Monday, March 29, 2010
Script Frenzy
Script Frenzy is going to start this week! If you want an insane challenge go here. Make sure you know what you're writing first.
Saturday, March 27, 2010
First question to answer
How, when and why did you start writing?
by Harley D. Palmer
I would say not until I found some interesting contests on WDC that I even started writing anything other than class assignments. This was three years ago. Basically same time I took Creative writing class in high school and ended up having a published poem. I am inspired by crazy or seemingly impossible-to-write prompts. The only way for me to be in first place is if I was the only one who entered. One of my friends who knew about the website long before I knew her wanted to go into journalism. She has awsome writing and knows how to show details and such in a realistic way. If it weren't for her I wouldn't have found great contests to enter. Writer's Prompt and a few others I have joined. As far as novels go I only write during National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo). And for scripts? Well that is Script Frenzy which I'd be a first year participant in. Again crazy or seemingly impossible is my only inspirations for writing. ^_^
by Harley D. Palmer
I would say not until I found some interesting contests on WDC that I even started writing anything other than class assignments. This was three years ago. Basically same time I took Creative writing class in high school and ended up having a published poem. I am inspired by crazy or seemingly impossible-to-write prompts. The only way for me to be in first place is if I was the only one who entered. One of my friends who knew about the website long before I knew her wanted to go into journalism. She has awsome writing and knows how to show details and such in a realistic way. If it weren't for her I wouldn't have found great contests to enter. Writer's Prompt and a few others I have joined. As far as novels go I only write during National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo). And for scripts? Well that is Script Frenzy which I'd be a first year participant in. Again crazy or seemingly impossible is my only inspirations for writing. ^_^
Thursday, March 25, 2010
Open for Questions
An idea: Ask me or give me a topic to post on the blog! =) Feel free to ask a question for me to use by commenting on this post. I'd be happy to answer. I do not want anything offensive. Okay here's my post of the day.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Favorite Blogs
I know I've only been following a few blogs, mainly to keep up with my friend's blogs. However I will soon, on the sidebar, have favorite blogs up. All of those blogs may contain great writing advice. I am of level to read adult content, so a few may be rated for 18+ as a warning. Previously mentioned novel has now become a full-length novella of which I love the plot. Anyway that does not mean I know how to describe the plot yet! My own websites are still under construction since I want them to look professional as well as have content in a professional manner. Hopefully in Summer I will succeed!
Monday, March 15, 2010
Sunny Day
This is a contest from Harley's Blog. The contest is Silent Communication Content. Sounds fun Harley! Didn't say anything about it having to be people- hehehe.
Sunny Day
A fox crouched low on the ground, just staring at the mouse in front of it. The mouse stopped and cocked its head, wondering why the fox was just staring at it. Then the mouse peered into the fox's eyes, wondering what is the fox's next move- will the fox pounce and kill it? Will the fox just stare at it? Is it hungry? The mouse quivered at the thought it is about to become food. The muscles of the fox was all tense as it would be if it is aiming to have a meal. The mouse quivered, especially seen through its whiskers. It is about to become eaten. The stare of the fox, the tense muscles, and concentration showed it. Then instinct kicked in and the mouse started scurrying away. The fox pounced and trapped the mouse in its large paws. What a great way for the fox to have an easy meal. Instead of eating the mouse however, the fox saw just how shook up the mouse was. The mouse quivered, struggling to be free. Taking pity the fox allowed the mouse to be free and hoped to come across a larger meal. The sun was still high in the sky.
Sunny Day
A fox crouched low on the ground, just staring at the mouse in front of it. The mouse stopped and cocked its head, wondering why the fox was just staring at it. Then the mouse peered into the fox's eyes, wondering what is the fox's next move- will the fox pounce and kill it? Will the fox just stare at it? Is it hungry? The mouse quivered at the thought it is about to become food. The muscles of the fox was all tense as it would be if it is aiming to have a meal. The mouse quivered, especially seen through its whiskers. It is about to become eaten. The stare of the fox, the tense muscles, and concentration showed it. Then instinct kicked in and the mouse started scurrying away. The fox pounced and trapped the mouse in its large paws. What a great way for the fox to have an easy meal. Instead of eating the mouse however, the fox saw just how shook up the mouse was. The mouse quivered, struggling to be free. Taking pity the fox allowed the mouse to be free and hoped to come across a larger meal. The sun was still high in the sky.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Interview with Mark C. Bradley
What kind of book is (seems like to me anyway) the least common? Hehe Excellent poetry books. I have one of Mark's published poetry books, already read, in my room. ;) Umm- formal introduction: Today Interview is with Mark C. Bradley a poetry writer- who also has a Fantasy book too which I might try keeping updated with- I can say it has dragons, I think. Hehehe Okay I'll stop and let you see the interview.
