Author Hannah Fielding

Hi all!
Please help me welcome Author Hannah Fielding to my blog today!

What is your name? Do you use a pen name (if so, why?)?

I use the pen name Hannah Fielding. The ‘Hannah’ is a tribute to my father, who always encouraged me to write, who told me that one day I would be a published author, but who passed away before he could see my dream come true. His name was Hanna – I just added the h at the end. I prefer to use a pen name because my given name is Egyptian and is less easy to pronounce.

Tell me a bit about yourself.

I was born in Alexandria, Egypt, a city founded in the year 332 BC by order of Alexander the Great, a Greek king of Macedonia. The rambling house I grew up in was built on a hill facing the Mediterranean, commanding the most breathtaking views of the ever-changing sea, with its glowing sunsets and romantic moonlit nights overlooking a scintillating ocean.

I went to a convent school, and after I graduated with a BA in French literature, my international nomadic years started. I lived mainly in Switzerland, France and England, and holidayed in other Mediterranean countries like Italy, Greece and Spain. I met Nicholas, my husband, in London at a drinks party: it was love at first sight, just like in the romance books that were my constant companions. We settled in a Georgian house in Kent where I brought up two children, Christian and Alexandra, while looking after horses and dogs and running my own business renovating rundown cottages.

My children have now flown the nest and my husband and I spend half our time in our Georgian rectory in Kent and the rest in our home in the South of France, which overlooks the Mediterranean.

What type of genre do you write?

I am romantic, passionate and imaginative, therefore I write romantic novels, set in the wonderful locations that I’ve visited around the world. I choose a period that falls between the ’50s and the ’90s, which is slightly out of the normal categorisation. This posed a dilemma for Omnific Publishing when publishing my debut novel, Burning Embers. In the end, we settled upon contemporary historical romance as the genre.

What genre do you personally read?

I read almost anything; but I mostly read romantic novels (the thicker, the better). I also enjoy reading mystery books, psychological thrillers, books about customs and traditions in various countries, books of quotation and dictionaries.

Tell me about your latest book.

Burning Embers is a contemporary historical romance novel set in Kenya in 1970. It depicts the developing attraction and love between a young and naive woman, Coral, who has come home to Africa, the land of her birth, and Rafe, a handsome, virile, commanding plantation and nightclub owner who carries a dark secret heavy in his heart.

It is an evocative and passionate story of coming of age, of letting go of the past, of having faith in a person and of overcoming obstacles to love, set against the vivid and colourful backdrop of rural Africa and its culture.

What sparked your passion for books and the art of a good story? 

Stories and writing have always been part of my life. My father was a great raconteur and my governess used to tell the most fabulous fairy stories – I could listen to them for hours. When I was seven she and I came to an agreement: for every story she’d tell me I would invent one in return. That is how my passion for storytelling began.

At school I consistently received first prize for my essays and my teachers often read them aloud in class. As a teenager I used to write short romantic stories during lessons and circulate them in class, which made me very popular with my peers (but less so with the nuns!). In addition, since a young age I have kept some sort of a diary where I note my feelings, ideas and things that take my fancy (or not).

My grandmother was a published author of poetry and my father published a book about the history of our family, so writing runs in my veins. I guess I always knew that one day I would follow in those footsteps and forge my own path in that field – a subconscious dream which finally came true.

Is there a particular book that changed or affected your life in a big way? 

As I have said above, people more than books have influenced my life. Still, I think that my French education had a large influence on my style. My style is descriptive because that is what my French education gave me and that is what I like most to read. I am careful to use the right word and I am always looking for the nuance that will best describe what I am trying to put across. This is largely due to the rigorous training of my French education. The nuns at my school, and later my teachers at university, were very strict about style.

Is there a message in your book that you want readers to grasp?

Yes. First of all, don’t listen to malicious gossip; instead listen to your heart and be your own judge. Secondly, let go of the past and look to the future; there is always a new dawn offering opportunities which might pass you by if you are not looking.

  

Do you see yourself in any of your characters?

All of the main female characters I write have a little of me in them. I think you write best when you write about what you know. In Burning Embers, Coral is very naive, and this element was based on my own naivety as a young woman. I was very protected as a child growing up in Egypt, and the big, wide world was something of a surprise to me when, in my early twenties, I began travelling!

Do you feel like your dream has come true or is there much more to do?

There is always more to do. Still, I feel that I am on the right track… Now, I just need to follow my star.

