Welcome to Mike Arsuaga today

Why don't you start with telling us a little about yourself? What genre do you write in and why?

My name is Mike Arsuaga. I’ve written on and off for fifty years. Because of my scientific training (BS Physics) and career in submarines, it was, until recently, science fiction thrillers. After retirement in 2007 I resumed writing after a twenty year hiatus. On We Book a writer and reader support site, someone started a project for erotic short stories. Remembering the racy novels of my misspent Navy youth I cut loose and wrote one called “The Girl in the Library”. It was so well received I turned it into a novel “SUBSPECIES”. The Girl in the Library became chapters one and two of the book. Now I’m five books into the series, pausing only to co-write “My Life as a Dog” with Cynthia, my wife. So far I’ve written strictly erotic paranormal romances, but I’m looking hard at Steampunk and continuing The Subspecies series with more tame episodes.

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

“SUBSPECIES” is the first installment of a series. That follows the evolution of lycans and vampires (The Subspecies) from being the most reviled expression of Creation toward a far higher and better use. Before the series concludes they form a community, found a corporation, have families with a unique set of challenges, explore space, colonize Mars, travel time, and lead humanity to the purpose of life.

Did your book require a lot of research?

In a backward sort of way, yes. I needed to learn the mythology of lycans and vampires to know what to screen out. From the beginning I tried to create a set of creatures that could plausibly exist, especially in the face of challenges imposed by today’s technologically advanced society. My Subspecies develop techniques allowing them to kill once a year, avoiding high profile victims like children or suburban housewives. They quietly prey on inhabitants of society’s fringe. They do not propagate through bites or scratching. Otherwise we’d be up to our ears in them. Mine are a rare mutation within the human genome. They grow up resembling mentally challenged children. At nineteen they emerge. They have world class strength and speed but aren’t superhuman. They live 250 to 300 years. They enjoy enhanced senses and recuperative powers, but can be killed like humans. Those who survive the hormonal trauma of emergence live quiet, mostly solitary lives, changing identities every decade or two to avoid questions why they don’t age.

If you could have any vice without repercussions, what would it be?

To be able to eat without adverse consequence.

If you could have been the servant to any famous person in history, who would that be and why?

HG Wells would be my choice. He had one of the most fertile imaginations in history. His ending to “The War of the Worlds” still hasn’t been topped. I remember, as a kid in 1954, watching with Gene Barry as, with humanity on the brink of collapse, the machines began to peel off and crash into building facades. Being done in by “the humblest things of God’s creation” caught me completely by surprise. Wells also coined the term “Atomic Bomb” in “The World Set Free”, written before WWI. I could learn so much from King Steampunk.

What so you see for the future of publishing and e-books?

As paper becomes more expensive, and electronic devices cheaper and better, there’s only one way it can end. A Kindle in every hand. A library in ever Kindle.

Which of your characters do you love/hate/fear/pity the most and why?

My characters are like children to me. I love them all. Creating them is the closest one can get to being God in this life. I have favorites. Cynthia Meadows from “SUBSPECIES” begins as a dull anorexic sassy teen. Four novels later, she’s an Audrey Hepburn like humanitarian, ageless and on everyone’s’ list of the most beautiful women who ever lived. In “My Life as a Dog” the leader of the New Orleans shifter pack is called the Sufi. His sad wisdom and deceptively keen mind compliments the main character, Drake.

Do you get along with your muse? What do you do to placate her/him/it when she/he/it refuses to inspire you?

My muse and I have a good working relationship. When it gets uncooperative, I stop and do something else. With a six year old granddaughter in the house, “The Official Apple of My Eye” Larrna, that’s not hard.

Do you have another book in the works? Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?

Yes “Subspecies, Inc” releases in September. “Children of Subspecies” comes out in December. “The Tenth Legion” arrives in February 2012. The fifth and last, for now, is “Lagrange Point” under review by the publisher.

Have you ever experience weird cravings while you write? If so, what kind?

No, just coffee.

What is the most ridiculous thing that you have thought about doing to any of your characters but never did?

