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Behind The Author – An Interview with Cassondra Murray

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Behind The Author – An Interview with Cassondra Murray

Behind the Authors

It has been awhile since we took a look at what goes on behind the scenes to help an author write, promote and publish their books.

Today we will learn how valuable an Assistant to an Author is, and what their job entails.

 

 

Cassondra B&WThe Reading Café would like to welcome Cassondra Murray, who is an assistant extraordinaire for a busy and successful author.   Cassondra, who is also a writer herself, is here to give us a look at what an assistant does behind the scenes in helping the author. 

I can personally vouch for Cassondra, as she is a fantastic person to work with.

Let’s meet Cassondra.

 
Interview-RED

TRC: Cassondra, we are happy to have you here today.

Cassondra: Hi Barb, it’s so nice of you to invite me.  I can’t think of anything more fun than hanging out in a café, talking about books and writing.

TRC:  Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Cassondra:  I’ve been writing one thing or another since I was eleven years old, and I started proofreading for a small newspaper at about that same age.  I love barns, cows and tractors–all things country.  I stare at the rows of corn across from my house, listen to the frogs on the pond at night, watch lightning bugs flicker in the field, and read books with happy endings because that’s what feeds my soul and makes me want to write. 

TRC:  Being a writer yourself, can you please tell us how you decided to become an assistant?

Cassondra:  I never set out to be one.    I  met Dianna Love in (I think) 2003 when she spoke to the Nashville chapter of Romance Writers of America.  We became fast friends and I started reading her manuscripts as a beta reader.

Flash forward to 2009. I was in a horrible job, but afraid to quit.  Pushed into a corner one evening, I finally turned in my notice.  The next morning I sent emails to my network of friends.  I typed, “I don’t know what I’m gonna do, but I’ve quit.  Here are my skills… and I’m looking.”

Two minutes later the phone rang.  Seriously..two minutes.  It was Dianna.  She said, “Be my assistant.”  I was overwhelmed, but at first I said no, because even though I needed a job, I was not willing to risk my friendship with her for anything.  She said, “We’re both strong women.  We can be honest with one another.  We’ll work it out.”

And so far, we have.  

TRC:  How would you describe your job as an assistant to an Author?

Cassondra:  It’s crazy, nutso, balls-to-the-wall project work (when she’s releasing a book)  with a little bit of routine busy work in between. The non-schedule and the crazy are actually the parts I thrive on.  But the truth is that Dianna Love is the most organized person I know.   She does fine without an assistant, and she watches my back as much as I watch hers to keep the train rolling down the tracks on schedule, so although I send her “don’t forget” reminders sometimes, I really don’t play the typical “assistant” role in that way.  Basically I do some reading/editing for her, and I try to take some of the busy work so she can have a little more time to write.  I figure my job is to care as much as she does about her career, her readers, and the quality of the books she releases.   Whatever that entails, if I can do it, I’m there.

TRC:  If you were to take us through the steps you do on a daily basis, what is a day in the life of Cassondra Murray like?

Cassondra:  Every day is different, which is good. I’d rather dig my eye out with a spoon than do the same thing every day. Dianna gets up at  4 in the morning — that’s about when I go to sleep because  I’m a vampire by nature.  So I get up mid-late morning, mainline coffee to wake up my brain, and check email.  I’ll have several from Dianna since she’s been up for hours already.  I start working through the emails, deal with whatever she needs from me first, then emails coming in from other people, and then move to spreadsheets or ads.  

BUT…If I’m working on a read or an edit for Dianna, I roll out of bed and go straight to the manuscript.  I’m a slow reader, so when I’m reading for her, anything that’s not bleeding to death gets put off ‘til later, and I read straight though, long hours (that’s totally my choice, btw. It’s just how I like to work—by staying completely immersed in the story without getting distracted). Dianna gives me plenty of time for the read, and never has gotten used to how I stay up all night reading.  It bothers her when I do it. Even after all this time, I think she still worries that I might be an alien.

TRC:  Are you a beta reader for your author?  If so, when you read the finished novel, do you make recommendations, help with editing or changes/suggestions?

Cassondra:  Once Dianna gets a draft of the story where she believes it’s close, she gives it to me and I read.  I make notes if I see parts of the story that I think she needs to look at again.  She takes those notes and uses those as she does her next revision, then it will go out to her fantastic team of beta readers.

Once she gets the story the way she wants it, I do a last read for continuity errors (think eye color, height of characters, age, name spelling etc).  Then she makes her final edits.

TRC:  Are you involved in the promotion aspect of the author’s book?  We know you work with sites like ours, but do you work with the publishing house in helping with the promotions?

Cassondra: Dianna coordinates everything with her publisher and all promotions that happen through them.  I try to take as much as possible of the “outside” promotions—once again with the goal of giving her time to write.   

TRC:  Do you have to travel a lot, or can you do most of your job virtually or on the telephone? 

Cassondra:  I’m in Kentucky and she’s in the Atlanta area, so a lot of my work is via email, but we talk on the phone a lot.  Once or twice a year I travel to her and we spend a few days just planning the upcoming months of writing schedule, travel, and promotions.  But Dianna takes me with her on a lot of trips, and we use that time for face-to-face work too.

TRC:  What do you feel are the challenges in assisting the author in preparing & finalizing their book?

Cassondra:  For me, there are two main challenges. 

The first is reading and editing for her without touching what writers call her “author voice.”  Real people don’t speak or think in perfect English, so her characters won’t either. The rules of grammar have to be fudged, and every now and then just tossed out the window.  When to do that–and when not–is a strange mix of editing science and writing art, sort of.  All authors get so immersed in the story that they sometimes can’t tell if a point is confusing.  If that happens, I have to suggest edits that make sure the meaning is clear and understandable for the reader, hopefully without affecting Dianna’s “style” of telling a story. That style—that “voice” is what makes a Dianna Love book unique.  My aim is to allow her to use my notes and suggestions as she polishes to make the story better, because that’s always her ultimate goal.  Make the story the best it can be.

Second challenge?  I  get really bad “story brain”.  When I work on my stories, I get buried in my characters and their world, and I live there. I turn into Zombie Assistant. I lose track of time. I forget things.  This is when Dianna watches my back too, so hopefully everything gets done.

TRC:  What is the best part of being an assistant to an author?

Cassondra:  I get to work with one of my closest friends, doing something I truly enjoy, and I actually feel like my work has  a positive impact on the final result—more great books for readers. 

I have to earn a paycheck so I can pay bills, but if I didn’t, I would still work with Dianna for free if she’d let me.

TRC:  On a personal note, as the writer Cassondra, are you working on anything you would like to tell us about?

Cassondra:  I am! I’ll be releasing my debut romantic suspense late this year, and I’m very excited about that.   It’s the first in a series about undercover operatives and the love that can bring an abandoned, tortured heart back to life.

TRC:  Do you feel working as an assistant to an author helps you with ideas for your own writing?

Cassondra: Not ideas per se, because I have more ideas than I could write in three lifetimes.  But the opportunity to work with a writer at NYT Bestseller level, to learn her philosophy of storytelling and her approach to her readers, to have her feedback on my stories and on how to work at the business of publishing–Oh… and to call her for help when I’m stuck—there is no dollar amount a writer could place on that.    The most valuable part of it is her constant encouragement.

TRC:  How do you feel the rise of e-books will effect the author in publishing their books. Is this something you feel will enhance your author’s ability to sell more books? 

Cassondra:  It’s an exciting, scary time in publishing, that’s for certain.  In spite of the challenges, I think it’s a fantastic thing for authors, and for readers.  And the bottom line is yes, with the advent of eBooks, Dianna is able to publish more books faster on her own than the publisher can manage.  That means more Dianna Love stories for the readers.

TRC:  Besides the author you work for, who are your favorite authors or series?

Cassondra:  My best friends are all writers.  I’m not scared of much, but no way am I brave enough to answer that question. *grin*

TRC:  Is there anything else you would like to add and share with us? 

Cassondra:  Y’all can usually find me hanging out in the lair at Romance Bandits, and I blog there at least once a month about lightning bugs, fence rows, truck nuts, or whatever else strikes me as interesting. It’s a fun, easygoing place where we all love happy endings.  Come on over and ‘set a spell’.  Links to my old blogs are in my Bandit Writing Cave.   You can also find me on facebook as Author Cassondra Murray.