What is your favorite color?
Green
What inspired you to write?
I always had an active imagination, so story ideas came to my mind often.
If a plane is about to crash into a lake carrying all of your favorite books, which books would you grab (keep in mind you only have enough time to grab five books)?
Lord of the Rings, 1984,
How many books have you published?
two
And I know it's poetry with a theme I can see easily. x)
How many books are you working on?
two
Can you imagine your fantasy books becoming a best seller?
I hope so
What is the craziest scenerio could you come up with?
Having a dream about someone and then the next day something happens involving that person that's similar to what I dreamt about.
I totally agree.
What are your writing rituals or writing routines if you have any?
I listen to music without words because I don't want to let the lyrics disrupt my chain of thought.
You're like me as far as preferred music to listen to when doing something. =)
How easy is it for you to write poetry?
Very easy. I can sometimes come up with one in a matter of minutes
Would it be fun to go skiing at top speed down a high hill?
Yes
Any advice or comments would you like to say?
Inspiration can be found in the most unlikely of things.
This has been a great interview. I will soon have SM Blooding up! (You might be lucky to see a few of her characters involved!) Hope you have fun!
What is your favorite color?
Green
What inspired you to write?
I always had an active imagination, so story ideas came to my mind often.
If a plane is about to crash into a lake carrying all of your favorite books, which books would you grab (keep in mind you only have enough time to grab five books)?
Lord of the Rings, 1984,
How many books have you published?
two
And I know it's poetry with a theme I can see easily. x)
How many books are you working on?
two
Can you imagine your fantasy books becoming a best seller?
I hope so
What is the craziest scenerio could you come up with?
Having a dream about someone and then the next day something happens involving that person that's similar to what I dreamt about.
I totally agree.
What are your writing rituals or writing routines if you have any?
I listen to music without words because I don't want to let the lyrics disrupt my chain of thought.
You're like me as far as preferred music to listen to when doing something. =)
How easy is it for you to write poetry?
Very easy. I can sometimes come up with one in a matter of minutes
Would it be fun to go skiing at top speed down a high hill?
Yes
Any advice or comments would you like to say?
Inspiration can be found in the most unlikely of things.
This has been a great interview. I will soon have SM Blooding up! (You might be lucky to see a few of her characters involved!) Hope you have fun!
Friday, March 12, 2010
Interview with Dawn Embers
Here I am, lucky enough to be able to interview a Fantasy writer- Dawn Embers. She has been writing for several years now and is planning on getting published. Dawn has her own blog and also a member of writing.com. *probably only encourages his goals* She is living in the same state I currently am living in as well- Wyoming. Now, for the interview, I'll stop talking and let you read the interview now.
What was your inspiration to become a writer?
Well, this is a little tough because I can't pinpoint it. I always had an active imagination as a kid. We didn't have that many toys and we really didn't need many, me and my sister, because we made up our games. For writing, I started with poems back in junior high and then got my first idea for a book in high school. But I didn't start seriously writing till college.
If (well, I know you are) going for NaNoWiMo what type of book will it turn out?
There is a video of me as a little kid, reading from a book but the book is upside down. I was just making stuff up and pretending it came from the book. That's probably the first example.
For NaoNoWriMo 2010? I'm really not sure. I'm writing a mutant story for MarNo. Have three other novels going at this point. But I would guess either my mom's romance novel that comes from her idea, or I might do a fantasy with elves and all that good stuff. The kind I started wanting to write but haven't felt I could quite yet. We'll see how it goes when November gets here. If I start too many projects then my writer friends tend to lecture me. lol
Lol! Okay, How many books are you working one (including your MaNo novel)?
Well, several are started but as for working on this year... I have three novels that are first drafts and one novel that is a second draft rewrite. April I will also have a script for script frenzy to write. At least two novels are on the backburner at this point but could happen any time this year if I want to work on them.
Are any of your novels ready for publication (or else submitting to publishers/agents)?
Unfortunately, no. I have some short stories that I thought were ready for submission but it turns out I'm not a short writer. I am a novelist it seems. The rewrite is my first one ever and there is no way I will ever send out a rough draft. But I'm getting better with my writing so I hope to have one ready by next year.
If you were able to meet your favorite author(s) who would you like to meet?
