Interview with Debbie Wallace (done for SensualReads.net)

 Interview with Debbie Wallace
 For SensualReads.net
  
Hi Debbie. Welcome to Sensual Reads and Reviews.
 Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule
 to be with us today.
  
First off, let our readers know what kind of stories
 you love to tell.
 I write contemporary romances where the heat level
range from sensual to spicy to torrid. Most of my
stories have suspense and some level of humor in them.
  
When did you first start writing and why?
 I was thirteen when I remember writing my first
book. That’s also when I got my first typewriter. At
first it was thearapy for me and I didn’t share it
with anyone. I wrote for years before my family
encouraged me to submit to a publisher.

 What inspires you to write?
Mother Nature inspires me when I have the time to
enjoy it. A good storm. The ocean. A starless night
where the moon is full and seems close enough to
touch. The mountains. The sound of the wind howling
outside on a cool night. A hike through the woods.

 Tell our readers what a typical day in your life is
 like.
 I work a real job and put in four ten hour days. I’m
an early riser, 3:30 on some work mornings, but I like
it that way. By the time I get home I have just enough
time to fix dinner for hubby and me, clean up, get a
shower, play with the cats before my 8:00 bedtime. I
find time to write on my 3 days off and sometimes in
the evenings. 

 Do you have a character of yours that you favor? If
 so, tell us why.

 Not really. Every character I create is special to
me. 

 Tell us about your first published book and what
 inspired you to write it.

 ALL THE RIGHT MOVES published by New Concepts
Publishing in December 2005. The hero is a detective
and the story has a lot of suspense so I guess Law and
Order might have inspired me. I used to watch it every
night.
 What would your typical best day be like?

 Peaceful morning, cool weather, maybe some rain. I
love the rain. Nowhere to go and just sitting around
drinking my favorite coffee.

 Is there a genre you’ve never written in, but
would like to try? If so or not, please tell us why.

 I’d love to write a vampire romance. I think they’re
hot.

 Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

 

 DO NOT GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS! If you believe in
what you do, someone else will, too. It takes time and
use rejections to YOUR advantage.

 Where can readers find you and your works?

 Whiskey Creek Press & New Concepts Publishing. I
have two websites because I write under Debbie Wallace
and Tory Richards. I also have a blog. 
www.angelfire.com/me5/dawallace
www.toryrichards.com
http://wwwdebbiesblog.blogspot.com/
www.whiskeycreekpress.com
www.newconceptspublishing.com

 Thank you so much for taking the time to tell our
 readers about your stories!

Thank you for inviting me.

Interview with Melany Logen (done for SensualReads.net)

 

htttp://www.melanylogen.com
Interview with Melaney Logan

For SensualReads.net

 

Hi Melaney. Welcome to Sensual Reads and Reviews. Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to be with us today.

Thanks so much for having us!

 

Tell us about the stories you tell, the genre and the heat!

Lany: When we started writing together, somehow erotic romance just happened.  We’ve had fun telling tales with steam. 

According to the author bio on your website, you have some issues with dual personality, more specifically; you are more than one person. How did this collaboration come about?

Yes, we are the combined forces of Mechele Armstrong (Lany) and Melissa Lopez (Mel).  We met on a roleplay loop and had fun writing together.  Decided to try writing offloop and Melany Logen was born.

How do you catch your muse and become inspired?

Lany:So far inspiration hasn’t been a problem.  A lot of times when I feel stuck, getting away from the computer, taking a bath or a long drive will put me back in touch with the character.  The stories definitely evolve for me from my characters.

Mel: Ditto. So far I’ve no problem with inspiration either. And normally my muse catches me. Something interests her, a movie, a song lyric, an article.and away it goes.

Have you ever considered writing a non-alpha male hero into your tales?

Lany: I have. Don’t know if we will but I have given it some thought. I like beta males with a leaning toward Alpha *G*.

Mel: I would if one came to me. So far in or out of collaboration, I’ve not written any heroes but alpha males.

Tell us about your favorite character and why you like him or her more than any of the others.

Lany: Ailyea.  Her growth arc is sensational in Torc’s Salvation.

Mel: Ailyea from Torc’s Salvation. Lany did an incredibly beautiful job showcasing her character’s growth.  

Take a moment to tell us about your available works and what they’re about.

Torc’s Salvation is a futuristic and a mercenary sent to retrieve a sex slave.  Hijinx ensue.  Viking’s Pledge is our tribute to the Vikings, with a chieftain’s son and his thrall having to find their way to each other. 

Is there anything that particularly inspires you to write?

Lany: Definitely characters for me.  They talk in my head insisting their story be told.

Mel: Most definitely characters. What would any story be without them?