TRC:  Thank you, Cassondra, for taking the time to talk to us.  This was fun, as it gives everyone a chance to see what is behind the author and meet them personally.

Cassondra:  I had a great time!  Thanks again for the invitation!   I’ll hang out to answer questions if anybody wants to chat.  You can ask me pretty much anything.

 

Giveaway-redandblack_zps8ff4dc4b

Cassondra is graciously offering one lucky member of The Reading Cafe a giveaway. “I’ve got a big box of books here.  Leave a comment to be entered. I’ll mail a surprise grab bag to one of you.  Two books (both romance),  I’ll grab at random out of my box of new, unread conference giveaway books, and I’ll mail them to you if you live in the Continental US.”

1.  You must be a member at The Reading Cafe. If you are not a member, please register using the Log-In at the top of the page, or by using one of our social log-ins.

2. You must leave a comment.

3.  If you are using a social log-in e.g. Twitter, please leave your email address along with your comment.

4.  Giveaway open to US Only

5.  Contests runs from July 8 to July 11, 2013

 

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The Caseworker’s Memoirs by Dan Thompson-A Review and Interview with the Author

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The Caseworker’s Memoirs by Dan Thompson-A Review and Interview with the Author

The Caseworker's Memoirs

THE CASEWORKER’S MEMOIRS by Dan Thompson

Order Links: Amazon.con / Amazon.ca / Amazon.uk /

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release Date April 10, 2013

Malcolm was losing touch with the world; a retired counsellor and recently widowed, he lived each day sat at his desk, watching the world pass him by. That’s until his daughter gave him a leather-bound notebook. She encouraged him to write about times long past that he shared with his loving wife, but as dreams of his previous patients take hold of him, he has no choice but to share his experiences and thoughts.

The Caseworker’s Memoirs is a collection of short stories with one particular theme; phobias. Phobias can ruin lives, whilst some dictate and others poke fun, but the seven cases that keep Malcolm up at night range from the bizarre to the psychotic. This is Malcolm’s attempt to rid himself of his pent-up guilt, his emotional involvement with his former occupation, but perhaps most of all, his attempt to have a purpose in life.

From the rational fear of heights to the peculiar fear of time, from the obsessive fear of terrorism to the psychological ignorance of homophobia, The Caseworker’s Memoirs is not only a tale of one man’s grief, but also the tale of seven other families that are affected by real phobias.

••••••••••••••••••

REVIEW: THE CASEWORKER’S MEMOIRS is a poignant and fictional look at seven individual cases of phobias from the perspective of counselor/caseworker Malcolm. Malcolm is a recently widowed man whose daughter begins to worry that her father is giving up. Hoping to keep his mind and body occupied, she offers him a journal to write down his thoughts and memories. What she will discover is that Malcolm has written a collection of seven stories told in flashback and dream sequences-seven cases of phobia in which Malcolm believes he has failed the client on his or her road to acceptance or recovery.

The storyline is told in journal format with each case manifesting as a flashback or dream. Malcolm’s guilt and emotional fall-out are documented in a story of one caseworker’s inability to get past the failures and ultimate grief that coincides with a memory of his late wife.

The Caseworker’s Memoires is a fascinating and introspective look at seven people and the man who believes he has failed them all. Although fear is a natural part of our daily lives there are those people whose fear becomes all consuming-whether because of something that has happened or a disorder that has grown beyond their ability to cope. Dan Thompson walks the reader through a private look back at the lives and loss of one caseworker, who above all else, wanted to help those who were unable to help themselves.

Copy supplied by the author.

Reviewed by Sandy

Interview

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DanThompson1 TRC: Hi Dan and welcome to The Reading Café. Congratulations on the release of The Caseworker’s Memoirs.

We would like to start with some background information. Would you please tell us something about yourself?

Dan: I live in England in with my four year old daughter, who seems to be growing up more and more each day! I love reading a wide variety of genres, but I fell in love with a good adventure story thanks to Enid Blyton’s The Famous Five series. There are some people who find them a little outdated nowadays, but I could read them over and over again. I love tennis too, but sadly I don’t have much spare time to play anymore, so I settle with just watching it on the TV.

TRC: Who or what precipitated your desire to write or have you always had an interest in writing?

Dan: I’ve always had an interest for writing stories. I love the freedom it gives you, and I find it ever so calming. I’ve only recently just had my work read by the public, which is more of a scary ordeal. I remember writing my first story when I was nine – about a martial arts competition. I still have it! From there, I wrote a series of children’s books and drew my own illustrations too. I use to read them to my little sister when she was growing up. The first was called Animals Hide and Seek.

The Caseworker's MemoirsTRC: THE CASEWORKER’S MEMOIRS is your April 2013 release. Would you please tell us something about the novel?

Dan: Originally starting out as a collection of short stories, The Caseworker’s Memoirs evolved and reshaped into a novel that follows retired counsellor, Malcolm. He is struggling to cope with the death of his wife, and locks himself away from the world. That is until his daughter gives him a leather-bound notebook to write his memories down. He is plagued however with dreams of his former patients, and the personal fears each one suffered. As the journal takes hold of him, he must learn to deal with his own demons about the loss of his wife, by reliving the personal phobias of his dreams. It a contemporary novel that questions the human spirit, as well as the readers understanding.

TRC: Phobias are an interesting field of study in psychiatry as well as psychology. What was the deciding factor to make the storyline premise about phobias as opposed to another psychological disease or disorder?

Dan: What a great question! There were two deciding factors actually that ultimately paved the way for this novel. In November 2012, I was rushed into hospital for an emergency operation, and whilst I was in the recovery ward, a lot of men came in and out. One common factor among them however, was the fear of hospitals, needles, nurses … it was so interesting to lay in the background and just listen to all of their fears. As a result, it got me thinking more about phobias and fears, and as I researched into some of the more unheard of fears, it became very clear in my own head that this was a field I desperately wanted to explore further.

I myself suffer from a rather strange phobia. It is one that a lot of people laugh at, mock or pull that really weird face in total confusion: ‘How the hell could I, a grown man, be scared of that?’ It isn’t until you start to really look at how personal some of these phobias are to people, that you really start to understand how for some it could be the most pleasant, beautiful thing in the world, yet for another it could be the source of a horrific nightmare. I haven’t said what phobia I have, I’ll let you read the book and guess, for it features inside.

TRC: How much research (logistical, historical or medical etc) was involved in the writing of The Caseworker’s Memoirs?

Dan: Like all of my work, a lot of research is needed. Not only to make the novel much more authentic, but also to help my own mind sieve through the nonsense and really start to put a proper plan into place. I start off with Wikipedia; contrary to popular belief, it is a great site for general information. From there, I read scientific journals. One source of valuable research was in fact real accounts of phobias on people’s blogs. It gave a very real, genuine account of feelings and emotion. Capturing the very essence of suspense and reaction was very important for me.

There is one man’s story within the book that rewinds time and follows his life during World War II. It was vital I portrayed a very accurate description of the times and also, in particular, of WWII aircraft. The heavy bomber, the Lancaster features within that story, and researching historical manuals and non-fiction books was also a must.

TRC: Are any of the characters or the premise based on personal experience or people in real life?

Dan: As I have already mentioned, my own personal phobia is included in the book. I wasn’t comfortable with not including it, like I was some sort of fraud otherwise. My very good friend has a fear of heights, and I didn’t believe him. Well, that’s a lie. Obviously you can believe someone doesn’t like heights, but I didn’t realise the actual reality of his fear. At a Theme Park, I forced him onto a Ferris Wheel, and he totally freaked out and lost control of his body. It was such a scary ordeal. I certainly believed him after we’d left. His story made it into the book.

TRC: Is there a message you would like the reader to take from this particular storyline?

