Romance Author Hotspot

Today, our guest of honor is Alexa Bourne. It’s so nice to have you here! Hope you’re ready to party!

Thank you for having me, and yes, I’m ready to party!

 First Questions:

Wine or beer? (If you say club soda, we’ll have to send you to the corner…)

Dark Beer, please.

Cake or chips? Are you a sugar or salt kind of person?

How about cupcakes? I like sugar when talking about food. I like salt around the rim of a margarita.

*squints eyes * Are you old enough to drink?

Way old enough!

Wait! You can’t come in yet! What did you bring us? 

Heather Winchester leads a charming life. With good friends, a beautiful flat in one of the most amazing cities in the world, and a promising future once she finishes her Ph.D, she is finally pursing her own dreams instead of catering to everyone else’s…except she doesn’t remember any of it.

Malcolm Fraser has returned to his Highland village to forget his failings as a professional bodyguard. Believing he could just lose himself in the mundane activities of running his bed & breakfast, he finds a woman’s lifeless body by the loch instead….

Captivated by Heather as she regains her memory, Malcolm is thrown into the line of duty. As danger comes knocking on their door, will he be strong enough to love her and keep her safe?

What makes your characters so special?

Most Scottish characters are in historical romance novels. In my story, most of the characters are Scottish (except the heroine who is American) and they’re ALL contemporary!

Alright, I guess you can come in. Now off to the roast! 

What would your characters say about you?

They would say I’m very comical, animated, and stubborn. I often try to make my ideas work instead of just listening to them from the beginning of the book’s brainstorming.

Where do you dream of traveling to and why?

I would LOVE to take a cruise around the Hebrides islands so I can explore more of Scotland. I’d also love to see New Zealand because it looks beautiful.

Who is your favorite author and why? Do you write what you read?

My favorite author is Laura Griffin. I love her romantic suspense stories. They have just the right amount of romance and suspense for my taste. I read a wide variety of genres- historical, contemporary, suspense, thriller, romance. I’m most comfortable writing romantic suspense.

How much do you write in a day? Day or Night? Everyday?

I don’t write every day. I can’t. I can go weeks without writing anything new, and then there are times when I write pages and pages day after day. It really depends on what’s happening in my “real world”. As for the best time of the day, I’m a night person so I’d much rather stay up until 2 AM writing rather than getting up at 4 or 5 AM to write before work. {{shudder}}

Are you a pantser or a plotter?

I’m a plotting pantser. J I write the really rough draft as a pantser, just writing scenes with no specific order. Then I plot and put the scenes in order and expand during the other drafts. (I usually do 4-6 drafts per book.)

What else are you working on right now?

I’m waiting hear if my publisher wants my second Honor Guard story, which is set in Northern England. I’m also working on a requested stalker story set in small town USA.

Last question: Where can our partygoers find you and your work?

Website: www.alexabourne.com

Twitter: @AlexaBourne

Facebook: http://facebook.com/AuthorAlexaBourne

Other: http://alexabourne.blogspot.com

Thank you so much for coming!

One lucky commenter will win a copy of Her Highland Champion! Who can resist a hot bodyguard?! 

Guess who? It’s Camryn Rhys with us today! Yay! And she’s talking about what Cowboys and Chefs have in common! 

For the last year, I’ve been writing what I call “Western Foodie Romances”. I’m not sure anyone else writes them, but I certainly haven’t seen any. I’ve had several people ask me: what exactly do cowboys and chefs have in common?

As heroes, cowboys and chefs are so similar. Both tend to be independent and self-motivated. They are the ultimate alpha males. They like order, they want things done a certain way, and they’re often nomadic—going where the best work is.

But in a lot of ways they’re very different. Chefs tend to be innovative and forward-thinking. Cowboys tend to be tied to history and don’t dig change too much.

Writing Western Foodie romance, I have to find the intersection between these two. How does food interact with the cowboy culture? Do cowboys care what they eat? Are all cowboys/girls the same? How does the West tolerate and/or embrace new trends? These are things that Western Foodie Romance naturally tends toward.

And, of course, the hotness quotient. Because let’s face it, whether it’s a chef’s hat or a cowboy hat, it’s just covering up the hottie underneath.

In honor of the hot cowboys in my Freewill series, I’m having a Cowboys & Cocktails release party on my blog and giving away a lot of great prizes. Every comment on every blog tour post counts. So if you want to comment here, I’ve got a question for you: What makes a chef hot to you? What makes a cowboy hot? Which do you prefer?

BLURB:

Kyle Harris lands a job as the new chef at the Misbegotten Gaines Ranch just in time for the launch of their new Singles’ Trail Ride. When his new boss, the alluring Jamie Gaines, mistakenly believes him to be married, he goes along with the ruse to keep his job. But things start to heat up between them and Kyle has to choose between losing his job and letting Jamie get away.

Excerpt:

When a guy says he’s gonna work on a dude ranch, he kinda expects it to be run by…well, dudes. Instead, the only two people Kyle Harris could see when he pulled up to the Misbegotten Gaines Dude Ranch were women. And they were hot with a capital H-O-T.

Hot enough that it got a little toastier in his car, and in his formerly roomy boxers under his jeans. Kyle had big plans for spending long days at his new job out on the dusty trail with men he could consider his brothers. Guys always looked tight in those John Wayne movies his mom used to watch. He had a feeling the wild would do that to a guy.

But being in the Wyoming wilderness with two gorgeous women would not lead to any camaraderie among the men. Nor would it lead to silent nights around the campfire eating beans from a can and drinking coffee from a tin cup while the coyotes yowled against the midnight sky.

Okay, so maybe he paid a little more attention during those movies than he’d like to admit. But still. The kind of backside(s) he could see promised a lot of things, and none of them peaceful. Maybe he wouldn’t have to extend his sex hiatus after all.