What’s an ideal romance story entail in your opinion?

Lany: Characters I want to live with.  A plot that keeps me enthralled.  Sexual tension that can be cut with a knife.  A happily ever after, where the main characters are together at the end.  Doesn’t have to be babies and marriage for me.  But I want them together at the end.

Mel: An ideal romance for me has living, breathing characters, a page turning premise, and a happy-ever-after.

There are many aspiring authors out there. Do you have any tips to offer to them on how to get published?

Lany: Don’t give up. Rejection happens.  Learn your craft.  The only thing you can’t fix is a blank page so write, write, and write some more.

Mel: Follow my motto, “my will for success is stronger than my fear of failure.” Don’t be afraid to actively submit your stories. And know who your friends are now. This is a tough business and you’ll need encouragement and support.  

Tell our readers how to get a hold of your stories, and where to find out more about you on the web?

Torc’s Salvation and Viking’s Pledge are available from Ellora’s Cave.  We recently contracted two stories to Loose Id.   One is a futuristic, set in the same universe as Torc’s Salvation about a captain and the sex slave he acquires on a mission.  The other is Bold Bride, which is a historical set in Texas in the 1800′s. To find out more, check out http://www.melanylogen.com 

Thank you so much for taking the time to tell our readers about your tales! 

Thank you so much for asking the questions.

Interview with Rene’ Walden (done for SensualReads.net)

Interview with Rene Walden
For SensualReads.net
by Anastasia Rabiyah

Hi Rene and welcome to Sensual Reads and Reviews. Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to be with us today.

Thank you for having me, Ana.
 
You write erotica for real women of real size. Tell our readers what inspires you to write in this genre.

I’ve been reading romance since I was in my early teens. Growing up as a larger person myself, it was always disheartening that all the heroines were slim, perfectly shaped women. Our society sends out the message in advertising, books, and just the general view that thin women are the ‘beautiful people’. This directly affects women’s perception of themselves, making the majority feel bad about being normal sized. Larger women are the majority, not the exception.

I disagree with the general views of our society. I think you can be sexy at any size, even if you’re not a size six or below. The key is to accept who you are, not the shell that houses the person inside. Confidence and being ok with yourself is sexy, and I hope my stories can help others to realize that.
 
You also run the e-publisher, Forbidden Publications. Can you tell us why you started this endeavor and your goals for the future of it?

Forbidden Publications was born out of what I saw as a need for authors whose writing didn’t fit within in particular requirements. Authors deserve to have a home, even if they don’t write ‘inside the box’. A good story is a good story and you shouldn’t have to change the story to fit in with the rules. After years of being told you can’t do this or you can’t do that, I decided to kick those beliefs to the curb and say oh yes I can. And here we are. We offer the mild to extremely wild and everything in between all under one roof.

My goal for FP is for it to continue to grow with authors and other folks who are proud to be affiliated with us. We plan on being around for a long time to come.
 
How do you find time to write?

Well, my own personal writing time is sometimes cut short. Wearing so many hats at once leaves the muse sometimes worn out and uncooperative. LOL But my writing is important to me, so I just try to make time when I can squeeze it in. I don’t have a particular time to write. I just try to make the best use of my time that I can. I carry a notebook with my current WIP around with me everywhere and when I find some time, I just write.

 
Is there a message you want your readers to come away from reading your erotica?

I want the readers to believe that women can be sexy and have hot, steamy relationships regardless of their body shape or size.
 
Do you have a favorite author who inspires you?

I can’t really say that I have one particular author that inspires me. My inspiration comes from any author who believes in what they write and is willing to be true to that belief. Seeing the hard work and determination in so many of the authors I know put into their work inspires me to keep striving to write the best story I can possibly write.
 
How would you describe your ideal hero and heroine in a romance novel?

My ideal hero and heroine are what I consider real people who do real things. Reality to me isn’t mundane. A lot of times, reality is a lot more intense and powerful than looking at things with rose colored glasses.

I’ve read many articles that say people want fantasy romances where everything and everyone is beautiful. While those stories can be good, the ones that have always stuck with me long after I’ve finished the book are the ones that I can personally identify with and touch my soul.
 
What works do you have currently available? Can you tell our readers about them?

I have two books out at this time. One is called Wicked Weekend and is available at Forbidden Publications. It’s a story about a couple that have been married for over ten years that are still in love and still have hot, steamy sex. What appears to be another ordinary weekend turns into fiery passion with his wife in unexpected places and a few new things along the way.