At one point I considered making Sam and Jim, the main characters from “SUBSPECIES” bi-sexual. I’m glad I took a more spiritual tack with them.

If you had to write yourself as a heroine/hero, what kind of heroine/hero would you be? What would you be named?

I did just that. As a college student I wrote “The First Servant”, based on the life of Octavius Caesar. It was Steampunky before the term was coined. I identified with the character Albert Venning as he reunited a balkanized America after a nuclear war.

If your muse were to talk behind your back, what secrets would he/she tell?

It’s not the muse I’d worry about. My wife of thirty-three years knows all the secrets and I pay well for her silence.

If someone hasn't read any of your work, what book would you recommend that they start with and why?

“SUBSPECIES” because it lays out the principles of the world I created and sets the tone for all that follows.

If there was a soundtrack to your latest novel, what genre/songs would be included?
You’re talking to a tone deaf gear headed scientific geek here. I wouldn’t know where to start on that project.

When you're not writing, what do you like to do to just kick back and have fun?
Gardening and keeping after “The Official Apple of my Eye’ Larrna. Trust me, you don’t need much more than that.

If we peeked at your bookcase(s)/e-reader, what kind of books/authors would we find there?

A lot of Homer, Wells Orwell. Some thrillers. Books about base ball history and military campaigns.

Where can we find you on the web?

I’m at http://www.mikearsuaga.weebly.com.

 Subspecies Book Blurb

Available at Muse It Hot

Samantha 'Sam' Johnson gave hundred and thirty year old Vampire, Dr. Jim White the best sex of his life, but she had one more surprise for him.  As a Werewolf she hunted him as he was hunting her.  Through their chance meeting, the two groups within The Subspecies – Werewolves [Lycans] and Vampires - discover each other.  Sam and Jim are the first known Vampire/Lycan pair bond.  As a mathematics professor and man of science, Dr. White rejects the ways and lore of old in favor of modern solutions that, if not acceptable to humans, allow The Subspecies to live invisibly among them, because discovery is their worst fear.  He and Sam use technology to reach out to others and form a support group, 'Critters of the Night'.  The Subspecies are a rare mutation within the human genome. No more than seven hundred have been alive at one time.  They cannot breed with humans or within their own group, but when the Lycan/Vampire pair gets in a family way, a universe of possibilities opens.  The main plot centers on the development of the relationship between Sam and Jim. They learn from past experience and each other, and evolve from two beautiful predators having hot sex to soul mates, still having hot sex.  The subplot explores the challenges that children and family pose and how the community deals with the knowledge that a subspecies’ life is now more than living in shadows, hunting, and fruitless mating.

BIRTH ANNOUNCEMENT FOR “SUBSPECIES”

My employer, Cynthia Meadows, recently emerged lycan who exploded into the world of high fashion modeling with the force of an Atom bomb, wishes to announce the birth of “Subspecies”. The healthy novel of 73,049 words came into the world on May 6, 2011 at 12:01 AM. It is a sexy paranormal romance about the deep and enduring love between two special beings. Ms. Meadows, whose professional name is “The Fashion Model Known as Cynthia”, will sponsor a series of promotions to be held throughout the web in honor of her dear friends Samantha “Sam” Johnson, lycan mate of Doctor Jim White, himself a vampire and professor of mathematics. The promotions begin on http://linsownfirebrand.blogspot.com/2011/03/lj-holmes-presents-subspecies.html and http://www.tony-paul.com/ . Click “Blog” at top of home page and scroll down
   The purpose is to celebrate the book’s release and promote its virtues throughout the community. Due to Ms. Meadow's recent fortunate change in circumstances, the event has been relocated from Doctor White's apartment to the Grand Ballroom of the Charles Weston, the crown jewel of hotels in this university town.

The event is monumental for all subspecies. As the first lycan/vampire couple, Sam and Jim have much to teach our kind.

All subspecies as well as their human familiars are invited.