Dan: Not so much a message, but perhaps a more clear understanding of how people can appear to be similar on the outside, but on the inside, we are all different. I may sound like I’m repeating myself, but one of the most important things I realised whilst writing The Caseworker’s Memoirs was just how personal phobias are to each person. We need to respect what impact these fears have on their lives. One reviewer recently said that as they read the story which focuses on homophobia, she suddenly realised that she was perhaps being a little ignorant about other people’s opinions. I’m certainly not trying to tell people how to think, but it was really pleasing to hear that my stories actually made this reader stop and question their own thoughts.

TRC: What five things would you like to accomplish in the next ten years?

Dan: Being able to support myself financially from my writing most definitely has to be the first. I love writing, but with working full-time, it can often get shoved into the background. Being signed by a publishing house and going on the road, doing a book signing tour would be absolutely awesome! I’ve always wanted to be able to play a musical instrument too – guitars are cool, but maybe the piano. Perhaps all this writing has made my fingers nimble enough to pull off Twinkle Twinkle, Little Star? Being a single parent isn’t easy – if my daughter would come to me in ten years time and say “Dad, you’ve done a great job.” Then I suppose that would definitely have to be the greatest of accomplishments.

TRC: If you could become a contestant on a reality television program, which program do you feel would best suit your personality and why?

Dan: Undoubtedly, it would have to be Total Wipeout. I know there are versions of this show all over the world, so I’m sure you know what I mean. Doesn’t it look great? A sort of assault course over pools of water and mud! Surely, any fun-loving person would be up for a go at that! I’d probably not make it to the end of the course, and almost certainly make myself look like an idiot, but if it’s fun, why not?

TRC: Many authors share ideas and concerns with other authors, family members or friends. With who do you share ideas?

Dan: I never use to share ideas or concerns, but now I do. I feel by connecting with like-minded people, not only has my writing improved, but my confidence too. I’d definitely recommend any wannabe writer to join the online community and befriend other writers. They really are a great bunch of people. I’ve had so much help and advice from a number of people, but at this current moment in time, two authors stand out the most. Jack Croxall has stuck with me now for almost a year now, and I always consult him if I get a bit stuck, need to vent or simply to just catch-up. Sharon Sant and I have only been talking for a couple of months, but already in this short time, she’s made me laugh out loud and also been there to listen when I’ve needed some advice. I have a lot of respect for these two authors, and after reading their books myself, I urge lovers of adventure to check them out.

TRC: What do you believe is the biggest misconception about yourself?

Dan: Probably that I’m mardy. Not a lot of people know the word mardy, but I think it’s a fantastic word. It’s quite local to my area, but it simply means grumpy, moody or sulky. I can be quite a quiet person, especially around people I don’t know, and that can be misconstrued as me being mardy. When people get to know me however, and I feel more comfortable around people, then you get to see the real me.

TRC: On what are you currently working?

theblackpetalcoverDan: I’m currently working on the sequel to my Young Adult Fantasy novel, The Black Petal. That book is currently in the hands of an editor, and I hope to publish that soon. The sequel is a much longer book, so it needs my undivided attention. The Black Petal follows two protagonists as they are pulled from their own world into a world of fantasy and myth. I have a love of classical mythology and so you can expect to see elements of that within.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Dan: When I’m not at work, writing or reading, you can find me pottering about on the internet. I always enjoy saying hi to new people. You can catch me on my blog at danpentagram.wordpress.com or my author facebook page facebook.com/theblackpetal – I tweet too (get me!) at @dan_pentagram – come and say hi!

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food – Steak

Favorite Dessert – Cherry Bakewell

Favorite TV Show – Farscape

Last Movie You Saw – Looper

Favorite Musical Group – Avril Lavigne

Dark or Milk Chocolate – Milk

Iron Man or Thor – Thor

Dream Car – Aston Martin Vanquish

TRC: Thank you Dan for taking the time to answer our questions. We wish you all the best in your writing career

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An Interview and Giveaway with S.M. Stelmack

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An Interview with S.M. Stelmack

sm stelmack
The Reading Cafe is happy to welcome S.M. Stelmack, who are the writing team of Serge & Moira Stelmack.  They are here today to discuss two of their recent releases, as well as to tell us a little about themselves.

Let’s meet Serge & Moira.

 

Hi S.M.  Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions today. We are always looking forward to reading about the authors behind the book.

TRC: S.M. Stelmack is the husband/wife writing team of Serge & Moira Stelmack. Will you please tell us about yourselves?

Serge/Moira: We’re just your average couple with kids trying to make a living and doing the best we can. Serge is a partner at an engineering firm and Moira homeschools our two kids. We're both ambitious A type personalities, but we've also got very active imaginations which we express through our writing. Creating stories to share with others is something we love doing together, and it helps us escape all our self-inflicted stressors.

TRC: Have you always been interested in writing? How did you decide to become a writing team, and what are the challenges in writing a book together?

Serge/Moira: Serge was cutting his storytelling teeth by age ten, playing Dungeons & Dragons with his friends. He did that straight into his twenties, by which point he had become a master of creating stories on the fly. Moira took a more conventional route, getting an English degree, writing for magazines and newspapers and penning several unpublished novels too embarrassingly awful to even think about. She also joined her local chapter of Romance Writers of America which enormously improved her craft and understanding of the industry. We decided to write together more or less on a whim, and, like any great partnership, found we each had what the other needed. Serge is amazing at spinning a story but bolts when the couple are left alone in a hotel room. Moira doesn’t know how to get the characters into trouble, much less out of it, but loves to get down and dirty with their emotions and attractions, really bringing them to life. Mind, Serge is always up for providing the male perspective during the sex scenes.

TRC: Is there anything (in general) you find particularly challenging about writing & publishing a book?

Serge/Moira: Avoiding divorce court. Seriously though, we have a lot of heated discussions about how to make our books the best they can be. Since both of us are very driven it can sometimes be difficult to find a happy medium between our strong opinions.

TRC:  Fox Hunt is your first book in your The Femme Vendettas series. Can you tell how you came up with the idea of this series?  What is the premise of this series, and how many books are you planning?

Serge/Moira: Serge's childhood was full of unconventional people, many of which had an uneasy relationship with the police. Though he's kept to the straight and narrow himself, there's always been a fascination with outlaws and criminal subcultures, which really comes out in the stories. We wrote Fox Hunt while one was taking a sabbatical from work and the other was pregnant with our second child. (Guess who was doing which?) The writing was more halyconic than anything we’ve ever done before or since—the manuscript was finished on Friday, and the baby arrived Saturday morning.

The Femme Vendettas are an interconnected series of stories about men and women in the criminal underworld aiming to do the right thing despite their circumstances. We’re not out to glorify crime, but feel that the choices conscientious criminals make can be tough, and often far more complex than for us who reside within the walls of the law. We’ve no idea how many books there will be. If readers continue to enjoy them, we’ll keep writing ‘em. We’re currently working on the second book in the series, Gina Takes Bangkok. It features both the hitman and offbeat office manager from Fox Hunt, and that pattern of elevating minor characters in one book to main characters in the next is something we're planning on continuing.

fox hunt


TRC: Would you please give us a brief description of Fox Hunt?

Serge/Moira: Fox Hunt (The Femme Vendettas) is a 70,000-word high-octane read about an ex-cat burglar who accepts the help of a stuntman in order to find out why the Yakuza suddenly want her dead. That’s about as brief as we can make it.

Link to order Fox Hunt: Amazon

 

 

TRC: Undertow, which is your first book in The UnderCity Chronicles, was recently released in April. Can you please tell us the premise of this series, and how many books are you planning?

Serge/Moira: The UnderCity Chronicles delves into the legends of underground sub-cultures that thrive beneath several famous cities—New York, London, Moscow, Paris and Berlin. We're planning five books in this series, one for each of the cities just mentioned, and there will be some overlap with the stories and characters of our other series.

undertow


TRC: Would you please give us a brief description of Undertow?

Serge/Moira: Undertow (The UnderCity Chronicles) is an 80,000-word rescue mission into the New York underground, led by an anthropologist and his high school crush whose niece is held captive by the sub-human creatures that dwell there.

Links to order Undertow: Amazon

 

TRC: On your website, we see you have two more books coming this year, and already have one planned for 2014.  Can you please tell us about these books, and what else you are working on?