Check Out Camryn’s other new release! 

Blurb:

Sacha Camomescro, an Empath demon with an airship, is rescuing refugees from Victorian Europe’s war on magic when she meets a man unlike any other. Javier Vargas is a lone alpha werewolf, his pack nearly decimated by assassins, his appetite for justice superseded only by his desire for her.

But Sacha’s gift is also her curse. While reading minds is helpful in eluding the assassins sent by Europe for Progress, it cripples her ability to trust men, and enjoy sex, for she can always see the fantasies men have when they’re with her. But Javier has a single-minded focus when it comes to his pursuit, and he wants her.

Just when it seems she can trust him, Sacha’s crew starts getting picked off mid-flight, and it seems there’s a rabid animal at fault. Javier and his lone remaining pack member fall under suspicion, and in the hysteria, Sacha begins to lose control of her mission. Blindsided by passion, she must decide if she can trust the one man who wants her just as she is.

We’re blogging with DL Jackson today! 

Here’s a typical and recent scenario. Bear with me, I’m typing this exactly the way my brain works.

So, we were driving down the road the other day and I told my husband about the latest contract for a Decadent 1NightStand story called My Boogie Woogie Bugle Guy. Out of the blue, he says to me. “Will you make your next hero in your next porn bald?” (he calls it porn, I’ve ceased trying to convince him it isn’t. I secretly think he likes to brag to his buddies that’s what I write. Meh. Whatever.)

Anyway, the moment he asked, I choked and about swallowed my gum. I kid you not. This request was a complete shock. I never would have expected that. You see, he refuses to read my work. His excuse—he’d have to have an opinion, and he swears that will just get him into trouble, much like answering the question, “Do these jeans make my ass look fat?”  

Now, I’m just about game for anything, and to be honest, I’ve written dark haired heroes. I’ve written blonds. I even have a red head, but nowhere in any of my stories do I have a bald hero, and it’s not for the lack of liking them. I’m one of those women that think bald is sexy. And some men do it really well. I say if you’re thinning—shave it. Whoo hoo, party time! Pair it with a stash and goatee—meow. It’s that bad ass, bad boy look that I can’t resist. 

Back to where my inspiration comes from.

Since my husband is bald, and I firmly believe this request is linked to that fact he doesn’t have hair, I wonder if perhaps I can get him to read a story if I do write a sexy bald hero. But I do need some inspiration and he’s certainly not doing it for me at the moment. 

He’s sitting over in his chair, jeans unbuttoned, watching hunting shows and grunting at the bucks. Yes, grunting. You heard me. He’s got his can of Cheese Whiz, which he battled with my teenage son over, coming out on top only after he threatened the deadly “drill”. (don’t ask) He’s liberally spraying goo on garlic flavored crackers and flicking the channels every time a commercial comes on, stopping only to watch somebody replace a toilet on one of those home improvement shows. Every now and then he passes gas and blames the cat, who gives him the most indignant look; as though he knows he was thrown under the bus.

Somebody get me a bucket of ice water. Whoo hoo. Hot man in the house.

In all fairness, I have to admit, I’m not exactly looking like seductive material. A bit frumpy actually. I have on my fuzzy slippers, ragged tee-shirt and flannel pants, and they’re not anything anyone would see on the runway at a Victoria’s Secret show.

Maybe he’s bored and needs a little adventure, and asking for a story with a bald hero is his way of saying so. Hmmm. Maybe we’re both stuck in a rut and need a little fun after 22 years of marriage. Ah yes, now I’m inspired. I’m feeling a 1NS story coming on, aren’t you? And when you see a bald hero, you’ll know it was my husband’s request. I’m thinking a story about Gunny and his wife. The same Gunny from Cinderella Wore Combat Boots.

What say you?

 Now, I think I was supposed to talk about my erotic shorts for the Edge Series, but as you can tell, I get easily distracted. At least you now know what I mean when I say life inspires me.

BLURB:

Game on.

Another lamb for the feast. Not likely. Jezebel knows that taking a bite out of the virgin bait the demon slayers have tossed into the club, is a bad idea. But there’s also more than one way to skin a proverbial cat, or in this instance, pop a slayer’s cherry before she causes any problems. There’s nothing in the succubus rule book that says Jezebel has to play fair.  After all, she need only suggest. What the slayer does with the nudge is up to her.

Check mate.

One lucky winner will receive a $10 Amazon Gift Card and choice of one of my Edge stories in the Carnality series.

Meet Camryn Rhys!

Camryn Rhys grew up on the border of Canada and the US, and still hasn’t decided which country to call home. She splits her time between the Alberta and Montana Rocky Mountains, with friends and family in both beautiful locations. After running her own restaurant for several years and acquiring advanced degrees in writing, foodie romance seemed the only logical option. When she’s not watching the Food Network, she’s reading a romance novel, or if absolutely necessary, working as a consultant. Someone has to put really excellent food on the table.

First question:

Eggnog or Mimosas? Are you old enough to drink?

Eggnog, hands down. I’m a sucker for those spicy, more complex tastes, so I’ll always pick something like eggnog over a one-note mimosa. Now, if we’re going to get creative with our drink mixing, I’d be up for a mimosa, too…

We’re also taking pictures with Santa, did you bring a gift for him? (Maybe a new release or a pretty book cover…)

I brought a pretty book cover… :pets: I hope Santa is… open-minded.

Blurb:

Mindy Edwards can’t bake to save her life, but with no where else to go, she returns to the one place she’d avoided for six years. Her boss’s son, Leo—still strictly off-limits—doesn’t help her starved libido, and what’s a girl to do when she could barely keep her job as the cook?

