Authors Cynthia Vespia and Jess C Scott

Authors Cynthia Vespia and Jess C Scott have come together for a joining of the minds. Cynthia writes thrillers and fantasy fiction, while Jess writes contemporary romance and digital fiction.

Here they discuss writing, inspiration, and everything in between!

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Jess C Scott speaks with Cynthia Vespia (www.CynthiaVespia.com):


"Demon Hunter" -- Cynthia's latest project

1) What's your favorite genre of literature (both in terms of reading, and writing)?

It's somewhat like my taste in music as in it varies but I mostly stick to contemporary thrillers and sometimes dabble into the realm of fantasy. That goes for both reading choices and what I like to write about. I think the fantasy element comes from my belief that I was born in the wrong century, I should've been a bard back in the day of swords and sorcery...lol!

2) What is the most important aspect of a story, to you?

I believe it all starts with the characters. If you don't have strong characters in place the whole story will fall apart regardless of how great of a plot or structure. The key is that they have to be real to the point where you can almost reach out and touch them and that's a tough thing to do. I tend to spend most of my pre-writing on flushing characters out to the last detail. You want the reader to feel like it's someone they know personally.

3) When did you first write your first story/poem? What was the inspiration for writing it?

I was around 8 years old. My sister had an electronic typewriter, which back in the day before the home computer was a big deal! I used to punch away on it as often as I could writing short little stories that made no sense at all. The writing bug was instilled in me early!

4) I notice on your bio page that you enjoy martial arts and being an active fitness competitor. Whoa! How have these interests/disciplines had a positive effect on you, as a writer?

As you go through competitive sports you learn alot about yourself whether you win or lose. Those changes refresh your outlook on many levels. Naturally it unfolds within the confines of whatever story I'm working on at the time. For instance in my new release Demon Hunter there are many elements drawn from my fitness background, whether its Costa's training, the interaction between he and his mentor, or his overall growth as a person...all of that was taken direct from my reality, little bits and pieces pulled together and inserted to a workable end.

5) Elaborate on your favorite brand of chocolate.

Ah, my Achilles heel! There is a lovely little chain of candy shops called SEES. They have the most divine chocolates known to man! My favorite has always been the bordeaux, it is a nouget like center but very fluffy and soft that is drizzled with chocolate and topped with chocolate sprinkles...excuse me while I go get a piece!!!

6) Please share some juicy details on the latest/current project you are working on.

My latest release is called DEMON HUNTER (AspenMountainPress.com). It is the story of a nobody who becomes a somebody in the bloodiest of ways. Costa Calabrese has just uncovered the truth about his past. Some truths should never be revealed. When you learn you’re the son of the worlds foremost and feared hunter of demons, life’s rules inevitably change. Now Costa has been chosen to walk in his famed father's footsteps and take up the role his bloodline demands of him...whether he wants to or not. He is a killer of killers, laying waste to the scourge of evil that threatens the existence of mankind. He is the chosen one. He is the Demon Hunter.

It's been a labor of love for quite awhile now and it will continue in a saga of 3 parts. Currently I'm wrapping up part two and having a fun time revisiting the characters and their world. This is one of the darker story arcs I've written but it also lends itself to what I had mentioned before about growing and changing...the light and dark side of human emotion. Because tell me: what would you do if faced with a task that you really did not want to partake in but knew you had to? We've all been in those situations before, Costa's is just a little more extreme ;)

Demon Hunter will be released in ebook format by AspenMountainPress.com. Another first for me. I think e-books are a sign of the times as technology rapidly changes it was only a matter of time before the book world caught up.

Cynthia turns the tables on Jess (http://jesscscott.com):


"EyeLeash: A Blog Novel" & "4:Play" -- Jess's latest projects

1. WHERE DO YOU GET YOUR IDEAS?

Oh, from everywhere. Real people, real events, imagined people, imagined events, music, product labels (reading labels is a favorite pastime of mine), games (crosswords, anagrams, random poetry scribbles)...inspiration comes in from many sources. Sometimes from multiple locations at once.

2. HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN WRITING AND WHAT INFLUENCED YOU?

I've been writing before I turned 5. Got doubtful of my abilities during high school (too much of the focus was on grades, and hardly any emphasis was on creative aptitude). At age 16 I found an Edgar Allan Poe anthology, and fell in love with the written word all over again! 'Twas a life-changing moment.

3. WHAT CURRENT BOOK/BOOKS ARE YOU PROMOTING?

I'm promoting my first two books. The first is a coming-of-age blog/IM novel; the second is a contemporary cocktail of erotic short stories. The blog/IM novel is exactly what/how I wanted my debut novel to be like (something fresh, unique, original)...the second was unintentionally completed a couple of years early. Both reflect my interest(s) in exploring life and sexuality.

4. WHAT PROJECTS DO YOU HAVE COMING UP IN THE FUTURE?

I'd like to try and complete my third book by early-mid 2010 -- it's the first book in a young adult series, that's less radical than my first two books. The plot is still requiring a lot of effort on my part though. Non-writing projects include fixing up my new bamboo tablet, which has been sitting around forever -- I like to draw when I'm not writing. Drawing rewires my brain to a more sane level after too much focus on textual elements.