Serge/Moira: As we mentioned, we’re currently pounding out the next in the Femme Vendetta series, Gina Takes Bangkok. It’s due for release early September and we’ll be back here for a guest post about it on September 23rd! Learning about Thai culture is fascinating and explains so much about Gina’s spontaneity. Next up will be Midnight Everlasting, the second in the UnderCity Chronicles, set in London. Rats and romance. Nice ring, eh? The third one is Entrapped, the first in a series about people who have been subjected to bizarre and unethical experiments by the shadowy Hallorvorden Society.

TRC: What is your writing process, especially since you are a team?  Do you like to write at specific times, in a special place, etc?

Serge/Moira: Between jobs and family and the continual hiccups that both provide, we write when we can. Right now, I (Moira) am doing this interview while Serge is at the office writing a scene before his work day starts. Come his lunch break he'll email me his work, and over the phone I’ll read aloud what he’s written. We’ll discuss it and carry on from there. In the final editing stages, after it comes back from our editor, it’s grueling because both of us are perfectionists, and every word looms large at that point.

TRC: You write in the Romance Suspense/Thriller genre. Is there any other genre you are interested in writing?

Serge/Moira: Moira is also working independently on an historical romance set in Russia. It features a female assassin, and the Tsarist officer charged with uncovering the conspiracy she's involved in.

TRC: What are your favorite things you enjoy doing when you are not writing?

Serge/Moira: Hmmm…not sure if your site allows adult content, so we better not answer this one.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Serge/Moira: Thanks for the inviting us to The Reading Café!

LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food: Instant Noodles. (Serge) Anything she hasn't had to cook herself. (Moira)

Favorite Dessert: Sprinkle Donuts. (Serge) Stewed rhubarb. (Moira)

Favorite Novel: The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy. (Serge) Nope, uh-uh, not picking favorites. (Moira)

Favorite Movie: Lair of the White Worm. (both) It’s sooooo bad, it’s hilarious.

Favorite Literary Character (Male or Female) Not your own: Winston Smith from Nineteen Eighty-Four. Nope, uh-uh, not picking favorites. (Moira)

Milk or Dark Chocolate: Milk for both. It goes so well with so many other good things!

Thank you Serge & Moira for answering our questions. The Reading Café wishes you the best of luck with Fox Hunt & Undertow.

Giveaway-gold/purple

S.M. Stelmack has graciously offered one lucky member of The Reading Cafe an e-copy of both of their recent releases, Fox Hunt and Undertow.    Because this is Kindle only, the winner must have a Kindle reader or use the Kindle app.BONUS story. Dear Delta Letters (Delta Fox from FOX HUNT) a bonus story to be added to giveaway..

1.  You must be a member at The Reading Cafe. If you are not a member, please register using the Log-In at the top of the page, or by using one of our social log-ins.

2.  If you are using a social log-in e.g. Twitter, please leave your email address along with your comment.

3.  Giveaway open to US & Canada Only

4.  Contests runs from June 28 to July 1, 2013

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Attack of the Automatons by Lara Nance-A Review and Guest Post with Giveaway

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Attack of the Automatons by Lara Nance-A Review and Guest Post with Giveaway

Attack of the Automotons

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Barnes and Noble

ATTACK OF THE AUTOMOTONS (Airship Adventure Chronicles #3-Vol 1) by Lara Nance

ABOUT THE BOOK: Release February 2013

The adventure continues as Lady Arabella, Rett and friends chase after the evil Dr. Krakov in hopes they can stop his attack on Aereopolis. Faced with albino cannibal pygmies, snow monsters and angry mountain men, while fighting devastating storms against impossible odds, they are forced to use every possible resource to stay alive. Krakov escapes all attempts to thwart him and rains his deadly automatons on the capital city in a conflagration that will spread to the entire world. Belle and Rett must put their feelings for each other on hold while they face the evil doctor in a final showdown for the fate of all mankind.

•••••••••••••

REVIEW: ATTACK OF THE AUTOMATONS is the third storyline in Lara Nance’s Airship Adventure Chronicles-Volume one. Although this installment wraps up this particular arc, there is plenty of room for future storylines.

Once again, Lara Nance takes the reader on an ‘Indiana Jones’ style airship adventure around the imaginary globe to places with mythical flesh eating creatures, the open waters of the ocean, the dry arid desert and the frozen tundra of a snow bound land. When last we saw Belle, Rett and the gang, they were still in pursuit of the infamous Dr. Krakov.

This particular storyline focuses more on the journey and the hazards of flying with limited supplies and fuel. The crew must battle winter storms and cannibals, a dwindling supply of fuel, a struggle to keep the airship afloat, the angst and anxiety of two people who refuse to acknowledge their love-all the while sending messages back to the queen about an impending war between the humans on earth and Dr. Krakov’s army of armed and dangerous automotons (robots). Thank goodness for the talented and crazy ideas of Benji-Belle’s foster brother-who continues to amaze and astound the others with his inventions for and against armed attack. Without Benji, they would have died within the first couple of chapters of book one.

Lara Nance pulls the reader into a fantasy world where science fiction meets the industrial revolution resulting in the steampunk writing genre where your imagination can go wild with any number of mechanical and steam driven inventions. Attack of the Automotons is a story of adventure and the building relationship, albeit frustrating, between Belle and Rett but in the end, Belle knows where her heart belongs.

If you like steampunk airship travel adventures ala Indian Jones and the wild west (think about the TV show or movie WILD, WILD WEST), Lara Nance’s Airship Adventure Chronicles is a fascinating series and one that will peak your curiosity about steampunk and science fiction.

Reviewed by Sandy

Reading Order 
1. Revenge of the Mad Scientist
LINKS TO ORDER: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository

2. Rescue From The Baron
ORDER LINKS: Amazon / Barnes and Noble / The Book Depository / KOBO

3. Attack of the Automotons

 

Guest Post beige

The Allure of Steampunk
By Lara Nance

So, what is it about steampunk that is alluring?

Perhaps you’ve thought about writing a steampunk novel? Now may be the best time ever. Or maybe you’d like to try reading a book in that genre but don’t know where to start.

Lara Nance Steampunk Trilogy

First of all, What is steampunk? There are as many definitions as there are people giving them. Here’s mine:

AutomotonIt’s a Victorian themed world, where steam is the power of the day, running everything from furnaces to automatons. There are iconic images that pop up in this world, such as: corsets (worn on the outside, of course), goggles, top hats, pocket watches, airships, an occasional octopus, and lots of gadgets made from clockwork parts.

People are flocking to steampunk. The last convention I attended, Steamcon IV in Seattle this past October, had around 3,000 attendants. And that’s only one of hundreds of other conventions and events around the world. You can check out information about conventions and local groups at www.airshipambassador.com

What’s the allure? Speaking for myself, I think it’s the romance of the era. There’s adventure on every corner with airship pirates, mad scientists and clockwork monsters. Fashion is at the forefront with everything from bustled satin ball-gowns, to bustiers and fishnet hose, to leather, chains and studs.

SteampunkCostumes

Some people say steampunk is when Goths discovered the color brown…But the beauty of steampunk is that you make of it what you want. You can go for a genteel Victorian flavor or a leather bristling with weapons look. Or, a combination of the two. If you don’t want to create your own outfit, there are shops on the internet with everything you need. My favorites are steampunkthreads.com and clockworkcouture.com. Etsy has a huge variety of folks selling their original steampunk jewelry.

Inventions are key. You can invent a steam powered computer or a clockwork robot. Weapons are only as limited as your imagination, as long as you stick to the clockwork/steam scenario.

For the winter fashion shows I saw major fashion designers incorporate steampunk into their fall lines, Movies add steampunk elements that never existed in the original story (think Three Musketeers with its airships and corsets, even Oz had some goggles), TV shows focusing a segment on the steampunk culture (remember the Castle episode?). Take a look at women’s boots these days – you’ll see lots of buckles and retro styling.

Now there are steampunk themed restaurants like this one: http://steamhausgastropub.com

How about a steampunk card game: http://growingupgamers.blogspot.com/2012/11/ruse-steampunk-murder-mystery.html

Want to play an online steampunk game? Try Steampunk Odyssey here: http://www.begamer.com/flash-game/242519/steampunk-odyssey

Okay, you get the picture. Steampunk is everywhere.