The other book is called Morning Ride and is available at Whispers Publishing (www.whispershome.com). It’s another story about a married couple, Scott and Lana. They’ve been married for over twenty years but are still deeply in tune with each other’s wants and desires. Take a peek into the way this couple spends a lazy Saturday morning. Hot, sizzling passion doesn’t have to fall by the wayside just because you get older. It just gets better.

 
Do you have any advice for readers new to e-books?

The best advice I can give is to not be afraid to check out new authors that they’re not really familiar with. There are many authors with fantastic stories out there.
 
Is there another genre besides erotic romance you might want to try your hand at?

Honestly there are several. LOL I have a few mystery stories in the works as well as possibly some mainstream fantasy. My writing tends to be usually extremely wild with strong language, so I’m not sure the mainstream thing will work out. Also on the other end of the spectrum, I have a few children’s books and some non-fiction in the works as well.
 
Please tell us where we can find your stories and also where we can find you on the web.

As I mentioned before, Wicked Weekend can be found at Forbidden Publications. And Morning Ride can be found at Whispers Publishing.

You can find me on the web at www.renewalden.com

 
Thank you for taking the time to be with us today!

Thank you again for having me. It’s been a lot of fun.

Interview with James Neeley and Monica Richards (for WeLoveFiction.com)

Anafae

Review:
Anafae Book One
By Monica Richards and James Neely
 
The illustrations drew me to Anafae. Perusing the creative works of fellow authors on MySpace, I was halted in my cybertracks by a mysterious visage illustrated in a unique way. Anafae, Mother Nature Incarnate, stared back at me in vivid color, her face half-formed of vegetation and her gaze both striking and benevolent. I had to find out more. Who was this unusual, beautiful woman? What in the world was her story about? After I gawked at the art, the premise of the story pulled me in further: If Mother Nature walked the earth… What would she see? What would she do?
Indeed, I was intrigued. Being a lover of fantasy and myth, I wanted to know more. I ordered my copy and waited anxiously for it to arrive. After reading it twice I have to say I cannot wait for the next issue.
Anafae is set in the not too distant future of Earth. Humankind has used up the land and changed all living things so much that a plague has swept over the world and there is no cure. A healthy mix of myth and science fiction, this fantastically illustrated graphic novel feels like a step above a comic book. The world is dying and Anafae awakes from a long slumber to walk upon the planet and learn what went wrong. She ventures through cities barren of life and happens upon a robotic cat. The cat leads her to its “brother” a dead man whose origins are not of Mother Nature’s womb.
Intriguing and delivering its message in a subtle way, Anafae’s journey is one sure to be interesting to follow. The book felt like the tip of the iceberg to me, the beginning of an adventure and a healing of impossible proportions. I want to know what happens to these characters.  
***** by Anastasia Rabiyah

 

Interview by Anatasia Rabiyah of the authors:

ANAFAE Book I
By: Monica Richards and James Neely
Genre: Science Fiction/Myth
Graphic Novel
Available at: www.mercyground.com

1. Tell us about you and your background.

MR: I’m an underground artist… I’m best known as half of Faith and
the Muse, but I’m also a writer and multimedia/graphic artist. I
started out in the early 80′s punk scene, and I’ve pretty much done my own thing ever since. I’m Vegan, I work in animal rescue as well as permaculture, and my husband and I have started an Eco-Sanctuary called Ars Terra. You can find out more about me at  www.monicarichards.com.

JN: I am a visual artist working in many types of media, from digital and 3D, to pencil, ink, airbrush and acrylic painting. My profession is graphic art for screen printing on garments, but I have been involved with printing in one manner or another since the late 80’s.
Thematically, I am drawn toward the Mythic and Megalithic as well as The Feminine Mysteries and Fantasy genres. My web site shows a fair amount of my work spanning the last 18 years or so- www.ddraiggraphics.com.

2. What inspired the creation of ANAFAE?

MR: “Anafae” is something I’ve been wanting to do for years, but didn’t
know where to start. I had written a short story about ‘Spring’ not
returning to the land because the season manifested into a woman and began to walk the earth while all people, animals, crops died
mysteriously. But as I began to research further, I saw that that this
notion was already happening from Man’s Industrialization and the
destruction of lands for wealth, and it became a different sort of
story – now ‘Spring’ walks the land to see what man has done to her
realm. I started collaborating with artist, Jim Neely, and it all came
together.

JN: Monica had developed the main character visually and a basis through a short story before I came along. When I saw what she was doing and the message being conveyed, I fell in love with ANAFAE instantly and hoped to contribute whatever I could. Inspiration for me is self perpetuating after that.

3. How did the collaboration for this book come about?

MR: Jim contacted me about helping me with Anafae, after he read in my Musings on my site that I was struggling to put the idea and the drawings together. He mentioned he was an artist and worked also in 3D models, if I needed help with perspective shots. Once he sent me some ideas, that was it – we were working together!

