Claw Marks Week on ABA: Cassandre Dayne Interviews Sam Crescent

Cassandre: How did you get started writing and what inspires you the most?

Sam: I have a wild imagination and one day after reading more books than I’d like to admit to I started writing whatever came to mind. I’ve been writing most of my life but I’ve only started to take it seriously these past few years. I never thought someone like me would ever have the opportunity to be a published writer/ author. This is truly a dream come true.

Everything inspired me, walking, cooking seeing interactions of people on the street. Everything sets off a wave of thoughts that will not stop until I’ve written then down.

Cassandre: Have you ever wanted to try writing in a completely alternative genre and how would you go about it?

Sam: I’m delving into the paranormal and vampire genre and I’m always prepared to spread these wings of mine. I’d start by researching a genre and then seeing if any inspiration comes to me. I don’t like writing a story unless I feel happy with how a story can go or who my characters are.

Cassandre: What’s the biggest misconception about being a writer and what difficulties have you faced with your writing?

Sam: That it is easy. Writing is anything but easy. Writing takes time, dedication and an ability to see past the surface. To be able to create a problem and then solve it within a story. I’ve also found at times, it can be lonely at times. Especially when working toward deadlines and the family is waiting for you.

Cassandre: What are you currently working on and what’s coming up for you?

Sam: I’ve several pieces planned for Rebel Ink Press including a valentines day story, it is coming together just a little slowly. I’m working through the next Clifford Arbor book titled, Savoring Emily.

I also have the a series I’ve started with Total-E-Bound and starting the third book in that series.

I like to keep busy.

Cassandre: What do you like best about working with a publishing company?

Sam: I feel they have my back. That as a publishing company they not only want to best for there company which is gaining a great reputation as a quality publisher but also they want authors who want to sub to them on this basis. Publishers are a little like parents, they guide you to be the best that you can be as a writer. At least that is how I feel. I’ve not had a bad publisher but other may feel different. 

Some fun questions…

Cassandre: If you had to select an actor or actress to play in your piece from Claw Marks – who would it be?

Sam: Leonardo Dicaprio, what can I say I love Leo. Lol

Cassandre: How hot do you think cougars are and why?

Sam:I think cougars are seriously hot to write as it can be told from many perspectives. From the wife who hasn’t had the proper loving to the more adventurous woman. From threesomes to tender moments.

Cougars don’t need to be told from the stereotypical point but can be delved into in much more detail and from a variety of angles. I enjoyed writing cougars and brought me immense pleasure getting to know my characters.

Cassandre: If you had an opportunity to have a young lover – do you have one in mind and would you fess up?

Sam: As much as I love writing cougars, I have to say I go for the older man lol. So nope.

Cassandre: What’s something you can’t live without for writing?

Sam: My notebooks. Without my ever expanding list of notebooks I would be lost and my writing would be ruined.

Cassandre: Favorite color and does it suit your personality and why?

Sam: My favorite color is purple but I only eat green colored sweets. I have no idea if the color matches my personality.

Cassandre: What’s your favorite seduction song?

Sam: There are so many I love. At the moment I love Bruno Mars Grenade. Adele someone like you. Christina Perri Jar of hearts.

Cassandre: What would you consider to be the most romantic place on earth and why?

Sam: Buxton, I’m in love with it and there is where I’d love to be one day.

Author Sam Crescent Bio:

Sam Crescent lives in a small land known as the United Kingdom, at least it seems small on a huge map. No matter what she can always find places of inspiration and it was her land that inspired her first book, Office Hours. She has a passion for all things romance and when she discovered erotic romance she was all set. After spending years doing nothing but reading, in 2009 she decided to spread her wings and try out writing. After two years of serious learning and many rejections she finally got her first acceptance in 2011 and is now onto her second with Rebel Ink Press. She couldn’t imagine a world without romance and now she is part of the scene creating romance she has never been happier.

When she is not writing, you can find her walking for inspiration or in her kitchen. You can find her on; Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/SamCrescent, Blog: http://samcrescent.wordpress.com/, Facebook: http://en-gb.facebook.com/people/Sam-Crescent/100002178529657.

She can also be found lurking around on other blog pages.

Claw Marks Anthology Coming Oct 3rd from Rebel Ink:

Have you ever considered engaging in an exciting relationship with a stunning hunk of a man who’s much younger? Does your heart beat rapidly as you savor his carved body from across the crowded room? Every cougar can tell you the answer. Entering into new relationships isn’t easy and for some, sharing joy means letting go of a difficult past. Join a talented group of writers from Rebel Ink Press who bring you stories of love and passion transcending age and sometimes tragedy.

Checkmate by SammyJo Hunt – For anchor Clint Watson, keeping a low profile about his sexuality is a must but on one beautiful afternoon over a game of chess, he finds pleasure in the arms of a younger man. Player Conference by Liz Crowe – Jess can’t get past the loss of her husband until her daughter’s soccer coach gives her every reason to try again. The Diver’s Club by Genevre Pierceau – Jilted by her cheating boyfriend, Jill finds solace over drinks with her girlfriends who convince her to turn the tables and engage in a moment of passion with a sexy contractor. Spicy White Chocolate by Cassandre Dayne – During a regular meeting of an erotic book club, the girls enter into a wicked pact to seduce a younger man and the first to do so wins a hefty prize, only Shawna Dupres didn’t count on falling in love. Insatiable Kate by Dawne Prochilo – Kate Winston was angry at being thwarted by the man of her dreams and she was ready to give him a piece of her mind. What she didn’t know was Rome made a promise years before and yet one he was ready to break for the possibility of romance.