Well, I have already met my favorite author from when I was young. I met Tamora Pierce at a conference in Colorado and even sat by her during a discussion. My next goal is to meet Neil Gaiman. He is an amazing author. I know he usually goes to World Con, so that is my goal for next year.
What are your writing rituals or writing routines?
I don't really have any. I can write in different situations and places. My first successful nano I wrote in an apartment with no internet and a coffee shop for the internet. I have to use the computer because my wrist doesn't handle long hand for too long. Wish I had a writing space with a comfortable desk and chair, no tv and music playing. But for now I settle for whatever I can get.
What is your favorite food?
I don't have a favorite food or anything like that. There are too many options to choose from and I like so many different things.
Would you like to tell about your favorite scene in one of the books you have written?
Wow. That is a good question and a bit tough. I guess a recent one would be in my Marno. The main character, Noah's boyfriend is gone to fight in a war that Noah is against. Since they are away for a long time, they decided to open their relationship for the time being. Noah and his best friend, who he lives with, get really close and there is a scene where they start to make out on the couch. Then Noah's mom walks in. I don't know why but it's fun to interrupt characters in that type of situation. And having his mom talking about him having a sex life is just icing on the cake.
If you were swimming and noticed several elves standing by the swimming pool what would you do?
Odd. Depends on the type of elf. I'd probably either keep swimming, or swim over to meet the elves because well, if my wdc username doesn't indicate, I love elves. :-D
Now... for my all-time favorite question... What is the craziest scenerio could you come up with?
That is a tall order there. It's hard to determine what is crazy. Or think with all the writing I've done so far this month. *ponders*
Does a chemist who dresses as a clown and turns womens bodies into mannequins count? or are you looking more for something like: a tall man moonlights as a short woman in a treehouse bar to hide his true existence from those that would hunt him. No idea where that one came from either.
Most certainly can be anything! Hehe Hence my favorite question. Last question: Any advice or comments would you like to share?
When it comes to writing the first draft: just write. Don't forget to edit and rewrite before submitting the story, but the first draft is about getting the story down and not perfection. As I've learned from Mur Lafftery on I Should Be Writing: It's hard to fix a blank page. So, just write. The old, real rule of writing is true and that is "writer's write".
Thank you for the wonderful interview! I wish you luck on all of your books- including the rewritings. *giggles* Have fun and well, mainly there are more interviews- and the enjoyment of random questions!
What was your inspiration to become a writer?
Well, this is a little tough because I can't pinpoint it. I always had an active imagination as a kid. We didn't have that many toys and we really didn't need many, me and my sister, because we made up our games. For writing, I started with poems back in junior high and then got my first idea for a book in high school. But I didn't start seriously writing till college.
If (well, I know you are) going for NaNoWiMo what type of book will it turn out?
There is a video of me as a little kid, reading from a book but the book is upside down. I was just making stuff up and pretending it came from the book. That's probably the first example.
For NaoNoWriMo 2010? I'm really not sure. I'm writing a mutant story for MarNo. Have three other novels going at this point. But I would guess either my mom's romance novel that comes from her idea, or I might do a fantasy with elves and all that good stuff. The kind I started wanting to write but haven't felt I could quite yet. We'll see how it goes when November gets here. If I start too many projects then my writer friends tend to lecture me. lol
Lol! Okay, How many books are you working one (including your MaNo novel)?
Well, several are started but as for working on this year... I have three novels that are first drafts and one novel that is a second draft rewrite. April I will also have a script for script frenzy to write. At least two novels are on the backburner at this point but could happen any time this year if I want to work on them.
Are any of your novels ready for publication (or else submitting to publishers/agents)?
Unfortunately, no. I have some short stories that I thought were ready for submission but it turns out I'm not a short writer. I am a novelist it seems. The rewrite is my first one ever and there is no way I will ever send out a rough draft. But I'm getting better with my writing so I hope to have one ready by next year.
If you were able to meet your favorite author(s) who would you like to meet?
Well, I have already met my favorite author from when I was young. I met Tamora Pierce at a conference in Colorado and even sat by her during a discussion. My next goal is to meet Neil Gaiman. He is an amazing author. I know he usually goes to World Con, so that is my goal for next year.
What are your writing rituals or writing routines?
I don't really have any. I can write in different situations and places. My first successful nano I wrote in an apartment with no internet and a coffee shop for the internet. I have to use the computer because my wrist doesn't handle long hand for too long. Wish I had a writing space with a comfortable desk and chair, no tv and music playing. But for now I settle for whatever I can get.