What does your workspace look like?

In my home in Kent I write in a wood-panelled room, surrounded by books – we call it the library. In France I write looking over the most fabulous Mediterranean view from a large picture window. I really can’t complain.

Who is your author idol?

My real idols are the French classic romantic authors of the 19th century that I grew up with. I devoured their books during my teens and still re-read my favourite stories and poems. Victor Hugo, Theophile Gautier, Balzac, Stendhal, Chateaubriand and Leconte de Lisle, to name just a few.

(I'll have to check them out!)

I enjoy reading many modern authors, but maybe the one closest to my heart is M.M. Kaye, author of The Far Pavilions and The Shadow of the Moon. Why? Because her fabulous descriptions transport you to a time and a place as if you are there and then. If you have not read her books, I do recommend them… pure escapism… pure romance. See http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1040250.M_M_Kaye.

Have you ever had a day when you just wanted to quit?

I don’t much enjoy the process of editing and sometimes that gets me down.

What do you do when you’re not writing?

I have many hobbies. Reading is my favourite; I am an avid reader. But I also love cooking and have an extensive selection of cookery books from all over the world with which I love to experiment. In particular, I like using home-grown ingredients. I entertain family and friends; hosting dinner parties is a lot of work but immensely rewarding. Once a month I have a Discover a Country’s Cuisine Night for family or friends, when I cook a three-course meal featuring the specialty of a given country.

When I have the time I indulge in antiquing, rummaging in markets and bric-a-brac shops. I travel whenever possible, and wherever I am I take nature walks; I especially love to walk along the beach, as I grew up by the Mediterranean and the ocean feels like home to me. I travel not only to research my books but also because I love to meet new people; and of course I entertain both in my home in Kent and my house in Ste Maxime on the south coast of France.

What are the most important attributes to remaining sane as a writer?

Tenacity, faith and a good dose of sense. You need to continue to write whether you think your work is good or bad. There is no bad writing. There are good days and bad days. The more you write, the better at it you get.

Did you have a moment when you realized you were meant to be a writer?

Writing is in my blood; it was always going to happen. The question was when, never if.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

·       First and foremost, write from the heart. Be true to yourself and don’t compromise to please the market. Markets change, fads come and go; your work will remain.

·       Research your facts thoroughly. A writer today has no excuse for not getting his/her facts right. Use all the tools available to you. Travel, internet, books, films, documentaries: they’re all there to enrich your experience and make your writing journey easier.

·       Plan your novel down to the smallest detail. This will make your writing so much easier and therefore so much more enjoyable. A plan is your map. Would you set out on a long journey by car without a map?

·       Read, reread and reread. Edit, edit, edit. Go through your manuscript again and again and edit it. I know that it will break your heart to delete a phrase or even one word you have spent time agonising on, but sometimes less is better than more. Not easy advice to follow, but in the long run it does work. If you can leave the manuscript alone for a few weeks and revisit it at a later date, reading it as if it were someone else’s, then that’s even better.

After this book, what is next?

I have written a number of books and I have been travelling extensively, searching for new pastures in which to set my future novels.

I have written a passionate, fiery trilogy set in Andalucia, Spain, spanning three generations of a Spanish/English family, from 1950 to the present day.

I have also just finished writing a touching, deeply romantic novel that takes place in Venice and in Tuscany, Italy in 1979/1980. It opens with the Venice Carnival that has returned after a cessation of almost two centuries.

I still have many books in me. I am now in the process of researching my next historical romance trilogy, which is set in Egypt and will take my readers from 1945 to the present day.

I so enjoy researching these books (what better excuse to visit Venice), and they are in the pipeline for publication in due course. I very much enjoy the publishing process and hearing from readers of my books. But for me, being a writer is not about publishing. It is simply about writing – writing from the heart the books that I most want to read. As the great American writer Toni Morrison said, ‘If there’s a book you want to read and it hasn’t been written yet, then you must write it.’

Website and blog?

I am always happy to hear from my readers. You can find me on:

Website: www.hannahfielding.net

Twitter: @fieldinghannah 

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/fieldinghannah

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5333898.Hannah_Fielding

e-mail: fieldinghannah@yahoo.co.uk

Where can your book be found?

Burning Embers can be found online in paperback and ebook formats at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, Foyles and WH Smith, and it is available in good book shops.