In 2012, people said steampunk had peaked. But in my opinion, the culture is on the rise. A recent IBM analysis said steampunk is on the rise to emerge from sub-culture to mainstream. On-line games and series are coming out everyday, new cons are popping up everywhere, and new books are coming out with interesting steampunk characters and environments.

SpectaclesSo, if you’re interested in writing or reading steampunk, the time is now. You can choose between a variety of base genres in which to incorporate the steampunk theme. Sci-fi, fantasy, romance or mystery/thriller. Add some spunky, resourceful, characters and a splash of imaginative adventure and you’ve got a steampunk novel. Don’t forget to add a sprinkle of goggles, top hats, and corsets!

Don’t forget the father of steampunk (in my humble opinion), Jules Verne. His book, Around the World in Eighty Days inspired my own trilogy. Books like 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea, are great examples of an imaginative high-tech Victorian era.

If you’re looking for movies, check out The Golden Compass, The League of Extraordinary Gentlemen, Wild Wild West, or Hugo. They’ll give you some great images of different steampunk worlds.

Some people argue whether steampunk is alternate universe or alternate history. To me, it’s both…or either. It’s what you want it to be. And that’s the beauty of this genre– freedom to create an imaginary world, or simply say “what if” within the real Victorian world. You can add magic, or paranormal creatures, or stick with plain old humans.

This is a chance to unleash your imagination and take a new look at the world through a pair of goggles. Steampunk folks are some of the most imaginative people I’ve ever met. And they definitely know their history. So if you plan on using real historical events in your novel, do your research and get it right.

Oh, by the way, you’ll have to learn the proper way to drink absinthe, too.

Revenge of the Mad ScientistRight now the first book in my steampunk trilogy, Revenge of the Mad Scientist, is only 99 cents on Kindle. It’s a great time to give steampunk a try!

Here’s the link:

http://www.amazon.com/Revenge-Mad-Scientist-Book-ebook/dp/B008XJ8LJ2/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1359073277&sr=8-1&keywords=revenge+of+the+mad+scientist

 

Let me know if you like it. You can e-mail me from my website: www.laranance.com Plus, if you sign up for my newsletter you’ll get news of upcoming books, and for a limited time you’ll receive a free copy of my steampunk short story, The Asylum Prodigy.

Have you read any steampunk books? What are your favorites?

Thanks, Lara Nance

About The Author beige

 

Lara NanceLara Nance grew up and lived in many cites throughout the South. She loves to write in a variety of genres, but the basis of all of her stories is a great tale of entertaining women’s fiction that will take you on an adventure of imagination. Smart stories that make you wonder, and live the romances you dream about.

If you want to escape and lose yourself in a novel, you’ve come to the right place. Choose your genre and settle in to be entertained. From thrilling mysteries and steampunk tales to paranormal romance and adventure, she’s willing to explore a variety of compelling stories full of danger and suspense, along with a touch of romance.

Having been on the fencing team in college and now living on a sailboat convinces her that she was a pirate in another life, or possibly kin to Errol Flynn… However, due to the unfortunate demise of the romantic pirates of the past, she lives out her fantasies, thrills and adventures in her stories. Lara loves to weave interesting true historical tidbits into her fiction which invite the reader to explore further after the novel is finished.

Currently docked in Norfolk, Virginia (until the wind changes) Lara enjoys living on her sailboat and spends time reading, of course writing, indulging a variety of artistic endeavors, cooking and sailing with her husband, Joe and their Yorkie, Rio.

Follow Lara: Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

Giveaway beige

Revenge of the Mad ScientistLara is offering an ebook copy of the first book in her steampunk series: REVENGE OF THE MAD SCIENTIST to one lucky member at The Reading Cafe.

1. Please register using the login at the top of the page or by using one of the social log-ins.

2. Giveaway is open internationally

3. Giveaway runs from June 25 to June 27, 2013

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An Interview and Giveaway with Theresa Rizzo

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An Interview with Theresa Rizzo

Theresa_2013_0353

The Reading Cafe is happy to introduce first time author, Theresa Rizzo. She is here to discuss her new book, He Belongs to Me, and to tell us a bit about herself.

Before we begin the interview, let’s find out something about Theresa.

Theresa Rizzo is an award-winning author who writes emotional stories that explore the complexity of relationships and families through real-life trials. Born and raised in Grosse Pointe, Michigan, she now lives outside of Boulder, Colorado with her husband of thirty years. Learn more about Theresa at www.theresarizzo.com. Follow Theresa on Twitter (@Theresa_rizzo) or Facebook.

 

Interview-Gold
Hi Theresa.  Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions today. We are always looking forward to reading about the author behind the book.

TRC: Will you please tell us about yourself?

Theresa: Hi Barb, Thanks so much for having me on The Reading Café, today! I married my high school sweetheart thirty years ago and I have four great kids-- 19-26yrs old.  I haven’t killed any of them yet, so I’d say I’m eminently qualified to write about families and relationships.

TRC: Have you always been interested in writing?

Theresa: I’m that rare writer who didn’t know in the womb that I wanted to write.  As a kid, I enjoyed telling stories, but was diagnosed as dyslexic in the third grade, so the execution of writing wasn’t much fun.  I always loved reading romances, but I didn’t start writing until raising my kids.  I thought my calling in life was to be a stay-at-home mom, but who knew how exhausting and thankless that job could be?

Not that my kids were terrors—they weren’t.  But they’re kids.  Four of them—one of me.  You do the math.

So writing was a terrific intelligent, creative outlet.  I could create the perfect man, and when he pissed me off I could punish him in ways that didn’t get me thrown into jail.  And then I also got to enjoy the fun of making up with my sexy hero—without committing adultery.  Win-win.

TRC: Is there anything (in general) you find particularly challenging about writing?

Theresa: Writing is a ton of fun—that’s why I do it.  When it’s not fun anymore, I’ll stop.  The thing that is most challenging about writing for me is  . . . well, let’s just say having sex, is a WHOLE lot easier and more exciting than writing it.

TRC: Can you please tell us how you came up with the idea of He Belongs to Me? Is this a standalone book, if not, how many books do you plan?

Theresa: He Belongs to Me is a standalone book, but I have a second book, Just Destiny, coming out in the fall.  Back in the late 1990s, shaken baby syndrome was a popular or new concept. I read about a young couple where the boy was accused of shaking his baby to death. When it went to trial, the young man was undisputedly acquitted, but I couldn’t help but wonder how this tragic experience had irreparably changed them.

How could they go on and salvage their marriage? How could their love survive? His son died in his hands. How could he not subconsciously feel like he had killed the baby? How could they move on to create a happy family with this horrible legacy? Hence, He Belongs to Me was born.

He Belongs to me
TRC: Would you please give us a brief description of He Belongs to Me?

Amazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository / Kobo

Theresa: Catherine Boyd will do anything to regain custody of her young son...Even reconcile with the husband accused of killing their son’s twin.  Catherine graduates from college, eager to start a new life with her six-year-old son, Drew. But when she tries to bring him home, her parents refuse to relinquish control of the grandson they’d raised.

Wrongly accused of a horrible crime, Thomas Boyd has buried himself in his career, determined to forget his painful past and the family he lost. But now, five years later, Catherine is back, requesting his help to regain custody of their son — custody he thought she had.

Though older and wiser, when courtroom battles reveal lies and secrets and generations of pain, will Thomas and Catherine find more tragedy and loss, or will old wounds finally heal?

Links to order He Belongs to Me:

TRC: Can you tell us what are you currently working on?

Theresa: I’m finishing polishing my next women’s fiction book, Just Destiny.

Jenny is a beautiful young woman whose seemingly perfect marriage to Gabe is shattered by a tragic accident that leaves her husband brain dead. Devastated at the sudden loss, she decides to preserve the best of their love by harvesting Gabe’s sperm for later insemination. But her husband’s powerful, grieving uncle, the man who raised him, thinks of Jenny as a gold digger and is willing to risk exposing long-held family secrets in court to stop her.