What is your favorite food?
I don't have a favorite food or anything like that. There are too many options to choose from and I like so many different things.
Would you like to tell about your favorite scene in one of the books you have written?
Wow. That is a good question and a bit tough. I guess a recent one would be in my Marno. The main character, Noah's boyfriend is gone to fight in a war that Noah is against. Since they are away for a long time, they decided to open their relationship for the time being. Noah and his best friend, who he lives with, get really close and there is a scene where they start to make out on the couch. Then Noah's mom walks in. I don't know why but it's fun to interrupt characters in that type of situation. And having his mom talking about him having a sex life is just icing on the cake.
If you were swimming and noticed several elves standing by the swimming pool what would you do?
Odd. Depends on the type of elf. I'd probably either keep swimming, or swim over to meet the elves because well, if my wdc username doesn't indicate, I love elves. :-D
Now... for my all-time favorite question... What is the craziest scenerio could you come up with?
That is a tall order there. It's hard to determine what is crazy. Or think with all the writing I've done so far this month. *ponders*
Does a chemist who dresses as a clown and turns womens bodies into mannequins count? or are you looking more for something like: a tall man moonlights as a short woman in a treehouse bar to hide his true existence from those that would hunt him. No idea where that one came from either.
Most certainly can be anything! Hehe Hence my favorite question. Last question: Any advice or comments would you like to share?
When it comes to writing the first draft: just write. Don't forget to edit and rewrite before submitting the story, but the first draft is about getting the story down and not perfection. As I've learned from Mur Lafftery on I Should Be Writing: It's hard to fix a blank page. So, just write. The old, real rule of writing is true and that is "writer's write".
Thank you for the wonderful interview! I wish you luck on all of your books- including the rewritings. *giggles* Have fun and well, mainly there are more interviews- and the enjoyment of random questions!
Tuesday, March 9, 2010
Interview with J.D. Brown
Switching to a Vampire author- yep I definitely love vampires! Rest assured these questions don't bite. I am fortunate enough to be able to interview J.D. Brown who is currently working on several series. Wow that is a lot of work! Anyways, I bet you are eager for the interview so here it is:
What is your favorite creature (could be mythical, supernatural, paranormal, etc.)?
A: Hands down, my favorite creature is the vampire! Why? Because they can be as horrifyingly scary or as whimsically romantic as you want! Which mine are almost always romantic - and a little bit scary ...
Gotta love it! Vampires are that. *nods*
If you were riding on waves and noticed a large water-proof box on shore, what would you imagine would be in it (Note: can only hold up to 5 large items or 10 small items)?
A: It's a treasure chest! Is it a treasure chest? It's a treasure chest, right? *Looks around for Captain Sparrow*
What inspired you to write?
A: Gees I never know how to answer this one because there are many things which lead to my first novel. The characters assaulted my mind, I was unemployed at the time and so I actually HAD the time to write, but mostly because I am an artist and had the need to create art. Since I was a child I spent every moment drawing or painting or creating characters that lived in make-believe worlds. Normal kid stuff - except that with me it lasted all the way to high school. In collage, I was a fashion design major but I decided after that I like sewing clothes as a hobby, not a career. One day ... after a long creative dry spell ... a character named Jalmari popped into my head and assaulted my fantasies. He wouldn't leave. He demanded that I write his tale. So I did, and I loved every bit of it!
Hmmm... Well I'm just a Freshman in college anyway- one year since I graduated high school almost.
If you are going to enter NaNoWriMo, what kind of book do you imagine it would be?
A: I would start book one of my YA series (currently untitled). In fact - I think I will do just that, come November.
How many books have you gotten published (Is Dark Heirloom availabe to buy)?
A: Published? None. Yet. *Hopeful smile* Dark Heirloom is almost ready for submission and I'm very excited!
*dies* Okay joking I'm not going to die because your book isn't ready to buy. Can't wait to see it though!How many books are you working on?
A: Um ... define "working on"? Haha. Physically, actively, I'm working on the Dark Heirloom series - putting the finishing touches on Book One and brainstorming / outlining Book Two. In my head, though, I currently have ... *counts on fingers* ... 3 new series a hatching!
Hence why I love this question. That is alot to work on, but I am sure it is well worth the time.Would you rather spend some time alone or with your family?
A: My three favorite ways to spend time is alone, with my boyfriend, or with my family, so ... picking between the three usual comes down to my mood at the time as well as what I need to get done that day.
Moods are always important to listen too. ;)What is the craziest scenerio could you come up with?