Believe by K.T. Bishop – Gabi continues to suffer from the loss of her husband until she finds passion in the arms of a young athlete bent on making a better life for himself. But can his dream succeed against his family’s wishes? Tempting Research by Sam Crescent – For Melissa Crane, research for her erotic books is everything. Stumped by a scene and facing a tough deadline, she enlists the help of one very sexy masseuse. Carnal Awakenings by Sara York – Anna is not only concerned about her aging looks but her children’s thoughts about her considering another relationship until a secluded vacation and a hot younger man and his male lover convince her an alternate lifestyle might work. Unwrap Me by Cassandre Dayne – Cristal refuses to get over the acts of her cheating ex husband until her best friend provides a special treat under the mistletoe. Fresh Meat by Marcos London – Robin Dahl moved to a small town in Texas to get away from her manipulating ex and pushes all thoughts of romance aside until a sexy deliveryman changes her mind.

Giveaway

Comment on any post this week, Monday Seot 26th through Sat Oct. 1st, to be entered to win an ebook copy of Claw Marks. Please leave your email in the comment so we can contact you if you win!

Claw Marks Week on ABA: Sam Crescent Interviews Sara York

Hello and welcome Sara York. She has so graciously agreed to be interviewed.

So lets begin...

Sam: First, tell us a little about yourself so the readers know who you are?

Sara: I’m Sara York and I write erotic romance. I feel like I’m in the middle of a self-help meeting when I introduce myself like that. Then again some people believe that reading erotic romance is a disease or addiction. I love the sensual nature of erotic romance. That feeling of hope and love that is transmitted from the author when the hope of a new relationship is on the verge of erupting. First kisses are my favorite.

Sam: What made you decide to write? Was it something you accidentally began? Or what you wanted to do? Or annoying character who refused to leave until their story was told? 

Sara: Writing is almost like a sickness for me. Okay, so I guess I am sick, but I need to write. The stories have been coming for a long time, I just didn’t know to write them down. Jake from Working It Out would wake me up in the middle of the night. I love Jake. My Claw Mark’s story, Carnal Awakenings kept coming back to me too. I wrote most of it in San Francisco sitting on a park bench off of Beach Street looking out into the water.

Sam: I love hearing about first acceptances as an aspiring writer and now that I am e-published, I still love hearing about them. So tell us about that first acceptance. 

Sara: I was so excited when Princess Slave was accepted. I remember receiving the email and jumping up and down so excited. I ran to tell my husband.

Sam: Tell us about your current release? Where can readers buy it from?

Sara: Carnal Awakenings in the Claw Marks Anthology comes out on October 3^rd from Rebel Ink Press. When I first wrote this it was a typical M/F cougar story but it wasn’t right. Then when Rebel Ink put out the call for a cougar anthology I pulled out Carnal Awakenings and knew immediately what this story needed and Mike was born. Mike and Nick are lovers but they want a third. They choose Anna to join their little trio and initiate her into the pleasures of Carnal love.

Sam: What are you currently writing?

Sara: I’m working on a sequel to Matt and Tom Take a Lover, it’s Matt and Tom Meet James. It will be a bit longer than Lover but still filled with passion and love and a little lust. I’m also working on Selling It, a M/M crime romance. Blaine is a cop in DC, working to catch a serial killer preying on teen prostitutes. He meets Andy, a stage actor and falls in love. When Blaine makes friends with one of the teen prostitutes, Nate, he thinks he is helping. But his actions bring about a dangerous triangle that no one guessed would ever happen.

Sam: What inspires you most when you write?

Sara: The beach. We don’t live there yet, but I go as often as I can. I just spent a week in the Bahamas and I had a hard time coming home. I didn’t take work with me but wish I had. I love the sand, the sun, the water and all the smells of the ocean. Just thinking about the beach and looking at pictures of the beach inspires me to write.

Sam: What experiences have you had working with your publisher/s?

Sara: I’ve had all types of experiences, from good to bad. I’m happy with my current publishers, Rebel Ink Press and Total-E-Bound. Both have wonderful editors and excellent management structures.

Sam: What are you reading now?

Sara: I’m reading Hot Head for the second time and Lee Brazil’s Giving Up. Both are excellent books. Next I’m going to be reading The Sixth Man by David Baldacci.

Sam: What are your guilty pleasures?

Sara: Coffee is my guilty pleasure. I love coffee. I’ve got the syrups at home so I can mix a delicious brew or take it black. I just love coffee.

Sam: What would be your advice, if any, for other aspiring authors?

Sara: Keep writing and don’t give up. Too many people give up once they realize how hard it is. If you really want to be successful, writing is very hard work. When the editing and re-editing gets difficult you just have to dig in and do it.

Sam: This is for you to talk more about yourself, leave your blogging details, site details and generally promote yourself.

