Blog Tools
Edit your Blog
Build a Blog
RSS Feed
View Profile
« March 2008 »
S M T W T F S
1
2 3 4 5 6 7 8
9 10 11 12 13 14 15
16 17 18 19 20 21 22
23 24 25 26 27 28 29
30 31
You are not logged in. Log in
Entries by Topic
All topics  «
Author Interview
Blog Tours
Book Review
Book Trailers
Character Interviews
First Chapter
Miscellaneous
Writing Ramblings
Books and Authors
Tuesday, 25 March 2008
In the Arms of the Enemy (an Excerpt)
Topic: Blog Tours

As I promised yesterday, you are in for a peek inside the pages of Patricia Guthrie's latest book, In the Arms of the Enemy.  Don't forget to stop by tomorrow for an interview with Patricia and a live chat from 8-10 PM EST in my chat room ( http://pub29.bravenet.com/chat/show.php/2488831080 )

 

Prologue

 

            "Riders up."

            The robust voice of the track announcer boomed through the loudspeakers. The crowd's collective voice swelled.

Maggie McGregor scanned the crowd for Ricky Lane and didn't spot him. Typical. She couldn't remember the last time Ricky had been where he'd said he'd be. Reliability seemed to be a thing of the past for the would-be love of her life.

            A black thoroughbred with long legs danced in the paddock stall as she finished tightening the girth. She struggled with the colt--up, down and around, until the cinch buckled. 

            "Okay, Blackie. Now you're all dressed up." She scratched him behind the ears. The horse snorted and coughed hay residue on her, before turning his head to watch passersby stop and admire him.

            "Ready for me?" The jockey, decked out with the green and white silks of Scotland Stables, rubbed his hands together and grinned in anticipation.

Maggie was excited too. Black Autumn was the best horse she'd ever trained.

            Ricky still hadn't appeared.

            "Any last minute instructions?" the jockey asked. 

            Maggie shook her head. "Just keep him off the pace until you get to the far turn and make your move coming around the turn. He'll intimidate every horse that makes eye contact. Don't tire him out too early, and he'll win in the stretch."

            "You bet," he said.

              "Maggie." Ricky's voice rose from above the crowd as he maneuvered his way over. Ricky didn't stand out just because she was looking for him. He stood out because he looked drop-dead gorgeous wearing a navy blue silk suit she'd never seen, with a tie the color of the Scotland Stables racing silks. His hair glistened like corn silk in the sun. 

            Two people accompanied him; one a dark-haired beauty draped over his arm, the other an older man. For a flicker of an instant, she thought the woman appraised her with a hint of amusement behind a blasé smile. Maggie fought back an instant desire to push her away from Ricky, but decided to hide her anger. When Ricky broke eye contact, she knew she'd failed.              

            Instead of waiting for an introduction, the woman put her hand on the older man's arm and said, "I'll meet you up in the owner's box. I still have last minute things to do for the cocktail party." Shooting Maggie a dismissive smirk, the woman turned and disappeared into the crowd. Who the hell was she?

            Ricky interrupted her thoughts. "Maggie, I don't think you've met Mr. Blakely, owner of Scotland Stables." 

            She shook her head as the horse snorted and pawed behind her. "No, I don't think so," Maggie said, almost asking ‘how are you?' But, the man's face, almost ashen, suggested he didn't feel well. He seemed to be having trouble breathing.

            "George Blakely." The man held out his hand, and Maggie took an instant liking to him. He had a strong, solid, honest handshake--her father's handshake. She returned his smile, blinking in the pleasure of his presence. 

            "Nice to meet you, Maggie." Mr. Blakely's expression shifted questioningly to Ricky.

            "Maggie's my assistant, sir. She'll be leading Black Autumn onto the track for me." Ricky averted his eyes, shutting out her shock.

            I'm going to lead Black Autumn onto the track for you? 

Maggie was incensed, not only because he was denying her relationship as trainer of the horse, but also because he hadn't mentioned he was her fiancé.  

            "I'm Ricky's fiancée, Maggie McGregor," Maggie explained, shifting a glance of anger toward him. 

            "Oh!" Mr. Blakely smiled and his gray eyes lit up. "You didn't tell me you were getting married, Ricky. Congratulations."  

            Maggie waited for Ricky's reaction. He frowned and as he turned away, Maggie realized he had introduced her as nothing more than a glorified stable hand.

            Ricky clicked his tongue against his teeth. "Maggie," he said, "I'll be sitting up in the Scotland Stables' box. I'll see you after the race."

            "Nice meeting you, Maggie." Mr. Blakely turned and leaned on Ricky for support. Ricky didn't look back. He and Mr. Blakely merged into the crowd, headed toward the grandstand. 

            Maggie watched them leave. She shook back the seeds of suspicion and focused on Black Autumn. They had a race to win.

            The horses were already walking around the paddock where fans were making their picks and hurrying toward the betting windows. Her jockey lifted his knee while Maggie locked her hands, and in one swift, smooth movement, she hoisted the jockey onto a saddle not much bigger than the size of a bicycle seat. The groom handed her the lead, as Black Autumn forced Ricky from her thoughts. The colt danced over the afternoon shadows in the paddock, providing entertainment for the crowd.

            No matter how Ricky had portrayed her as ‘his assistant,' everyone around knew Maggie had trained Black Autumn. Trained every horse in the Lane Stables, for that matter. The owner of odds-on-favorite, Hennessy, called out ‘good luck' to her, as they walked down the underpass and up onto the track.

            "Ladies and gentlemen," the voiced blasted over the loud speakers, "The twentieth running of the Kalian Derby, at beautiful Kalian Downs."

            Maggie shivered with the thrill of competition. If Black Autumn won the Kalian Derby, he would become a major player in the Kentucky Derby. She was damned if Ricky Lane would ruin this for her.

            Her jockey bent over and gave her a ‘high-five.' Maggie unsnapped the lead and one of the Lane Stables' outriders escorted the horse and jockey onto the track.

            The horses paraded to the post and the crowd murmured in anticipation. 

            Hennessey's owner stood next to her on the rail. He said, "I saw the way Ricky treated you. You're too good for him. You ever want another job, come see me." He handed her a spare pair of binoculars. "Here," he said, "I thought you'd like to see what's happening at the gate."

            "Thanks." One thing Maggie loved about track people was how they'd embraced her as one of their own.  

            Maggie lowered the cord around her neck and pushed the glasses to her eyes. 

            The starting gate was the dividing line between nervous anticipation and the grueling competitive mile-and-a-quarter track. Staff wearing green jackets decorated with advertising slogans loaded skittish horses into the narrow metal slots.

            Maggie took a deep breath and surveyed the crowd. A strongly scented mixture of suntan lotion, freshly mowed grass and track dust, lingered in the air. Too soon, all would become unpleasant memories left from the raw sores of an aching heart. Let it go, Maggie. Let it go.      

            The last horse jammed into the outside post position. The back doors clanged closed behind. They were in. Her nerve ends tingled. She focused on the third stall from the inside--Black Autumn.

            Clang. The horses charged out of the starting gate.

             "And, they're off in the Kalian Derby."

            Maggie trained her eyes on Black Autumn. The colt was in an easy third as they passed the stands for the first time. Good place. 

            "Around the first turn, it's Hennessy in front by a length, followed by.... "

             Her thoughts raced, jagged, painful and as fast as any horse on the track. All those buying trips Ricky had gone on during the past four months, when he'd come back without any horses.      

            "Around the backstretch it's Hennessy followed by Sundance Kid; Black Autumn remains in third."

              Ricky had been in the barn less and less, leaving the training to her. She'd been flattered by his love and faith in her abilities.

            The horses thundered down the backstretch. Black Autumn was now striding out, propelled by his powerful hindquarters. In contrast, the other horses seemed to move in slow motion as the black colt passed Sundance Kid around the far turn.

            Ricky hardly touched her in bed, anymore, if he slept there at all. When he made love to her, he'd been distracted--going through the motions.  

            Black Autumn moved on Hennessy as he displayed the competitive spirit of all great racehorses. He eyeballed Hennessy, and for a fraction of a second they ran neck to neck. Danny flicked the crop. The horse laid back his ears and took off, making Hennessy look like he'd stopped running. Black Autumn was muscled beauty in motion as he crossed the finish line five lengths in front, to the tumultuous roar of the crowd.

            When they came back, Maggie snapped the lead back onto her victorious horse, and Black Autumn pranced around, snorted and carried on. One of the greatest things about this horse, Maggie thought, was his ego. He knew he'd won. "Great ride," she said. "Perfect."