JN: Part of what I do is to enable myself artistically as an extension of someone else if I can, crystallizing ideas into images. Monica is brilliant and she also allows me creative freedom and input. So it is rather easy to work together. A common vision solidifies the rest.

4. Who do you hope to reach or inspire with your work?

MR: Anyone and everyone.
JN: Indeed, all. We have no particular target audience, this is for the World as a whole people.

5. What role do you see graphic novels having in the political debate over the global environmental crisis?

MR: It’s a strange thing, I think GNs mainly deal with fantasy and
readers often don’t like real life horrors integrated. My dream would
be to have Anafae printed on 100% recycled paper and have tools for people to make changes in their own lives. My philosophy is to provide solutions, such as Permaculture, which is a new way to live basing human systems on Nature. I would prefer to use my voice to educate and give hope to those who feel hopeless.

JN: Monica’s words are my thoughts on the matter as well. I would add only that an educational role, one that gets people to think about what they are doing in their own microcosmic level of life and how that can radiate out to others would be a good, productive aspect to graphic novels pertaining to this day and age and what is left for future generations of people.

6. ANAFAE has clear motives of reaching people about the value of living holistically and in balance with the Earth. Do you hope to reach a new audience for this cause by mixing myth with science as well as graphic art?

MR: Yes, and I think that was the whole idea. Fans of my music who know what I’m about, but I wanted to move my ideas into a GN, possibly to reach those who would not know what is really going on, or to empower those who feel helpless to be able to do something in their own lives to affect change…

JN: I agree completely. The feedback we have gotten so far has been from those in tune with current affairs and concerns with the way things are going, but we have also had many others tell us how the artwork has drawn them closer to the story, how they are amazed at the work overall and have decided to look at things differently in their own lives. In that regard, we are more than pleased! What storytelling throughout history has afforded us as humans is a series of lessons to learn from, no matter what our knowledge base consists of. Basic understandings register on many levels visually, and the rest is for the individual to wrap themselves into and take from it what they are able.

7. How many installments do you foresee in this series, and what is the future of ANAFAE publishing-wise?

MR: There will be all sorts of issues coming over the next few years.
Book One is actually being redone in color, and the plot is quite a bit more detailed. We’re working with Praxis Comics, out of the UK right now!

JN: All I know is that I found something I believe in and love deeply. I will remain with this as long as it goes. To put a limit on it might be a mistake. And after all, ANAFAE is boundless, timeless and Goddess.

On the web:

http://www.monicarichards.com/anafae
http://www.comicspace.com/anafae
http://anafae1.livejournal.com
http://www.praxiscomics.com
http://www.monicarichards.com
http://www.myspace.com/monicarichardsmusic
http://www.mercyground.com
http://www.arsterra.org
http://www.ddraiggraphics.com
http://www.myspace.com/ddraig
http://www.comicspace.com/ddraiggraphics

–
James Neely
Ddraig Graphics
3208-106 Holland Rd.
PMB#255
Virginia Beach, VA 23453
http://www.ddraiggraphics.com

Interview with S.D. Grady (done for SensualReads.net)

~ S.D. Grady ~

 

S.D. Grady is a romantic, having always believed that Happily Ever After really does happen. She married her college sweetheart, raised two cats and dedicates herself to bringing fantastic and passionate stories to her readers. Always on the lookout for new ideas for stories, she reads avidly, writes constantly and pays homage to the NASCAR gods weekly.

 

Hi S.D., Welcome to Sensual Reads and Reviews. Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to be with us today.

You have a style that blends reality with fantasy, true to heart characters with situations forcing them to grow and change. How do you think up your characters? What inspires you?

Hmmm…let’s see. Why such hard questions? My stories do tend to grow from the characters, rather than a plot needing somebody to fill in the action. But where do the characters come from? A picture, a thought…sometimes while I’m reading
another book I’ll wonder what if the lady wasn’t quite so spunky…the possibilities for inspiration are endless.

When did you first start writing and why?

It’s funny…I always wrote. I just forgot that I did for a long time. Seriously! My Mom’s typewriter fascinated me as a kindergartner. After I filled up endless pages with aaaaaaaaaaaaa, I discovered the wonder of writing puppet shows with my older brother. There’s a long string of short stories and poems buried in my journals throughout my life…but it took until I was settled into my job and marriage for my brain to start revisiting the old concepts of exploring my own stories. It’s just something I seem to be wired up to do.

Tell our readers about your NASCAR addiction.