Sara: I hope you all enjoy my books and you can find more information about Sara York books at my website http://sarayork.com

I would love to talk to you and enjoy chatting with my fans. I’m on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/sara.york1 I also blog on occasion so come by and check me out at http://sarayork.blogspot.com

Author Sara York Bio

Sara York lives in the southern United States with her family and dogs. Sara loves romance that takes you to distant worlds where you could be a princess or a warrior. She enjoys reading about far away places, but writing erotic romance is her passion. Sara York writes erotic scifi romance that takes place on sex planets where pleasure is the mainstay. With pleasure planets and deserted planets anything can happen. It is erotic fiction! Writing M/M, gay romances is new to Sara York, but the passion and freedom of expression in the gay world is refreshing. Sara also writes menage a trois and cougar stories. Take the passion of two and ramping it up to the passion of three. Sara’s favorite vacation would be to spend the day at the beach while reading or writing a good book. I love beach reads! You can find Sara York Ebooks at Amazon or other ebook retailers.

Claw Marks Anthology Coming Oct 3rd from Rebel Ink:

Have you ever considered engaging in an exciting relationship with a stunning hunk of a man who’s much younger? Does your heart beat rapidly as you savor his carved body from across the crowded room? Every cougar can tell you the answer. Entering into new relationships isn’t easy and for some, sharing joy means letting go of a difficult past. Join a talented group of writers from Rebel Ink Press who bring you stories of love and passion transcending age and sometimes tragedy.

Checkmate by SammyJo Hunt – For anchor Clint Watson, keeping a low profile about his sexuality is a must but on one beautiful afternoon over a game of chess, he finds pleasure in the arms of a younger man. Player Conference by Liz Crowe – Jess can’t get past the loss of her husband until her daughter’s soccer coach gives her every reason to try again. The Diver’s Club by Genevre Pierceau – Jilted by her cheating boyfriend, Jill finds solace over drinks with her girlfriends who convince her to turn the tables and engage in a moment of passion with a sexy contractor. Spicy White Chocolate by Cassandre Dayne – During a regular meeting of an erotic book club, the girls enter into a wicked pact to seduce a younger man and the first to do so wins a hefty prize, only Shawna Dupres didn’t count on falling in love. Insatiable Kate by Dawne Prochilo – Kate Winston was angry at being thwarted by the man of her dreams and she was ready to give him a piece of her mind. What she didn’t know was Rome made a promise years before and yet one he was ready to break for the possibility of romance.

Believe by K.T. Bishop – Gabi continues to suffer from the loss of her husband until she finds passion in the arms of a young athlete bent on making a better life for himself. But can his dream succeed against his family’s wishes? Tempting Research by Sam Crescent – For Melissa Crane, research for her erotic books is everything. Stumped by a scene and facing a tough deadline, she enlists the help of one very sexy masseuse. Carnal Awakenings by Sara York – Anna is not only concerned about her aging looks but her children’s thoughts about her considering another relationship until a secluded vacation and a hot younger man and his male lover convince her an alternate lifestyle might work. Unwrap Me by Cassandre Dayne – Cristal refuses to get over the acts of her cheating ex husband until her best friend provides a special treat under the mistletoe. Fresh Meat by Marcos London – Robin Dahl moved to a small town in Texas to get away from her manipulating ex and pushes all thoughts of romance aside until a sexy deliveryman changes her mind.

Giveaway

Comment on any post this week, Monday Seot 26th through Sat Oct. 1st, to be entered to win an ebook copy of Claw Marks. Please leave your email in the comment so we can contact you if you win!

Claw Marks Week on ABA: Sara York Interviews Liz Crowe - Plus Giveaway

Sara: Tell us about your books.

Liz: I have a Brewing Passion series with Breathless Press that includes a “choose your romance” format novel and four short stoires with Breathless Press.

With Rebel Ink I have Player Conference in the Claw Marks Anthology and Vegas Miracle, a contemporary m/f/m romance (novel) both releasing in October.

With Decadent Publishing I have one stand alone short story (Caught Offside—YES it has a soccer theme) plus the Turkish Delights trilogy.  All four release in November.

Sara: What inspired you to write your story in the Claw Marks Anthology?

Liz: I had Player Conference in my head, and then on paper as One Hot Scene that frankly was born of a flat-out fantasy I had about my daughter’s soccer coach.  I love soccer players……..dreamy…..sorry, distracted.  Yeah. So that’s where it began and I wrote the story outwards from there.

Sara: What are you working on right now?

Liz: I am writing a prequel to a trilogy that’s part Decadent Publishing’s OneNightStand series.  It won’t be part of the series, most likely but a historical romance set in 1950’s Istanbul between a diplomat’s daughter and a hot local who then form the base of the Turkish Delights trilogy about their three children.

I also have a trilogy of novels about realtors that I’m polishing up for submission. And I try not to be obsessive/compulsive about the submission I made a few months ago that is a craft brewery intrigue/mystery/romance novel.

Sara: What is the funniest thing that ever happened to you in your writer’s life?