Please help me thank Hannah for joining us today! She's given me a great insight to new authors. Hope you check out her websites and book!

Keep Writing!

Jodie Pierce

Author Stephanie Jackson

Hi all!

Please help me welcome author Stephanie Jackson to my blog today!

My name is Stephanie Jackson; I prefer to go by Steph. I'm the youngest in a set of quadruplets and I also have two older brothers (they are not twins). My sisters and I have written and published our debut novel, the first of a four-part series, entitled Two Pair: A Quadruple or Nothing Story in September a few days before we turned 20.

I then ventured off and published my own book, the first in a three book series entitled Lasso Me A Mom - A Bluebonnet Novel in late September a few days after I turned 20. So I'm probably one of the only people who can say they published a book when they were 19 and 20.

Here’s my interview with her:

What is your name? Do you use a pen name (if so, why?)?

Stephanie Jackson and I don’t use a pen name because I’ve always wanted to see my name on a book cover and on a book i can hold in my hands.

Tell me a bit about yourself:

My name is Stephanie Jackson, I prefer to go by Steph. I'm the youngest of a set of quadruplets and also have two older brothers. My sisters and I have written and published our debut novel, the first of a four-part series, entitled Two Pair: A Quadruple or Nothing Story in September a few days before we turned 20.

I then ventured off and published my own book, the first in a three book series entitled Lasso Me A Mom - A Bluebonnet Novel in late September a few days after I turned 20. So I'm probably one of the only people who can say they published a book when they were 19 and 20.

It was always a dream of mine to be published and now that I can say that it's happened, it's just one thing to cross off my life bucket list.

What type of genre do you write?

Young Adult, Contemporary Fiction, General Fiction

What genre to you personally read?

Young Adult, fiction, and fantasy but the fantasy books have to have a good hook, plot, or bring something new to the table, unlike all of these recent zombie and vampire books.

Tell me about your latest?

This book, Lasso Me a Mom, is about Nicoletta 'Nikki' Turner and Cassandra 'Cassie McGregor' in the fictional city of Sterling, Texas. Nikki is a junior in high school, a star dancer, and is dating the most popular guy in school. However, from past experiences she has trouble trusting people and doesn't smile that often. Her English teacher is Cassie McGregor and the two don't get along at all. No one is really sure why but they have been butting heads since they met when Nikki was a freshmen.

When it is revealed that Nikki is homeless and in the foster care system, Cassie, who is a certified foster mother, is chosen to be her temporary guardian, an agreement they both object from the start. As their animosity begins to deplete, Nikki and Cassie realize that what they've always wanted just might bring them closer.

The story for Lasso Me a Mom came to me from a dream. In the dream, Lasso Me a Mom was a movie and I was watching it in theaters. Nancy McKeon, my favorite actress, played one of the two leads Cassie McGregor. She became my inspiration/template for the character Cassie. After I woke up from that dream, I knew i had a great story to tell and I got to writing the same morning. Originally the title of this book was going to be called 'Cassie and Nikki' but I felt that it was too plain and too simple.

I asked my sisters for their input and one of them suggest Lasso Me a Mom as the title because the book is set in a ranching town. I immediately decided to use it and when i told friends the title they loved it. It's all thanks to them that I came up with a great title. I had to research a lot of things for this book, mainly emancipation and foster care laws/rules/guidelines in the state of Texas because that's where the book takes place.

What sparked your passion for books and the art of a good story?

My 6^th grade English teacher. She always told me that I have a flair for creative stories. It just grew from there.

Is there a particular book that changed or affected your life in a big way?

No, not really. I’m still looking for it.

Is there a message in your book that you want readers to grasp?

Yes, my book is about family, self-sacrifice, and acceptance. I want my readers to understand that somewhere out there, someone will accept you for who you are and what’s in your heart.

What challenges have you faced in your writing career?

Not much, yet. I’m waiting for it. I guess when i first tried to send my books to publishers. They say it’s good but not quite there. What exactly are they looking for? They’re never specific.

What has been your best moment as a writer?

When I get a review on Amazon saying I made a reader cry.

Who is your author idol?

Denise Hunter and Colleen Coble. And JK Rowling of course.

Do you see yourself in any of your characters?

Yes; Nikki is a lot like me in my wit and sarcastic humor.

Do you feel like your dream has come true or is there much more to do?

I feel like part of my dream has come true. My ultimate dream is to be on the NY Bestseller list.

What does your workspace look like?