Yes, I am have one. Unashamedly! Yes, I have an RV in my backyard. Yes, I own a racing tire that came off of Jeff Gordon’s car. Yes, I go to more than one race a year at more than one track. Yes, I can fill up hours and hours talking, thinking and dreaming about stock car racing.

“Smell that? There’s nothing like the smell of burnt rubber in the morning…smell’s like…heaven.” LOL

I’ve actually turned my two addictions into something productive. I now write a weekly commentary article for The Frontstretch Newsletter called “Sittin’ in the Stands with S.D. Grady”. If you are a NASCAR nut, too, sign up for the Newsletter

My article runs every Tuesday!

Your latest release at Forbidden Publications, Elements of Love, is a blend of fantasy and romance. Tell us about this story and your plans for a series.

The Elements of Love is an epic saga!

An epic war rages between the Land of the Moon and the Land of the Sun. The members of the Elemental Body prophesy the coming of a child that will end life as it is known. Arlynn, a young Healer in the Land of the Sun, meets a man lying wounded on a pallet after a horrific battle. When she lays her hands on him, her life and the future of her world is changed forever…

And that’s just the beginning! There will ultimately be three more books in this story, following the prophet child to maturity and the battles that ensue. In each story, a new hero and heroine are added to his supporters. Don’t be distracted by the fantasy feel to this…I have woven in some erotic love scenes to keep your attention! Did I mention magic? Oh, there’s lots of that, too.

Which of your characters in any one of your stories do you most relate to and why?

I relate to all of them in different ways…Muriel Simmons from “The Shape of a Woman” shares a birthday with me, and all the insecurities that go with discovering you are no longer a woman in her thirties. Fiona Fairweather from “An Accomplished Lady”, she’s a young woman who has a hard time listening to others, even when she knows it’s for the best. That little rebel still lives in my heart! Widow Queen Lavinia from “The Forgotten Princess”, well, sometimes it feels like your life is headed down a certain path and there’s little you can do to change it…so you might as well try to put a pleasant spin on your time. But if a golden opportunity comes your way, it’s best that you dig deep and reach for the stars!

I guess I try to focus on specific aspects of life and magnify the effects they have on people. So often characters in novels are written as a reflection of their childhood. I believe that we can mold ourselves, with effort, into what we want to
be.

Tell us about other books you have available.

“An Accomplished Lady”, a Regency Romance full-length novel is available now at Wings ePress! Awarded 5 Blue ribbons at Romance Junkies, 5 Angels at Fallen Angel Reviews and 5 Hearts at The Romance Studio, this sweet romance is guaranteed to keep you turning the pages.

Miss Fiona Fairweather desperately attempts to become what everyone expects of a well-born lady. Bound by duty to wed where her deceased parents wished, she fights to deny the powerful attraction she feels for another—the flirtatious Lord
Rocheford. Dare she trust her wild heart or succumb to a sedate life of elegance? 

“The Shape of a Woman”, a Rubenesque Contemporary erotic romance is available now at Forbidden Publications! 5 Heart review from The Romance Studio! Chic, beautiful, eye-catching…Muriel Simmons knows she used to be all these things. What changed? Why can she no longer summon the fashion designs that sent Evanesque Design to the top? In desperation, she reaches out to her boss and bosom buddy of
twenty-five years, Jacob Evans. Always honest, she knows Jacob will tell her exactly what she needs to do to get back in her artistic groove. She just never expected him to address the issue in her bedroom.

“A Widow’s Justice” is available now at loveyoudivine.com. This is a Historical Western Romance…you’ve been dying to read an erotic romance with a studly cowboy, guns and gold fever, haven’t you? Again! 5 Hearts from The Romance Studio
Abigail Scotts is having a horrible day. With her farm in shambles and her husband missing, she fights to rebuild her small world. Will a passing stranger, Dusty Johanssen, be her salvation? Or is he only one of the feared bandits terrorizing
the High Country?

What projects are you working on now?

I have three titles slated for release over the next few months.

“COWBOYS”, an anthology, will be in print on December 1st and available through Amazon, Borders on-line, Barnes & Noble, etc. “A Widow’s Justice” is my contribution to this wonderful book containing four erotic romances that all
feature…a COWBOY. I can’t wait!

“The Forgotten Princess” will be releasing sometime in the next year at New Concepts Publishing. A Historical Romance set in an Elizabethan type world and time…

Widowed Queen Lavinia spent six years at Court, silent and afraid. With a new king on the throne, at last she can hope for a life of value. When her father, the Duke of Hoke, plots to assassinate the king, a man who has found his way into her guarded heart, shy Lavinia must find the strength to face her biggest challenge.