            "I didn't do anything," the jockey said, laughing. "The horse did it all. He ran himself."

            "That's why I love you," Maggie replied. "Because you let him do it all by himself."

            They walked across the track toward the winner's circle. Well-wishers crowded in and security had to hold them back. 

            "Next Derby winner?" A TV reporter stuck a microphone into her face. Maggie smiled and was ready to respond, when Ricky came and stepped in front of her.

"It's official," the announcer called, interrupting her resentment. "The winner of the Kalian Derby is Black Autumn owned by Scotland Stables and trained by...." Maggie waited for this moment. She never grew tired of the announcers proclaiming her a winning trainer. It spoke to her of success for her twenty-four-hour days of hard work.

            "Lane Training Stables, Ricky Lane, trainer."

            Maggie stopped dead in her tracks, her mouth dropping open. She turned to snap at him, but George Blakely and the dark-haired woman were showering him with congratulations. The woman planted a kiss on Ricky's cheek.  

            For the first time, Maggie got a closer look at her. The woman was tall and model thin, wearing a plum, mini-skirted linen suit that spelled designer. A silver necklace shouting ‘money' decorated her neck, and raven hair floated down her back like a trophy. The woman shot Maggie a look that stated, ‘bye honey.' Joy became heartbreak, and in a matter of seconds, two years of training success evaporated into the warm April air.

            George Blakely took the lead from Maggie and thanked her. Numb, Maggie let go, and was suddenly shuffled into the background, an outsider looking in at the victors--Black Autumn and his jockey, George Blakely, Ricky Lane and the society beauty nobody had bothered to introduce.

            She was spiraling down into a land of pain and anger, when Ricky threw the lead back to her with instructions to take Black Autumn back to the barn.  

            Maggie stopped, ready to scream, ‘I'm the damned trainer!' But the Governor had stepped up, starting to make a speech about a great owner, trainer and racehorse.

~

             "Maggie." At the barn, Ricky Lane strolled over, George Blakely at his side. His face clouded in apprehension, and Mr. Blakely's looked disturbed and surprised. Maggie realized she must have worn her heart on her sleeve.    

            "Congratulations, Mr. Blakely," she said, trying to ignore the heat stealing into her face as she extended her hand. "Black Autumn's going to be a great horse for you."

            "Yes," he replied. "Ricky did a great job of training him, didn't he?" But, he didn't speak in a congratulatory manner. Instead, his alert eyes grew serious and focused on Ricky. Ricky's jaw hardened and he looked down at the ground and mumbled, "Thanks."  

            Mr. Blakely nodded, glancing back at Maggie, admiration replacing suspicion. He knows, she thought. He knows I trained Black Autumn. She felt relieved--wanted to cry from the unspoken support of this surprising ally. Her confidence renewed, a spontaneous grin emerged and her tense shoulders relaxed.

            "So, Ms. McGregor," the old man said, extending his hand. "Are you joining your fiancé for the cocktail party?"

            The grin evaporated. "I--"

            "No. Maggie has to tend to the horses. I'll be representing the stable," Ricky said, cutting her off. 

            "Mr. Blakely, I'm afraid I didn't know anything about it." Fury almost choked her.

            "That's a shame," the man replied, grimacing at Ricky. "You would have made an exciting addition. My son just came home from Cornell. You would have enjoyed meeting Jonathan."

            She thought Ricky flinched. Good. At least he could still get jealous.

            "Bye, Ms. McGregor. An honor meeting you." The man turned and shuffled off, stopping to speak to Hennessy's owner who glanced in Maggie's direction. Then, the two walked through the thinning crowds to the Kalian Downs' Skylight Club.

            "Maggie," Ricky said, gesturing with his hands. "I'm sorry I didn't tell you about the party. I wasn't planning on going myself."

            "That's why you're dressed like a Wall Street banker?" she asked, lowering her eyes, avoiding any more lies.

            "No, I'm just representing our stable, like I told Mr. Blakely. I'll meet you back here, and we'll have supper before we go home." 

            He put his arm around her, and she moved away.

            "You mad?"

            Maggie played with the ring on her finger. "I was," she said, her voice breaking. "But now, I'm just sad." She breathed disappointment and looked him in the eye. "I couldn't believe you'd discredit me, Ricky."

            "Discredit you? How?" Ricky responded, oozing with self-righteous indignation. "Lane Training Stables is my training stable. You work for me, Maggie."

            "Oh?" she replied. "What happened to our partnership, our engagement? Is that good only when you want me to train your horses? Now that they're winning, you're taking the credit?"

            He started to protest, shaking his head, pounding his fist.

            "Stop," she said, putting a halt to her future. "Ricky, it's over. I've seen this--didn't want to see this coming." She kept her temper barely under control. "But, it's pretty obvious you've found someone else."

            "You mean Erika? That was Mr. Blakely's ex-daughter-in-law. I think she's trying to get back with her husband."

            "Stop. No more lies." Maggie twisted the engagement ring a few times around her finger before it slipped off.

            "Ricky," she said, opening his hand and placing the ring inside. "I'm going home to pack. I'll be gone by the time you get there."  

            Ricky grabbed her arm. "You're not going anywhere, Maggie," he said, his eyes flaming with rage. "You'll be done in racing if you do. I'll make sure nobody hires you."

            She stared at him for a minute, in shock. This couldn't be Ricky talking. She jerked her arm away. "Then, so be it," she replied. "Give it your best shot."

            Ricky grabbed her again.

             "Let me go!"

            "Then go, Maggie, if that's what you want. I don't need you anyway." He pushed her, and she fell against the stall door.

            Maggie grappled for balance and kept her feet. They stared at each other, Maggie horrified at a darker side of Ricky she'd never seen, and Ricky seeming to realize what he'd lost, now and forever.

            She studied his gray eyes, once full of longing, now full of nothingness. 

            "Have a good life, Ricky." 

            Maggie turned and walked away, her ex-fiancé protesting until his voice faded with the distance.                      

 

Black Autumn and Ricky Lane never made it to the Kentucky Derby. Neither did George Blakely. Within a week, all three were dead.


Posted by joyceanthony at 12:33 AM EDT
Updated: Tuesday, 25 March 2008 2:30 PM EDT
Post Comment | Permalink
Monday, 24 March 2008
Visiting With Mystery Author Patricia Guthrie
Topic: Blog Tours

This week I have a real treat for everyone.  We will be visiting with author Patricia Guthrie.  Today I will present you a brief look at this wonderful lady and her latest book, In the Arms of the Enemy. Tuesday, you'll get a chance to read the first chapter of this book and Wednesday is a double treat--and interview with Patricia Guthrie and a live chat from 8-10 PM EST. Thursday will end our visit with my review of In the Arms of the Enemy.  I hope you enjoy our visit!

Patricia Guthrie lives in the south suburbs of Chicago and writes romantic suspense novels. She has been a mystery lover since her baby-sitting days when she always had an Agatha Christie novel in hand, and scared the living daylights out of herself.

So far, she has completed four novels and is working on a fifth. Pat has numerous short stories of various genres published in the Skyline Literary Magazine and has several nonfiction articles published in the Cassette, a national magazine for collie fanciers.

Backed by a Masters Degree in Music, Pat’s former life consisted of singing in opera houses in the US and Europe. Not satisfied with the insecure life of an opera singer, Pat decided to go into teaching music in Chicago. She taught at a school for emotionally disturbed children before transferring to the public school system, where she taught music in the inner city.  Recently, retired from teaching into writing full time, Pat transferred her skills from the performance arena to the computer where she now creates her own stories.

She has a lifetime love of horses and dogs who (for some reason) keep popping up either as the subject of novels or as minor characters, no matter what the topic.

Collies are a central figure in Pat’s life. She’s trained and shown them in obedience and rally obedience trials in the Midwest and Canada.  Her dogs have also earned their Herding Instinct  Certificates, trained in agility and participated in backpacking and dog-walks.  As therapy dogs they've provided love and support for the physically disabled, emotionally disturbed and adults with schizophrenia.

Horses became a central part of her world some thirty years ago (is it really that long?). She’s gone through one birth-one death, breaking, training, riding and showing; getting dumped, stepped on, bitten and frequently becoming “horse poor.”Thinking back to all the war stories, good and bad, she’s loved every minute of it.

Her novel "In the Arms of the Enemy," soon to be released with Light Sword Publishers, involves three areas Pat loves the most: mystery, romance and horses. This story is about getting justice for animals who can't protect themselves.