RSVP at http://museithotpublishing.com

***

Raised in New Orleans, Louisiana, Mike completed careers in the United States Navy Submarine Force and the Transportation Security Administration.  He lives in Orlando Florida with wife and Editor in Chief Cynthia, daughter Jennifer, six year old granddaughter Larrna and partner in crime Thumper, a Yorkshire terrier. 

Mike’s extensive travels in the Navy took him to throughout the US, Canada, Europe, the Caribbean, and the Middle East, providing accurate and vivid settings for his stories.

Guest Author Brandi Quick

Why don't you start with telling us a little about yourself? What genre do you write in and why?

 

I grew up an only child on a farm north of Atlanta, Ga. There were no other children around, so I made up my playmates. We had great adventures together—some are still friends. (LOL) Sometimes I wrote down the stories of our exploits and sometimes I just played out the script. Then, I began high school and met my husband—although he didn’t know he would be—and my attention moved away from writing. After high school I went to the University of Georgia and he went to Georgia Tech. Away at school without him, I turned to my old friends from childhood, began to write again and never looked back. I have been writing ever since. I sent him stories and he would add or subtract, then send them back.  It was great fun to work together that way.

I write romances—to be blunt, erotic romances. Growing up alone left me naive about some things—like dating. It took me a while to learn the do’s and dont’s, like how to interact with boys. Don’t get me wrong. I got the hang of it real quick, like most young girls do. It’s just I had to rely only on myself. Writing romances, I can take situations back then and write them with the outcomes I want. Haven’t you ever thought of a date you had in high school and wished you had done it this way or that way? Well, that’s what I do. When I write I can control the outcome—that is, until my characters come alive and do what they wish.

 

Tell us a bit about your latest book, and what inspired you to write such a story.

 

That would be  Unexpected Love, published on April 6, 2011, by Secret Cravings Publishing. You just don’t expect to meet your true love at an apartment complex swimming pool, but that is exactly what happened to Robin Bishop—a career girl in Atlanta, Ga. It’s scorching sex from the very beginning—until Chase Dixon disappears and all the lights goes out in her world.

This one was easy for me to write because it happened to a close friend of mine.

 

Did your book require a lot of research?

 

Not a lot. Like most girls fresh out of the University of Georgia, I moved to Atlanta. There were four of us in our apartment so what happened to one more or less happened to all. One of my roommates worked for a bank and when her boyfriend betrayed her, she threw herself into her work. She became the payroll manager in no time. Everything was going well at work until she met a guy at our pool. I must say we all had our eye on him. He was what we all write about— tall, dark and of course, handsome.

If you could have any vice without repercussions, what would it be?

 

Prostitution. I would like to be a Madame for a while just to have the experience. I think it would add so much to what I write.  

 

If you could have been the servant to any famous person in history, who would that be and why?

 

Cyrano de Bergerac. With his reputation that has held up though history, I would like to have watched and learned from him. Think about how knowing him and how he did things would improve a romance novel.

 

 What do you see for the future of publishing and e-books?

 

As we go forward, I think fewer books will be in print simply because of the production cost. And the ease of having an e-book on a flash drive, always handy, in your pocket.

Which of your characters do you love/hate/fear/pity the most and why?

 

In Murder on Marsh Island, one of the best characters is Linda Lopez. She retired from the army as a warrant officer at thirty-six and is hired as a deputy sheriff to set up and run the department’s CSI unit. She looks like she would be at home at the playboy mansion, but she doesn’t know how beautiful and sexy she is. She turns out to be one hell of a cop and becomes Chief Deputy Sheriff. Linda is what every little girl wants to grow up to be. She is the alpha female.

Do you get along with your muse? What do you do to placate her when she refuses to inspire you?

 

Most of the time. Sometimes she wants to go one way and I want to go another. More often than not she is right, so I let her have her way.

Do you have another book in the works? Would you like to tell readers about your current or future projects?

 

Absolutely—thanks for asking. Here are the books I have coming out this year.

 

My French Teacher (6-1-2011) - Chad Allen, freshman at State University, looks forward to having fun with girls, playing football, and making grades that satisfy his parents and coach. The first day, he meets his French teacher, Jade Turner and it’s infatuation at first sight. Their age difference is less important than the student-teacher prohibition.