The prospect of a grueling trial tests Jenny’s resolve, until an unexpected ally comes to her aid giving her the opportunity to win and the possibility of a second chance at happiness.  

TRC: What is your writing process?  Do you like to write at specific times, in a special place?

Theresa: My process?  I marinate a bunch and then spew.  I’m a spewer—and it’d not pretty.  I’m a little OCD, so I’m a planner.  I think about the story a bunch—who the characters are, what they want, why they can’t have it, then I work out the major plot points.  I get to know my characters fairly well.

I usually like to find a picture of what they look like and then print them all out and put them in a frame or on a poster board and keep them nearby—just for reference—I don’t know, maybe for company.

But once I have a fairly good handle on my characters and what’s going to happen, I’ll sit down and just spew.  I’ll write the story as quickly as I can, writing just dialogue and notes—like, “Set scene”, “description”, “what IS she thinking?”,  “Reaction here” I just get the story out.  Then after I leave it alone a week or so, I’ll go back in and spend months clean it up and layer in all the good stuff.

I’m not really particular when I write.  Inspiration comes to some people in the shower—me?  When I sleep.  And I’m not nearly as smart as I thought I was. I’ve learned that when that brilliant idea, that is so freaking AMAZING there is NO WAY I could forget it, comes to me in the middle of the night. . . I’d better get up and start writing, ‘cause I’m an idiot and I WILL forget.  Every. Dang. Time.  So I write it down immediately.

I mostly write in my study, then when my butt gets sore, I’ll take my laptop into the kitchen and stand at the counter for awhile, then when I’m tired of that, I’ll wander upstairs to my bedroom and sit on my bed.  Yeah, a laptop is a non-negotiable item for me.

TRC: Many authors bounce ideas with family and friends.  With whom do you bounce ideas?

Theresa: I bounce ideas off my writing pals and select friends and family who have a knack for plotting or are really insightful about people.  But other writers who don’t writing in my genre are really my best problem-solves when I’m stuck on something.

TRC: Is there anything in particular that you have always dreamed of doing, and have not yet done so?

Theresa: I’ve always dreamed of designing and building my own house.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Theresa: I hope you enjoy Catherine and Thomas’s story.


LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food: varies-friend chicken, Steak, French fries, hot artichoke dip—oh and bacon and cheese—not necessarily together.  Bacon and cheese make EVERYTHING better.

Favorite Dessert: Chocolate mousse.  Mousse cake. Oh-but lemon tarts are great too . . . and there’s nothing like a warm chocolate chip cookie—though brownies are MUCH better room temp and chewy.

Favorite Novel: Romance

Favorite Movie: The Guardian

Favorite Literary Character (Male or Female) Not your own: Is it terrible to say, I don’t have one? I really don’t.

Thank you Theresa, for answering our questions. The Reading Café wishes you the best of luck with He Belongs to You.

Giveaway-Green/Gold

Theresa has graciously offered one lucky member of The Reading Cafe a chance to win an e-copy of her new book,  He Belongs to Me.

1.  You must be a member at The Reading Cafe. If you are not a member, please register using the Log-In at the top of the page, or by using one of our social log-ins.

2.  If you are using a social log-in e.g. Twitter, please leave your email address along with your comment.

3.  Giveaway open Internationally

4.  Contests runs from June 23 to June 26, 2013

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An Interview with Tess Thompson

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An Interview with Tess Thompson

New-Headshot
The Reading Cafe is happy to welcome Tess Thompson as our guest today. She is here to discuss her new book, Riverbend, (our reviews are below this post), which was just recently released, and to tell us a little bit about herself.

Before our Interview with Tess, let’s find out a little bit about her.

 

 

About the Author black and rose

Tess Thompson is a novelist and playwright. She has a BFA in Drama from the University of Southern California.

After some success as a playwright she decided to write a novel, a dream she’d held since childhood. She began working on her first novel, Riversong while her second daughter was eight months old, writing during naptimes and weekends. She considers it a small miracle and the good-nature of her second child (read: a good napper) that it was ever finished. Riversong was released in April 2011 by Booktrope, a Seattle publisher and subsequently became a #1 Nook book and Kindle best seller. Learn more about Booktrope at www.booktrope.com

Like her main character in Riversong, Tess is from a small town in Southern Oregon. She currently lives in Snoqualmie, Washington with her two small daughters where she is inspired daily by the view of the Cascade Mountains from her home office window.

She was an active member of the theatre community in Seattle as an actor and director during the late nineties. In 2000 she wrote her first full-length play, My Lady’s Hand which subsequently won the 2001 first place prize for new work at the Burien Theatre.

A voracious reader, Tess’s favorite thing to do is to curl up on a rainy afternoon and read a novel. She also enjoys movies, theatre, wine and food. She is fed emotionally by her friends and family and cherishes relationships above all else.

Now let’s meet Tess.

Interview-PurpleHi Tess.  Thank you for taking the time to answer some questions today. We are always looking forward to reading about the author behind the book.

TRC: Will you please tell us about yourself?

Tess: First, thanks so much for having me. I’m a novelist and mother of two girls,age 7and 10. I live in a suburb of Seattle and am a completely ordinary person, including the ownership of a minivan we affectionately refer to as the “White Whale”. I’m recently divorced, after a twelve year marriage, so this year’s been personally difficult despite great professional success with the books.

TRC: I see on your website that you wrote a play, before embarking on writing your first novel. What made you decide to write a novel, and what are the differences between writing a play and a novel?

Tess: I decided to turn to novels after my first play won a local contest, which included a production. Seeing the play made me understand that the type of stories I wanted to tell (love stories with happy endings) are not really edgy enough for the sensibility of the American theatre. I want to write work that not only entertains but also inspires readers and makes them happy. Women’s fiction is better suited for my ‘voice’. 

A play is more limiting and presents unique challenges, in my opinion. With a novel one can describe every detail you want the reader to know about, whereas with a play you’re reliant upon actors, designers and the director.

TRC: Is there anything (in general) you find particularly challenging about writing?

Tess: Everything. Just kidding. Well, not really. Writing is my passion, but it’s hard work.Some days inspiration comes more easily than others. I call those the ‘flow’ days. My goal is to paint pictures with my words and to write page-turners. It’s always a challenge when you’re really close to something to know if it’s page-turner worthy. So, for me, it’s the inner critic and self-doubt that is the most challenging in the whole process.

RiversongTRC: Can you tell how you came up with the idea of Riversong, your first novel? What is the premise of this series, and how many books are you planning?

Tess: I wanted to set a story in a small town in southern Oregon similar to the one I grew up in because I know that world so well and I think small towns are ripe with drama and quirky characters. Then, I imagined the worst thing that could happen to a woman like me, or one of my friends, and gave Lee Tucker that problem. One of the main premises of the series is to ‘save the town’ by turning it into a tourist destination. With each book in the collection, the gang of misfits gets closer to their goal. I believe there will be five books in the series all together. I keep saying just one more but then the characters beg me to tell their stories and I end up with another one.

Link to order Riversong: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

RiverbendTRC:  Riverbend, which was just recently released, is your second book in this series. Would you please give us a brief description of Riverbend?

Tess: Just as Annie Bell’s reputation as one of the best chefs in the Pacific Northwest grows to new heights, she receives a threatening phone call from her abusive ex-boyfriend. Marco is out on parole and hungry for revenge, blaming her for his ten-year imprisonment. Fearing for her life and that of her young son, Annie reluctantly accepts help from Drake Webber, a cold and wealthy recluse hiding a dark history of his own. Supported by the gang of misfits from their restaurant Riversong, Annie forges ahead despite her growing terror that Marco will appear at any moment and make good on his threats.

Link to order Riverbend: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

 

caramel and magnoliasTRC: In February of this year, you released a new standalone novel, Caramel and Magnolias.  Can you please give us a brief description of this book? 

Tess: Crushed by a broken heart ten years ago, Cleo Tanner walked away from her acting dreams and now leads a quiet, secluded life in Seattle. Sylvia, her best friend from college, is trapped in a loveless marriage, distraught by her inability to conceive a child – until an adoption agency owner in relentless pursuit of Cleo offers to help.