Pat is a member of Romance Writers of America, Chapter 89 RWA Northwest Indiana, and Sisters in Crime, and  she has participated in numerous workshops with authors like Debra Dixon, Alicia Rasley, Deborah Hale, Margie Lawson, Joanna Wayne and Sue Viders. She also gives workshops to small groups, hoping to pass along what she learns to others

Who killed a champion race horse and his
trainer?

When the system fails him, horseman Adam Blakely goes undercover to search for a killer. He thinks he knows just where to look. Only problem—he falls in love with his prime suspect. Maggie McGregor leaves the back stabbing world of horse racing determined to never train again, until a
handsome boarder moves his horse into her father’s barn. And that’s when the accidents begin—
Maggie and Adam find themselves drowning in a sea of deception and lies and uncover an insurance scam so insidious it will rock the foundations of an established horse racing empire and bring the killer too close to home. Adam and Maggie must learn to trust each other before they face extermination.


Posted by joyceanthony at 3:07 AM EDT
Post Comment | Permalink
Friday, 21 March 2008
Getting to Know Chrissy Munder
Topic: Author Interview
Chrissy Munder the person

1.  What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Heh.  I feel like Miss America just having to think about this.

This is an amazingly difficult question as it depends on the day.  Some days I am a much different human being than I am on others.

Overall I'll shoot for: Happy.  Caring.  Dreamer.

Depending on the circumstances those three can be replaced at any time with Cynical. Responsible. Leader.

2.  How do you think others would describe you?

I'm a difficult person to get to know so it would depend on just how well and how long they've known me.

Some might say - Compassionate, shy, capable.

Others might call me a right rotten bastard - but say it with love.

3.   Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

Those that I love.

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

Walter, a female cat, rules my household with an iron claw.

5.  What is your most precious memory?

I have three  - I can't chose one over the other:

1 - Camping out in the South Dakota Badlands on the night of a full moon. I simply have no words for this experience.

2 - Walking alone for two hours in the middle of a night-time blizzard - the utter silence was astounding.

3 - Being roped to the railing of the Pentwater, MI Channel during a storm and crawling through the high winds out to the marker at Lake Michigan - the wind and the spray covered me and blasted me against the marker and there wasn't room for anything but that moment in time.

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

This was a hard question.  My first response is that I'm rarely embarrassed - I have to trust that whatever is happening at the moment is what's meant to be - either that or my inappropriate sense of humor rears its head and finds amusement at the oddest moments.

That said it's always horribly awkward when I'm hugged - I instinctively (even though I try to remember) lean and hug in the opposite manner in which everyone else does - usually resulting in the clunking of heads.  But I tend to find that amusing rather than embarrassing (see comment above re: inappropriate sense of humor).

7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

I've always been a writer and always will be a writer.  It's everything else about me that's subject to change.

8.   In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

Been there. Done that.  Had one hell of a good time.

Chrissy Munder the writer:

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

*Laughs*  I'm not sure I'm there yet - depending on your definition of a "real" writer.

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

I'm currently driving myself insane with eight works in progress on paper and 5 more in my head.  Three of the pieces are shaping up to be much longer than I had originally anticipated.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

To improve my technical skills in all aspects of the craft and to find more time to write.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

I work full time so I have no typical writing day.  I'm up at 5:30am weekdays to try and squeeze some time in and I try to find an hour or so in the evening if I can.

13.  Why do you write?

Because there simply isn't any other option.  I hope people read my work and enjoy it - but even if that weren't the case I'd have to put the words down on paper anyway.

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

There are so many writers that have impacted my life.  Both classic literary figures and more contemporary authors as well. Right now I'm reading the works of both Laney Cairo and Madeline Urban with feverish delight. Their styles are quite different but the result in both cases is breathtaking.

15.  How do you define your writing?

I'll have to cop out and say I don't.  I've written many different genres and types over the years and it's simply a case of what's appealing to me at the time.

Currently I'm writing M/M stories with a romantic bent.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

That was a damn good read.

Chrissy Munder the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

I currently have a live journal setup at http://chrissymunder.livejournal.com//  there I post tidbits of works in progress and publishing news.

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

Readers can email me at chrissymunder@yahoo.com  or leave me a comment on my live journal and I'll be sure to respond.

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

Currently available from Dreamspinner Press:

In Print:

Start From the Beginning - in the Size Still Matters Anthology

After the Storm - in the Desire Beyond Death Anthology

Odds Are - in the Mr. Right Now Anthology

E-stories:

Undiscovered Territory

Santa's Little Helper

A Halloween Tail

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

Characters that aren't perfect but filled with enough humor and love to appeal. Something a little sweet, with just enough spice to make it worthwhile.

In conclusion:

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

That first and foremost I'm having a great time writing and I want them to have a great time reading. Life's far too short so just remember there's always room for more love and more laughter.


Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EDT
Updated: Friday, 21 March 2008 12:01 PM EDT
Post Comment | Permalink
Thursday, 20 March 2008
Getting to Know Tawny Taylor
Topic: Author Interview
Tawny Taylor the person:

1. What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Creative, persistent, ambitious

2.  How do you think others would describe you?


Kind, caring, non-judgmental

3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

My family.

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

A guinea pig named Puffy. He is a new member of our family J

5.  What is your most precious memory?

Dancing with my husband on our wedding night. We got married in Las Vegas, and my hubby *hates* dancing. We stumbled upon a big band performance in our hotel (Glenn Miller Orchestra), and I gleefully dragged the poor guy out onto the dance floor. The band leader caught sight of us in our wedding clothes, and congratulated us. The entire room cheered as we swayed to Moonlight Serenade. It was sooooo romantic, even though they all danced circles around us.

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

I went to my daughter's performance one summer at one of our local universities. The university is small and private, the summer camp my daughter was attending, expensive. My daughter went on a scholarship. We lived in a very different part of town, in a working class neighborhood. It was obvious we weren't like everyone else.

I was in the school's theater, with the theater-type of seats that flip up. It was early, before the performance started, and I had to stand to help one of my smaller children. I sat down, forgetting the seat had flipped up, and landed on my butt. Everyone stared. My face just about blistered, it got so hot.


7. If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

Spending all my time slaying dust bunnies and collecting the many dozens of socks that are hiding throughout my house. Both the dust bunnies and runaway socks are quite happy that I'm too busy to be bothered.
 

8.  In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

Tawny Taylor, loving mother and wife. Tawny lived for her family and loved all forms of art-music, writing, painting, dance. She will always be remembered for giving plenty of hugs to friends and family...and wearing peacock feathers on her butt at the Romantic Times conventions.

Tawny Taylor the writer:

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

When I typed the words, The End, the very first time. I'd done it-written a book! Four hundred pages. I was a real writer. Sadly, I'd written four hundred pages of dreck, but that doesn't make me any less a writer.

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

After writing for publication for six and a half years, I am still thrilled every morning when I sit down to write. I'm so very glad I can say that. When I started writing, I wasn't sure I'd have the endurance it takes to make it in publishing.

At the moment, I'm working on a contemporary novella for Ellora's Cave. Masters of Illusion will release in July, as part of EC's Ruby series. After I finish that project up, there are several others I want to tackle. It's hard to decide which to dig into next.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

My main goal is to work on my storytelling, learn to craft the kind of complex stories I ache to write. It's frustrating as an artist when your ability doesn't quite allow you to create the story/painting/whatever you envision in your head. Career-wise, I want to continue to build my name and reach new readers.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

I start writing the minute my kids are out the door for school in the morning. I still have one small child at home, so my writing time is interrupted throughout the day with the usual preschool-child-at-home stuff, like oh...making peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, extracting foreign objects from a nostril, and cleaning permanent marker off a certain blue-eyed little face.

I usually start the day with blogging, posting on my fave forum (Romance Divas), and once the just-woken-up bleariness has cleared from my vision, I sit down for some serious writing. I stop at lunch and pick up again in the early afternoon, stopping for the day at around 3:30pm. In that handful of hours, I can usually get ten new pages written.

As hard as I try, it's pretty much impossible to stick with the routine on weekends or when the other the kids (7 year old and 9 year old) are home from school.

13.  Why do you write?

First, because the income I generate from my writing helps pay the bills. I won't deny the fact that I view my writing as a career and as a business.

Second, because it is a suitable (meaning, healthy) outlet for my OCD.


14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

Honestly, I can't name only one writer. I'm inspired by everything I read. From the talented authors who write for Ellora's Cave. And from the many gifted storytellers who are published by smaller epublishers up to the largest NY houses.