5. WHAT AUTHORS INFLUENCED YOU TO START WRITING?

(In no particular order): Edgar Allan Poe, Oscar Wilde, Roald Dahl, Anais Nin, Jane Yolen, Vivian Vande Velde, Michael Morpurgo, Bret Easton Ellis, the King Arthur and Robin Hood legends (various authors/illustrators), and a whole lot more.........

6. WHAT ARE SOME OF YOUR FAVORITE HOBBIES OTHER THAN WRITING?

Indulging in good food...good books...I like to move also. All that sitting down at the computer screen isn't healthy for one's physical body/state. I like yoga, walking, and swimming the most. Art and music replenish the soul too.

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Thanks for joining us today!

~ Cynthia Vespia & Jess C Scott

E-BOOK CONTEST WINNERS

CONGRATS TO OUR E-BOOK WINNERS!
Judy Cox
Phylis Sullivan
Afshan
The_Vixxsin
Beth Reimer
Samantha K.

The winners will receive e-copies of either "SPARK OF A WOLF" or "ABRAXAS"!

CINSEARAE & CHRISTY'S HILARIOUS INTERVIEW TODAY

The ol' swticheroo was done on us, and now Christine and Jonathan (from ABRAXAS) are doing a more in-depth interview of US! lol.

CHRISTINE---Well, this is a fun change of pace! I get to turn the tables for a bit! HA! Not to worry, the questions won’t be hard, ladies. *shifty smirk*.
(Looking around for Ryan) Well, I’m guessing Ryan won’t be here to ask questions with me, so I’ll just---
(Jonathan, 19 years old & fellow ABRAXAS Clan member, walks up behind her, drinking pickle juice out of a jar. Christine grimaces.)
JONATHAN---What’cha up to?
CHRISTINE---Trying to conduct an interview, sweetie.
JONATHAN---Ooo! Can I sit in?
CHRISTINE---(Hunching shoulders) Sure.
JONATHAN---Ooo! Can I ask them stuff too? Like, what’s their take on those dumb Easter eggs, and do they have better ideas on what to stuff inside of them besides candy and money?
CHRISTINE---Jonathan, Easter has come and gone--quit it with the egg tirade, already! Besides, I don’t think they care about the eggs, either.
JONATHAN---I hate those dumb plastic things. I have WAY more cooler ideas of what kinds of stuff to put in them…things TOTALLY out of the ordinary! I need my list to expand!
CHRISTINE---And the way your twisted mind works, I don’t think I want to know what those things are! C’mon, let me talk to these two talented women.
JONATHAN---(sighing) Okay…. (Sits down next to Christine.)
CHRISTINE---Alrighty then, first question. Your mind is your most important work tool. How do you take care of it?
CHRISTY---I’m constantly trying to learn new things. I grew up with the adage that if you didn’t learn at least one new thing per day, then the day was wasted. Another thing my husband and I do is when listening to the oldies stations, it’s artist and title of song. It’s not like the handheld computer games but it’s just as fun and not as costly.
CINSEARAE---I eat healthy--love my greens and veggies, lol. I meditate, read, spend quiet time in nature. It helps open my mind to my other senses as well.
JONATHAN---I like nature too!
CHRISTINE---Am I interviewing you too, Jonathan?
JONATHAN---Sorry. (Drinks more pickle juice.)
CHRISTINE--- How do you avoid repeating yourself, or falling into a formula?
CHRISTY---Try to alter what traits I use. For instance, if the male character does something like rue failure, then I have a female character do it later. I’ve used the same plot device but while the base idea is the same, the writing of it is different so that it doesn’t sound used. This also winds up being dictated by the characters and the way the story is taking them.
CINSEARAE---Hm, I don’t think I’ve done that yet, lol. Regardless, I always keep notes in my notebook as to what character has done what, where and when.
CHRISTINE--- Do you have a ritual when it comes to writing, like hiding out in a reclusive place occasionally to cleanse your mind? Maybe having a special spot where you write? Etc...
CHRISTY---Honestly, I don’t. The way I write, I put everything down on paper—steno pads—that basically go where I do. If I can, I write—works great in waiting rooms at the doctors, the mechanic, etc. I’d love to have a ritual but with the way my day goes, if I don’t write it down on a piece of paper, I’m sunk. I try to let the shower relax me so I can black things out but I’ve found I’ve gotten more thinking done there than anywhere. Just wish I could deduct the bathroom…
CINSEARAE---The hours that I type will shift like the moon’s phases, lol! For a couple of weeks, I’ll type in the early morn, then the following weeks, I suddenly shift to nighttime. I do have a room where I do all my typing. I wish I had a laptop sometimes, but if that was the case, there might be some days where I might not get out of bed, lol. Like Christy, I keep a notepad and pen with me too wherever I go. There’s been quite a few times while on the road, something comes to mind and I have to write it down…or else, lol.
CHRISTINE---(Leaning forward) Just between us, ladies, but if you ever saw Jonathan’s room, you’d probably die from the smell alone…)
JONATHAN---Hey! I heard that! It doesn’t smell like feet, cheese, or armpits anymore!!
CHRISTINE---(Sighing) ANYWAY…what cultural sources do you draw from (if any)?
CHRISTY---My family is in South Carolina, ergo I have an immense love of the South. I also have ancestors who were on both sides of the Mason-Dixon Line which gives me a chance to view the Civil War from the North side, the Confederate side and the facts that lie in the middle. I live around Philly which is why I’ve done several set in the city. I’ve got a heavy dose of British on the maternal side of my family which brings out my love of British comedy, actors and hot tea as a cure all for all ailments. I also wonder if I’ve ever been reincarnated because of my love for places I’ve either never been or feel very comfortable in for some reason though I’ve never been there before.
JONATHAN---WHOOOA…deja vu stuff. Cool….!
