like Ray Bradbury. But to answer, someday I’m hoping a genius will invent a USB port to allow a writer to download directly from our brains. This would satisfy my overactive muse! Revision would still be by hand, though. There’s no getting around the hard work!

ROTFL! Just the other day my hubby told me that if a device was ever invented that was implanted into my brain and accessed with a USB port I’d most likely be the first in line to get one (I am a techno-junkie). Do you like thunderstorms?

Love them. The energy and sheer power of lightning bolts, the way the sky roils with clouds – how could you not believe something’s up there creating all that? I jotted down a premise for a story about Thor, the lightning god. Someday I’ll get to it!

I used to have a friend whose father stood on the porch and dared thunderstorms closer… I always felt that was like tempting fate, but you couldn’t talk him out of it… I personally love them as well. If you could wish for anything, what would you wish for?

Easy peasy. For my family to stay healthy and fulfilled, follow their own bliss and live long, happy lives. And if fortune wants to smile on my writing, all the better. :)

Both are fantastic wishes. Thanks so much for hanging out with us today, Cate! It’s been so much fun getting to know you (and yes, that song is now stuck in my head… and I probably just got it stuck in yours :::grin:::). Please, hang out and pester the Cabana Boys, they love to feel useful. Don’t be a stranger!

Cate Masters writes fantasy/dark fantasy, historical, contemporary and speculative fiction, described by reviewers as “so compelling, I did not want to put it down,” “such romantic tales that really touch your soul,” “filled with action scenes which made it a riveting story,” and “the author weaves a great tale with a creative way of using words that makes the story refreshing to read.” Visit Cate online at www.catemasters.com, www.catemasters.blogspot.com or follow her on Facebook or Twitter.

Design For Life by Cate Masters

Becca Lyndon puts her dreams on hold by leaving art school to care for her ailing mom. Working full time at The Flower Basket leaves precious little time, but she squeezes in night classes at the local college. When Mike Hunter fills in as a substitute teacher, she worries about a repeat of the critical reviews he gave her work when he substituted at her high school three years earlier. His reason comes as a complete surprise, but can she trust him? Or will he disappear like her father? When that possibility looms all too real, she’s determined never to let the design for her life unravel again. Following her bliss requires work, but pays off in more ways than she ever imagined. She also learns that one door might close, but another can open—and lead to unexpected opportunities.