Liz: Easily when fellow author Ann Mayburn was here in Ann Arbor helping her younger sister get settled in at college and stopped by my Tap Room for a visit.  I was not there yet and she asked for “Liz” at the bar.  My bar staff was stumped.  “No one named ‘Liz’ owns this place.”  One of my regulars standing nearby said, Oh, hey, isn’t that “ET?”  ET is my “real name” as The Beer Wench. It’s my initials and I’ve gone by it since college. 

Sara: Where is your favorite place to write?

Liz: On my back patio.

Sara: Do you have a favorite beverage that you drink when you write?

Liz: Yes.  Three guesses and the first two don’t count.  Oh, Ok, not everybody knows about my alter ego I guess.  Craft beer. I start with the hoppiest IPA I can find, move onto a dry crisp pilsner or Kolsch style, will add an occasional Imperial Stout then finish this time of year with my brewer’s Absolutely Amazing Oktoberfest that’s been lagering since March.

Sara: Who would you most like to write a book with if you could choose anyone in the world?

Liz: JR Ward and our new world will be a place ruled by a legion of edgy, impossibly gorgeous,  uber creative and feisty Alpha women who brew beer and the men who, one by one, make them more human. I already see the spin off possibilities for specialty brews and side products.  “Raging Bitch IPA” (I stole this one actually)  “High Maintenance Ale”,  LipStix Lager and my favorite: Wench’s Wheat (Oh, wait, I already make that).

Sara: Do you have a writing schedule or do you just go with the flow?

Liz: Because I have a very demanding “day (evenings and weekend) job” as a craft brewery owner and marketing queen I fit it in when I can. However, when I have a new concept in my head, I’m fairly miserable as is everyone around me until I can Get It Out.

Sara: What do you like most about writing?

Liz: Bringing emotion to the page.  Showing love in all its permutations and forms. And writing the most erotic scenes I can without making it seem like porn.

Sara: Is there anything else you’d like to say?

Liz : Drink Craft Beer!  It’s one of the few American-based industries actually growing by leaps and bounds, thanks to all the folks who have discovered that “beer” is SUPPOSED to have flavor.

Sara: How much do you like chocolate?

Liz: You know, I’m more a salty snack gal.  Works better with my drink of choice.  But when forced to choose I will take the darkest, most bitter kind I can get my hands on.  Preferably on a platter held by Jon Hamm.  And he’s naked.

Sara: If you were locked in a room with three people who would you want with you?

Liz: Since “locked room” implies so much more than “desert island” I have a pretty vivid picture of me Bradley Cooper Spanish Soccer playing stud Xabi Alonso And Alexander Skarsgard Sounds like a nice time. I’d invite Jon Hamm but he’s still panting over in the corner after our chocolate moment.

Liz Crowe

Brewing Up Serious Passion!

Microbrewery owner, beer blogger and journalist, mom of three teenagers, and soccer fan, Liz lives in the great middle west, in a Major College Town.  Years of experience in sales and fund raising, plus an eight-year stint as an ex-pat trailing spouse plus making her way in a world of men (i.e. the beer industry) has prepped her for life as erotic romance author.  When she isn't sweating beer inventory, sales figures or promotional efforts for her latest publication, doing pounds of laundry for her sweaty athletic children, watching La Liga on the Fox Soccer Channel, or trying to figure out what to order in for dinner, she can be found walking her standard poodles or doing Bikram Yoga.  Liz loves her Foo Fighters Pandora station, and watching reruns of Deadwood, when there isn't any decent European football on the telly.  If you want a beer education follow her: www.a2beerwench.com.  For writing related stuff, including her backlist, go to: www.brewingpassion.com.
www.lizcrowe.com

www.brewingpassion.com
www.facebook.com/lizcroweauthor
Coming Soon!  The Tap Room.
A Choose Your Romance Novel
from Breathless Press!

Claw Marks Anthology Coming Oct 3rd from Rebel Ink:

Have you ever considered engaging in an exciting relationship with a stunning hunk of a man who’s much younger? Does your heart beat rapidly as you savor his carved body from across the crowded room? Every cougar can tell you the answer. Entering into new relationships isn’t easy and for some, sharing joy means letting go of a difficult past. Join a talented group of writers from Rebel Ink Press who bring you stories of love and passion transcending age and sometimes tragedy.

Checkmate by SammyJo Hunt – For anchor Clint Watson, keeping a low profile about his sexuality is a must but on one beautiful afternoon over a game of chess, he finds pleasure in the arms of a younger man. Player Conference by Liz Crowe – Jess can’t get past the loss of her husband until her daughter’s soccer coach gives her every reason to try again. The Diver’s Club by Genevre Pierceau – Jilted by her cheating boyfriend, Jill finds solace over drinks with her girlfriends who convince her to turn the tables and engage in a moment of passion with a sexy contractor. Spicy White Chocolate by Cassandre Dayne – During a regular meeting of an erotic book club, the girls enter into a wicked pact to seduce a younger man and the first to do so wins a hefty prize, only Shawna Dupres didn’t count on falling in love. Insatiable Kate by Dawne Prochilo – Kate Winston was angry at being thwarted by the man of her dreams and she was ready to give him a piece of her mind. What she didn’t know was Rome made a promise years before and yet one he was ready to break for the possibility of romance.