A: For a novel or in real life? Personally, I think day to day living is a crazy enough scenario ...
*laughs* It certainly can be!
What are you writing rituals or writing routines?
A: *Smile* I come home, shower, change into sweats, put my hair up, make a cup of coffee and something light to eat, take out the dogs and then feed them, turn on my laptop, and get out my notes / draft. Then I set everything up either on my desk or my bed, and get to work. In that exact order.
If you were able to interview your favorite authors, who would they be?
A: Oh my gosh ... Anne Rice and Orson Scott Card. There are like a hundred more, but they are the top two.
I so love Anne Rice too!
Any advice or comments would you like to add for- anyone?
A: If you find yourself laughing out loud at something funny your character did or said, than chances are your reader will laugh too. If you cry ... your reader will cry too. Write first and foremost for yourself.
I think that is true too. An author can recognize good writing based on emotions. =)
These are all great answers. I so enjoyed this interview. More interviews coming up soon too- the next one is with a published author- I am so gonna have to come up with interesting questions for them. *evil laugh* Have fun!
What is your favorite creature (could be mythical, supernatural, paranormal, etc.)?
A: Hands down, my favorite creature is the vampire! Why? Because they can be as horrifyingly scary or as whimsically romantic as you want! Which mine are almost always romantic - and a little bit scary ...
Gotta love it! Vampires are that. *nods*
If you were riding on waves and noticed a large water-proof box on shore, what would you imagine would be in it (Note: can only hold up to 5 large items or 10 small items)?
A: It's a treasure chest! Is it a treasure chest? It's a treasure chest, right? *Looks around for Captain Sparrow*
What inspired you to write?
A: Gees I never know how to answer this one because there are many things which lead to my first novel. The characters assaulted my mind, I was unemployed at the time and so I actually HAD the time to write, but mostly because I am an artist and had the need to create art. Since I was a child I spent every moment drawing or painting or creating characters that lived in make-believe worlds. Normal kid stuff - except that with me it lasted all the way to high school. In collage, I was a fashion design major but I decided after that I like sewing clothes as a hobby, not a career. One day ... after a long creative dry spell ... a character named Jalmari popped into my head and assaulted my fantasies. He wouldn't leave. He demanded that I write his tale. So I did, and I loved every bit of it!
Hmmm... Well I'm just a Freshman in college anyway- one year since I graduated high school almost.
If you are going to enter NaNoWriMo, what kind of book do you imagine it would be?
A: I would start book one of my YA series (currently untitled). In fact - I think I will do just that, come November.
How many books have you gotten published (Is Dark Heirloom availabe to buy)?
A: Published? None. Yet. *Hopeful smile* Dark Heirloom is almost ready for submission and I'm very excited!
*dies* Okay joking I'm not going to die because your book isn't ready to buy. Can't wait to see it though!How many books are you working on?
A: Um ... define "working on"? Haha. Physically, actively, I'm working on the Dark Heirloom series - putting the finishing touches on Book One and brainstorming / outlining Book Two. In my head, though, I currently have ... *counts on fingers* ... 3 new series a hatching!
Hence why I love this question. That is alot to work on, but I am sure it is well worth the time.Would you rather spend some time alone or with your family?
A: My three favorite ways to spend time is alone, with my boyfriend, or with my family, so ... picking between the three usual comes down to my mood at the time as well as what I need to get done that day.
Moods are always important to listen too. ;)What is the craziest scenerio could you come up with?
A: For a novel or in real life? Personally, I think day to day living is a crazy enough scenario ...
*laughs* It certainly can be!
What are you writing rituals or writing routines?
A: *Smile* I come home, shower, change into sweats, put my hair up, make a cup of coffee and something light to eat, take out the dogs and then feed them, turn on my laptop, and get out my notes / draft. Then I set everything up either on my desk or my bed, and get to work. In that exact order.
If you were able to interview your favorite authors, who would they be?
A: Oh my gosh ... Anne Rice and Orson Scott Card. There are like a hundred more, but they are the top two.
I so love Anne Rice too!
Any advice or comments would you like to add for- anyone?
A: If you find yourself laughing out loud at something funny your character did or said, than chances are your reader will laugh too. If you cry ... your reader will cry too. Write first and foremost for yourself.
I think that is true too. An author can recognize good writing based on emotions. =)
These are all great answers. I so enjoyed this interview. More interviews coming up soon too- the next one is with a published author- I am so gonna have to come up with interesting questions for them. *evil laugh* Have fun!