Just as Sylvia begins to experience a profound love that only a mother can feel, a detective approaches Cleo with disturbing questions about the adoption agency. Determined to protect her friend, Cleo jumps into a dangerous investigation that forces her to confront the ghosts of her past.

Link to order Caramel and Magnolias: Amazon / Barnes & Noble /  Kobo

TRC: Can you tell us what are you currently working on?

Tess: I’m working on the third book in the River Valley Collection, called Riverstar. A movie set comes to River Valley and the main story surrounds two characters, Ben and Bella, whom we first meet in Riverbend.  Ben finds himself the prime suspect in the investigation of a murdered actress on set.

TRC: What is your writing process?  Do you like to write at specific times, in a special place?

Tess: I write best in the mornings, right after I come home from the gym. I’m a creature of habit - I drop the children off at school, hit the gym and then come home to write until 3, with little breaks here and there. I write in silence – music distracts me too much unless I’m having a particularly uninspired day and then I might put some music on that touches my soul until I find my groove. I have pain and numbness in my right arm unless I sit at my desk and use my ergonomic keyboard, so I always do. I drink like four cups of herbal tea a day because I’m always cold. It’s a problem.

When I write first drafts, I write 2500 words a day, giving myself permission to write fast and furious with no inner critic along for the ride. After I have the first draft done, I go back and painstakingly sweat every word and phrase until I feel like it’s ready to show my editor. I usually send it to her before I feel totally comfortable because otherwise I could mess with it forever. She then sends me pages of notes and I’m off again.

TRC: What are your favorite things you enjoy doing when you are not writing?

Tess: Hanging out with my kids and with friends. Reading. Watching movies and television. Wine. Cooking, sometimes. Dancing. Listening to music. Watching football, especially USC and the Seahawks. Exercise. Dining out.


LIGHTNING ROUND

Favorite Food: Sweet potatoes. And sushi. Can I have two?

Favorite Dessert: Bread pudding.

Favorite Novel: To Kill A Mockingbird and River Runs Through It. I can’t decide!

Favorite Movie: River Runs Through It.

Favorite Literary Character (Male or Female) Not your own: Atticus Finch.

Milk or Dark Chocolate: Dark.

Thank you Tess for answering our questions. The Reading Café wishes you the best of luck with Riverbend.

 

Giveaway-Purple:Black

Tess’s Publisher Booktrope has graciously offered one lucky member of The Reading Cafe a paperback set of all three of Tess’s books (*Riversong, Riverbend and
Caramel and Magnolias*).

1.  You must be a member at The Reading Cafe. If you are not a member, please register using the Log-In at the top of the page, or by using one of our social log-ins.

2.  If you are using a social log-in e.g. Twitter, please leave your email address along with your comment.

3.  Giveaway open to USA Only

4.  Contests runs from June 21, to June 24, 2013

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Catching Up With Jesse Hayworth

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Catching Up With Jesse Hayworth

Jesse HayworthThe Reading Cafe is happy to welcome back the wonderful Jesse Hayworth.

Jesse is here to catch us up on her new release, Summer at Mustang Ridge, which was just released. This is her first book in her new series, Mustang Ridge.

Let’s talk to Jesse.

 

 

 

Hi Jesse. Thank you for taking the time to revisit us at The Reading Cafe, to discuss your new release “Summer at Mustang Ridge”, as well as to give us an update as to what you have in store for us in 2013.

TRC: When you were last here, as Jessica Andersen, we discussed mostly the final countdown to your fabulous The Nightkeepers series.  Now, as Jesse Hayworth, you have started a new contemporary romance series, which starts off with the release of your first book, Summer at Mustang Ridge.  Can you please tell us what made you decide to use a new pen name, Jesse Hayworth, and how you came up with the idea of the Mustang Ridge series?

Jesse: Hi, and I’m so pleased to be back at the Café! Thanks for having me. I’ve got my hot chocolate (just a dab of whipped cream, thanks), and can’t wait to kick back and dish about romance 🙂

Why take a new name and write contemporary romances? Two words: true love. (Or, if we’re having a Princess Bride moment here, twooo wuv.) When I met my one-and-only, Arizona (thank you, Match.com), I lost my need to blow stuff up and started wanting to write happier, funnier romances. At least for the time being.

As for the pseudonym, these stories are so different from the Nightkeeper books that I wanted to use a different name so there wouldn’t be any confusion (for me or the readers!). I went with “Jesse” because I didn’t trust my own ability to remember a new name, and “Hayworth” because it combines my new married (and admittedly unpronounceable) name with that of my extremely cool grandfather.

TRC: Being a new series, can you tell us the premise of the Mustang Ridge series?

Jesse: The stories center on a ten-generation Wyoming cattle ranch that twins Krista and Jenny Skye have turned into a dude ranch, much to their grandfather’s annoyance. But with their grandmother ruling the kitchen, the barn full of horses, and the cabins booked to capacity, there’s no question that Mustang Ridge is a success. Too bad they can’t say the same for their love lives …

summer at mustang ridgeTRC: Would you please give us a brief description of Summer at Mustang Ridge?

Jesse: Absolutely! It’s the story of, eight-year-old Lizzie, who hasn’t spoken in nearly two years—not to her teachers, not to her friends … not even to her mom, Shelby. Which is why Shelby takes a sabbatical from her real life in advertising, and heads west to a family-run Wyoming dude ranch. There, she’ll be the assistant cook and Lizzie will get some hands-on time with the horses. The traditional treatments haven’t worked … maybe this will?

Shelby soon butts heads with the trail boss, Foster, but Lizzie takes an instant liking to the cowboy and his horses. Sparks fly and the city lady as the cowboy discover some common ground, but junk food and b-grade science fiction aren’t enough when they come from two different worlds. As the summer comes to a close and Lizzie’s condition deteriorates, Shelby knows they have to return to the real world … even if it means leaving Mustang Ridge—and Foster—behind.

Links to order Summer at Mustang Ridge:
Amazon / Barnes & Noble / The Book Depository / Kobo

TRC: You released a novella last month, Sunset at Keyhole Canyon, to start this series.  How many books do you plan for this series? 

Jesse: There are two more books in the works, but I’m keeping the series open-ended after that. I’m having way too much fun with the Skye family and their guests, who come to whoop it up at Mustang Ridge Dude Ranch for everything from Singles Week to Round-up Week. There’s never a dull moment!

TRC: Now that The Nightkeepers series has ended, do you have any plans to return to writing a similar type of the more darker paranormal romance stories, as Jessica Andersen?

Jesse:  I definitely plan on writing more Jessica Andersen books, though I couldn’t tell you what they’ll be yet, or when. I recently started watching Criminal Minds again, which suggests that as Arizona and I approach our second wedding anniversary, I’m emerging a little from my puppies-and-kittens fog and potentially regaining the urge to write about demons and mayhem, at least part-time.

TRC: Was it hard to switch from writing about warriors, mages, demons, and then switching to contemporary romance with cowboys as our heroes?

Jesse: Actually, I’m going back to my roots here, as my first few under-the-bed manuscripts were contemporary romances with horses in them. Back when I first started writing, “Western” was a swear word in publishing, but these days, hunky cowboys are in! I’ve ridden professionally and had a farm for many years, and these stories just flowed out of me. They’re tender, romantic, funny, and about people and animals I truly love.

TRC: Would you like to share with us what you are currently working on, and what you have in store for us in 2013?

Jesse: I’m finishing up a draft of the third Mustang Ridge book as we speak. The novella and Summer at Mustang Ridge are my only releases in 2013, with the following books due out in Feb and July of next year.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Jesse: I had hoped to be able to direct you guys to an awesome video trailer for the new books, but that backfired so thoroughly that it was laughable. In fact, you’re invited to laugh at me, if you want to check out The Video Trailer That Wasn’t. (http://jessehayworthbooks.blogspot.com/2013/04/the-video-trailer-that-wasnt.html)

TRC: Thank you, Jesse for visiting us to tell us about your new Mustang Ridge series, as well as what we can look forward to in the 2013. It was a pleasure talking with you again, and we wish you good luck with Summer at Mustang Ridge.