Believe by K.T. Bishop – Gabi continues to suffer from the loss of her husband until she finds passion in the arms of a young athlete bent on making a better life for himself. But can his dream succeed against his family’s wishes? Tempting Research by Sam Crescent – For Melissa Crane, research for her erotic books is everything. Stumped by a scene and facing a tough deadline, she enlists the help of one very sexy masseuse. Carnal Awakenings by Sara York – Anna is not only concerned about her aging looks but her children’s thoughts about her considering another relationship until a secluded vacation and a hot younger man and his male lover convince her an alternate lifestyle might work. Unwrap Me by Cassandre Dayne – Cristal refuses to get over the acts of her cheating ex husband until her best friend provides a special treat under the mistletoe. Fresh Meat by Marcos London – Robin Dahl moved to a small town in Texas to get away from her manipulating ex and pushes all thoughts of romance aside until a sexy deliveryman changes her mind.

Giveaway

Comment on any post this week, Monday Seot 26th through Sat Oct. 1st, to be entered to win an ebook copy of Claw Marks. Please leave your email in the comment so we can contact you if you win!

Claw Marks Week on ABA: Across the Beer Bar with Derek Austin Johnson AKA Marcos London - Plus Giveaway

Liz: Welcome to my Tap Room Marcos!

Have a seat…

What can I pour for you?

Derek: What I want is a “Heart of Fire.” Here’s how you make it:  pour vodka in a shot glass, then add just under half a teaspoon of cayenne pepper.  It’s a drink of my stepson’s invention, and he thought of it shortly after seeing the season finale of A Game of Thrones.

Liz: You are a Sci Fi writer/reviewer correct?  How did you get started doing that?

Derek: The first part of the question is easy:  I’ve been writing for as long as I can remember, and because I’d read the stuff in industrial quantities during my formative years, it only seemed natural that I'd write science fiction, fantasy, and horror. I've written other things, but that's where my imagination lives and plays. It helps that I'm a member of the Turkey City Writer's Workshop, one of the longest-running science fiction and fantasy workshops in the state, and has allowed me to receive story advice from one of my writing mentors.

How I got into criticism takes a little more explaining…

I’ve always read and enjoyed criticism.  Yes, I’m a glutton for punishment that way, but it appeals to my academic nature.  And while I wrote science fiction, I also thought a lot about it—its history, its formation, its place in popular culture, and what it actually means.  So writing criticism also seemed natural.  Furthermore, in science fiction, most of its best writers turn out to talk a lot about the state of the genre and the health of publishing.  Fascinating things, these, and also topics on which I had quite a few opinions, so of course I gravitated toward it.

But I wasn’t writing.  

From about 1994 to roughly 2008 I found it difficult, if not impossible, to put down any words, either on paper on in my word processor.  A lot of factors surrounded it, but its chief centerpiece was crippling depression.  I was writing a story every few years, if that, and even wrote some book reviews for Nova Express, but I couldn’t find a way out of the funk.  

Then, shortly after I married Gretchen, I did some work with an intuitive healer, who spent an hour working on some knots in my back.  When she was done she told me to keep an eye out for anything that “might change”—a pretty broad, almost meaningless statement, but I said I would.  Within a week, a friend told me that a great way to get free books was to write book reviews…and since I spent a small fortune on books each month, this seemed ideal.  So I made some contacts and started writing book reviews for Revolution SF (I even got to interview novelist Peter Straub for them), which led to writing movie reviews for SF Signal, which led to my column for SF Site.  I haven’t stopped since.

Liz: Tell me about your story in the Claw Marks Anthology.

Derek: “Fresh Meat” is pretty straightforward:  a recently divorced woman moves to a small Texas town and becomes infatuated with a young man who delivers organic groceries.  Believe it or not, there is an organic grocer who delivers grass-fed beef and organic eggs and vegetables to our home every two weeks, though the characters and situations are fictitious, so far as I know.  I pretty much had the idea in place by the time I finished reading Cassandre Dayne’s invitation to write for it, though I had to work on not turning it into the clichéd pizza-boy delivery routine that seems to be the butt of every porn joke.

Liz: Do you write in huge chunks or a little at a time?

Derek: Yes.

Actually, it depends on the project.  I do try to write a little every day, though I’m not always consistent.  When I’m working on something, it can help to write a little here and a little there, but often I have to play with a story in my head for a bit before I can write it.  And for a major project, I have to write not only a little every day but also in huge chunks.  I’m writing about 3,000 words on a daily basis for Murder, Most Likely, my erotic thriller collaboration with SammyJo Hunt, and I know it’s chewing both of our asses up…not a bad thing in my case, because it keeps me on a pretty rigid schedule, but kind of bad for her because I know she has a lot on her plate…and frankly, her ass is better than mine.

Liz: Oh look your glass is empty..what’s next for you?

Derek: I’d say another Heart of Fire, but I’d like to keep what’s left of my stomach lining.  Instead, let’s do a shot of Herraduras Gold with a Shiner Bock chaser.  Normally, my wife and I do the shots with a Michelob Ultra chaser because it only has two-and-a-half grams of carbs, but I’m drinking with a woman who knows her beer.

Liz: Is it hard to fit writing into your daily schedule?