CINSEARAE---since I love the Goth scene, I’m always investigating the Goth clubs and gothic venues, checking out what folks wear, how they act, the songs being played. Listening to the news and reading papers helps me draw on city issues. Each clan member comes from a varied background, and since one Abraxas member is Chinese, I’m doing a bit of research on Chinese culture now. (Good thing Philly has a Chinatown too).
JONATHAN--Hey! Kim’s folks live in that area! Ooo! And I think Our Lord has British relatives, too. Hey, you like Mr. Bean, Ms. Poff? That dude’s a wackjob--funny as hell!
CHRISTY---Yes, I do, but I like Rowan Atkinson in The Thin Blue Line and Blackadder a bit more.
CHRISTINE---Jonathan, shh!…don’t say Our Lord in public, please! And who the heck is doing the interviewing here, anyway?!?!
JONATHAN--Oops. (burping) Sorry again. (The smell of pickles is now in the air)
CHRISTINE---(Wrinkling her nose) Why do you do that?!
JONATHAN---What?
CHRISTINE---THAT! (Pointing to pickle jar)
JONATHAN---Hey, waste not, want not, right?
CHRISTINE---(Groaning) Continuing…..who have your 'teachers' been?
CHRISTY---I’ve had several very close friends that I’ve learned from but I think I got the most from my Dad and from my aunt. She was a huge influence in my life and if I ever needed help, I called her and got what I needed.
CINSEARAE---I never had anyone really ‘teach’ me to write. Writing was something innate, I’m guessing--it came to me at such an early age. But my mom used to write a bit of poetry in her youth. Both my parents liked to draw, so maybe I garnered that talent from them as well, lol.
CHRISTINE--- Ideas can come simultaneously to different people in different places with no connection to one another whatsoever. How do you explain such a phenomenon?
CHRISTY---There are only so many ideas that can go around and if two entirely different people have the same one, then so be it. It’s a wonder how many variations on one idea can be written while creating an entirely different story, poem or song. It amazes me that there aren’t more duplicates out there considering how many people are in the United States and the rest of the world.
CINSEARAE--I agree. I believe there’s only, what, 34 or 35 ‘plots’ out there? One can only create variations on those plots. Scary thought, isn’t it?
JONATHAN---Here’s plot! Man goes to moon, gets eaten by Space Bear. Space Bear comes to earth, gets killed by 18-wheeler. 18-wheeler falls into Grand Canyon, blows up. Remains of man that got pooped out by Space Bear helps plants to grow in canyon, creating a mutant flower that glows in moonlight and eats people. (Space Bear DNA in his poop and all that.) Plant rapidly reproduces all over world, eating all of mankind. Nature inherits the earth!
(All three women stare at Jonathan)
JONATHAN---(Shrugging) What???
CHRISTINE---That was NOT a plot. I don’t know WHAT the hell that was!!
CINSEARAE---Actually, I think that WAS a plot….albeit a kooky one.
CHRISTY---No comment. (snickering)
JONATHAN---(Grinning…very widely.)
CHRISTINE---Jonathan, you made the bear DIE. How in hell could it take a crap in order for the rest of the story to happen?!?
JONATHAN---Ahh, see? He came to earth and got killed, true, but I didn't say he immediately got killed...he took a poop and probably did all kinds of other stuff too before he died. (Grins again.)
CHRISTINE---(Groaning) Dear God, help me. Anyway…Is creativity like an act of rebellion for you?
CHRISTY---It started off that way because I didn’t have the support of my husband. I was determined to write and finish a book to prove I could. The first one led to the sequel and then the others afterward. He’s more understanding now which helps so I don’t have to do it clandestinely any more.
CINSEARAE---Well, yes and no. When I used to write a lot of poetry, it was my way to express myself without causing physical harm to others, lol. I used to have a few dream-killing exes that I kept my writing from as well. Nowadays, my writing is just a way to escape the norm, so to speak!
CHRISTINE---What is your creative process like? (What happens before you sit down to write?)
CHRISTY---The ideas come, I write them on Post-Its (great invention) or note paper then I build around it. Sometimes a note to myself could include several lines of dialog or just a plot device—it doesn’t matter as long as it winds up in a book.
CINSEARAE---I’m kinda the same way! It could be a piece of conversation between two people that just pops in my head. I have no idea what it’s from or when it’ll come into play, but it always does. Things just flow to me, anytime, anyplace, but as long as I write them down, that’s all that matters, lol. Once I get a whole bunch of notes and snippets, I’ll start sitting at the PC to type them down. Those notes are like puzzle pieces that get fitted into a story later on down the line.
CHRISTINE---What do you think are the basic ingredients of a story?
CHRISTY---A good plot is essential, likeable heroes/heroines and despicable villains. (I’ve had reviewers mention my villains as “those you love to hate”. That’s exactly what I want.) Exotic locations also help as well—anything to hold the readers interest and get them coming back for more.
CINSEARAE---Absolutely. Decent plot, and believable characters, as well as believable dialogue. Each should hold it’s own. Adding a bit of reality here and there doesn’t hurt either, lol.
(Jonathan, eyes closed, is slowing leaning towards Christine.)
CHRISTINE---(Nudging Jonathan) Wake up.
JONATHAN---(Snorts) Sorry. I nodded off while thinking about my Space Bear story.
CHRISTINE---Okay, you keep on thinking, kiddo. Let’s see…What voice do you find most to your liking: 1st person or 3rd?
CHRISTY---Definitely third person–for me, it’s easier to write. In truth, I’m not an “I” person, if that makes sense, so maybe that’s the reason why I’d rather describe things from the outside looking in, so to speak.
CINSEARAE---For me, it’s the opposite, lol! I like the idea of being ‘in’ the action, if that sounds reasonable. It allows me a chance to be in the character’s mind, and express things a bit differently than I could do if I wrote it in 3rd person. Once a while I can write in 3rd person, but it’s definitely not often. Usually my 3rd person stories are shorter works.