I type on my computer, so my workspace is where every my computer is. But usually, I’m sitting on my bed or on a couch.

Have you ever had a day when you just wanted to quit?

No, never.

What do you do when you’re not writing?

I do a lot of stuff. I read, draw, play videos games, juggle, make plushies, play the piano, watch movies, etc.

What are the most important attributes to remaining sane as a writer?

Take breaks. Take many breaks.

Did you have a moment when you realized you were meant to be a writer?

After I was told that my story made readers cry and that its very heartfelt.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

If writing is your dream, then go for. Don’t let anyone stop you, even if that means you take the self-publishing route. I did, and I loved every minute of it.

After this book, what is next?

The sequel. I’ve already started working on it. It’s entitled: The Reined Groom. Then after that will be the final book in the Bluebonnet series along with a novella.

When I’m finished with the Bluebonnet series I’ll start work on a stand alone book.

Your website?

https://www.facebook.com/jsisters4

Your blog?

http://treblesteph4.wordpress.com/

Other websites?

http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6560806.Stephanie_Jackson

Where can your book be found?

http://www.amazon.com/Lasso-Me-Mom-Bluebonnet-ebook/dp/B009HX2R9I/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1348847208&sr=8-1&keywords=lasso+me+a+mom

Please help me thank Stephanie for joining us today! Check out her website and new book!

Keep Writing!

Jodie Pierce

The Vampire Queen Trilogy

Author Teodora Kostova

Hi all!
Please help me welcome Author Teodora Kostova to my blog today! She's a great person and wonderful author. Check her out!

Here is my interview with her:

Tell me a bit about yourself:

My name’s Teodora and I live in London with my husband and my son. I’m the author of the Humanless trilogy, the first two books Humanless and Unfree are out now.

What type of genre do you write?

My first 2 books Humanless and Unfree are YA Paranormal romance. There will be a third book soon, concluding the series. My next project is going to be a bit more mature, New Adult contemporary series.

What genre to you personally read?

I can honestly read anything, it depends on the mood I’m in. But my favourites are contemporary and paranormal YA as well as more mature fantasy.

Tell me about your latest?

My latest release is the sequel to my debut novel Humanless. It’s called Unfree and the story picks up right where the first book finished.

Where is your book available?

Humanless is available in every online bookstore – Amazon, Smashwords, iTines, B&N, Kobo – you name it. At the moment, Unfree is available on all Amazon sites and Smashwords, but we’re working on getting it everywhere else soon.

Where you live and one thing you love about it.

I live in London. I have to pick just one thing? That’s very hard because London is one of the most amazing cities in the world. If I have to pick one it would be the atmosphere. I can’t tell you about it, you just have to feel it for yourself, but I can assure you it’s magical.

Website:

www.teodorakostova.blogspot.com

www.facebook.com/teodorakostovaauthor

What sparked your passion for books and the art of a good story?

I’ve always loved reading, I’m not sure if there’s this one ‘spark’ that made me fall in love with books. I can’t imagine not reading, it’s a way of life, I guess. As for writing, I have those stories, scenes, dialogues and people in my head all the time. It drives me mad, so the only thing that helps is giving them their own space on a sheet of paper, instead of in my head. They’re happy, I’m happy and we live happily ever after. I’ve never once sat down and thought, what happens now? How do I continue this story? It’s always there, somewhere, and I just write it down. It kind of feels like I’m not the one coming up with the story; like the story comes to me and I just have to sit down and write it.

Is there a particular book that changed or affected your life in a big way?

Every book I read affects me. It’s how it’s supposed to be. Whether we realise it or not, the moment we finish reading a book we’re just a little bit different than when we started. Kind of like importing new files in our computers – you don’t use all of them all the time, but when you need them they’re there and it make all the difference.

What was the seed of inspiration for your latest book?

My latest book is a sequel so it kind of continues a story I’m not done telling yet. The seed of inspiration for the whole three-book story was a single scene that played in my head for months until I gave up and sat down to write it. It was just about two people, no mythology, no sign of where this was going. By the time I was finished writing hat particular scene, I had most of the story in my head and it just needed to get out.

Is there a message in your book that you want readers to grasp?

There’s always a message, but I try not to push it on readers. Everyone should be free to draw their own conclusions. I’d like people to grasp that you can take something as well-known as Greek mythology and bend it to your own will until it’s shaped like something you need. I love messing up all the myths and making people question everything.