Derek: The only thing that keeps me from writing is myself.  There’s a scene on the television show Friends where Courtney Cox asks Matthew Perry to be her workout partner, and he responds, “I would, but that would get in the way of my lying-around time.”  And sadly, I know exactly what he means.  I’m easily distracted and lazy; I can find all kinds of excuses not to write, most of them involving clearing out our DVR’s cache or whittling down my to-read pile or having sex or going out with friends or having sex or…fill in the blank.  And because I’m a movie and book critic, I often find that I have to tend to an ARC that arrived in my mailbox or go to a press screening.  I can fit writing in pretty easily—there are big gaping holes in my day most days—but actually taking the time to do it can be a different matter.

Now, I used to think that I was alone in this, but it turns out that a number of professional writers whom I respect and admire also wait until their deadlines before they start tapping their keyboards.

Liz: Can I share a secret with you?

Derek: Is this about the handcuffs, the bathtub full of Vick’s Vap-O-Rub, and the bill from hotel management for hazmat services?  It’s okay, I saw the YouTube clip already.

Liz: Many days I wonder about the value of all the promoting we do on our blogs and on all the approximately 97 bazillion book review sites/blogs/combo blogs/blog hops/blog tours there are to read every single day.  To me, it’s getting a little meta…but I’m a cynic that way.  I’m a marketing pro so I get that it has to be done, I just sorta wonder if we aren’t stepping all over each other in the process. What hard lessons have you learned about promotions (be honest)?

Derek: The biggest lesson I’ve learned? That for all of the blood and tears writing a story can be, it’s actually the easy part.  I sort of knew that this would be the case—when I sold “Academia Heat,” my best friend, a writer and editor, nodded and said, “Good; now comes the hard work”—but I don’t think I was prepared for how much work went into marketing.  I was completely unprepared to set up a website and blog for Marcos London; I’d been on Twitter for a couple of years, and had to set up another account; writing essays for other blogs; interviews; revising my bylines to include mention of Murder, Most Likely…it all had to be done, and it all starts taking a toll on how much writing you get to do.  Harlan Ellison sneers at writers who say, “I hate writing, but I enjoy having written.”  I get that.  For all of the hard work, it’s the process that I enjoy.  

And the thing is, you’d think that, for me, it would be the opposite, especially when you consider my bout with writer’s block.  I appear very gregarious, and will talk your ears off about what I’m doing and what I’ve done and what’s upcoming—I’m my favorite subject, so how can I not?—but in truth I’m a pretty shy person, and doing all of the promotion is a far greater drain on my energies than writing every day.  

Liz: Finally, what’s coming up on your writing/release horizon?  You have a novel out as well, Academia Heat, tell us about that and your writing plans down the road.

Derek: “Academia Heat” was just published, and involves a chance encounter between a college professor and a young man she meets in a restaurant.  It was a challenge to write only insofar as it was my first attempt at an erotic romance, and my first attempt at writing from a woman’s viewpoint.  It’s also my first actual fiction sale.  SammyJo Hunt and I are working like mad to meet the deadline for Murder, Most Likely, an erotic thriller that’s based on a crime story I wrote almost a decade ago, and which SammyJo read and told me was actually the end of a novel. The release date for it is December 3, and will be coming out from Rebel Ink Press.  I’m also writing a spy series in collaboration with a friend of mine, under the working title America Caesar.  Additionally, I was at a science fiction convention over the summer and accepted a challengeJoe Lansdale offered to a group of panelists discussing apes in fiction: write a story around the Zepplin Stories cover for Gil Brewer’s “Gorilla of the Gasbags.”  The story is lost to memory, so none of us know what it was actually about, allowing our imaginations free reign.  Mine involves elements of Edgar Rice Burroughs’s Tarzan stories, Rider Haggard’s She, Conrad’s Heart of Darkness, H.G. Wells’s The Island of Doctor Moreau, and Clark Ashton Smith’s The City of the Singing Flame.  

Liz: And for a nightcap? What’s your poison?

Derek: Um…a cab, probably.  After the Heart of Fire, the tequila shot and beer chaser, I likely just need a cab…

Liz: Cheers!

Author Bio - Derek Austin Johnson AKA Marcos London:

MarcosLondon was born in Massachusetts but has lived most of his life in the Lone Star State.  A graduate of the University of Texas at Austin with a bachelor's degree in English, he has worked as a projectionist, a bookseller, a technical writer, a substitute teacher, an internal auditor, a trainer, and an editor.  His reviews and criticism under the name Derek Austin Johnson have appeared in such diverse publications as Nova Express, Moving Pictures, and Revolution SF, and his film column "Watching the Future" appears each month on SF Site.  

A creative dabbler who has been telling stories since he learned to clutch a crayon, he has been a member of the Turkey City Writer's Workshop, the longest-running science fiction and fantasy workshop in Texas, since early 1995.  It was not until 2011 that he began selling fiction. He lives with his wife Genevre Pierceau in Central Texas.

A few links.  

Blog: http://marcos-london.blogspot.com

Website:  http://www.marcoslondon.com

Claw Marks Anthology Coming Oct 3rd from Rebel Ink:

Have you ever considered engaging in an exciting relationship with a stunning hunk of a man who’s much younger? Does your heart beat rapidly as you savor his carved body from across the crowded room? Every cougar can tell you the answer. Entering into new relationships isn’t easy and for some, sharing joy means letting go of a difficult past. Join a talented group of writers from Rebel Ink Press who bring you stories of love and passion transcending age and sometimes tragedy.