15.  How do you define your writing?

I would define my writing as "evolving". As I read, and learn, and explore, my writing has changed. My voice is still very similar to what it was years ago, but the themes and fantasies my stories touch upon have shifted. The later stories are darker, more intense and more emotionally charged.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

These are all such good (and tough) questions.

I guess what I'd want people to say is that my writing gave them a break from the stresses of their everyday life, or provided a glimpse into a world they hadn't known existed. They look to my books as a way to vicariously live an erotic fantasy they might never experience any other way.
 

Tawny Taylor the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

Website: http://www.tawnytaylor.com/
Blog: tawnytaylor.blogspot.com

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

tawnytaylor@sbcglobal.net

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

I have quite a few books published. I'm not sure you'd want me to list all of them here. My most recent releases:

Paperback: IMMORTAL SECRETS (Ellora's Cave), REAL VAMPS DON'T DRINK O-NEG (Kensington), SEX AND THE SINGLE GHOST (Kensington) and DARK MASTER (Kensington) is releasing at the end of April.

Ebooks: CARNAL HUNGER (Ellora's Cave), WICKED NIGHTS (Changeling Press) and DOUBLE TAKE (Ellora's Cave) is releasing the first week of March.

I also have ebooks published by Echelon Press (CARIBBEAN HEAT) and Samhain Publishing (DIRTY LITTLE LIES).

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

My earlier books were sassy and sexy, fun and light. My more recent books are increasingly edgier with more BDSM and ménage elements.

In conclusion:

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

I guess I'd just like them/you to know that I'm just me-a down-to-earth mom who gets silly-happy every time a reader emails her, and cherishes every kind word spoken to her. Please, feel free to email me anytime, if you have a comment, a question, or just want to talk about sewing. I'd be thrilled to hear from you.

Thank you for reading!

 

 


Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EDT
Updated: Thursday, 20 March 2008 4:13 AM EDT
Post Comment | Permalink
Wednesday, 19 March 2008
Getting to Know Ann Jacobs
Topic: Author Interview
Ann Jacobs the person:

1.   What three words do you think describe you as a human being? 

quiet, conservative,  curious

2.  How do you think others would describe you?

I have no clue!

3.   Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

My kids, my DH, and my cat

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

I have a four year old, rotten spoiled Russian Blue cat named (very un-originally) Mr. Blue. He likes to leap up on my computer and stare at the screen, that is when he's not curled up sleeping in the middle of my bed.

When he's looking for excitement, he hides, and from the expression on his face when we find him, I think he gets a high from watching the entire household looking to make sure he hasn't sneaked out of the house.

He loves us, hates the vet and his groomer...and he's added another exciting dimension to our lives.

5.  What is your most precious memory?

Seeing my baby boy born...and watching him grow to a young man I'm very proud of.

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

Hmmm. I've done a lot of things I wish I hadn't, such as yelling too loudly at my kids' swim meets and embarrassing them half to death.

7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

I probably would be slogging along as a homemaker or back in the working world where I was a health care financial manager before "retiring" to raise my two youngest kids.
 

8.      In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

Hey, no. This is one thing I'll never have to do, so I'll leave this duty to the loved ones I will eventually leave behind. (I hope they'll be kind!)

Ann Jacobs the writer:

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

I realized I was a "real" writer when I received my first "real" money for one of my books.

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

I'm busily finishing and promoting my HEART OF THE WEST series for Ellora's Cave, and planning several other projects including a long delayed prequel to GATES OF HELL and another story or two in the LORDS OF PLEASURE series. Oh, yeah, I'm also rewriting one of my old NY books and planning another BDSM contemporary series I hope readers will enjoy.

I'm looking forward to visiting with readers at the RT convention in Pittsburgh and at Lori Foster's get-together in Cincinnati.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

I want to produce 30000 words a week this year, after going through a long period of being sidelined with some pesky injuries that took forever to heal and played havoc with my muse..

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

I get up at sixish and put in about two hours on the computer before taking a break for food and some hot raspberry tea. Back to computer. Check email then work on book again until I get hungry or have to take somebody in the family to an appointment or go get food or other things we're always seeming to run out of. (I may grab something to munch on while I'm out and about.) Then, depending on how long the errands take, I may put in another hour or two before and after dinner, and/or relax with the family before an early bedtime.


13.  Why do you write?

Writing is the way I indulge my curiosity, give life to my fantasies, and relieve the stress of everyday life. It doesn't hurt that the income from selling my stories relieves some of the stress created on my pocketbook by children who keep pursuing ever higher educational goals!

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

I'd be hard-pressed to name just one. Joey W. Hill, my critique partner, writes the most fluid, inspiring prose I've ever seen in commercial fiction. Angela Knight spins tales of Alpha heroes and incredible action scenes-and she writes hot sex that feels as though it's coming right out of the characters' heads and hearts. Kate Douglas writes out-of-this-world tales about shapeshifters that blow my mind. I could go on all night, but I can't think of a single book I've read that didn't inspire me in one way or the other.

15.  How do you define your writing?

I write erotic romances in several subgenres, my favorite being contemporary with light BDSM elements. For a change of pace, I occasionally do a medieval historical or what I call "early futuristic" where the characters are basically like contemporary humans. My vampire series, d'Argent Honor, features the vampire heroes and heroine set in  American cities of the present day.

Ann Jacobs the Details

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

I'd like for readers to say my books are compelling, emotionally fulfilling and sexually provocative.

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

http://www.annjacobs.net/, http://myspace.com/authorannjacobs, http://myspace.com/dargentvampires, http://myspace.com/annjacobs_hotw,  (I have myspace pages for two of my serieses as well as the all-purpose ones. You can get to my very inactive blog by clicking over from my website.

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

ann@annjacobs.net

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

PRINTABLE BOOK LIST, current as of 4/11/07

Print books, available from your favorite booksellers or from Ellora's Cave:

All Wrapped Up anthology

A Mutual Favor

Black Gold: Another Love

Black Gold: Firestorm

Black Gold: Mystic Visions (Zayed's Gift)

Black Gold: Sandstorms (Love Slave, Forever Enslaved, Entrapped)

Bound by Love (Tip of the Iceberg, Wrong Place, Wrong Time?)

d'Argent Honor 2: Eternally His

d'Argent Honor: Full Circle (Vampire Justice, Eternal Surrender, Eternal Victory)*

Haunted

Lawyers in Love: Enchained (Mastered)

Lawyers in Love: The Defenders (In His Own Defense, Bittersweet Homecoming)

Lawyers in Love: The Prosecutors (Gettin' It On, Eye of the Storm)

Lords of Pleasure (He Calls Her Jasmine, A Gift of Gold)

Luna Ten Chronicles (Luna Ten and Obsidion series of ebooks)

Secrets 3 ("The Barbarian")

E-Books, available from Ellora's Cave, Red Sage or Changeling Press:

A Gift of Gold

A Mutual Favor

Another Love

Awakenings

Bittersweet Homecoming

Branded

Captured (anthology)

Colors of Love

Colors of Magic

Dallas Heat

Dark Side of the Moon

Enchained (anthology)

Eternally His

Eternal Surrender)

Eternal Victory

Firestorm

Forever Enslaved

Gates of Hell

Gettin' It On

Haunted

Hearts & Handcuffs

He Calls Her Jasmine

Hitched (release date 3/5/08)

In His Own Defense

Lassoed (release date 4/11/08)

Love Magic

Love Slave

Luna Ten Chronicles

Mystic Visions (anthology)

Obsidion Chronicles

O Positive

Out of Bounds

Roped

Rx for Pleasure

Rx for Submission

Rx for a Dom

Storm Warnings (anthology)

The Barbarian

Tip of the Iceberg

Vampire Justice

Wrong Place, Wrong Time?

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

A hero to die for...a love story full of deep emotion as well as sizzling sex, usually with elements of Dominance and submission in the relationship

In conclusion:

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

Your questions are pretty thorough. I'm a middle-aged, conservative woman who has become drawn in to the concept of sexual pleasure for one's partner through domination or submission. I love to hear from readers. Write me, ann@annjacobs.net , and I'll be sure to answer.


Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EDT
Updated: Wednesday, 19 March 2008 12:55 AM EDT
Post Comment | Permalink
Tuesday, 18 March 2008
Getting to Know Clare London
Clare London the person:

1.  What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Imaginative, witty, driven.

2.  How do you think others would describe you?

Imaginative, witty, annoyingly-driven!

3. Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

That has to be my family, my husband and two teenage sons.  Both I and my husband come from small families so we're all the more wrapped up in each other's business.  Our house is Chaos City most of the time, and full of complete rubbish, though so much of it has memories of places we've been, things we've all done, that we can't bear to throw anything out! That's when you can specifically find anything, that is...

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

I don't mind animals at all, but I've never really wanted to own any of my own. I have goldfish and they're not the most interesting of pets, I must confess! The most dramatic thing that ever happened was with one of our first ones, called Lucky by my younger son.  Within the first week of life in its new tank in our lounge, it leapt out of the top and died on the carpet! Should have called it Unlucky, he said, with all seriousness.

5.  What is your most precious memory?

Difficult to choose one, I must say.  On a family level, it'd be the birth of my first son, a golden time.  On a personal level, there's a ‘greatest hits' list of them, from meeting my husband when we were teenagers, qualifying as an accountant, winning a minor sports trophy at University, watching the boys in school plays, singing (just the once!) with a live jazz band, to getting published...

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

Argh... so many!  The most recent was at work where I answered the phone to a new customer, needed to take down their details, and asked in my brightest ‘customer service' voice if they were a Miss or Mrs.  Deathly silence, then they explained they were a man.  I don't think I completed the sale ^__^

7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

I expect I'd be what I still am now, an accountant / mother / wife / chauffeur to the sons / Japanese pencilboard art collector / very poor cook etc

Seriously, I enjoy the commercial side of accountancy, and having a ‘trade' has allowed me to work in all kinds of industries. I'm senior enough now to be able to relax a bit on the technical side and try to bring some flair to a job that's traditionally seen as deathly boring. And of course, it keeps us in food and board!  So I'd be happy enough if I weren't a writer - but maybe not as imaginative!

8.   In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

If Clare had been writing this obituary herself, she'd have spent hours of anguish over the right adjective to use, and eventually described herself as nothing but the cabaret in life. And she wouldn't have minded that role.  But underneath that was a fierce, confused melting pot of desire and drama and devotion and doggedness, wanting things to be right and fair, occasionally despairing in human nature at the same time as finding delight in the smallest gestures of it.  And too much alliteration.  And relentless self-editing.  And the need to find humor in everything.

That was a little spooky - but it was enlightening for me!

Clare London the writer:

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

I had to be formally published before I felt that.  When my first short story was chosen for a local anthology, I saw my name in print and that was the first buzz.  When I first got enthusiastic feedback for my fanfiction, I felt my writing was getting better.  Then when I finally had a book cover with my name on and published stories inside it - I could say I was ‘an author'!!

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

I'm thrilled about the release of The Gold Warrior at Dreamspinner Press, and I'm just finishing off the sequel to it for publication later in the year. It'll be called The Twisted Brand.  I really enjoy immersing myself in the lives of Maen and Dax, and a second book has let me delve further into their characters and their story.  There'll be more battles, more warriors and Mistresses, more about their illicit but passionate love affair, more deception and desire and dastardly deeds - what more can we want? But seriously, I'm also keen to release some more contemporary fiction in 2008, I'm hoping some more of my work in that field will be accepted.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

Over the next couple of years, I'd like to build a reputation with readers for reliably good, entertaining, enthralling fiction.  I want to spend more time on my writing, to improve on my particular weak spots, and to work all the ideas I have into quality fiction.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

No such thing!  A usual day is a few snatched hours around the working day, particularly in the evening when the rest of the family are occupied.  An ideal day is when I have the time to myself - I had some time like this at Christmas when I ‘hid' away in my sister's house while she was on holiday! - and then I can set up with the coffee and snacks I need, a comfortable position at the keyboard, and let the Muse have free rein.

13.  Why do you write?

Because the words ask me to!  *lol*  

I write to express the thoughts and scenes in my imagination, and to share them with others.  I write because I love words and language and dialogue, and because I like the feeling of situations taking shape with my characters.  I write because I like to read, and the more the better!

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

That's an impossible question for one single writer - I read many, according to what mood I'm in and also what type of fiction I'm writing myself.  I love tightly written thrillers, I like character-driven novels, I admire any writer who can make me care about the hero/heroine and who makes me remember scenes and emotions long after the last page.

15.  How do you define your writing?

As entertainment - as communication - as sharing.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

That they enjoyed it - and still do!

Clare London the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

My website is http://darkpearldiva.com/
My blog is http://claredivatoo.livejournal.com/

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

Mail me on clarelondon11@yahoo.co.uk or clarelondon11@hotmail.com.

I'm on MySpace too, www.myspace.com/clarelondon
and Authorsden, www.authorsden.com/clarelondon

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

Gladly!

At Dreamspinner Press (http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/) :

The Gold Warrior (novel)

Special Offer (short story in the Mr Right Now Anthology)
Ghost of Christmas yet to Come (Short story)

At Eternal Press (http://www.eternalpress.com.au/) :

Masquerade (anthology of my short stories)

Secret Santa (short story)

Just Like Scrooge (short story)

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

I want to excite them, to engage their emotions, to introduce them to my characters, to include them in the unfolding story, to make them laugh and love and lust - and want to read more!  ^__^

In conclusion:

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

I'd like them to know that I care a great deal about fiction and producing good quality, exciting work - but that I want it to be fun for both writer and reader, as well.  That I don't necessarily think plots and character have to be emotionally ‘black' or ‘white' - and that writing should reflect the complexity and mystery and contradiction of life, as well as its drama and romance.

I'd like them to find my work enjoyable and to feel it was good value, too.

Oh, and that I'm not as pretentious as I sometimes sound! *lol*

Thanks for the opportunity to chat!

 

 

 


Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EDT
Updated: Tuesday, 18 March 2008 2:14 AM EDT
Post Comment | Permalink
Monday, 17 March 2008
Getting to Know Madeline Urban
Topic: Author Interview
Madeline Urban the person:

1.      What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Educated. I've got two degrees and ten years of writing and editing experience... that's on top of a lifetime of working to get my imagination down on paper. Creative. I love reading, writing, imagining, music, art, crafts, graphic design ... the list goes on. Pragmatic. Although at odds with my flights of fancy, this is the me the outside world sees: Mature, responsible, level-headed, pragmatic. I have to find that balance!

2.  How do you think others would describe you?

Responsible. Imaginative. Skilled. Helpful. Supportive.

3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

Disney World!

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

Nikita is my baby girl. She's a black pug, and she'll be eight on June 1, 2008. She's actually small for a pug, not really pudgy at all at about 19 pounds. She's a lap pup, and just my speed. She snores when she breathes, even when awake, but I'm so used to it I can't sleep at night away from home when it's really quiet. Her favorite toy is a chew bone. Her favorite food is cheese. Magnum is his Dada's boy. He's a Boston terrier - a Viking terrier! - and he'll be eight years old on June 30, 2008. He is big for a Boston, 30 pounds, and all muscle! You should see him drag me around the court. He's all action, run and thud. His favorite toy is a tennis ball. His favorite food is broccoli.

5.  What is your most precious memory?

My husband coming home to me after he was injured in a truck accident.

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

When I was a kid, I went roller skating and split my pants - but I didn't know it and kept on skating!

7.      If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

I honestly have no clue. I've always been a writer. I guess I'd be working in a book store somewhere.

8.  In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

Madeleine Urban, 80, of Kentucky, died happy March 1, 2055, at the Challenger Resort at LunarDisney on Earth's moon after having far too much fun with life. Survivors include a highly supportive and still kicking husband, two immortal loving dogs, a semi-conservative family (they think Madeleine was secretly adopted), and a host of crazy-ass co-authors and friends. She was a longtime journalist (by accident), writer (from birth), and editor (because she was good it) who was published uncounted times in newspapers (for work), magazines (for education), short fiction anthologies (for luck), and novels (for God's sake, hasn't she been published enough after 50 years?), and she really could have cared less about being "professional."

She had also been a high school teacher (six months and never again, those people should be sainted), a convention organizer (science fiction and fantasy conventions rock!), a musician (it's in my blood), and an animal lover. There will be a proper Irish wake in four time zones, check Madeleine's Web site at http://madeleineurban.livejournal.com for details and directions. Expressions of sympathy may take the form of donations to the Earth Cancer Society or feedback at her blog. 