Monday, March 1, 2010
MaNoWriMo
Stands for March Novel Writing Month- similar to NaNoWriMo only just on WDC? Well, I better stop messing around and start writing- as well as do my homework as quickly as possible. I have gone for the impossible goal of 50,000+ words. Good practice for the actual challenge which is in November. Time to be focused!
Hello! Today's post is about the interview with Anastasia Rabiyah, who kindly accepted. Anastasia Rabiyah writes erotic romance, paranormal erotic romance, and dark fantasy. She often crosses genres in order to follow her muses into the darkness where they seek out destiny in all its forms. She believes in fairies, demons, angels, magic, passion, chocolate, supportive friends, e-books, and writing critique groups. Her deepest desire is to pursue her creative dreams and realize them. Every spare moment she devotes to writing for her haunting muses. She lives in Tucson, Arizona with her husband and three sons. Visit her on the web at: www.RabiyahBooks.com
> What is your favorite subject?
My favorie writing subject is always dark fantasy. I like a good tale with an anti-hero that I love to hate and love but long to see redeemed. It's a recurring theme in many of the stories I write and often in stories I like to read. Fantasy has always been my genre of first choice. I grew up reading, watching, and playing fantasy through movies, books, and good old Dungeons and Dragons. I've always had an overactive imagination and was prone to doodling dragons and unicorns in my school notebooks. I like the feeling of being taken away to a place where anything is possible and where creatures of myth roam free. Since breaking in to the erotic romance genre in 2007, I've been unable to stop weaving elements of romance into my stories.
I'm glad I'm not the only one who draws during class and have dragons and fantasy as my ultimate subject!
> How are your novels coming along?
In the past two years I've gotten really bad about not finishing works and about starting many more than I can get done. My New Year's resolution this year is to clean out my works in progress file. With well over 20 manuscripts in various stages of completion, that's a huge challenge, but one that I need to accomplish. This year I have succeeded in finishing Wolf Next Door (contracted with Amira Press), Lost and Found Again (contracted with Sugar and Spice Press), and Althyn and the Othian Dagger (to go to Purple Sword). In March I'd like to get 2-3 more works done, at least 1 or 2 novellas, but hopefully one large work as well.
You can do it! All it takes is some time. :) Congrats with the contracts!Althyn I started over a year ago and was only able to write her when I was in a foul mood. She's an anti-heroine that does not want redemption. This is her first novel. If she has success, I may write a sequel because truly, this one felt like the backstory to her evil reign to come.
Sounds interesting. *big grin*I have two full length fantasy novels that need going through. One is Rook and the other is Jamillah. Both need tweaking. I wrote Rook a very long time ago and all in first person, which is no longer my style. As well I want more romance in that one. Jamillah needs some plot flaws worked out.
> If your plane is about to crash in a lake and carries all of your favorite books, which books will you try to save (Keep in mind you only have time to save five books)?
In all seriousness, I'd be worried more about surviving and saving anyone else I could! I generally read a book once. I have favorites that I hold onto like good memories or photo albums that I always think I'll want to go through again. My favorites are Stephen King's The Stand because it scared the hell out of me, Patterson's When the Wind Blows, and every single one of Anne Rice's novels that I can get my hands on, top faves are Servant of the Bones, Blood and Gold, and Interview With the Vampire.
Anne Rice's vampire books are great.
> Do you have any writing rituals or writing routines?
My daily goal is 2,000 words a day. I try to meet that, but with all the demands of life, it's not always possible. Today I've done a little over 4,000.
You accomplish much more than what I accomplish! HeheI tend to need my daily cup of iced coffee to get my brain going. My writing time is ruled by demands from my husband and children. We have two restaurants and I have three young boys that need a lot of attention. So, I must write in the mornings when they're all out at work or school, or very late at night when the kids have gone to bed.
> What has inspired you to write?
Sometimes inspiration is an odd thing. A setting, a beautiful place that catches my attention and makes my imagination churn up all kinds of scenarios. The weirdest kind of inspiration is when I actually hear snippets of sentences in my head. The eeriest one was the first line in the novella Demon in the Basement which I had orginally started writing as a magazine submission. "Emme found the demon in the basement, curled in on himself under a pile of crumpled newspapers." Very strange beginning to a haunting and unusually erotic tale.
I've written settings from my favorite places: Oklahoma, Tucson, and Greece. Sometimes just being away from home on vacation is a great way for the brain to get cracking on new characters and plots. Unfortuantely, I don't get many vacations!