 

Checkmate by SammyJo Hunt – For anchor Clint Watson, keeping a low profile about his sexuality is a must but on one beautiful afternoon over a game of chess, he finds pleasure in the arms of a younger man. Player Conference by Liz Crowe – Jess can’t get past the loss of her husband until her daughter’s soccer coach gives her every reason to try again. The Diver’s Club by Genevre Pierceau – Jilted by her cheating boyfriend, Jill finds solace over drinks with her girlfriends who convince her to turn the tables and engage in a moment of passion with a sexy contractor. Spicy White Chocolate by Cassandre Dayne – During a regular meeting of an erotic book club, the girls enter into a wicked pact to seduce a younger man and the first to do so wins a hefty prize, only Shawna Dupres didn’t count on falling in love. Insatiable Kate by Dawne Prochilo – Kate Winston was angry at being thwarted by the man of her dreams and she was ready to give him a piece of her mind. What she didn’t know was Rome made a promise years before and yet one he was ready to break for the possibility of romance.

Believe by K.T. Bishop – Gabi continues to suffer from the loss of her husband until she finds passion in the arms of a young athlete bent on making a better life for himself. But can his dream succeed against his family’s wishes? Tempting Research by Sam Crescent – For Melissa Crane, research for her erotic books is everything. Stumped by a scene and facing a tough deadline, she enlists the help of one very sexy masseuse. Carnal Awakenings by Sara York – Anna is not only concerned about her aging looks but her children’s thoughts about her considering another relationship until a secluded vacation and a hot younger man and his male lover convince her an alternate lifestyle might work. Unwrap Me by Cassandre Dayne – Cristal refuses to get over the acts of her cheating ex husband until her best friend provides a special treat under the mistletoe. Fresh Meat by Marcos London – Robin Dahl moved to a small town in Texas to get away from her manipulating ex and pushes all thoughts of romance aside until a sexy deliveryman changes her mind.

Giveaway

Comment on any post this week, Monday Sept 26th through Sat Oct. 1st, to be entered to win an ebook copy of Claw Marks. Please leave your email in the comment so we can contact you if you win!

Claw Marks Week on ABA: Derek Austin Johnson AKA Marcos London Interviews Cassandre Dayne - Plus Giveaway

Today, I have the honor of interviewing the lovely Cassandre Dayne, who in the past year has written more books than I can count on my fingers and who was one of the key figures in bringing Claw Marks to life.  On a personal note, Ms. Dayne actually encouraged me to try my hand at writing erotic romance, and I can say that, without her input, I wouldn’t be writing it today.

Derek: Thanks for joining me Cassandre. You were instrumental in the creation of the Claw Marks anthology.  How did you come up with the idea?
Cassandre: If you want to know the truth Derek – it was because of you. You allowed me to read Academia Heat first (thank you for that) and the idea popped into my head – way to sexy to pass up.


Derek: “Spicy White Chocolate” is your contribution to Claw Marks.  Tell us a little about it.
Cassandre: In truth I have two – Unwrap Me is about a girl who adores her best friend’s younger brother but of course can’t tell anyone. Little did she know some elves decided to intervene at a very naughty Christmas Party. Spicy White Chocolate is about a restaurant owner who makes a bet with her erotic book club to snag a hot young thing and the first girl gets a big prize. Of course her sexy boy toy has other ideas in mind and yes, the chocolate is white, hot, spicy and poured….


Derek: You’re diabolically prolific.  By my count, you’ve had twelve releases in the past year.  And you’ve announced several more recently.  How do you manage to stay so prolific?
Cassandre: I dream in color and stories flow at night plus I can type very fast too and the words flow in my head. It helps I love it so much. BUT – if I can get through finishing five major novels in October – a true test.


Derek: In addition to being so prolific, you’re also a great self-promoter as well as a promoter of other talent.  How much work goes into promotion, on average?
Cassandre: I spend at minimum three to four hours a day promoting not only me but other writers. Between tweeting, blogging, guest blogging, updating websites, yahoo groups, setting up chats – I could literally do it more.


Derek: Talk about your new position with Rebel Ink Press.  
Cassandre: I feel honored to be the Director of Communications and Publicity which means I get to help promote, welcome new writers, give them places to go for marketing and develop new contacts for all of us.


Derek: What has been the most challenging aspect of writing?  And what has been the most rewarding?
Cassandre: Challenging is the time it takes around it and trying to find the right piece that will turn heads. Rewarding is all of that and everything else!


Derek: Talk about your upcoming releases and current works in progress.
Cassandre: You had to ask – I have everything from a m/m piece titled Punch Back coming from Rebel and The Fire of Submission – my first f/f piece coming both in October. I also have the two anthologies and my first as the other writers – Dakotah Black coming as well. I have two coming out in November and one in December – St. Nick’s Night of Xstasy and then three others with Naughty Nights Press as well. Going to be a busy few months. In November the first in my third persona, Enslaved is coming out. It’s the first in the Retribution Collection written by D.H. Black.