What challenges have you faced in your writing career?

My biggest challenge is discipline. It’s very easy to procrastinate when you’re your own boss. Another challenge is letting go of the finished book. That’s when doubt and anxiety hit you on the face like a giant snowball.

What has been your best moment as a writer?

When readers contact me to tell me how much they’ve enjoyed my books. It’s nothing to do with ego – it’s all about the fact that I’ve touched someone in some way, even just for the duration of a book.

Who is your author idol?

There are so many! I’m in awe with all indie writers who through great books and very hard work managed to make a name and career for themselves. I simply adore Colleen Hoover, M. Leighton, Samantha Young, Tamara Webber, Jamie McGuire, Jessica Sorensen to name a few. I also love all of Cassandra Clare’s books, as well as Maggie Stiefvater’s. My biggest author crush however has to be J.R.Ward. I’m completely obsessed with her Black Dagger Brotherhood series.

Do you see yourself in any of your characters?

I think every author puts a piece of themselves in every character. There’s no other way. We authors have this weird, undiagnosed split personality disorder. How are we supposed to think, speak and see the world through someone else’s eyes otherwise?

Do you feel like your dream has come true or is there much more to do?

I have so many dreams that the moment one comes true, it’s right over to the next. I’ll always have more dreams to fulfil. I don’t ever see myself thinking, ‘Oh, right, no more dreaming, I’m finished with all that.’ Without dreams we have nothing.

What is your personal cure for procrastination?

I haven’t found it yet, but when I do I’ll bottle it up, sell it and become a billionaire overnight!

What does your workspace look like?

I write in my spare room. It’s small and cosy, with a huge floor to ceiling bookcase on one wall and several cork boards with ideas and inspirations pinned on them on the opposite wall. I have a black glass desk with a laptop on it and a comfy chair, and that’s about it.

Have you ever had a day when you just wanted to quit?

Oh, god, yes. Many, many days. I can’t help it, though. I need to write and that’s what always kicks my butt back in front of my laptop.

What do you do when you’re not writing?

Mostly, I read. I also spend time with my son and my husband, go to the gym, meet friends, watch TV, cook.

What are the most important attributes to remaining sane as a writer?

For me personally, is getting the stories out of my head and onto the piece of paper. That way I stay sane as a person, ergo sane as a writer. Another thing is, I try not to take negative comments about my work and myself to heart. Everyone is entitled to their opinion of course, I’m far from thinking that every single person who reads my books will like them. And that’s completely OK. As long as I’m confident in my work and I’m proud of it, nothing else matters, to quote Metallica.

What was the greatest thing you learned at school?

To question everything, even if it comes from a person of authority. I got in a lot of trouble for that, but I learned to stand up for myself and my opinion.

Did you have a moment when you realised you were meant to be a writer

I guess I’ve always know on some level that writing is what I wanted to do as a career, not just recreationally. I’ve done so many things in my twenties – I started my own online business, I was a PA, an interior designer, an editor, a journalist among others. Nothing stuck with me, I got bored with all of those. I always came back to writing. I finished my first book right before I turned thirty and I was ecstatic. I’ve always dreamt of finishing it, but I honestly never really thought I would. The feeling was so overwhelming that I knew at that moment there was no turning back.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

Never stop dreaming. Oh, and sit down and write.

After this book, what is next?

After Unfree, there will be a third, final instalment in the Humanless series. It’s on the back burner for now because I’m working on a new adult contemporary series right now and I need to finish the first book before I start working on the final Humanless book. 

Here's an excerpt of her new book Unfree:

The doors in front of them flew open and a figure walked towards them. Ava couldn’t see who it was because it was dark outside, and only a few massive burning candles in the left corner prevented the total darkness. The guards moved away from the three of them, and Ava felt both Jason and Blake tense beside her. The figure came closer, and she saw an incredibly beautiful man, wearing only what seemed like silk pyjama bottoms. His chest was bare and she’d never seen anything more perfect. He was a Greek God statue in the flesh.

      “Welcome,” he said, spreading his arms. The muscles on his chest contracted and his skin glowed in the candle light. His voice was deep and melodic; his blond hair shimmered with gold when it caught the light; his full lips parted in a genuine smile and his deep brown eyes were mesmerizing. Ava couldn’t tear her own eyes away from him, even when she felt Blake’s arms tighten around her. “Asclepius,” he continued, shaking Jason’s hand, “I was very surprised to learn that you are not dead. But given the circumstances, I’m glad.”