Madeline Urban the writer:

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

I'd been managing editor at a weekly newspaper for almost a year when the state press association awards came out. I'd been working my ass off at the paper to turn it around, and we entered all the categories. Not only did my paper win, but I won 17 awards, nine of which were for writing. You probably thought I was going to say when my first book was published, huh. No, not really. That was certainly satisfying, but I already knew I could write at that point. As for being a "real" fiction writer, the closest would be when I posted an odd little fan fiction story that mixed some genres and didn't have any sex in it. None. One kiss. I posted it, figuring maybe five people would read it. Instead, people went absolutely crazy. They read it, they recommended it to friends, they posted on blogs about it and people kept coming and reading and leaving me compliments and I about keel over in a heart attack. So I figure, after that, I'm not too shabby a fiction writer.

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

I'm actually editing more than writing right now. I've got two books in revisions for publication, and two more to consider to submit for publication. I'm still writing a little fan fiction, just to keep my hand in. I'm feeling the niggle, though. I'll be writing something new (and hopefully fabulous) any time now.

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

To enjoy it. It's great if it sells, and even greater if people enjoy it. But I want to enjoy writing it and expanding my imagination. The day it becomes work is the day I go back to fan fiction.

12.   Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

Wake up, shower, breakfast (read something for inspiration), e-mail, music, write. Lunch (read something for inspiration), e-mail, music, write. Dinner (read something for inspiration), e-mail, music, write. That's about it. No magic formula, no real routine. I just sit down and do it. I suppose I'm different in that I rarely plan out a story. It just doesn't work for me that way. Some of my co-authors will do that for us, but I generally just go along with what comes out of my head spur of the moment. That's how Abigail and I write our original fiction, we just get with an idea and start writing and see where it goes. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. But with a co-author I'm much more motivated to stay with it, and it's much more likely to be novel length. Once we get going we'll start planning, expanding, revising, etc. It's much harder for me alone. I work best if I find music to carry me along. It's critical for me. Ideas come mostly from music, but also from things I see and read around me. After a lifetime in sci fi and fantasy, I have a hell of an imagination. Usually I'll write straight from beginning to end. Only occasionally will I skip ahead and write a scene, usually if it's SO real in my head that I have to get it out before I can do anything else.

13.  Why do you write?

I guess you could say I'm driven to write. To keep my head cleaned out. So often, it's not me doing the writing, it's the character in my head, or the situation writing itself. I'm just the tool.

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

Besides dear, close friends who would barbecue me if I listed their names here, there's a lady I know by the name of Raven. She's incredibly creative, and I love to read her stories and be transported out of this world. I come away wanting to be creative. She's also a friend, and she's challenged me to write several times. It helps!

15.  How do you define your writing?

I don't. I can't. It's never the same twice, in my opinion. I guess erotic romance is the catch all.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

I was entertained.

Madeline Urban the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

My professional blog is at http://madeleineurban.livejournal.com . If you want to know about how I started writing and progressed to where I am now, you can read my fandomography, hosted at my personal blog: http://sileya.livejournal.com/119194.html.  I keep track of it because I want to know where I've come from, what I've done and not done, what I liked and didn't, basically, what made me what I am now, as an author.

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

mrs.madeleine.urban@gmail.com  or  madeleineurban@livejournal.com  or http://www.authorsden.com/madeleineurban  or even through my publisher, http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

 All available from http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com

Far From Home by Madeleine Urban

Caught Running by Madeleine Urban and Abigail Roux

Bittersweet by Madeleine Urban (short story) in Death Beyond Desire anthology

The Proposition by Madeleine Urban and Rhianne Aile (novella) in Mr. Right Now anthology

Short stories: Bargaining, Be My Valentine, How It Should Be, and Through the Garden (all with Rhianne Aile), and Room to Run, available for purchase and download at http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

Characters who are alive and real, despite fantasy settings. Emotional investment. Entertainment.

In conclusion:

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

Honestly, I don't write to make money. I don't write for other people. I write for myself, what appeals to me, what I find sexy, what I need to get out of my head. If other people read it and enjoy it, that's icing on the cake. Sure, I'm glad people like my writing. I'm very flattered, and I'm very humbled. But when it all comes down to the bottom line, I write because it's who I am. I write what I write because I enjoy it. I don't feel like there's a trick to it. It just is, and it can't be forced. I guess that makes me uneven as a writer, because I can't (and won't) consistently produce. I will never be a "professional" writer - a full-time writer. It just isn't in me. The muses don't work that way. For all of you who have muses - I hope you have better luck corralling yours than I do! It's always a challenge.


Posted by joyceanthony at 1:12 AM EDT
Post Comment | Permalink
Thursday, 13 March 2008
Getting to Know Randy Richardson
Topic: Author Interview
 Randy Richardson the person:

1.  What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

1)     Die-hard

2)     Cubs

3)     fan

2.   How do you think others would describe you?

1)     Delusional

2)     Obsessive

3)     Irrational

3.   Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

 See answer to Question 1 for a clue. Hint: It's not the White Sox, Mets or  Cardinals.

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

One Siamese cat, Camus (pronounced Cah-moo), named after the French existentialist, Albert Camus. Explanation: We had a Name the Cat Party and the winning name was Smelly Cat. Since we didn't want him to have a complex, we invalidated the first choice and went with the second, which was Camus.

5.  What is your most precious memory?
 

The evening of October 14, 1993, when the Cubs were five outs away from going to the World Series for the first time in my lifetime. There's a photo of me taken at that game and I look happier than I've ever looked before in a photo. That was immediately followed by my least precious memory, when an overzealous fan reached for a pop-up that Moises Alou never got the chance to catch.

In reality, the most precious memory was the morning of June 4, 2003, when my son, Tyler, made his entrance into my world.

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

When I piddled in my pants and onto the floor of Mrs. Schmidt's first grade classroom.

7.  If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

Hawking peanuts at Cubs games.
 

8.  In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

Wanted just one thing. Never got it. But just wait till next life. Go Cubs!

Randy Richardson the writer:

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

For the longest time, I denied that I was a writer. My father writes about agriculture and when I was a kid, he'd take me to his office and it looked like the most boring job in the world. I wanted to be anything other than what my father was, which probably explains how I ended up starting college in aviation school, learning how to be a pilot. That career never really got off the ground, however, and I stumbled my way into journalism. I first began to "really" write as a newspaper reporter but I didn't think of myself as a "real" writer until many years later when I was a lawyer and started staying up late tapping on the keyboards writing this novel that was in my head and kept knocking to get out.

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

I'm working on a second novel, which is a departure from my first. It's a tragic-comic coming-of-age road story about two teen-age boys whose friendship is tested after the suicide of one of their friends. They blow off high school graduation to go on a roadtrip in Southwest Wisconsin, and on that trip something happens that forever alters their lives.

I've also recently written an essay for the Lovable Losers Literary Revue (www.lovablelosersliteraryrevue.com), a series that celebrates/mourns the 100th anniversary of the Cubs' last World Series championship, and I continue to write essays about parenthood. 

11.  What are your future goals for your writing?

My only real goal for my writing is to keep getting better at it. Writing is a lot like life in general. It is always a challenge and is something that is nearly impossible to perfect, but that is what appeals to me about it.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

I'm afraid an honest answer here would put your readers to sleep. Like many writers, I'm a procrastinator and will find anything to do (rearranging the sock drawer, for instance) other than writing. I wrote a humor piece about this for Absolute Write. The link is: http://www.absolutewrite.com/fun/cork.htm

13.  Why do you write?

I honestly don't know the answer to this question. It's something that is in me and is always fighting to get out.

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

That's an easy one. Ernest Hemingway. He was, like me, a journalist, then a novelist. But no one I know of was able to say so much with so few words. He never wasted a word. 

15.  How do you define your writing?

 My writing def.: A long, winding road to get to one place.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

His writing made me laugh, it made me cry, it made me think.

Randy Richardson the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

www.lostintheivy.com

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

 There's an email contact through my website. I'd love to hear from anyone who'd like to discuss more about writing or the Cubs.

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

 "Lost in the Ivy," a murder mystery set against the backdrop of Wrigley Field, is my only book and it is available through all major online retailers or by requesting  it from your local bookstore.

I've also got two essays in the upcoming "Chicken Soup for the Father and Son Soul," as well as an essay in "Humor for the Boomer's Heart," due out in October.

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

They'll find a lot of me in my books and essays, which I guess means that they'll  find a little bit of humor and a lot of hope and heart.