Derek: White chocolate or dark?
Cassandre: Neither – allergic!

AUTHOR BIO: CASSANDRE DAYNE

Cassandre started writing stories and poems before she knew how to ride a bike and proceeded onto novels by age eleven. By the time she was an early teenager, she had written fifteen novels. As early adulthood, college and life settled in; writing was placed on the back burner but never forgotten entirely. Suddenly awakened by the rampant fantasies and untold stories of characters that flowed through her dreams every night and filtered into her daylight hours; she could hold back the creative process no longer.

Cassandre writes highly erotic romance stories and novels in the contemporary, science fiction and paranormal flavors. Currently she has eight erotic romance novels published with Rebel Ink Press and several more under contract. Her recent titles include, Treats in a Plain Brown Wrapper, Her Sinful Long Legs, Revving Her Wild Engines, Shadows of Panic and Wicked Desire, Wicked Wager Among Friends – Tales from Lucifer’s Lair – the first in a

series, Breakfast Eye Candy, and her first m/m piece is came out in June titled Game Over. Her first full length novel was released in August titled Truth, Dare or Dangerous Intent. Her first print release – a compilation of several pieces is coming in September.

She also recently had her first release with Naughty Nights Press– Spankdown with three other under contract including Red Fire – Surrender, Raging Shadows and Forced Fantasies – all due out this year.

In addition, as her alter ego Bethany Halle, she is the host of two blog talk radio shows with Robin Falls Red River Radio. The Fire of Fantasy & Darkness airs every other month highlighting writers and other artists in the fantasy, science fiction and paranormal genres. Dare to Take the Plunge also airs every other month featuring writers, publishers, cover artists and reviewers in the erotic romance genre. She also is a weekly/monthly contributor to Naughty Nights Press, Erotic Diaries, After Dark Online, Kinke Magazine and Queer Online Magazine.

As Bethany Halle she is also the Director of Communications for Rebel Ink Press and currently serve on the Nominating Committee of the RWA’s Passionate Ink.

She was a Passionate Ink finalist for their Passionate Plume contest with Treats in a Plain Brown Wrapper and has received several four and five star reviews for her work.

Member of:

Virginia Romance Writers
Romance Writers of America
Passionate Ink
EPIC
ARRA – Australian Romance Readers Association

cassandredayne@gmail.com
http://www.cassandredayne.com

behalle@comcast.net
http://twitter.com/bethanyhalle

http://cassandredayne.wordpress.com/


Purchase Links:
http://www.allromanceebooks.com/storeSearch.html?
searchBy=author&qString=Cassandre+Dayne

https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/73671

Claw Marks Anthology Coming Oct 3rd from Rebel Ink:

Have you ever considered engaging in an exciting relationship with a stunning hunk of a man who’s much younger? Does your heart beat rapidly as you savor his carved body from across the crowded room? Every cougar can tell you the answer. Entering into new relationships isn’t easy and for some, sharing joy means letting go of a difficult past. Join a talented group of writers from Rebel Ink Press who bring you stories of love and passion transcending age and sometimes tragedy.

 

Checkmate by SammyJo Hunt – For anchor Clint Watson, keeping a low profile about his sexuality is a must but on one beautiful afternoon over a game of chess, he finds pleasure in the arms of a younger man. Player Conference by Liz Crowe – Jess can’t get past the loss of her husband until her daughter’s soccer coach gives her every reason to try again. The Diver’s Club by Genevre Pierceau – Jilted by her cheating boyfriend, Jill finds solace over drinks with her girlfriends who convince her to turn the tables and engage in a moment of passion with a sexy contractor. Spicy White Chocolate by Cassandre Dayne – During a regular meeting of an erotic book club, the girls enter into a wicked pact to seduce a younger man and the first to do so wins a hefty prize, only Shawna Dupres didn’t count on falling in love. Insatiable Kate by Dawne Prochilo – Kate Winston was angry at being thwarted by the man of her dreams and she was ready to give him a piece of her mind. What she didn’t know was Rome made a promise years before and yet one he was ready to break for the possibility of romance.

Believe by K.T. Bishop – Gabi continues to suffer from the loss of her husband until she finds passion in the arms of a young athlete bent on making a better life for himself. But can his dream succeed against his family’s wishes? Tempting Research by Sam Crescent – For Melissa Crane, research for her erotic books is everything. Stumped by a scene and facing a tough deadline, she enlists the help of one very sexy masseuse. Carnal Awakenings by Sara York – Anna is not only concerned about her aging looks but her children’s thoughts about her considering another relationship until a secluded vacation and a hot younger man and his male lover convince her an alternate lifestyle might work. Unwrap Me by Cassandre Dayne – Cristal refuses to get over the acts of her cheating ex husband until her best friend provides a special treat under the mistletoe. Fresh Meat by Marcos London – Robin Dahl moved to a small town in Texas to get away from her manipulating ex and pushes all thoughts of romance aside until a sexy deliveryman changes her mind.

Giveaway

Comment on any post this week, Monday Sept 26th through Sat Oct. 1st, to be entered to win an ebook copy of Claw Marks. Please leave your email in the comment so we can contact you if you win!