Odd yet great inspirations too!
> How many books have you published?
At present I have 35 titles available. Most are novellas, not full length novels. Many are in e-book formats but I do have works in print as well.
E-book or print, it's quite an accomplishment to be able to have over 30 books published. =)
> Purple Sword e-book publishing company looks awsome- so well organized and beautiful. Are your specialized genres, romance and speculative fiction, also the genres you write in the most?
Absoultely. Romantic speculative fiction is something I love to read, write, edit, and design cover art for. When a press I was published iwth, Forbidden Publications, closed its doors unexpectedly in March of 2009, I wanted a new home for all the works I had there, a home that really summed up the kind of stories I love to write.
And I think Purple Swords is a great accomplishment for being able to continue a lovable career you have.
> Gotta love NaNoWriMo: If you were to enter NaNo what type of book do you think it will end up?
I entered NaNo last year because I needed a good kick in the behind to get a novella done for Sugar and Spice Press. I succeeded and penned The Stolen Warrior, which is available now http://sugarnspicepress.com as a part of a themed series set in a city called Bisura. If I enter this year, I'd like it to be something new, something dark and erotic, but I can only do that if I get more of my works in progress done and in submission land.
> What is the craziest scenerio could you come up with?
In a story? Gee, I've written some weird ones. Hiram's Secret is about a young man who leaves his village to find a bride and ends up falling in love with a beautiful young woman who is half human and half gremlin.
Demon in the Basement is about a quirky woman who falls in love with a ruined demon.
Goodness knows what else I'll come up with...
Crazy and yet awsome! :)
> What kind of feelings do you love to have whenever you read your specialized genres?
I want to be taken away from the mundane. I want to fall in love with the hero, hate the villain and maybe even sympathize with the villain. I want a plot that has unusual twists that I didn't see coming. I want the romance, the pasison, the adventure and sometimes I like to be scared a little!
Those make up great stories. I love surprises and adventures.
> Want to add any comments or advice for anyone- about anything?
I think for readers, buy as close to the original publisher as you can if you believe in supporting the authors you love. Especially with small presses, the authors get more royalty when you buy directly from the source as opposed to 3rd party retailers and book stores. I know that's a lot to ask.
For authors, the best advice I can offer is to really know what you're getting yourself into. I have some tips for authors on my blog at http://rabiyahbooks.blogspot.com and also at http://rabiyahbooks.com that may offer some help.
And for anyone out there with a dream, follow it.
Excellent advice! Hmm Hopefully once I move out from my parents I can start doing that.
I had lots of fun with this interview! Thanks for letting me interview with you Anastasia. (And you welcome for glad to be picked.) I am looking forward to doing more interviews similiar to this- beware of random questions- to any author I enjoy. 8D
> What is your favorite subject?
My favorie writing subject is always dark fantasy. I like a good tale with an anti-hero that I love to hate and love but long to see redeemed. It's a recurring theme in many of the stories I write and often in stories I like to read. Fantasy has always been my genre of first choice. I grew up reading, watching, and playing fantasy through movies, books, and good old Dungeons and Dragons. I've always had an overactive imagination and was prone to doodling dragons and unicorns in my school notebooks. I like the feeling of being taken away to a place where anything is possible and where creatures of myth roam free. Since breaking in to the erotic romance genre in 2007, I've been unable to stop weaving elements of romance into my stories.
I'm glad I'm not the only one who draws during class and have dragons and fantasy as my ultimate subject!
> How are your novels coming along?
In the past two years I've gotten really bad about not finishing works and about starting many more than I can get done. My New Year's resolution this year is to clean out my works in progress file. With well over 20 manuscripts in various stages of completion, that's a huge challenge, but one that I need to accomplish. This year I have succeeded in finishing Wolf Next Door (contracted with Amira Press), Lost and Found Again (contracted with Sugar and Spice Press), and Althyn and the Othian Dagger (to go to Purple Sword). In March I'd like to get 2-3 more works done, at least 1 or 2 novellas, but hopefully one large work as well.
You can do it! All it takes is some time. :) Congrats with the contracts!Althyn I started over a year ago and was only able to write her when I was in a foul mood. She's an anti-heroine that does not want redemption. This is her first novel. If she has success, I may write a sequel because truly, this one felt like the backstory to her evil reign to come.
Sounds interesting. *big grin*I have two full length fantasy novels that need going through. One is Rook and the other is Jamillah. Both need tweaking. I wrote Rook a very long time ago and all in first person, which is no longer my style. As well I want more romance in that one. Jamillah needs some plot flaws worked out.