“The Devil Went Down on London” is a short erotic episode recently contracted at loveyoudivine. If you want to indulge in an evening of shameless sexual exploration, this sexy historical story is for you!

There are several other projects in the works, including a NASCAR romance, a historical romp with a Pirate Duchess and an office romance that works around daydreams.

What writing related groups do you belong to in order to hone your skills? Do you have any suggestions for new authors or writers aspiring to be published?

I am a member of The Novel Workshop and owe my success this far to that wonderful group! I’ve also joined the Romance Writers of America and the on-line chapter From the Heart Romance Writers.

If you are a writer aspiring towards publication, I highly recommend finding a critique group that will review your work and offer productive and supportive suggestions for improvement. You will be responsible for research and dedicating yourself to your craft, but it’s much easier to stay the course when you have understanding shoulders to cry on.

What would you like to share with readers about who you are?

Who I am…a dreamer, a lover, a wife, a person owned by cats, an RV’er, a musician, a photographer, a crocheter, a sports fan…a writer!

Thank you S.D. for being here with us today, we really enjoyed it.

Interview conducted by Anastasia Rabiyah
Sensual Reads & Reviews
November 2007

Interview with Dawne’ Dominique (done for SensualReads.net)

~ Dawne’ Dominique ~

 

I’m an author with many diverse talents. I write in a variety of genres, but by far, erotica and fantasy are my first true loves.

During the week leading up to a full moon, you will find me writing. Some have called me a wereauthor, but I’ll let you decide that for yourself. My muse always works overtime, and the voices in my head cannot be silenced until I tell their tales.

You will find spellbinding plots, riveting characters, and unique twists and turns in all my novels. I immerse a reader into the sensual folds of the worlds and characters I create, and I refuse to let them go until that last page is read.

 

Hi Dawne’ Welcome to Sensual Reads and Reviews. Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to be with us today.

Please tell readers about you, what inspires you to write and why you decided to do so.

Well, some of those voices in my head are just downright pushy (are you listening, Daniella?) So, I write to placate them and hopefully, they’ll give me a few hours of sleep. Life is my inspiration, be it good or bad. I tend to roll with the punches and once I get up and wipe myself off, I guarantee there’s a story to be told. Two years ago, I quit a seventeen year career as a paralegal. I was nearing the end of my rope, literally. I began writing again to try to create some inner peace and escape the extreme stress I was currently under. I joined an online writing site and from there, I didn’t look back. My writing took over, so to speak. It made me see things in a different light. At the speed I was going, I knew I would die without being able to fulfill my greatest dream…becoming a published author. So, I resigned from my job, giving up everything, including my financial stability, which I find the most difficult thing to grasp. My independence is altered, but things change. They always do. I couldn’t have done such a drastic change in my life without the wonderful support of my husband and daughter.

Your latest release was Ridley’s Rival available at loveyoudivine. Can you tell us about the characters in this erotic romance and what makes them tick?

Well, I will confess that Madison Maddox and Ashen Ridley are not your average romance characters. As children, Ashern was the spoiled, rich rancher’s son, and Madison, the daughter of a stable hand that worked at Ridley Ranch. Even at that young age, they both realized that neither of them played very well together. When Ash turns thirteen, his father ships him off to boarding schools, and finally Harvard, but after his father passes away, Ash returns to the homestead to reclaim his legacy. He soon discovers there’s no family fortune left and accordingly to certain provisos in his father’s Will, Ash must work the ranch for one full year and make a profit before he can inherit the ranch.

Dale Forrest, an old foreman of the ranch and a close friend to both Madison and Ash, advises the young Ridley to go see Madison and ask for her help. Ashern despises the fact that he has to stoop to a stable hand’s daughter in order to save his future. Nonetheless, he puts aside his pride and approaches her with a business deal. Madison agrees, but only on her terms. She remembers him never following through on anything, and she’s uncertain as to whether this spoiled boy has finally grown into a responsible adult. Confused at the attraction she feels for Ash right at their first meeting, she is unaware that he, too, feels the same. Madison is nothing like what Ash looks for in a woman, so why can’t he stop thinking about her?

When he realizes that she loves his lands more than he does, be begins to reevaluate his priorities in life. It doesn’t take long before the two of them begin to butt heads as they did as children. Thrown into the mix is Amber Symthe, a pretty, blonde maid Dale hired to help them out. She’s devious because not only does she want to bilk the Ridley fortune, but her main goal is to ensnare the young Ridley heir as her own.

In addition to being released as an e-book, what other formats is Ridley’s Rival being offered in?