JONATHAN---Hmm, maybe I should do my Space Bear story in his point of view…
(Christine opens her mouth as if to say something to him, but closes it instead.)
CHRISTINE---(discreetly rolling her eyes) What makes a character 'believable'? How do you create yours?
CHRISTY---For me, the hero/heroine have to be extremely unique while also having flaws—it makes them human, for want of a better word. As to creation, I come up with a name and figure out who I may want to base the character on—I need somebody to visualize, what can I say? Then the characters take on their own lives and we go from there.
CINSEARAE---I agree there too. Your characters must have flaws. THERE ARE NO PERFECT PEOPLE! Lol! Folks don’t live Barbie & Ken existences, so I don’t expect they’d like to read something so fake and saccharine either! As for my characters, they just come to me in my head, requesting to be written about. That may sound lame, but I say it’s my Muse. Whatever she decides to konk me over the head with is what I go with, lol.
CHRISTINE---Deep down inside, who do you write for?
CHRISTY---In all seriousness – I write for me. If I don’t like it, then I’m sure others won’t.
CINSEARAE---Right there with you. Writing is my little getaway from everything else. I’d go nuts without my characters.
CHRISTINE---Is writing a personal form of therapy? Are internal conflicts a creative force?
CHRISTY---In more ways then I can count. When I wrote The Rebirth of Rachel, it all flowed onto paper after I’d had a major fight with my hubby. Internal conflicts are not as big a creative force or drive as the external ones whether they be mine personally or in the world.
CINSEARAE---Writing has been my therapy, for like, forever. It started out with poetry being my therapy. They helped a lot in my early 20’s, that’s for sure; my restrictive, boring life with my exes led me to withdraw into my room to write, write, write. Writing became my personal retreat away from them and the world. Some of my internal conflicts are very much a driving force, but only come into play in my stories when need arises.
JONATHAN---Maybe I should write a short essay on why I hate plastic Easter eggs so much. That’d be my therapy.
CHRISTINE---Yeah, you go do that.
(Jonathan jumps up to get a pen and notebook, returns, and sits back down to write.)
CHRISTINE---(Shaking her head) Do you listen to music as you write? Can you give us a few artists/bands?
CHRISTY---It really depends on my mood. It could be country and Brooks and Dunn, Gary Allan and Miranda Lambert, the Rolling Stones, Linkin Park, Nickelback, Elvis or Michael Buble. I like all types of music except opera and hip hop.
CHRISTINE---(Leaning forward) Did you know Jonathan likes musicals?
JONATHAN---CHRISTINEEEE!
CHRISTINE---Give it up, kiddo. I heard you singing "Maria" from West Side Story in the shower.
JONATHAN---Aw crap, was I that loud???
CINSEARAE---(laughing) I listen to music too, depending on the type of writing I’m doing and what time of day it is. At night, it’ll be instrumental stuff only; bands like Midnight Syndicate, Nox Arcana, A Murder of Angels, or Delerium. My other fave bands I’ll listen to are Depeche Mode, The Cure, Diary of Dreams, H.I.M., Marilyn Manson, Nine Inch Nails, and Gary Numan, to name a few!
JONATHAN--(Gasping) Marilyn Manson? Nine Inch Nails? The Cure?!?! I love you.
CHRISTINE--Will you stop trying to embarrass our guests?
JONATHAN--But… Manson rocks! And so does The Cure! And Nine Inch Nails!! They kick ass! (Scratching head) Not sure who Brooks and Dunn and Gary Allan are. Miranda or Michael either. Who are they, Ms. Poff? Heeeyyy!…Isn’t that Elvis dude the one who supposedly died on the--
CHRISTINE---ENOUGH, Jonathan, before you irk our guests.
JONATHAN---inquiring minds, that’s all….(shrugs)
CHRISTY---I listen to a lot of country and what some folks call easy listening (ugh!) Music is music plus I’ll listen to Marilyn every once in a while.
JONATHAN---(Gasping again) YOU ROCK, Ms. Poff!!!
CINSEARAE---I have a guilty confession, lol. As far as ‘easy listening’ goes, I do like Neil Diamond….
JONATHAN---Who???
CHRISTINE---Shutup, Jonathan.
JONATHAN---He sounds like an old dude. A reealllly old dude.
CHRISTINE---Dammit, will you stop it?!?!?
(Jonathan laughs so hard, he falls out of his chair)
JONATHAN---(Rubbing the side of his butt.) Owwww……
CHRISTINE---Okay, last question, before Jonathan goes off on another tangent, lol. What type of reading inspires you to write?
CHRISTY---That’s a good question because I read so many different authors. I started the Civil War series after I read Heather Graham/Shannon Drake while I’ve always read vampire tales and those of werewolves. I love WEB Griffin’s Badge of Honor series which is set in the heart of the Philadelphia Police Department plus I can go for Jackie Collins. Nothing like a mishmash, wouldn’t you say?
CINSEARAE---My mom used to read Jackie Collins, lol. I’ve read everything from Judy Blume to L.J. Smith, to R.L. Stine when I was young. Two of my fave childhood books when I was a kid were “How To Eat Fried Worms” and “Freckle Juice”. I was reading Stephen King in Junior High, which got me plenty of weird looks, lol. But many other things outside of books inspires me as well!
CHRISTINE---Well, I think you ladies very much for your time! This was quite a fun interview, and I hope Jonathan wasn’t to much of a pain in the ass for you.
CINSEARAE---Thank you for the interview! And, he wasn’t all that bad, lol. I thought he was charming…in a weird way, lol.
JONATHAN---(Looking at Christine) HA! See? Not a pain in the butt.
CHRISTINE---but she did say you were weird…
CHRISTY---Weird can be a good thing—trust us. Thanks, Christine, it’s been fun.
JONATHAN---(Waving) Bye! Hope we can talk to you both again soon! (Glancing at Christine) So, uh…you gonna tell me who Neil Diamond is, now?
CHRISTINE---(Groans and slaps a hand to her forehead, mumbling something to herself.)