Jesse: Thanks so much for having me here! To celebrate, I’m giving away a Mustang Ridge prize pack that includes made-in-Wyoming Cowboy Chocolates, Buffalo Smooch lip balm, and a signed copy of Summer at Mustang Ridge. To enter, tell me about your favorite (or least favorite!) piece of Western wear. Me? I’ve got a concho belt that I’ve been wearing since the late 90s, and I’m a sucker for a pair of Justin boots.

If you want to learn more about Jesse Hayworth, you can visit her at the following links:Jesse Hayworth Website: http://www.jessehayworth.com/
Twitter:
Facebook:
Goodreads:

Jessica Andersen Website:

 

GIVEAWAY-WHITEwithblue

As noted above, Jesse has graciously offered to give one member of The Reading Café a Mountain Ridge prize pack of a signed copy of Summer at Mustang Ridge, made in Wyoming Cowboy Chocolates, and Buffalo Smooch lip balm.  Please follow the rules below.

1.  Please register using the Log-In at the top of the page, or by using one of our social log-ins.

2.  If you are using a social log-in e.g. Twitter, please leave your email address along with your comment.

3.  Please post a comment answering the following question:
    Comment about your favorite (or least favorite!) piece of Western wear.

4.  Giveaway open US only.

5.  Contests runs from June 6 to June 9, 2013

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Jayne Fresina-Interview and Giveaway with the Author

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Interview-RED

With the June 2013 release of Lady Mercy Danforthe Flirts With Scandal, we would like to welcome author Jayne Fresina to The Reading Cafe.

You can follow Jayne at : Website/ Goodreads / Twitter / Facebook

Jayne FresinaTRC: Hi Jayne and welcome to The Reading Café. We would like to start with some background information. Please tell us something about yourself?

Jane: I’ve been writing stories for years and tried a long time to get published. I think I found my niche finally in historical romance! I love Indian food and Italian pastries. I like to run and swim. I spend several hours each day writing before I go to my “normal” day job. A lot of people in my daily life don’t even know I write, which makes life simpler. I’m an animal lover and live-in slave to three spaniels.

TRC: Your bio information states you were born and raised in England. Are you still living in England? If not, how often do you return for a visit?

Jane: I live in New York now and haven’t been home for several years. Luckily, my family has been able to get over and visit me.

TRC: Would you please tell us the premise behind the Sydney Dovedale series?

Sydney Dovedale Series

Jane: I wanted to set my stories around a small country village and the people who live there. There are some titled and wealthy characters in my stories, but I also have “every day” folk who are just trying to find happiness in life. People come and go. The first book in the series begins with a stranger arriving in the village. In book four at the end of the series, the heroine (a character who actually appears in all four books, beginning in book one as a mousy, shy little girl) leaves Sydney Dovedale after she’s grown up and undergone a considerable transformation. So the series sort of goes in a circle.

TRC:  Lady Mercy Danforthe Flirts with Scandal is the third book and June 2013 release in the Sydney Dovedale series. Would you please tell us about the premise?

Amazon.com / Amazon.ca / Barnes and Noble / KOBO/ The Book Depository

Lady Mercy DanforthjpgJane: Lady Mercy Danforthe arrives in Sydney Dovedale to attend a wedding, but the bride (her lady’s maid) has cold feet at the last minute and decides she can’t go through with it. Mercy, who is a natural-born meddler and fancies herself a matchmaker, has to stay and try to help the situation. Unfortunately she has some history with the jilted groom, Rafe Hartley, and he already bears a grudge against her. You see, Mercy and Rafe were once married too – for just three hours. So it’s not the first time he’s been jilted and now he blames Lady Mercy “Bossy Drawers” Danforthe for both incidents.

TRC: Do your storyline characters speak to you and tell you the direction of the story or do you direct the characters?

Jane: Oh, they are definitely in charge. I always start with the characters and they lead the way.

Jayne Fresina collageTRC: If you could cast the major characters in this particular storyline, which actors or models would be represent you ideal image?

Jane: Great question! Hmm. Karen Gillan would make a wonderful Lady Mercy. Rafe would be much harder to cast. To be honest I find a lot of the popular, young actors a bit too pretty. I think English actor Tom Hardy would be the best choice. He has the right amount of edge and charm. I’d love to hear which actors other readers envision in the parts!

TRC: February 2014 is the scheduled date for Miss Molly Robbins Designs a Seduction. Are you able to reveal who are the leading characters?

Jane: Miss Molly Robbins, of course (Lady Mercy’s best friend and lady’s maid) and….can you guess? Readers of the previous books will likely have more than an inkling. He’s not too far removed from Lady Mercy, let’s put it that way. And he’s desperately in need of Molly to put him in his place.

TRC: What do you believe is the biggest misconception about yourself?

Jane: I don’t know what people think of me, so I couldn’t say. (Probably best not to know in most cases). As Dorothy Parker said, “I don’t care what’s written about me, as long as it isn’t true”.

TRC: What five things would you like to accomplish in the next ten years?

Jane: I’d like to have several more series published and to have met a lot of readers who enjoyed my work, so I know it was actually worth it. I’m sure, like all authors, I dream of one day seeing my books turned into a movie or a series for Masterpiece Theatre! Hey, why not? Stranger things have happened.

TRC: If you could select one reality show in which you were one of the contestants, which show would you choose and why?

Jane: Oh, I couldn’t do any of them. I’m much too shy. I wouldn’t even pass the audition. I don’t even like being on a webcam with my family!

TRC: On what are you currently working?

Jane: The second Regency series for Sourcebooks Casablanca – The Book Club Belles Society.

TRC: Would you like to add anything else?

Jane: I’d just like to thank you for inviting me on as a guest. And thanks to the readers who enjoy my books! It means a lot to me to know people fall in love with my characters as much as I do.

LIGHTNING ROUND
Favorite Food
Jane: Indian

Favorite Dessert
Jane: tiramisu

Favorite TV Show
Jane: Call the Midwife

Last Move You Saw
Jane: “Mama Mia” – last one I actually went out to see, so yes, I don’t go out to the movies much!

Dark or Milk Chocolate
Jane: dark

Favorite Flower
Jane: peony

TRC: Thank you Jayne for taking the time to answer our questions. Congratulations on the upcoming release of Lady Danforthe Flirts with Scandal. We wish you all the best!

About the Book

Lady-Mercy-Danforthjpg-smLADY MERCY DANFORTHE FLIRTS WITH SCANDAL BY JAYNE FRESINA – IN STORES JUNE 2013

When a Perfectly Proper Lady…
Lady Mercy Danforthe always has a plan. It’s what makes her such a successful matchmaker, and why she’s obligated to spend a great deal of time generously organizing the lives of her friends and family. But there’s one man beyond her help. One man whose recklessness she can’t rein in; whose chaos she can’t contain. Her ex-husband, Rafe Hartley. Her one—and only!—mistake.

Flirts with a Reckless Rogue…
Rafe has never forgiven Mercy for running out on him. Their hastily annulled marriage may have one lasted three hours, but that doesn’t mean he needs her help finding a proper wife. Someone needs to teach little Miss Know-It-All a lesson about keeping her adorably freckled nose out of other people’s business. And it just so happens that Mercy “Silky Drawers” Danforthe still owes him a wedding night…

A Scandal’s Never Far Behind!

Jayne Fresina smallABOUT THE AUTHOR
Jayne Fresina sprouted up in England, the youngest in a family of four girls. Entertained by her father’s colorful tales of growing up in the countryside, and surrounded by opinionated sisters— all with far more exciting lives than hers— she’s always had inspiration for her beleaguered heroes and unstoppable heroines. Look for the fourth book in the Sydney Dovedale Series, Miss Molly Robbins Designs a Seduction in March 2014. For more information, please visit at www.jaynefresina.com

Giveaway

The Wicked WeddingJayne and the publisher are offering  a paper copy GIVEAWAY of THE WICKED WEDDING OF ELLIE VYNE (Book 2 in the Sydney Dovedale series) to one lucky reader at The Reading Cafe.

1.  Please register using the log-in at the top of the page or by using a social log-in.

2.  If you are using a social log-in, please post your email address with your comment.

 

3.  Giveaway is open to USA and Canada only.

4.  Giveaway runs from June 5 to June 8, 2013

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