In conclusion:

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

 In addition to being a husband, a father, a lawyer, a journalist, and an author, I am  the president of the Chicago Writers Association (www.chicagowrites.org ), a voluntary, not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting the 4 C's of writing: creativity, commerce, craft, and community. CWA strives to:

  • Foster a visible, supportive writing community.
  • Provide genuine, constructive feedback and access to resources.
  • Assist writers at all levels achieve their writing goals.
  • Build a bridge to unite all facets of Chicago's diverse literary culture.
  • Promote Chicago as a place of literary distinction.

  I invite all writers to check out our website and see what we're all about.


Posted by joyceanthony at 12:58 AM EDT
Post Comment | Permalink
Wednesday, 12 March 2008
Getting to Know Lee Barwood
Topic: Author Interview
Lee Barwood the person:

1.  What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

Animal lover (I know that's two words), musician, environmentalist. And of course they're all related, in my mind.

2. How do you think others would describe you?
 

Very enthusiastic about things I believe in - maybe passionate is a better word - and always ready to try something new. Determined. Probably a little over the top about animals. And imaginative.

3.  Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

Animals, definitely, The condition of the earth. Music (I'm a hospital-certified harp practitioner, and play harp in hospitals, hospices, and nursing homes; I'm a big advocate of the power of music, and sound, to heal).

4.  Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

Currently I don't, I'm very sad to say. My half-Pomeranian, half-Poodle, Tribble, went to the Bridge in 2006 (she was 17), and I've been pretty lost without her, especially since she was the last of a canine family of five - all foundlings and strays - that my late husband and I brought home over the years. So far I haven't brought anybody else home yet. But I'm planning on adopting a rescue dog very soon - it's time. The house is really too quiet without at least one furry companion in it.

5.  What is your most precious memory?

Probably when my late husband and I picked up one more addition to our canine family from the vet. We'd found E.T., a Shih Tzu, after he'd been hit by a van, and we took him to the emergency vet clinic and then to an orthopedic surgeon when our own vet said his injuries were beyond his capabilities. E.T.'s original owners never turned up, so he became ours by default. This was a dog who didn't really know us, except that we'd taken him in when he was hurt, and he spent the next several days in various veterinary hospitals getting x-rays and being treated, then finally having surgery to get his leg wired and pinned back together. When my husband and I went to pick him up and bring him home, he was still groggy from the anesthetic - but he took one look at us and wagged his tail. He knew who we were, and he was glad to see us. Then he promptly fell asleep in my arms on the ride home.

6.  What is your most embarrassing memory?

The time my late husband had to have outpatient laser eye surgery in the hospital. I was there to drive him home, and I was so worried about him that when he came out after the surgery, with some kind of medicated cream smeared around his eye, I fainted - first and only time in my life. They wouldn't let us leave till they'd checked me out. Now that was embarrassing!

7.      If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

Working full-time with animals.
 

8.      In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

She made a difference for animals, told great stories, and made beautiful music!

Lee Barwood the writer:

9.  Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

I started writing stories in grade school, but even though I'd been publishing short stories and poetry since the late 1970s, I don't think it hit me till I was asked to volunteer for a local project. The group asked me what I did, and I told them I was a writer (I said it, even if I didn't believe it all the way down deep inside), and they said immediately, "Oh, you can do that in your spare time. You need to help us out." My immediate response was, "No, helping you is what I might do in my spare time." And from that point on I took myself a lot more seriously, because I realized how much I had published and how hard it had been to get that far.

10.  What is going on with your writing these days?

I'm working on lots of different projects: a new novel, a nonfiction book, several short stories - I don't seem to be able to work on only one thing at a time. But that's what keeps life interesting for me.

So far this year two books have come out with my work in them: Deron Douglas' Dragons & Demons, Oh My! which is a collection of his cover art - he's the publisher at Double Dragon Publishing - and for which I wrote the introduction; and Marilyn Peake's Inside Scoop, which contains my essay on ecofiction, as well as a bit about my latest book, Klassic Koalas: Ancient Aboriginal Tales in New Retellings, from Koala Jo Publishing.

This book is a collection of Australian Aboriginal stories, mostly about the koala, and besides being fascinating "how they got that way" tales, they offer a look at a side of the koala that most people don't suspect exists: their power. The Aboriginal people believe that the cute and cuddly koala is actually very powerful, almost a shamanic figure, because he has the power to sing the trees into growing and the rain into stopping. There's also a story that tells how he brought seeds down from the heavens with a mighty throw of his boomerang - the strength of the koala's arms is legendary - and another in which the koala is the only creature that doesn't fear the bunyip, a very frightening although perhaps mythical creature that men were very much afraid of.

The wonderful thing about Klassic Koalas: Ancient Aboriginal Tales in New Retellings is that it has a purpose. All royalties from the book go to the Australian Wildlife Hospital, which is a major project of the late Steve Irwin's Wildlife Warriors. The Hospital started out as a small avocado processing shack, and was transformed into a wildlife hospital in 2004, in memory of Irwin's mother Lyn, who was a wildlife carer. It treats so many indigenous animals, not just koalas, that it hopelessly outgrew its facility, and last year they broke ground for a new environmentally friendly building and outdoor rehabilitation area. It should be finished later in March, and I've been working very hard to sell books and gift items made with the artwork from the book to raise funds for them.

The artwork, by the way, is very bright and colorful - really wonderful, extraordinary eye-catching stuff - and was done partly by the woman who founded Koala Jo, Joanne Ehrich, who is an artist, and partly by a group of children who were fans of Irwin and wanted to do something meaningful in his memory. There's a whole line of gift items, everything from sweatshirts and tees to coffee mugs, clocks, and keepsake boxes, with illustrations from the book - and all the royalties from these go to the Hospital as well. We've raised quite a bit of money so far, and I'm very proud of that, but we're just getting started.

11. What are your future goals for your writing?

More novels, a paranormal mystery series, and who knows? Maybe a movie.

12.  Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

I try to start very early in the morning, so that I have something constructive done before I head off to the day job - otherwise, at night, sometimes I'm too tired to come up with something good. If, on the other hand, I've gotten the day off to a good start, it tends to energize me and give me the enthusiasm to keep working. On days that I'm home (=weekends), I work most of the day. If a story is going well, it's hard to stop.

At work, BTW, I write too - I'm a technical writer and financial journalist (under my mundane name). So I'm constantly using those brain cells!

13.  Why do you write?

Because I have to, I think. Seriously, I have all these stories just brimming over, and wish that I had more time to set them all down and figure them all out. Sometimes it's hard, when I don't have everything plotted out, but other times there's just such a feeling of satisfaction in resolving a plot point that I can't wait to do it again.

14.  What writer most inspires you?  Why?

There are a lot of them, but the top two would have to be Andre Norton and J. K. Rowling. Andre broke ground for a lot of women writers by writing great science fiction and fantasy, on a regular basis, for many years; her books had strong women as heroines, and people with otherworldly talents, and animals who mattered to the people around them. Her books were, and are, wonderful, and they inspired me no end. And on a more personal level, some time back she instituted an award called the Gryphon, and I screwed up my courage and submitted manuscripts two years running. The first year I was the runner-up, and the second year I won - and she couldn't have been kinder or more supportive. I am very grateful for having known her. It means so much when someone of her stature believes in you and tells you so, and does her best to help - she was a wonderful woman.

And J. K. Rowling inspires me because she had this tremendous vision, and she was in a very difficult place personally, but she didn't let that stop her from bringing Harry Potter and the entire Hogwarts universe to life. Her books are full of decency and fair play and courage, and she's encouraged kids all over the world to read - how  much better than that can it get?

15.  How do you define your writing?

Hard to categorize. I love fantasy, horror, and the supernatural, but I also love mystery and adventure. My novel A Dream of Drowned Hollow is an environmental suspense/thriller, but it also has elements of fantasy in it - or paranormal, as the market terms some of what I've used - and yet it all fits together. It's gotten some great reviews, but it's hard to say that it's one thing or another. Many of my short stories are crossovers, too, and the novel I'm working on now is a paranormal mystery. Plus there are others in the wings that I'm working on from time to time that don't fit tidily into one category or another.

16.  In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

That it's still read and remembered. That it's stood the test of time and is still rewarding.

Lee Barwood the details:

17.  Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

My website is http://www.leebarwood.com/, and I blog at MySpace; my page is www.myspace.com/leebarwood.

18.  Is there a place where readers can reach you?

They can e-mail me through my website or at lee@leebarwood.com.