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CINSEARAE TALKS ABOUT THE GRATISTA VAMPIRE CLAN ANTHOLOGIES

ABOUT THE GRATISTA VAMPIRE CLAN GROUP

The Gratista Vampire Clan opened its doors in 2004 as an outlet not only for readers of my works, but for other authors of dark, paranormal, and horror stories to share their good news in the publishing industry among the rest of us. It was created to network, make friends, and also give members of the group a chance to submit their own stories, poetry or art to the bi-annual anthologies I publish. Although the anthologies are "members only", Dark Gothic Resurrected Magazine is open to any and everyone of the genre, and also a place for authors to get a free bit of promo for their books in the "Batty Bookshelf" section of the zine. I like anything out-of-the-box, and different--the really amazing works that usually go unnoticed in the mainstream.

Christy is among several of the wonderfully talented, twisted minds behind each anthology, featuring the reoccurring works of Anton Glascow, Camille Augustine, Spider, Kody Boye, Dominic Demarco and many others in the group. Christy first appeared in "MIDNIGHT BITES", the Group's debut anthology, and again in its latest release, (just this month!) "A LOOK INTO THE MIRROR DARKLY".

You can read a racy excerpt from Christy's story, Danger Zone, which appeared in Midnight Bites HERE!

You can also read a tense excerpt from her story, The Vampire's Hurricane Ball, which appeared in A Look Into The Mirror Darkly HERE!

For authors, writers, artists, and poets that would like to know more about The Gratista Vampire Clan, click on the GV logo up top!

To know more about Dark Gothic Resurrected Magazine (Which was a second place winner in the Preditors & Editors Reader's Poll for 2008!), Check it out over HERE!

Read reviews of past anthologies and watch trailers from previous works HERE!


"A LOOK INTO THE MIRROR DARKLY"

Talking with Dakota Trace Part 2

This is the second half of my interview with my friend author Dakota Trace. We will look into her head to see what makes her tick, and where those interesting stories come from. Dakota, Right now, what kind of book that you haven't written do you most want to?

Dakota: If you would have asked me six months ago, I would have had to say a BDSM book. Now that I'm working on it, I haven't set my next objective as far as what kind I would like to try my hand at next. Maybe I'll get brave and try to write a historical erotic book next.

Cool, sounds like a challenge. Historical is always interesting. Inquiring minds want to know, coffee or chocolate or both?

Dakota: Definitely both. I gotta have my coffee and if Mr. Trace hides my chocolate there will be blood shed.

Same here, but we have the Java Wars where we see who will break down and brew the next pot. Then there are my English Toffee desires, ho hum. What is your fav book not by you and why is it your fav?

Dakota: Favorite book? Damn there are so many. I would have to say Awaken My Love by Robin Schone. It was the first erotic book I ever read and it introduced the Kuma Sutra and other India sexual texts to my young mind.

Sexy, and I suppose you’re young mind liked? Before I get to carried away how about you cool my jets and tell us about what’s next for you?