Leo Fortiss has never quite gotten over his first love nor did he expect her to return and pretend they didn’t have a heartbreaking past, but that didn’t mean he couldn’t save her from all the other cowboys–who definitely weren’t after her burnt buns and horrid cooking. He proposes a trade: he’ll teach her to bake bread if she’ll come to the big Barn Dance with him.

Mindy accepts, but when things heat up in the kitchen, she finds history repeating itself. Will she run or risk her heart a second time?

Please enter. Drinks are served by the elves in the corner.

:runs for the bar:

What’s your favorite holiday and why?

Thanksgiving, easily. Because of my job, Christmas tends to be a little bit of a production every year, but Thanksgiving is a great opportunity to just be with family and have some good food and watch sports. I’m definitely a sportaholic, so anytime there’s basketball or football on, I’ll take that.

Did you ask Santa for anything good?

I think I have just about everything I want this year. If Santa has a good weight loss program he can recommend, though, I’m gonna need that. I am way out of control this holiday season…

What’s your favorite place to spend the holidays?

Disneyland. There is nothing better than Christmas at Disney. Granted, it can be a bit crowded, but it really is the happiest place on earth and to be there with my family, it’s going to be amazing. Oh, did I mention I’m going to Disneyland this year for Christmas? :cheers: Can’t wait.

What is your favorite Christmas memory?

It’s not actually a memory of mine. But my grandpa used to tell this story all the time about the first time I ever saw a Christmas tree. Since my birthday is in February, I was already walking (or toddling), and I came around the corner in my grandparents’ house and saw this huge, lit and decorated Christmas tree and I stopped dead in my tracks and stared at it with wide eyes. Then my face broke into this huge smile and I started bobbing up and down and hyperventilating and laughing all at the same time. To see my grandpa impersonate me is almost as entertaining as anything I’ve ever seen. But I’ve loved Christmas ever since.

Do you have personal resolutions for the New Years? Anything interesting?

I’m going to resolve to write every single day of 2012. Some kind of writing on a book. I’m not going to set limits, because I want it to be a resolution I can keep. But I definitely want to write *something* every day.

Why do you write romance?

Because I think love is the one thing we all wait and search for, at our deepest core. And while there’s only one place we can find the truest love, we’ll take whatever love comes at us. I am a hopeful romantic. I always believe that love will win out in the end, whatever end we come to. So it’s a natural fit for me.

How long have you been writing for? And how would you describe your publication journey?

My publication journey was… strange. I always knew I wanted to write romance, but I had no idea what kind. I tried historical (of all shapes and sizes) and then tried contemporary. And I could never finish anything. (Well, I finished a historical or two, but lordy, they sucked.) But then I started to write what I knew (which was food and cooking and restaurants) and it just clicked for me. I’ve been writing foodie romance ever since. And then, I started writing historicals again and just sold my first of a Steampunk series to Ellora’s Cave. So I guess I’m still growing into my full capability, but it’s been quite a ride so far.

Are you a plotter or pantser? What is your routine?

I used to be a major pantser. In fact, I was trained to write short fiction and flash fiction, and had published several shorts (under 2K) as an MFA student. And it’s really hard to hit the right note for how to tell those shorts. In fact, one of my MFA profs said that it’s harder to write flash fiction than to write novels, and in some ways, I think I agree. It’s hard to write really well in such a short space. There is no room for failure. But you really have to learn to trust your gut to write that short. And in a lot of ways, it hamstringed me as a novelist. I had to unlearn all my pansty ways in order to write novels (and I’m sure my editors would still like to unteach me a few things I learned doing that, haha). Now, I’m more of a plot-ser. I plot all the major plot points ahead of time and do the minor ones as I go. It works better, but it’s also a new muscle for me, so it takes longer. But I think it makes my books better.

What characteristics do all your heroes/heroines have in all your stories?

A love of food. Both of them aren’t always nuts about it. In fact, in my first book (The Barn Dance), my heroine was a horrifying cook, and my hero saved the kitchen. But since I write foodie romance, one of them is typically a foodie or chef or cook of some sort.

What writing resources do you abide by as a writer?

A lot of people poo-poo this, but I use Wikipedia a lot. I always check the resources, and if I have time, I often read or research from those resources (especially for my historicals). And I always try to verify the information I get on Wikipedia. But I use it a lot, and by and large, it’s incredibly helpful as a jumping-off-point. As a trained academic, I have a tiny bit of shame for admitting that, but it’s true.

What advice would you give aspiring authors?

Two things.

First. Write. There is no substitute for experience, and the more you write, the better you’ll get. You can have 10,000 followers on Twitter, and if you don’t get a book out, it won’t matter. You can have 1000 blog hits a day and a super huge platform, but if people don’t want to read your books, you might as well pick your toenails. Don’t neglect social media. But it’s not going to make you a better writer.

Second. Listen. You’re surrounded by people who know a lot about the industry. Listen to them. Don’t ever value your work so highly that you can’t take criticism. Despite what everyone says about listening to your gut and it’s your book, you’ll not last long if you can’t take criticism and don’t listen. Especially to your editor. Sometimes, you are not the best judge of what your book does and doesn’t need. Your gut might lead you astray, so make sure you’re always listening.

What are you working on right now?

I’m writing a series of Western foodie romances for Decadent Publishing in a super secret project, which I guess I just outed. But there will be more information coming soon (keep an eye on my blog for more info). This is the most fun I’ve had writing, maybe ever. I adore collaboration. And I was lucky enough to get to collaborate with writers I admire and editors I respect and adore. We’re going to be open for submissions soon.

I’m also writing sequels to this book (Off the Record) and the book I’m releasing with Liquid Silver in 2012, in addition to the final book in The Barn Dance series. And I’m plotting (or plot-sing) my second and third Steampunk books. It’s a fun place to be right now.