      Jason relaxed, and nodded. “My king,” he said, and bowed his head, slightly.

      “My son!” Zeus turned to Blake and gave him a fatherly hug. That seemed very odd since he didn’t look any older than twenty-five. “I’m sorry for everything that’s happened to you.”

      Blake nodded as well but didn’t bow. He had moved his arms away from Ava to return his father’s hug and now that Zeus stood in front of her, she felt very vulnerable. She wanted to look away from his hypnotizing gaze but couldn’t.

      “Ava, I presume,” he said. She nodded in a silent reply. “So you are the one causing all the trouble?” he asked with a charming smirk.

      “No, sir,” she said. “I believe that’s your wife.” 

      Zeus laughed wholeheartedly at her remark and took her hand to his lips, his eyes never leaving hers.

      “I believe you are right,” he said. “Please follow me.”

For the full first chapter of Unfree (Humnaless, Book 2) and some more teasers, click here:

http://humanlesstrilogy.blogspot.co.uk/p/unfree-book-2.html

Teodora and I am hosting a giveaway which is open to both the US and the UK. You will receive an autographed copy of Humanless and Unfree as well as 5 bookmarks. All you have to do is leave a comment here and 3 people will be chosen as winners randomly. Leave your comment and email so we can contact you. Good luck to all!

Check out her website and go buy her books if you don't win. They are great books!

Keep Reading!

Jodie Pierce

Skin Deep by Sarah Makela

Hi all!
Please help me welcome the Skin Deep blog tour to my blog today!

Skin Deep

Feral Ink Book One
Sarah Mäkelä

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Publisher: Etopia Press

ISBN: 978-1-939194-25-1

ASIN: B00A3Y9RTI

Number of pages: 112

Word Count: 24,821

Cover Artist: Valerie Tibbs

Amazon      BN      Kobo      ARe

Book Description:

Angelique had no idea her black panther tattoo would force her to abandon the love of her life—Connor O’Reilly—but she’s determined to keep him safe no matter how much it hurts. Her tattoo doubles as her feline familiar: loving, protective, dangerous, and with a life of its own. It’s also her deepest secret and draws enemies who desire its power for themselves.

Connor has no idea why Angelique left him, but he’s determined to win her back. As a werewolf, he has secrets of his own. Now his alpha is ready to force him to pair with an ex-girlfriend he can’t stand unless he can find Angelique and claim her as his mate. But even as their secrets threaten to keep them apart, hidden enemies seek to destroy their chance at love forever.

 About the Author:

Sarah Mäkelä lives in North Carolina with her husband and cats. In her spare time, she enjoys reading, computer and console games, and traveling all over the world. She is a member of Romance Writers of America, as well as the Heart of Carolina Romance Writers and the Fantasy, Futuristic, and Paranormal chapters. Find her online at www.sarahmakela.com.

http://www.sarahmakela.com

http://blog.sarahmakela.com

http://www.twitter.com/sarahmakela

http://www.facebook.com/authorsarahmakela

http://www.goodreads.com/sarahmakela

Please thank Sarah Makela and Bewitching Blog Tours for stopping by today! Please check out her websites and the new book. It's fabulous!
Keep Writing!
Jodie Pierce

Excuse My Fairy by Kinley Baker

Hi all!
Please help me welcome the Excuse My Fairy blog tour to my blog today! Sorry it went up so late!

Here's my interview with the author:

What is your name? Do you use a pen name (if so, why?)?

I write as Kinley Baker. I chose a pen name several years ago, and it stuck.

Tell me a bit about yourself:

I love to laugh, read, and write. I’m a sucker for a happy ending, and my favorite thing is a good book I can read again and again.

What type of genre do you write?

Romance of all brands. I’ve written fantasy, paranormal, post-apocalyptic, futuristic, and I just completed my first contemporary.

What genre to you personally read?

Anything with a happy ending.

Tell me about your latest?

Excuse My Fairy is a fun, sassy story that I hope will make readers laugh, or at the very least smile. Draybeth is a grumpy fairy with a bad attitude and a soft heart. And her sexy Lawman, Barrett, is her perfect match, even if she’s not quite ready to admit it when they first meet.

What sparked your passion for books and the art of a good story?

Nora Roberts. I’ve read so many of her books, and I’m always drawn in by her characters. I have to know about each character and that’s what keeps me reading.