Dakota: I'm working on one story at the moment. I'm hoping to have it published later this year. Nisey's Awakening, my first BDSM full length novel. Nisey has been burned once by the BDSM world and is leery of stepping back into even though she's haunted in her dreams by it. When her best friend, Kalinda, suggests Nisey talk to her brother Nisey accepts but is taken by surprise by her own fierce attraction to him. Once he sets a few facts straight does she have the courage to ask him to be her teacher?

Wow, that sounds hot. I’ll be in line for that one. Last question, do you outline or have the book in your head when you write, and if you outline do you stick to the outline or go were your heart tells you to?

Dakota: Honestly I've tried it both ways. Originally I just had an idea in my head. Then I decided to outline one book to see if it would be better. I ended up abandoning it before the third chapter. I just can't seem to stick to an outline.

Bravo, me too. Far too constricting for me, like a damn corset. Dakota it’s been a great week and you are a super writer. A thanks to Kiki for having us and here are the places readers can find us. Dakota can be found at:
http://www.dakotatrace.webs.com/

http://www.excessica.com/index.php/search-by-author/dakota-trace/

http://www.myspace.com/dakotatrace

You can see my books at these sites.

http://www.jennifercampbell.webs.com/

http://www.excessica.com/index.php/search-by-author/jennifer-campbell/

http://www.myspace.com/mansionslave/

Thanks for your interest.

Jen Campbell

Notorious In Nice

Jianne Carlo just keeps putting out one hot, fabulous, book, after another. Notorious in Nice takes the innocent, Su-Lin Taylor, on a journey of love. She has a naive and eager need to learn more about sex and her man of interest, Terrance O'Connor, who has his eyes on her from the moment he meets her. Su-Lin unfortunately is too trusting and there are those around her who don't have her best interest in mind.
Her Aunt and Uncle are not what they seem to be. Jianne weaves a story that takes us to exotic places, amongst the wealth and splendor she learns that the people she believes in are not trustworthy. Someone wants to kill her and why anyone would want to kill her is the basis for a remarkable story of intrigue. Terry arranges for her and her relatives to take a trip on his luxury boat the Glory. And the excitement is on!

Hold on to your seats and get ready for one hot excerpt.

Notorious in Nice

Su-Lin’s been dreaming of Terry for days. They’d talked daily on the phone, and she can’t wait to see him again, but sexy Texan Harrison throws her off course.

“Welcome to the Glory,” he drawled in this sexy, send-shivers-up-your-spine voice. “Harrison Ford, first mate, at your absolute disposal. I saw you on the beach in Antibes a while back, sugar. Amazing performance. Surely you’re Olympic material?”
His palm enfolded her small hand, and he brushed full lips over the throbbing vein at her wrist. Bemused by the way he said the word “sugar,” like it had no R and a host of Hs, shug-ah, her lips curved, hoping he’d say it again. She paraphrased it in her mind, shug-ah, and drew in gulps of his Acqua Di Gio aftershave as her stomach did a giddy slide into his twinkling honey eyes.
She rushed out, “I made the team four years in a row but had to drop out. Then I shot up. I’m too tall for Olympic competition.” She stifled a groan, too much information. It still amazed her how rich people conducted a conversation. They asked questions as greetings but didn’t expect answers, far less the truth.
“An itty bitty thing like you?” Liquid caramel eyes glistened sympathy beneath arched eyebrows. “Shucks, sugar, that’s their loss. I took a shot of you on my cell. Remind me, and I’ll show it to you later.”
He had taken a picture of her? This man with rock-star looks and Indiana Jones charm?
Su-Lin fell back when her uncle stepped forward.
“I’m James Lockheed, and this is my wife, Emma, my niece, Su-Lin.”
“Nice to meet y’all. Terrence O’Connor’s the captain, but he’s tied up for the moment. I know you chartered the Glory for the coming three weeks, Mr. Lockheed, but Geoff, Terry’s partner, seems to have scheduled a cruise with another party for the same period.”
“Well, I hope we can settle this mix-up quickly.” Aunt Emma started tapping her Clarks pump on the teak deck.
Terry dragged both hands through his hair and turned to face her. “We meet again. Welcome to the Glory.”
Shock kept her speechless as she realized she wasn’t welcome on board his boat, not by a long shot. Gritting her teeth, Su-Lin lifted her chin. “A most gracious welcome. Thank you.”
He had the grace to blush, although that proved poor solace for her bruised ego.
“James and Emma Lockheed, Su-Lin, meet my brother, Thomas, and my father, the Earl of Arran, Nigel Gore.” He appeared to be speaking through clenched teeth.
“Nigel, good to see you again,” Uncle James said, extending a hand.
“You know each other?” Terry asked, gaze whipping between the two men.
“Business acquaintances,” the earl replied.
“Harry, Austen, show our guests to their rooms,” Terry ordered.
The cowboy, Harrison, intervened. “I’ll show you to your cabin, Su-Lin.” He crooked an elbow. “Terry has to show his father and brother to theirs, and Austen, our bosun, is showing your relatives to the upper deck.”
“Thank you.” She refused to sneak a look at Terry and smiled at Harrison Ford. “What’s a bosun?”
“The Glory’s foreman. He organizes the other crew members and reports to me.”
“Oh,” she said. “Like a manager.”
“Bull’s-eye, sugar,” he drawled, gifting her with a crooked grin.
Su-Lin wondered if this gorgeous man had any physical flaws.
“Has anyone ever told you that you look like Indiana Jones?” A Harrison Ford look-alike without the cragginess or the crooked nose.
“Pure luck, as my mama named me after him.” He winked at her. “I even took archaeology as a minor in college.”
By this time, they’d reached the end of the stairs leading below deck, and a long, carpeted corridor faced them.
“You’re at the far end. The Glory’s staterooms are divided evenly between this deck and the upper one. Our level is separated by this entertainment area.” Harrison paused and waved a hand in the direction of a bar, a sectional curved couch, and a wide plasma screen blaring CNN Headline News.
“Where is my aunt and uncle’s room?” Su-Lin asked.
“They’re on the upper deck, as are the rest of the guests. You’re next door to the captain’s cabin.” He pointed to the left. “ Someone will bring the bags down later. Join me for a drink on deck in half an hour, sugar? Wanna get married?”
“I beg your pardon?” Shaking her head didn’t seem to clear it. “I’m sorry, what did you say?”
“Wanna get married?”
She did that back of the throat thing to clear stuffy ears and shot him a smile-grimace. “Did you just ask me to marry you?”
“Durn right, sugar. My father left me a fortune, which I inherit the day I marry. My stepmama inherits if I’m not wed by thirty.”
“Oh,” she muttered, digesting this interesting but peculiar tidbit. “I take it your birthday’s coming up?”
“Yep. And that bitch ain’t getting a cent, not even if I have to marry a freakin’ octogenarian.”
Hysteria spurred a sudden fit of giggles. “Have I just arrived in some sort of parallel universe? This must be a surreal dream.”
“I’m serious.” He winked at her again.
“You’re impossible,” she said. “Why not marry a friend and then get divorced?”
“Proof of consummation is part and parcel of Daddy’s will.”
“Oh,” she muttered. “Hold on a second, there’d only be proof if the female was a virgin.”
“One of the requirements is an untouched woman.”
“What makes you think I fit the bill?”
One forefinger traced the outline of her mouth. Their gazes tangled and he shook his head. “Ah, sugar, you radiate innocence. And you have a hunger in your eyes. It makes a man burn to be the first.”
“Sod off, Harrison. Above deck, pronto. You,” Terry barked. “Come with me.”
Everything happened so quickly, Su-Lin’s mind reeled. He scooped her into his arms and then the two of them were alone in his cabin.
“You don’t go from blowing me to screwing Harry.” Carrying her high against his chest, he toed the door closed. “Do you hear me?”