19.  Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

Novels (readers who would like autographed copies can e-mail me about it):
A Dream of Drowned Hollow, available in paperback and e-book
Klassic Koalas: Ancient Aboriginal Tales in New Retellings, also available in paperback and as an e-book

Short stories:
"The Minstrel," available in Illuminated Manuscripts
"Cold Comfort," available in
Futures Mystery Anthology Magazine
"Grow Old Along with Me," available in Catfantastic V
"A Woman of Her Word," available in Catfantastic III
"Pyre," available in
Sisters in Fantasy II
"The Rat's Alley Shuffle," with Charles de Lint, available in A Handful of Coppers

There are more, but they're OOP and pretty hard to track down these days.

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?
      

To be surprised. To be introduced to wonder in places where they least expect it. To see other points of view. And to see animals - and situations - in a new way.

In conclusion:

21.  Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

I tell stories, first and foremost. I like magic in my reading, so I do my best to put it into my writing as well - to take the reader outside of the everyday world to a place where wonder is everywhere and anything is possible. In mysteries, I love a good puzzle and do my best to make the ones in my novels as satisfying as the ones I read in others' books.

But I also like to introduce my readers to ideas and concepts that they may not have encountered before - to take them places they haven't been, acquaint them with people whose beliefs they might not understand, and show them that animals - and situations - are more than they might seem. We're all more than the sum of our parts, and I hope that's true of my writing as well. There's magic in everything and everyone; the trick is finding it, and that's what I try to do with everything I write.


Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EDT
Updated: Wednesday, 12 March 2008 1:13 AM EDT
Post Comment | Permalink
Tuesday, 11 March 2008
Getting to Know Anne K. Edwards
Topic: Author Interview
Anne K. Edwards the person:

1.   What three words do you think describe you as a human being?

author, worrier, introvert

2.   How do you think others would describe you?

nag, nitpicker, (as applied to their writing) and friend

3.   Please tell us what you are most passionate about outside of writing.

Home, husband, pets, friends, reading and sharing information with other online authors.

4.   Do you have any pets?  If so, introduce us to them.

A few old horses and several cats who run the show.  I am allowed a little free time when they are sleeping so that I can write. Sometimes three cats want held at the same time or petted at the same time. Sometimes they decide that I ought to be up at 3:30 in the morning in case they want or need something.

5.   What is your most precious memory?

Meeting my husband.

6.   What is your most embarrassing memory?

Having a nasty home economics teacher yell at me in front of other girls for something that wasn't my fault in the seventh grade. (I have a looong memory.)

7.   If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing with your life?

What I do a lot anyhow--cleaning up cathair and spilled cat food. Seriously, I'd probably read more.

8.   In two paragraphs or less write your obituary.

The writer, Anne K. Edwards passed away when her imagination suddenly dried up and her muse departed for other shores. Anne leaves behind several unfinished works and cats who will shortly be demanding custody of the can opener. 

Anne is survived by her daughter, Hannah Clare--P.I. who starred in Death on Delivery, a son -- Jeremy Kunkle, a son -- Elvis the dragon, and others.  Her last wish is that they continue to provide readers with enjoyment.

 Anne K. Edwards the Writer

9.   Can you describe the time you realized you were indeed a "real" writer?

When Lida Quillen of Twilight Times Books gave me a contract for Death on Delivery. Until then, I wasn't sure I could write.

10. What is going on with your writing these days?

I am currently trying to get some notice for my latest ebook The Last to Fall written as a warning.  It has gotten some wonderful comments and reviews. I want to get my schedule organized so I can get Voice in the Dark Zine out sooner, finish three projects in the works so I can do 2 more that I really want to write and follow other interesting ideas around to see where they go.

11. What are your future goals for your writing?

I don't set goals like I'm going to get an agent and publish the great American novel.  That is very unrealistic, but I do plan to keep writing and hope the stories find favor with readers.  The truth is, I am very happy with the publisher who has been very kind to me and hope the relationship continues.

12. Can you describe a typical writing day for you?

Good question.  I don't adhere to a writing schedule. I try to write a bit each day, bu having critters means they must come first  and there always are those interruptios I can't control.  In every day I usually read for review, write reviews, work on promo/marketing, write or edit, email friends or other writers. 

13. Why do you write?

I write because I must.  It's like having a little voice nagging in your ear.  You can hear it, but nobody else can.  It tells you what to write and you must obey.  If you ignore the voice you become restless, grouchy and feel unfulfilled.

14. What writer most inspires you?  Why?

I don't know if any one writer inspires me.  It's more like they all do.  I love the written word and find a satisfaction in the wide variety of authors out there with books for me to read.  I read old biographies and history, some anthropological books, a lot of good fiction in most genres and I think the exposure makes me want to write too.  I read to be entertained first.  I have always loved being told stories and I love to meet characters that step right off the page and say "welcome to my world". Tho writers who can create this type of world are the ones who influence me the most because I want to write as well as they do.

15. How do you define your writing?

I'm not sure I can.  I write in a start-stop fashion, and a variety.  I have a fantasy started (no, not a romance), a paranormal mystery, two kids books, another Hannah Clare mystery set in the area where I live, and whatever else strikes my fancy.  I guess the way to describes it is -- an idea comes down the road and I follow it to see where its going.  I'm often surprised at the destination.

16. In one sentence-what do you want people to say about your writing in fifty years?

That's easy.  Anne K. Edwards wrote stories we can still enjoy.

Anne K. Edwards the details:

17. Can you tell us where to find more information on you? Website?  Blog?

There's not a lot of information about Anne K. Edwards on the net. Her bio is available on her publisher's website with any of the books published there.  http://www.twilighttimesbooks.com   She has a website that promotes online writers of good books and a zine. She has a page at http://www.BooksWeLove.com also. Anne's not one to tell about her private life and believes her works are what is most important.

18. Is there a place where readers can reach you?

http://www.Mysteryfiction.net if they want to subscribe to Voice in the Dark or AnneKEdwards@gmail.com  for general questions, but questions for information considered too personal will not be answered.

19. Can you list all your book titles so people can look for them?

Death On Delivery  the first Hannah Clare mystery in print or ebook published by http://www.Twilighttimesbooks.com, Amazon, Fictionwise.com

Jeremy and the Dragon in ebook form only at the moment http://www.twilighttimesbooks.com   ebook

The Last to Fall in ebook form only at the moment  http://www.twilighttimesbooks.com   ebook

The Slippery Art of Book Reviewing (by Mayra Calvani and Anne K. Edwards) due out in June at http://www.twilighttimesbooks.com  

20.  For new readers-what can they expect when they read your book(s)?

In Jeremy and the Dragon, they'd find a story about a child learning he can do things and think for himself to overcome obstacles. 

In Death on Delivery the reader would find a variety of characters written for realism, lots of bodies, but no gory scenes or sex.  I write for the story as lived by the characters  who are meant to be as live as I can make them.  I try to run the gamut of emotions and have a character who has done a wrong or is planning a wrong try to rationalize it as we would so that it doesn't seem wrong -- sort of it's someone else's fault...  I don't hide my killer(s) from readers.  One book starts with a murder and you see the killer.  I try to write as if it were real life, justice does not always prevail in some instances.

In The Last To Fall, a reader would encounter what our world could look like an a few generations if an effort isn't made to correct problems now in economic and political arenas.  On one end of the scale are three teens seeking safe haven and on the other end is a power mad leader and his henchmen. 

In conclusion:

21. Take as much space as necessary to speak to our readers-what would you like them to know about you and your writing?

When I write, I live in another place. I go adventuring to meet new people.  It's the same as reading a book, you open the cover and step into that world.  There's a sort of rule for writers, 'you must tell the reader. They only know what you give them in a story'. But I think that's too simple. A good book is often a guide and the reader brings their own imagination into play and unconsciously adds to the story. Words and ideas are subject to interpretation and each reader brings their own life experience into the reading of a book so each may have a different adventure in that story.  So I know different readers due to their own knowledge will take something different from my writing. 

I write for New Mystery Reader, an online zine, sometimes and I have a series of short stories--Death and the Detective where Death is a humorless character who encounters weird problems sometimes when he goes to collect a soul and must turn to the very unwilling detective for help.  I enjoy writing them as a sort of challenge as in what if Death couldn't find someone?

I love complicated plots for reading and writing them.  Life is complicated and I dearly love to know the 'why' of something a character does and I want that character to let me see how he/she thinks.  My own have surprised me many times and I hope they surprise the reader too.  Writing or reading should always be a new adventure.


Posted by joyceanthony at 12:01 AM EDT
Updated: Tuesday, 11 March 2008 2:44 AM EDT
Post Comment | Permalink

Newer | Latest | Older