What news would you like to share with your readers?

I have several books coming out in 2012 and I hope you’ll enjoy them all! I have a sports-themed erotic novella (Every Time I Think of You) coming out from Liquid Silver and the foodie Western coming out in February from Decadent. Then, my Steampunk Erotic novel (my first full-length novel!!) coming out from Ellora’s Cave in 2012. So, lots coming from me. I hope you love them all as much as I do.

Where can readers find you?

1. Twitter: @camrynrhys
2. Facebook: @Camryn Rhys
3. Website: http://camrynrhys.com
4. Others: http://dirtybirdiesauthors.com

List other books you have out:

The Barn Dance and Off the Record

Thank you so much for joining us at Romance Author Hotspot!

Prize: As part of my release party, I’m giving away one $50 Amazon Gift Card to one commenter on my blog or any of my guest posts, and a copy of Off the Record to two other commenters, randomly selected.

Meet Clarissa Yip!

Contemporary romance author, Clarissa Yip, leads a life of adventure and mischief. Constantly on the run, she’s always hanging out with her muse, plotting the next best story, and looking for anything that will fuel her imagination. Besides being an avid reader and writer, Clarissa enjoys scrapbooking, video games, immersing herself in addictive TV shows, and engaging in anything that will challenge her mind. A lover of food and languages, she also loves to try new things. Her dreams involve finding the ultimate way of sharing her world with yours. From the Hawaiian island of Oahu to the beautiful season-changing New York, you never know where she’ll be. Find Clarissa on Facebook and Twitter or drop her a note at http://www.clarissayip.com.

First question:

Eggnog or Mimosas? Are you old enough to drink?

I don’t like this question. If I’m not old enough to drink, are you going to not let me come in? * glares * Okay, fine. Mimosas!

We’re also taking pictures with Santa, did you bring a gift for him? (Maybe a new release or a pretty book cover…)

Blurb:

Stubborn and proud cowgirl, Lily McCormick, is finally coming to terms with her quiet life on her parent’s ranch, until her older brother, as payback, signs her up for 1NightStand. Kidnapped and forced onto a plane to a foreign location, she faces the dreaded cold and an unwanted tryst, until her ex-husband appears before her…as her date.

New York City District Attorney, Rafe Martinez, would do anything to get his ex-wife back, even if it meant taking drastic measures to pretend he was there for another woman. When jealousy and rage surfaces and Lily’s tough demeanor wanes, desire and lust sparks their once powerful connection as truths unfold. Will Rafe convince her to return to him or push her further away from giving their love a second chance?

Please enter. Drinks are served by the elves in the corner.

What if I don’t want a drink from an elf?

Too bad. What’s your favorite holiday and why?

My favorite holiday is actually Christmas! I love the sparkling lights, prettily wrapped presents, and a hot hunk under the tree…Oh wait, that was a dream.

Did you ask Santa for anything good?

I asked Santa for a lot of things, but each year I swear, I get coal….

What’s your favorite place to spend the holidays?

My favorite place to spend holidays would have to be New York. I love white Christmases and the first snow fall. But any snow after that, I think I can do without. Although, I’ve always wanted to be a snow bunny…

What is your favorite Christmas memory?

Hmm…Waking up and believing that I would catch Santa in the act, only to find my sister tearing up my Santa letters. I know. It’s traumatizing, but it shows how much my family loves me and would do anything to make me believe that there was Santa aka my sister. (My parents are old-fashioned and very Buddhist. They never believed in Santa.) Which explained why the wrapping paper was always the same. (I’m going to have to get her new paper!)

Do you have personal resolutions for the New Years? Anything interesting?

Oh my! I have so many I don’t think I can list it all here. 1. Write more. 2. Lose 10 pounds. 3. Write more. 4. Lose 15 pounds. 5. Write more. 6. Lose 20 pounds…Get the drift? lol

Why do you write romance?

I love seeing relationships blossom from beginning to end. Love seeing couples find each other and have a happily ever after. But most of all, I find the psychological aspects of relationships interesting since no two stories are the same. I love the whole concept of falling in love. I’m still looking for my Prince Charming. If you find him, please send him my way.

How long have you been writing for? And how would you describe your publication journey?

I’ve been writing for years. I have a draw full of rejection letters that I can show you…but let’s not. I haven’t had the easiest journey in publication, but I can remember when I got the “email,” it was the most exciting moment of my life. I thought I was seeing things, then I wondered if the publisher was nuts. Lol. Ooops, I think my publisher is actually hanging out here today. Shhhhhhh!

Are you a plotter or pantser? What is your routine?

I’m a mix of both. I’ll spend three days plotting, then start writing and end up pantsing everything because my muse is mean and she likes to harass my characters into doing something totally uncalled for!

What characteristics do all your heroes/heroines have in all your stories?

My heroes tend to be total alphas, my heroines more spunky. They’re both righteous and charming. But I’m really big on second chance stories, so knowing that they both share past history make me love them more because I have so much fun designing that.

What writing resources do you abide by as a writer?

Too many to list here! One of my favorite books is James Scott Bell’s The Art of War For Writers. It’s a great book and a great pick-me-upper when I’m having doubts in writing. Also, I can’t live without my dictionary and my Chicago Manual of Style…okay, now I’m just getting into other things. LOL. I love resource books. I love learning and knowing that I’m growing each day I write, and being able to utilize my sources to help cultivate my skills.

What advice would you give aspiring authors?

Do not give up! Keep writing. Be persistent, have faith, and believe in yourself. Success only comes when you keep momentum and continue to persevere. Rejection letters are badges of honor and there’s no such thing as failure. It’s what you do with that failure that really counts.

What are you working on right now?