How about one more for a real thrill?


Notorious in Nice

A woman, he needed a woman. Sex, a night of thrusting and pounding like an enraged bull, and then he would face reality, deal with the burdens of the past.
Determined not to be thrown off course, his glance slid left, drawn to Su-Lin like Mars drawn to the sun. To his surprise, she met his gaze and tipped the crystal glass, her full lips curling in a trembling smile.
His for the taking.
He forgot his father, his brother, his life, and homed in on a single goal, sheathing himself in her warmth. Trying not to be obvious, Terry wound his way through the crowd mingling on the upper deck until he stood inches away from her.
As if sensing his presence, her pouty lips parted, and she sipped at the bubbling champagne, glancing over one bare shoulder at him.
“There’s a minor issue in the kitchens, and your presence is required.” He took her crystal flute, set it on table and held out an elbowed forearm. “ Shall we?”
Those searching eyes, their startling color, the absolute absence of guile, made him hesitate for a brief, imperceptible moment. A woman, he reminded himself, she was a female, a hole to be filled, nothing more, nothing less.
Before they reached the last mahogany step fronting the lower deck’s main corridor, Terry scooped her into his arms
She didn’t resist but raised verdant eyes to his. “I’m not sure.”
That was all she said, and it stabbed at his conscience, those words.
“Don’t worry,” he replied. “It’ll be okay.”
He had to squelch all emotions to make it to the secluded cabin door without touching her, without drowning in her mouth. With a gentility he didn’t know he possessed, Terry laid her down in the middle of the queen-size bed.
She rose on her elbows but said not a word, watching him dash his tie away, flick his jacket to the floor. When he tore his shirt lapels apart and buttons went flying, she put up a tiny hand.
“What, darlin’?” He could barely breathe, get the words out, and wondered if he sounded like the barbarian he felt.
Her head drooped, and she stared at the white comforter. Without looking at him, she whispered, “I want to touch you.”
Jaysus.
He grabbed the head of his prick and squeezed so hard it hurt. He’d almost lost it, and they hadn’t even begun.
Calling on all his military training, Terry shuffled over to the mattress and sat.
“All you want.” That was all he could muster, and getting the words out almost undid him again. He took her small hand and placed it over a heart threatening self-destruction.
Her pink tongue snaked out to touch the corner of her mouth. She shifted closer.
Tacky, moist sea brine wafted to his nostrils, and not an iota of it made it to his lungs.
“I’ve never done this before,” she said, so softly he had to strain to hear her words. And then she could’ve bellowed, and he’d never have known. His heart sounded like immediate thunder in his ears, reverberations vibrating every nerve, every synapse.
She placed the other hand on his chest and breathed, “You’re so beautiful, like a Norse god.”
One finger traced the outline of his pectoral muscles, and his stomach contracted so hard his gut cramped and his prick leaked.
So close. So close.
“Darlin’ --” he began, but she cut him off by applying two fingers to his lips.
She shook her head.
“Please, no words?” And still she wouldn’t meet his gaze, and it bothered him, made him desperate for some sign of, what? Not consent. Approval, perhaps?
Terry stifled his response and waited, watching, body functions going into trained military hibernation.
With the slightest pressure of one hot little palm, she had him lying supine on the bed. Her hands flitted over his chest, lithe butterfly caresses skimming his scalded flesh.
Her touch left him wanting, impatient.
Delicate fingers flicked the right nipple, then the left, and she licked her lips when he flinched and his hips arched off the mattress.
Her gaze fixed on his arousal then, and with shaking fingers, she unbuckled his belt. Long minutes of agonizing torture followed, prolonged by her obvious nerves, her hands fumbling over his cock.