Is there a particular book that changed or affected your life in a big way?

The Giver by Lois Lowry.

Is there a message in your book that you want readers to grasp?

In my fantasy books, there are messages I want readers to grasp about equality and changing a society for the better. I hope readers also grasp that I’m a hopeless romantic. The tough times really strengthens a relationship and makes the end worth the struggles.

What challenges have you faced in your writing career?

I don’t think the challenges ever end. I admit I’m surprised that there are so many challenges. From getting published, to building a platform, to learning about contracts and legalities. If you would have told me before I started writing, I might have ran away. Now I fear I’m in too deep. But I’m grateful for that because it’s a fun, wild ride.

What has been your best moment as a writer?

Probably being nominated for Best Fantasy at The Romance Reviews in 2011. I was honored because the authors nominated were some of my favorites.

Who is your author idol?

I really idolize Larissa Ione. I met her at a conference once and she was so nice! And I love her books.

Do you see yourself in any of your characters?

Sometimes I can relate to their vulnerabilities. But the characters always tend to be their own people. I’m pretty self-deprecating, so I think that prevents me from really putting any of myself into their personalities.

Do you feel like your dream has come true or is there much more to do?

There is so much more to do!

What does your workspace look like?

Really ridiculous. Lol. I write on the couch surrounded by blankets and pillows. It’s quite comfortable, but I’m sure it looks completely ridiculous.

Have you ever had a day when you just wanted to quit?

Yes. Often. Yet somehow I’m still here. I can’t always answer why.

What do you do when you’re not writing?

I read a lot, work, walk my dog, laugh with my husband. That’s pretty much it for now.

What are the most important attributes to remaining sane as a writer?

When I figure some out, I’ll be sure to share. I know I wouldn’t still be writing if it wasn’t for the amazing people in my life.

Did you have a moment when you realized you were meant to be a writer?

I always knew. I just wasn’t sure what kind of writer I was. After I read a couple hundred romance novels, I realized where I was meant to be. It was definitely a moment.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

Keep writing, working, and believing. There are a lot of ways to be successful in this business. Find what works for you. And enjoy the journey, because you might not always end up where you expect.

After this book, what is next?

I’m finishing the last book in my Shadowed Love trilogy right now. Then I will probably write more Misbehaving Magics.

Your website?

www.kinleybaker.com

Your blog?

My new blog is launching Monday! http://kinleybaker.wordpress.com

Other websites?

Catch me on Twitter. I love to chat books and life. www.twitter.com/kinleybaker

Where can your book be found?

Online at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, All Romance eBooks and Kobo at the moment.

Please thank Kinley for joining us today! Check out the websites and buy a book!

Keep Writing!

Jodie Pierce

Seal of Destiny/Traci Douglass Blog Tour

Hi all!
Please welcome the Seal of Destiny blog tour to my blog today!

About the Author:

Want to know about me? April Angel (aka Milly Taiden) was born in the prettiest part of the Caribbean known as the Dominican Republic. She grew up between New York, Florida and Massachusetts. Currently, she resides in New York City with her husband, bossy young son and their little dog Speedy.

She’s addicted to shopping for shoes, chocolate (but who isn’t?) and Dunkin Donuts coffee.

A bookworm when she can get her hands on a good story, she loves reading all Mina Carter, Cynthia Eden and Dianne Duvall among others.

Here's my interview:

Tell me a bit about yourself:

I’m a Midwest native. I love animals, quotes and chocolate and can be a more than occasional smartass. I’m also currently pursuing an MFA in Writing Popular Fiction from Seton Hill University.

About the Author:

Traci is the author of paranormal/urban fantasy and contemporary romances featuring a sly, urban edge, including her current Seven Seals series. Her stories feature sizzling alpha-male heroes full of dark humor, quick wits and major attitudes; smart, independent heroines who always give as good as they get; and scrumptiously evil villains who are—more often than not—bent on world destruction. She enjoys weaving ancient curses and mythology, modern science and old religion, and great dialogue together to build red-hot, sizzling chemistry between her main characters.

A storyteller since childhood, she began putting her tales down on paper in November 2011 after the idea for the Seven Seals Series occurred to her in a dream. She finished the first draft of what was to become Seal of Destiny in one month and decided to pursue a full-time writing career in January of 2012. Life has now been a rollercoaster, crash course in pursuing your dreams.