Right now I’m working on a million things, but mainly my third book for the 1Night Stand Series called Tempting a Rogue. Tempting a Prince just came out Dec. 23^rd from Decadent Publishing.

What news would you like to share with your readers?

I’m also working on few projects for my loving publisher, Entangled—that, you’re going to have to wait to hear. But I did find out my story, True Connections, will be part of Entangled’s awesome Valentine’s anthology. How exciting is that? I’m still patiently waiting for good news from my editor. *cough * Libby *cough * No pressure. LOL.

Where can readers find you?

1. a.     Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/clarissayip
2. b.     Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/ClarissaYipAuthor
3. c.     Website: http://clarissayip.com
4. d.     Others: http://clarissayipblog.com

List other books you have out:

Check it out here:

http://clarissayip.com/my-books/

Thank you so much for joining us at Romance Author Hotspot!

Prize: 1 print copy of Madame Eve’s 1Night Stand Holiday Anthology (for US only), 1 print copy of A Passionate Christmas (for US only) (if non-US commenter is chosen, then they can pick two copies from my backlist at Decadent publishing), one e-book of commenter’s choice from my back list from Decadent Publishing to two other commenters. That’s four chances to win! 

Meet Heather Bennett!

Co-Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Decadent Publishing!

First question:

Eggnog or Mimosas? Are you old enough to drink?

Eggnog. Spiked. Old enough to know drinking too much will lay me out for a few days.

We’re also taking pictures with Santa, did you bring a gift for him? (Maybe a new release or a pretty book cover…)

I have the PERFECT gift for him, a book called Santa, Cutie by Cerise DeLand. It’s in Madame Eve’s 1Night Stand Holiday Anthology. This lovely author, Clarissa Yip, is also featured in that book. Do you know her?

Please enter. Drinks are served by the elves in the corner.

Are they naughty elves? Deanna Wadsworth permanently tweeked my vision of the merry little buggers in her Naughty North Pole book, Ms. Claus’ List. Never knew elves were that….flexible.

What’s your favorite holiday and why?
Christmas. For a number of reasons, not the least of which is the kids are off school for 2 weeks and I can sleep in (which, at our house, means 8a.m.). I also enjoy the month leading up to it; holiday music, cozy fires with stockings, buying presents, decorating, making cookies and taking plates to our elder neighbors, etc. I have tweeners, so this is an awesome age for the holiday. This year we’re doing Grinchmas at Universal Studios, too. Shall be fun!

Did you ask Santa for anything good?

This answer could go SSOOO wrong, but I’ll behave. I need a new nifty wine opener, mine wore out, and I want one of those cake-pop makers. I have a kitchen-gadget fetish. Does anyone remember the Cosby episode where Claire forbade Cliff from buying more small appliances? Yah, that’s me. *gazes lovingly at new NuWave oven*

What’s your favorite place to spend the holidays?

Absolutely at home. We don’t go anywhere on Christmas, people come to our house and we have a junk-food feast on the 24^th (taquitos, cheese and crackers, mini-weenies, mini-quiches, wings, chips, dips, etc.) and we pile in the car to go see Christmas lights. Then we’re home until the 26^th, enjoying each other’s company, watching movies, eating leftovers. Serious snuggle time.

What is your favorite Christmas memory?

When I was a little kid, we had a GIANT snowstorm on Christmas Eve. We spun out on the ice, had to get pulled out of a snow bank, but mom was determined to get to my grandparent’s house and she kept driving. Mom had me looking in the dark sky for Santa’s sleigh on the way, we ate chocolate, I know that. My grandparents lived in the country, and my uncles drove up and down the dirt road leading to their driveway for 2 hours so the road stayed clear for us. I was maybe 3yrs old, but it is a vivid memory. I woke up and had a MOUND of presents, the snow was feet deep. Picture-perfect holiday for a wee one!

As an adult, there isn’t really one, it’s just the whole experience with my husband and kids and family.

Do you have personal resolutions for the New Years? Anything interesting?

I want to remember to take more time to enjoy next year. I get really busy and forget to enjoy the little things. I answer business emails at the beach and text at the movies. Need to stop that! Is that boring? J Oh, and hire an Organization Fairy.

Why do you publish romance?

It’s what I love to read, it has amazingly talented people writing in the genre, it’s a serious but fun industry to be in, and we have THE MOST interesting conversations over cocktails.

What do you love in running a pub?

Dealing with the people every day. There is a lot of joy in seeing authors get great reviews and awards for their hard work, seeing the new ones realize their dreams, having editors tell me they enjoy their job. I had a ton of fun developing a few new lines this year, a western and a sci-fi world-building line and a few others; the creative back and forth was inspiring. I also really enjoy meeting the readers and authors at conventions and in chats.

What advice would you give aspiring authors?
WRITE WRITE WRITE! One book out there is good. Congratulations! But you need to keep going if you want a career. And, by the way, a successful career in ANYTHING is a lot of work—writing is no different. Only half of it is writing, the other half is getting out there and getting your book into the hands of readers. Also, never stop learning. Take some classes or seminars, read other people’s work, do research and write what you enjoy.

Who are some of your favorite authors?

Oh, lord. How much space do I have here?

Ok, without being biased toward Decadent authors)…Lara Adrian (whom I met this year, and she IS as cool as it gets), Sherrilyn Kenyon (fabulous world-builder), Sherry Thomas (amazing use of the language and humor), the late Kathleen Givens (epic researcher), Diana Gabaldon (2 words—Jamie Fraser), Sabrina Jeffries (sassy historicals), Susan Mallery (smart contemps), Lorelei James (smokin’ cowboys, talented at characterization), Lisa Renee Jones (I buy her off the shelf every time), Tori Carrington (fun stories, fun people), Samantha Kane (ménage master!), the older Jude Deveraux and Johanna Lindsey stuff (my first fictional loves—all of the Montgomery brothers and *fans self* James Mallory), a giant list of ebook authors, growing daily. Also Kate Douglas and Hannah Howell because they are fabulous writers and great to follow on Facebook. Of course my partner, Samantha Gail. I am in lust with her hero from Guarding the Coast.