> If your plane is about to crash in a lake and carries all of your favorite books, which books will you try to save (Keep in mind you only have time to save five books)?
In all seriousness, I'd be worried more about surviving and saving anyone else I could! I generally read a book once. I have favorites that I hold onto like good memories or photo albums that I always think I'll want to go through again. My favorites are Stephen King's The Stand because it scared the hell out of me, Patterson's When the Wind Blows, and every single one of Anne Rice's novels that I can get my hands on, top faves are Servant of the Bones, Blood and Gold, and Interview With the Vampire.
Anne Rice's vampire books are great.
> Do you have any writing rituals or writing routines?
My daily goal is 2,000 words a day. I try to meet that, but with all the demands of life, it's not always possible. Today I've done a little over 4,000.
You accomplish much more than what I accomplish! HeheI tend to need my daily cup of iced coffee to get my brain going. My writing time is ruled by demands from my husband and children. We have two restaurants and I have three young boys that need a lot of attention. So, I must write in the mornings when they're all out at work or school, or very late at night when the kids have gone to bed.
> What has inspired you to write?
Sometimes inspiration is an odd thing. A setting, a beautiful place that catches my attention and makes my imagination churn up all kinds of scenarios. The weirdest kind of inspiration is when I actually hear snippets of sentences in my head. The eeriest one was the first line in the novella Demon in the Basement which I had orginally started writing as a magazine submission. "Emme found the demon in the basement, curled in on himself under a pile of crumpled newspapers." Very strange beginning to a haunting and unusually erotic tale.
I've written settings from my favorite places: Oklahoma, Tucson, and Greece. Sometimes just being away from home on vacation is a great way for the brain to get cracking on new characters and plots. Unfortuantely, I don't get many vacations!
Odd yet great inspirations too!
> How many books have you published?
At present I have 35 titles available. Most are novellas, not full length novels. Many are in e-book formats but I do have works in print as well.
E-book or print, it's quite an accomplishment to be able to have over 30 books published. =)
> Purple Sword e-book publishing company looks awsome- so well organized and beautiful. Are your specialized genres, romance and speculative fiction, also the genres you write in the most?
Absoultely. Romantic speculative fiction is something I love to read, write, edit, and design cover art for. When a press I was published iwth, Forbidden Publications, closed its doors unexpectedly in March of 2009, I wanted a new home for all the works I had there, a home that really summed up the kind of stories I love to write.
And I think Purple Swords is a great accomplishment for being able to continue a lovable career you have.
> Gotta love NaNoWriMo: If you were to enter NaNo what type of book do you think it will end up?
I entered NaNo last year because I needed a good kick in the behind to get a novella done for Sugar and Spice Press. I succeeded and penned The Stolen Warrior, which is available now http://sugarnspicepress.com as a part of a themed series set in a city called Bisura. If I enter this year, I'd like it to be something new, something dark and erotic, but I can only do that if I get more of my works in progress done and in submission land.
> What is the craziest scenerio could you come up with?
In a story? Gee, I've written some weird ones. Hiram's Secret is about a young man who leaves his village to find a bride and ends up falling in love with a beautiful young woman who is half human and half gremlin.
Demon in the Basement is about a quirky woman who falls in love with a ruined demon.
Goodness knows what else I'll come up with...
Crazy and yet awsome! :)
> What kind of feelings do you love to have whenever you read your specialized genres?
I want to be taken away from the mundane. I want to fall in love with the hero, hate the villain and maybe even sympathize with the villain. I want a plot that has unusual twists that I didn't see coming. I want the romance, the pasison, the adventure and sometimes I like to be scared a little!
Those make up great stories. I love surprises and adventures.
> Want to add any comments or advice for anyone- about anything?
I think for readers, buy as close to the original publisher as you can if you believe in supporting the authors you love. Especially with small presses, the authors get more royalty when you buy directly from the source as opposed to 3rd party retailers and book stores. I know that's a lot to ask.
For authors, the best advice I can offer is to really know what you're getting yourself into. I have some tips for authors on my blog at http://rabiyahbooks.blogspot.com and also at http://rabiyahbooks.com that may offer some help.
And for anyone out there with a dream, follow it.
Excellent advice! Hmm Hopefully once I move out from my parents I can start doing that.
I had lots of fun with this interview! Thanks for letting me interview with you Anastasia. (And you welcome for glad to be picked.) I am looking forward to doing more interviews similiar to this- beware of random questions- to any author I enjoy. 8D
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