Traci is an active member of Romance Writers of America (RWA), Indiana Romance Writers of America (IRWA) and Fantasy, Futuristic & Paranormal Writers (FF&P) and is pursing a Masters of Fine Arts degree in Writing Popular Fiction through Seton Hill University. Her stories have made the final rounds in several RWA chapter contests, including the 2012 Duel on the Delta, the 2012 Molly Awards, and the 2012 Catherine Awards. An earlier draft of Seal of Destiny won the paranormal category of the 2012 Marlene Awards sponsored by the Washington Romance Writers.

Other current projects include upcoming books in the Seven Seals series and a new futuristic detective series with hints of the paranormal and plenty of romance.

What type of genre do you write?

I currently write Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy and Contemporary Romance. My MFA Thesis Project will take me into Paranormal Romantic Suspense territory, with tinges of horror.

What genre to you personally read?

I read mainly paranormal romance, urban fantasy and historical romance.

Tell me about your latest?

Seal Of Destiny, and the Seven Seals Series, is about the human-bound Seven Seals of the Apocalypse and the elite team of divine immortal warriors who protect them.

What sparked your passion for books and the art of a good story?

I’m an only child so reading and books were companions of mine from an early age. I invented stories to entertain myself.

Is there a particular book that changed or affected your life in a big way?

I love the classics. Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice, Sense and Sensibility. And Charlotte Bronte’s Jane Eyrs. Great stuff! I love a tragic hero and triumph over adversity.

Is there a message in your book that you want readers to grasp?

Good will prevail, if defended. And true love happens in the most unlikely places.

What challenges have you faced in your writing career?

Seal of Destiny is my first book, so the whole experience has been a learning process. Trying to master everything that goes into good writing and good storytelling.

What has been your best moment as a writer?

Getting the call from the publisher saying they wanted to buy my book. And seeing my name on the cover.

Who is your author idol?

Wow. I’d have to say Stephen King. He doesn’t write my genre, but the guy has longevity. And he continues to produce good work year after year. He’s humble and a really great wordsmith. And then there’s J.K. Rowling. Such a fantastic world in Harry Potter and she conducts her life with grace.

Do you see yourself in any of your characters?

Sure. There’s a bit of me in each of them.

Do you feel like your dream has come true or is there much more to do?

I feel like my dream has started to come true. There’s always more to be done, unless your dead.  

What does your workspace look like?

My office is the third bedroom in my house. It’s pretty messy right now. Best not to look… J

Have you ever had a day when you just wanted to quit?

Absolutely. Writing isn’t for sissies. If someone tells you it’s easy to write everyday, they’re lying or insane. Some days it flows, some days it’s like pulling teeth. But you show up and sit your butt in the chair until it’s done.

What do you do when you’re not writing?

Reading, listening to music, playing with my dogs, eating chocolate. J I’m also a Project Runway fanatic and love the comedy line-up on ABC Wednesdays.

What are the most important attributes to remaining sane as a writer?

Turn off your inner critic and just write. Get the story down on paper and fix it later. And develop a thick skin, the sooner the better. Distance yourself from your story once its done. Reading and taste is subjective. Not everyone is going to love everything you do. Accept it and move on. And have fun. That’s why we become writers in the first place. J

Did you have a moment when you realized you were meant to be a writer?

Not really. The idea for Seal Of Destiny came to me in a dream about a year and a half ago now and I couldn’t get it out of my head until I wrote it down.

What advice would you give to aspiring authors?

Write. Everyday. Read. Lots. Join the national organization for your genre and get yourself a good critique group.

After this book, what is next?

Crimson Romance just contracted the second book in the series, Seal Of Surrender. That book will be available May 2013.

The third book in the series is done and on my hard drive, awaiting edits, and I’m starting work on the fourth book and writing my thesis project.

Your website?

www.tracidouglass.net

Your blog?

www.tracidouglass.net/blog

Other websites?

Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/Traci_Douglass

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6767293.Traci_Douglass

FB: https://www.facebook.com/TraciDouglassAuthor?ref=hl

Amazon Author Page: http:// www.amazon.co/author/tracidouglass

Where can your book be found?

Amazon - http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00AWWONDQ

Barnes & Noble - http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/seal-of-destiny-traci-douglass/1114140320?ean=9781440563447

Please thank Traci for visiting with us today. Please check out her websites and book!

Keep Writing!

Jodie Pierce