Ridley’s Rival is currently available in e-book and CD format. More exciting is that on December 1, 2007, all four of the Cowboys novels (authored by the very talented, Anastasia Rabiyah, Carol McKenzie and Sonya Grady) will be available in print format through Amazon, Books A Million, Borders, Barnes And Noble, All Romance ebooks. It’s my first print book, and I’m ecstatic!

What is your genre of choice and can you tell us why you feel comfortable writing stories in that basis?

When I first returned to my writing after a twenty year hiatus, my genre of choice was fantasy. I’ve written in that genre from as far back as I can remember. I love creating different worlds, unique characters, and using mage’ic. My first love will always be there, but since I began writing erotica romance, I haven’t looked back…but I will (promise). I have two unfinished fantasy novels that keep whispering…finish me, finish me. I tend to involve a little bit of “mage’ic” in everything I write. If I can immerse a reader so deep that they forget about the problems of the outside world, if for just a few minutes, then I’ve achieved what I set out to do. It’s the tantamount reason I began to write again…to lose myself and break away from the stress of everyday life.

Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

YES…don’t give up! For goodness sake… don’t give up like I did. Learn your grammar rules, research publishers and editors, and research, research, and research! I should have kept writing and not allowed so many years to pass before I took it up again, but I also know how real life can cut into people’s dreams. Make the time, even if it’s just for yourself. Another piece of advice I can offer to any aspiring author is to join a writer’s group, a place where you can give feedback to others and receive the same yourself. Even if you only write 500 words a week, keep at it. Nurse it, structure it, bond with it, and watch it grow. When that last word is written, there are no words to describe that feeling of accomplishment.

You are heavily involved in online writing groups. Do you feel author critique groups are a must for any writer?

Absolutely! I truly believe that without that support of a writer’s critique group, I would never have finished my first novel. Once I finished it, there was no stopping me. I moderate a Young Adult novel workshop as well, and there are some young writers that consistently blow me away with their writing skills. I try to encourage, prod, teach and basically be there for them when they’re feeling down and wanting to give up. A lot of them are young and haven’t learned that it is staunch determination that will make them finish. I just kinda push a little. *nudge, nudge* When I see a member posting their final chapter, and they’re trying to describe the feelings they’re experiencing, it’s amazing, and so fulfilling. Yes, it’s very time consuming to moderate, but for me, it’s time well spent. I know I’ve done something right. It’s all about supporting one another. As well, writers in these groups tend to grow thicker skin, which is essential in order to suffer through and accept those rejections that come back. True, I’ve been luckier than most in that regard, but they still sting. I’ve had the honor and privilege of learning from other published authors. In the end, I realized that being published was an attainable goal.

What is your favorite character, either yours or someone else’s and why?

Gees, that’s a tough question. I’ve read some other author’s characters that have left me speechless. For me personally, I would say all my female characters. Daniella Rolfe is special to me because she is a vampire extraordinaire. She’s strong, beautiful, rich, smart, and the oldest person I know. I will confess, I live vicariously through her, or at least I try. I’ve noticed a tendency in my writing that all my female characters are strong-willed and independent. Perhaps it’s the mage’ic in them. *snickers*

Do you have any hobbies or interests other than writing that influence your work?

Well, I’m the poster child of the term “starving artist”. I create large abstracts in oil and acrylic. If someone likes my work, I’d rather give it to them than sell it. I’ve recently been hired as a digital cover artist for two erotic publishers. I also edit for an erotica publisher, which keeps my writing skills well honed. I just love my jobs! You wouldn’t hear me saying that two years ago. I also sit on a volunteer committee called Women Build wherein all women build the homes. We work in close association with Habitat. It’s an amazing experience!

Tell readers what upcoming works you have awaiting release. What are you writing now?

The beginning of “The First” trilogy called Diary of Daniella Rolfe is currently contracted through New Concepts Publishing. I have no release date as yet, but I’m keeping my fingers crossed. Kindred Blood, the second novel of that series is currently in submission. I’m in the process of writing the grand finale called Crimson Cries. I also have a fantasy novel called Dark Prisoner: The Divenean Key which in submission with a fantasy publisher. As well, I started a new novel called Physical Therapy, which is a rather dark, tormented tale. I hope to sub that one to Love You Divine.

Is there anything else you’d like to share with readers?

Don’t give up on your dreams, no matter how many potholes you hit in life. It may take time, but if you’re determined and have the willpower to see it through to the end, you’ll make it. Positive attitudes create positive outcomes. Follow your heart…it will never steer you wrong.

Thank you Dawne’ for being here with us today, we really enjoyed it.

 

Interview conducted by Anastasia Rabiyah
Sensual Reads & Reviews
November 2007

Interview with Sapphire Blue (done for SensualReads.net)

She is all things sweet and romantic.She is all things sexy and dangerous.