There are more. But you will probably cut me if I keep going.

What goals do you have for the new upcoming year?

Keep building Decadent Publishing in the manner we’ve been doing—quality stories, quality authors, quality staff.

Any big projects for 2012?
I don’t think we have any SMALL project in 2012! We are branching out with a new imprint– Bono Books–for our sweeter romance, mainstream, and YA books. That should launch soon after the new year. We have several new lines open or opening; including world-building sci-fi and western romance lines, Honor Guard (stories about modern alpha men working in or around foreign embassies), The Edge (short, very hot stories), and our main line and 1Night Stand series are going strong.

We’ll be at a bunch of Cons all over the country; RT, Tucson Book Faire, Arizona Dreamin’ and the New York Book Faire. Also I will probably be at EPIC, maybe Comic-Con. Decadent authors will be at a lot more. We’ll have a Decadent Publishing team at our Relay For Life event.

We’re currently in the editing process with Bill and Susan Seaforth Hayes, more notably from Days of Our Lives. They wrote a wonderful historical fiction book that will release before April. There is another big project on the board I can’t talk much about yet, but definitely has a little celebrity tie-in.

What news would you like to share with your readers?

We have a writing contest for our Western Escape line with great prizes, including a contract for first place, a critique by Desiree Holt, one by rising star Ann Mayburn, and more. http://bit.ly/smvKhf

We also have a VERY cool blog for the holidays where someone wins prizes every day! Holiday stories, recipes, books, musings, music. http://30daysofdecadence.blogspot.com

Additionally, anyone who emails me at decadentnews@gmail.com and signs up for our newsletter will be entered to win a Decadent ebook of their choice. If you’re already a subscriber, let me know and your address will be verified and entered!

Where can readers find you?

1. Twitter: @DecadentPub
2. Facebook: www.facebook.com/decadentpublishing
3. Website: http://www.decadentpublishing.com
4. Others: http://decadentpublishing.blogspot.com
   http://30daysofdecadence.blogspot.com
   http://westernescapedecadentpublishing.blogspot.com
5. Newsletter: decadentnews@gmail.com

Thank you so much for joining us at Romance Author Hotspot!

Prize: 4 ebooks from Decadent Publishing; a 1Night Stand, a holiday novella, and 2 main line books of winner’s choice.

Meet Desiree Holt!

Desiree Holt’s writing is flavored with the rich experiences of her life, including a long stretch in the music business representing every kind of artist from country singer to heavy metal rock bands. For several years she also ran her own public relations agency handling any client that interested her, many of whom might recognize themselves in the pages of her stories. She is twice a finalist for an EPIC E-Book Award, a nominee for a Romantic Times Reviewers Choice Award, winner of the first 5 Heart Sweetheart of the Year Award at The Romance Studio as well as twice a CAPA Award for best BDSM book of the year, winner of two Holt Medallion Awards of Merit, multiple winner of the Whipped Cream Book of the Week Award and is published by five different houses. Romance Junkies said of her work: “Desiree Holt is the most amazing erotica author of our time and each story is more fulfilling then the last.”

First question:

Eggnog or Mimosas? Are you old enough to drink?

Mimosas. I actually think I’m too old to drink!

We’re also taking pictures with Santa, did you bring a gift for him? (Maybe a new release or a pretty book cover…)

Beautiful book cover of my upcoming release.

Blurb:

Cody Alvarez needed to find a wife by Christmas or he would lose the ranch his uncle left to him. Libby Morris just needed, for once in her life, to feel desired. Sensual. Appealing. Especially after an intense reshaping at a high-end spa. Invited to Christmas Week at the Castillo Lodge in Alaska by Madame Eve of 1Night Stand, Cody and Libby were not given the names of the partners chosen for them. As they were forced to wait until they learned who their one-night stands were, they discovered an incredible spark of chemistry and a connection stronger than either had experienced before. Would spending a very erotic night together ruin their arrangements or give them another option?

Please enter. Drinks are served by the elves in the corner.

What’s your favorite holiday and why?

Christmas, because it’s joyful, colorful, musical, all that and more. And a time for love.

Did you ask Santa for anything good?

A ride on a Ducati motorcycle, please. And  on-fattening chocolate.

What’s your favorite place to spend the holidays?

At home with all my kids who are spread far and wide across the country.

What is your favorite Christmas memory?

My late husband hanging fake mistletoe fr0m the ceiling fan in our bedroom and telling me kissing was better on Christmas. I still have it hanging there.

Do you have personal resolutions for the New Years? Anything interesting?

I have a football series I stated six years ago. I think this is the year I resurrect it. I hope.

Why do you write romance?

Because I love love stories and happy endings. And because nothing transports you out of everyday life like a good romance.

How long have you been writing for? And how would you describe your publication journey?

Seven years. My journey was kind of like climbing Mount Everest in bare feet.

Are you a plotter or pantser? What is your routine?

Pantser, although because I now work on multiple projects at once I have bare outlines so I don’t lose my place. Or my characters. Or my plot!

What characteristics do all your heroes/heroines have in all your stories?

Heroes: flawed alpha males. The flaw makes them human and the alpha makes them sexy.

Heroines: sharp, bright and feisty. I hate women who stand around wringing their hands and waiting for someone else to solve their problems/.

What writing resources do you abide by as a writer?

The Internet for sure. Want to know about Peruvian jungles? The width of the Yucatan peninsula? The name of almost any erotic toy? Just ask me! I probably have it in my notes somewhere.