Notorious in Nice
eCard Details

A silly mistake pits a naked Terry with a nude Su-Lin in the men’s steam room. Totally smitten, Terry manipulates Su-Lin into a cruise aboard his luxury yacht, the Glory. Or so Terry thinks…
ISBN: 978-1-59632-904-1
Publisher Link
http://www.loose-id.com/prod-Mediterranean_Mambo__Notorious_in_Nice-907.aspx

Thanks Jianne, keep um coming!

D is for Desire

Jianne Carlo is my critique partner. I have to be very honest. When I started to read her first post I didn't think I could handle it. Jianne writes erotica.
In spite of my phobia I read it. It was amazing. Jianne weaves a story that was hard to put down.

D Is For Desire begins in Trinidad on Carnival Monday. I had never heard of Carnival. And at first I had visions of Mardi Gras in New Orleans. How wrong I was in thinking that. In Trinidad Carnival everyone is involved from the children to the elderly. It is a nationwide celebration, everyone gets involved.The first day people dance in the street 'Wining' against one another. Dirty dancing to the max. It's ll par of J'ouvert, a day of pure hedonism.
Jianne surprised me. This wonderful story takes you into the past, involves witches and kept me reading till my eyes almost fell out.

It's a sexy story of two people Dee, Desdemonia Bloom, and Alex Mayfield, who find themselves involved in intrigue and wonderful excitement and in the process fall in love. Jump into the mud with them and dance through the streets till you fall from sheer exhaustion. Drink tequela from someones belly button and tell me you don't feel it.

I really loved this story. I am a paranormal fan and appreciated the intricate web Jianne weaved to tell us this story, which is one of her series called Witchy Women. Each one is a story on its' own, but to read them all helps tie the whole premise together. Jianne you amaze me!

Here is a short excerpt:
The sound of rain spattering onto the French doors brought back a muffled reality. Alez tugged the blindfold off. He grinned at her and tossed the maroonmaterial to the side. "Maybe I should have used it as a gag."
'What? Why? Oh God , the balcony doors are open. Quick which side are we on?"She struggled to sit up and leand on her forearms. "Was I very loud?"
"Let's just say, your lungs are very healthy."
"Untie me." She cocked her head to one side. "How late is it? Everything's prettty quiet. Maybe everyone went home."
"There are over fifty armed men guarding the B&B sweetheart." He loosened the cotton from her feet and set his fists on his hips. "I'm certain I'm going to regret untying your hands" He did anyway and slid off the bed.
"Come on, get under the covers." He slipped the bedcovers down, picked up a fat pillow, and cuffed it int submission.
"Alex?" Dee rubbed one wrist. "What's srong?"
"You need your rest," he said. "Which side do you want? Do you realize we'e mever spent an entire night together? I have wanted to wake up with you in my arms for a long time."
He had no intentions of making love to her, she realized and all the champagne excitement bubbling inside fizzled into flatness.
"What was all that about never refusing you sex?" Dee glanced down at her swollen, protruding stomach. "It's me, isn't it? Because I 'm fat."
"God no." Alex climbed onto the bed knees first. He pressed a soft kiss on her navel. "I'm afraid of hurting you and the baby. I thinke we should see a doctor first." He tucked her head against his hard chest.
"You have a raging erection." Dee twirled a finger aroung the head of his shaft. "This is our wedding night. You promised me thirteen orgasms, and I've only had one."

Now try to put that down.
Jianne was born to an Indian father and a Hispanic mother. She grew up in a sity-by-forty Caribbean island full of cultural diversity. Jianne has a Bachelor's Degree in English and Sociology and a Master's in Management Science.
She married her college sweetheart and they have three wonderful sons, whom she is very close to. The only carbonated beverage she drinks is champagne. Yet she is down to earth and so approachable. I am pleased to call her my friend.
I am sorry I don't have the cover to post, Jianne is down with the flu. I will try to add it later if I can. For more information about Jianne's books go to her website www.jiannecarlo.com

More tomorrow!