She is the new color of erotica.

Using creativity and sexuality as her backdrop, Sapphire Blue creates stories to entice and arouse.

An event planner and published romance author, Sapphire lives in Maryland with her family. Reading and writing are her passions as evidenced by her work. She was influenced by veteran romance authors at an early age and with time began to add her own level of spice to the timeless tales. Now, thoroughly convinced that a healthy sex life co-exists with a great love affair, she writes what is in her heart and what some are afraid to even imagine.

Writing has always been her dream. Writing strong, witty and sexy characters a must. Sapphire is the culmination of a happily ever after romance novelist and a desire to push the envelope right into the burning flames of passion!

Sapphire has been writing for fifteen years and published in romance for four years. Receiving her chance to create new worlds and daring characters by Midnight Showcase, Sapphire is determined to bring a new slice of color to the erotic romance realm.

Hi Sapphire, Welcome to Sensual Reads and Reviews. Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to be with us today.Your latest release is Touch Me, Please Me, Book I in the Desirable Series from Loose ID was made available this month. Can you tell us about the story and what inspired you to write it?

Touch Me, Please Me is a magically sexy story of a legion of witches with only two goals in life: save the innocents and have plenty of sex! Sahara Baker is a Desirable who is about to face one of the most dangerous Phantoms of her time. Cedric Compton is a fantasy novelist researching his latest book. He only needs answers for her and yet he ends up wanting so much more. Sahara doesn’t need anyone or anything, until Cedric. This story is erotic and suspenseful and lots of fun.

I love reading about witches and spells. I think magic is very sexy and full of possibilities. So I wondered if there were really a group of witches or other-wordly creatures out there who =
were charged with keeping us all safe. From that thought the story just too on a life of its own.

How many more stories do you plan for this series?

At present I have the next story just about finished and a third one outlined. From there is anyone’s guess!

On your website, you mention a jaguar shifter erotica to come from Ellora’s Cave Publishing. Do you know the release date of this work and what can you tell us about it?

Devlin’s Desire will be released from EC on Friday, November 2nd and I can’t wait! Devlin Decatur is a jaguar shifter who has lived his life in the city, conducting business deals and breaking the hearts of all women who dared to sleep with him. He has renounced his heritage and his connection to another species when out of the blue, Gabriella Kincaid, also a jaguar shifter from the Gungi Rain Forest , arrives. Gabriella and their tribe need Devlin to save their lives. And there the battle between their lust and their loyalty begins. I read that you have been writing for fifteen years and published in=0A the romance genre for four.

What inspired you to write in the=0A beginning and what keeps you going now?

I’ve always read a lot, romance being my preferred genre. I al=
so had a very vivid imagination. I would spend hours bringing my Barbie dolls into new worlds and situations. As I entered high school I began putting those ideas down on paper and the rest as they say is history.

Do you have any advice for aspiring authors about breaking into print?

With anything you write, print or ebook, give it your v=
ery best. Proofread, edit and proofread again. Make your story as tight as you possibly can and don’t give up. I cannot express enough how valuable a trait tenacity is in this industry.

Do you belong to a writing critique group? If so, can you tell us how it helps you and if not, why not?

Yes, I belong to great group that provides support and butt-kicking in equal measure. We all take our work very seriously and we encourage each other tremendously.

Do you have any works in progress you’d like to tell your readers about?

I am currently working on several projects, multi-tasking is another one of my infamous traits.

The Vampire Oracle Fever from Cobblestone Press, My first vampire story with a new and exciting series that is guaranteed to keep readers on the edge of their seats.

Make Me, The second installation in the Desirable series. Just putting the finishing touches on Kitaka Valentine, Desirable witch, who is about to meet her dominant match.

Personal Gain, What happens when a witch casts a sex spell and conjures the exact opposite of what she was looking for?

Your biography on your site states that you push the envelope right into the burning flames of passion. What do you feel makes your stories stand apart from the mainstream?

The fact that I’m not afraid to venture into politically incorrect waters. Not just in the world of erotica but into circumstances and situations that are happening around us in present day.

What caused you to start writing in the romance genre? Are there any other genres you’d like to try?

Reading such greats as Danielle Steele, Nora Roberts, Jude Deveraux and Catherine Coulter. I’ve ventured into paranormal, romantic suspense and am now toying with the idea of writing an erotic thriller.

Is there anything else you’d like to tell readers about your style?

Just to not get too comfortable, I like to shake things up with each story!

Check Out Sapphire Blue’s Author Page
 

Interview conducted by Anastasia Rabiyah
Sensual Reads & Reviews
November 2007

The beginning thread of author interviews…

To follow are author interviews!