And people. I have people I can go to who are sheriff’s forensic experts, Delta Force soldiers, SEALs, rancher, horse trainers. The list goes on.

What advice would you give aspiring authors?

Collect people like I do who can be resources for you. Take a lot of online workshops so you can learn your craft. Join a critique group. Have a very thick skin. And never, ever, ever give up.

What are you working on right now?

I’m multitasking! LOL!

Aftershock, the sequel to Joy Ride

Book 5 in The Phoenix Agency series

Book 4 in Night Seekers

Book 5 in Rawhide

Book 2 in Attack Force

And…oh, wait! I have to stop. I’m scaring myself.

What news would you like to share with your readers?

I was thrilled to be one of the first authors interviewed and reviewed at the new romance blog on USA Today and to be included on the list of authors Joyce Lamb pitches questions to. I have a new series coming out next year, Erector Set, with Ellora’s Cave, a release this month, Stark Naked, with Samhain, and a romantic suspense, Out of Control, with The Wild Rose Press. This is much grittier than I usually write so I hope y’all like it.

Where can readers find you?

1. a.     Twitter: @desireeholt
2. b.     Facebook: /desireeholt
3. c.     Website: www.desireeholt.com
4. d.     Others:
5. e.      www.toys4us.blogspot.com  www.wildandwiskedcoys.blogspot.com www.1800domhelp.com

List other books you have out:

Thank you so much for joining us at Romance Author Hotspot!

Prize: (these are two separate items; names chosen by random.org from those who comment)

Christmas watch; choice of ebook from my backlist. Also each person who emails me their snail mail addy at desireeholt@desireeholt.com will get a set of 8 Romance Trading Cards

Meet D.L. Jackson!

D. L. Jackson is a writer of urban fantasy, science fiction, military romance and erotic romance. She loves to incorporate crazy plot twists, comedy and the unexpected into her worlds. As a U.S. Army veteran, she naturally adores men in uniform and feels the world could always use more. She does her part by incorporating as many sexy soldiers in her novels as she can. When she isn’t writing or running the roads, you can often find her online chatting with her peers and readers. Grab a cup of iced coffee, pull up your virtual chair and say hi. She loves emails and blog visits from her readers. http://authordljackson.com

First question:

Eggnog or Mimosas? Are you old enough to drink?  Eggnog. Yes.

We’re also taking pictures with Santa, did you bring a gift for him? (Maybe a new release or a pretty book cover…) My newest release, This Endris Night.

Blurb:

One party of a lifetime.

One secret a century old which could end it all.

Shiya, a Yupik supermodel, travels to Alaska in pretense of attending a party where she’ll find the man of her dreams, but her real intent is to lure the man of her nightmares to where she can finally end a deadly game of cat and mouse.

Gunnar is on Earth for one reason—to recover the wreckage of a Doppelganger crash, but recovering the ship isn’t easy. The debris is scattered for miles, throughout a resort and human settlements. In order to get closer, he agrees to a date and finds himself face to face with a Terran woman who doesn’t know her genetics are from his world or that she was born to be his. Soon he discovers she’s in grave danger from a Doppelganger hunter.

Please enter. Drinks are served by the elves in the corner.

What’s your favorite holiday and why?  Christmas, because I get to see family that don’t live near. It’s cheerful. Pretty lights everywhere and there’s a festive spirit everywhere.

Did you ask Santa for anything good? A new laptop. I’ve worn my other out.

What’s your favorite place to spend the holidays? Home.

What is your favorite Christmas memory?  Making a snow woman with my grandmother. We dressed her with a fancy hat and scarf and she had more than the basic snowman curves when we were done with her

Do you have personal resolutions for the New Years? Anything interesting? Nah, my goals are an ongoing thing I tweak all year long, adjusting as I reach them, setting new ones.

Why do you write romance? I love to read it. I like the escape and I enjoy bringing my worlds to life with words and sharing them.

How long have you been writing for? 7 years. And how would you describe your publication journey? Up and down. An ongoing journey.

Are you a plotter or pantser? What is your routine? I’ve never used an outline. I’m a complete pantser.

What characteristics do all your heroes/heroines have in all your stories? Honesty, integrity. I want my readers to like them and I think they need to be trustworthy. Do they have problems, yes, but it’s the way they resolve them that are important to me.

What writing resources do you abide by as a writer?  Strunk and White is a must. I have so many resources, but the local library and the lady that works there is one of my favorites.

What advice would you give aspiring authors? Learn your craft. Read everything you can. When you’re ready to give up, tell yourself, I’m going to try this one more time. You will get rejections, it’s part of becoming and author and staying an author. Even published authors get them.

What are you working on right now? Twenty different stories. My science fiction story for the Elatian line at Decadent publishing is the primary focus though.

What news would you like to share with your readers?  Well, I’ve got two Edge series stories I recently contracted with Decadent. No release date, but I’m guessing the beginning of next year some time.

Where can readers find you?

1. Twitter: @dlaree
2. Facebook: D L Jackson
3. Website: http://authordljackson.com        
4. Others: http://backwardmomentum.blogspot.com

http://paranormalromantics.blogspot.com (Saturdays)

List other books you have out: 

Decadent Publishing:  Cinderella Wore Combat Boots, Seducing Liberty, This Endris Night.

Liquid Silver Books:  Slipping the Past, Last Flight of the Ark

Passion in Print:  Blown Away

Ravenous Romance: Why did it have to be shorts? (Men in Shorts antho) Cloaks, Daggers and Diapers (Hot Dads antho) Sex, Shoes & Combat Boots (Sex and Shoes Antho) Speakeasy (short)

Thank you so much for joining us at Romance Author Hotspot!

Prize: $10.00 Amazon Gift Card

Meet Fantasia Frog Designs!

FFD strives to meet each author’s end goal for their cover, and therefore each cover strongly reflects each author’s preferences and personal taste.

First question:

Eggnog or Mimosas? Are you old enough to drink?

Definitely eggnog over Mimosas, but if you don’t mind, put a little rum in it

We’re also taking pictures with Santa, did you bring a gift for him? (Maybe a new release or a pretty book cover…)

Ack! Santa’s here!! I haven’t been good. (Hides)

Please enter. Drinks are served by the elves in the corner.

Lovely, I like that tall one – impish little fella isn’t he?

What’s your favorite holiday and why?

Valentine’s Day. Do I really have to say why…. Okay. (I get to chill with my man).

Did you ask Santa for anything good?

He can’t know where I am. Remember? Bad.

What’s your favorite place to spend the holidays?

Well… normally at home by the fire with my husband and son, but this year I’m taking a train out West and that just might be AWESOME!

What is your favorite Christmas memory?

Discovering my husband is a big kid. On our second Christmas together he got up at three a.m. so excited because it was time to go down and look at the tree. Goofy looks good on him.

Do you have personal resolutions for the New Years? Anything interesting?

Hmm, no. Boring aren’t I?

How did Fantasia Frog start?

I worked in a bookstore for ten years, reading back covers of books, staring in awe at the pretty front covers, and then I happened to ask one of my co-workers what program I would need to design my own. He pointed me in the direction of the photoshop program and voila!

What is your process in designing covers and promotional materials?

I have a variety of processes. Sometimes I browse photostock sites and a few images strikes my fancy. I put them together and sell them as premade covers. Otherwise I wait until one of the publishers I work with sends me a cover art form. Then I search for specific photos. I often do a few style trials. If the images don’t look right I keep adjusting the layer’s tone and eventually something seems to fit.

What do clients usually look for when they contact you?

To be honest I don’t really know. They often say they like one or two of my premade covers to give me an idea what they are hoping for.

Is Fantasia Frogs working on anything exciting at the moment?

I’d still like to design vectors. I’m teaching myself the process at the moment, but there really isn’t much time to dedicate to it at the moment.

What goals does Fantasia Frog have for the new upcoming year?

I’m buying myself a toy, a designing toy, but I’m not telling what. (Just in case I’m inept at figuring out how to work it). But if I do figure it out, you’ll be the first to know.

Where can readers find you?

a.     Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/FantasiaFrog

b.     Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001988203659&ref=tn_tnmn

 c.     Website:  http://fantasiafrogdesigns.wordpress.com

Thank you so much for joining us at Romance Author Hotspot!

Thanks for hosting!

Meet Kate Richards!

First question:

Eggnog or Mimosas? Are you old enough to drink? Up until Christmas I’ll go with eggnog…or eggnog lattes! Then I’ll switch to mimosas. And yes…since I just got carded at Target picking up beer for the hubs, I am Target certified as old enough to drink.

We’re also taking pictures with Santa, did you bring a gift for him? (Maybe a new release or a pretty book cover…) I have a nice cover, is he a sexy Santa?

Blurb:

What to do when your fiancé dumps you for a bimbo, right before a vacation of a lifetime to a luxurious Bahamas couples resort? If you’re lucky, like Terese, the reservations clerk can refer you to another resort, even nicer, and suggests you contact the fabulous Madame Eve at 1Night Stand—for a replacement date!

David is Terese’s date. Very tall, ebony dark and handsome, he’s also starting to yearn for more connection than career has allowed. After years of working at various resorts, he can settle in and enjoy his position as Castillo Resorts’ newest manager right in his native Bahamas.

Add in a hurricane with a sudden change in course, and David and Terese may have a more exciting date than either of them planned. In more ways than one.

Please enter. Drinks are served by the elves in the corner.

What’s your favorite holiday and why? Halloween, I love fall and everything about it!

Did you ask Santa for anything good? Uggs, but Santa is making me find the website and place the order for him…anyone else married will surely understand this.

What’s your favorite place to spend the holidays? Home, where we can snuggle by the tree and watch for Santa

What is your favorite Christmas memory? I was convinced I saw Santa’s sleigh fly by…more than one year. As a child, that was my favorite part of the holiday. And who knows, maybe I did.

Do you have personal resolutions for the New Years? Anything interesting? I am going to write every day and not let other commitments get in the way!

Why do you write romance? I love being involved with the characters and helping them find their happy ending.

How long have you been writing for? And how would you describe your publication journey? Forever, but I only got serious writing for publication a couple of years ago, and I’ve been very lucky to find supportive, encouraging publishers and awesome editors who helped me grow.

Are you a plotter or pantser? What is your routine? Pantser. I sit down with a plot in mind and my characters take the reins and show me how they want it to go. They are smarter than me anyway! And certainly more creative.

What characteristics do all your heroes/heroines have in all your stories? Honesty is important, once any comedic misunderstandings are cleared up. And heart.

What writing resources do you abide by as a writer? I have taken classes, I have an awesome group of critique partners and beta readers, I read books and research on any topic covered by my stories.

What are you working on right now? I am working on a story to submit to the Wiccan Haus series at Musa. I may have another 1Night Stand story up my sleeve as well.

What news would you like to share with your readers? Valerie Mann and I have created another series for Decadent Publishing called The Edge. It’s very sexy shorts and we expect the debut to be around Valentine’s Day.

Where can readers find you?

1. Twitter: katerichards09
2. Facebook: katerichardsauthor
3. Website: http://katerichards.wordpress.com

List other books you have out: I have several with Decadent Publishing including, The Virgin and The Playboy, Trail of Hearts, Avalon for Christmas.

Thank you so much for joining us at Romance Author Hotspot!

PRIZE: Copy of Gale Force Passion