 

Ecstasy's Touch (7-11-2011) - Have you ever meet Mr. Right only to find out his rightness doesn’t extend beyond the bed? Well, that’s what happened to Jenna Cartwright, who had put her personal life on hold to build her career. Who hasn’t done that at one time or another in their career? Jenna was quite successful becoming the manager of the payroll department in five years. While she wasn’t looking for Mr. Right, he turned up on her very door. Or was he really Mr. Right?

 

Cajun Lust (8-15-2011) – Sometimes your guardian angel is not an angel at all, but a creature of the night.

 

In the hot, steamy Louisiana Bayou, two sensual young women, Kim and Jenna, fall in love with irresistible young men, Tommy and James. What happens when the young women find out their handsome lovers are vampires? This revelation takes the girls into worlds they never knew existed.

 

As far as what is coming a little further out in the future, is a story that’s been rolling around in my head for quite a while. Many years ago I had a neighbor in the apartment next to mine. I call her Geraldine. She was tall and an ex-model. She had gotten hooked on drugs and, I think, may have been a prostitute, but I’m not sure about that. She was an expert in martial arts and worked for a loan shark. I think he was involved in other things but she was his collector. I know there is a story there. I just have to think it through. Just keep your eye on www.BrandiQuick.com for more about Geraldine.

 

 Have you ever experience weird cravings while you write? If so, what kind?

 

Don’t laugh, but that happened once while I was writing An Occasional Warrior. The heroine became pregnant and began eating crazy things. I consumed half a jar of pickles and washed them down with red wine before I knew what I was doing.

 

What is the most ridiculous thing that you have thought about doing to any of your characters but never did?

 

I had a teacher who just didn’t like me and was really hard on me. Years later, I wrote a book with her in it and did bad things to her. If you haven’t done that believe me it really helps. I don’t even care anymore. I had her captured by Indians and the things I had them doing to her! But I didn’t leave them in the final cut—if I had, I doubt it would have been published. God, was writing that therapeutic!

 If you had to write yourself as a heroine/hero, what kind of heroine/hero would you be? What would you be named?

It would be about the neighbor in the apartment next to mine a long time ago. And I would be called Geraldine. She was tall and an ex-model. She had gotten hooked on drugs. She had gone through hell and came out a much stronger person. When I knew her, she was so sure of herself and comfortable in her own skin. I was so envious. I think, she may have been a prostitute at one time, but I’m not sure about that. She was an expert in martial arts and worked for a loan shark. I think he was involved in other things but she was his collector.

 

If your muse were to talk behind your back, what secrets would he/she tell?

 

Brandi has lived a lot of her stories.

 

If someone hasn't read any of your work, what book would you recommend that they start with and why?

 

Start with Unexpected Love, because it is a feel good romance. It has all the things you look for in an erotic romance—likeable characters, hot sex and, of course, a happy ending.        

 

If there was a soundtrack to your latest novel, what genre/songs would be included?

Pop and standards—not old-fashioned or elevator music, but contemporary love songs and soft rock.

 

When you're not writing, what do you like to do to just kick back and have fun?

 

I play bridge with my girlfriends, play golf, and cook. I love to cook. I could have been a chef in another life.

If we peeked at your bookcase(s)/e-reader, what kind of books/authors would we find there?

 

Everything from National Geographic to a complete collection of Stuart Woods’s books, I do love to read and I like the feel of a paper book. 

 

Where can we find you on the web?

 

www.BrandiQuick.com

 

 Unexpected Love - You just don’t expect to meet your true love at an apartment complex swimming pool, but that is exactly what happened to Robin Bishop—a career girl in Atlanta, Ga. It’s scorching sex from the very beginning—until Chase Dixon disappears and all the lights goes out in her world.

E-book ISBN: 978-1-936653-47-8

Published by Secret Cravings Publishing

Buy here

Blurb: Robin Bishop is Vice President/Controller of her company—quite an accomplishment for someone in her twenties. Spurred to focus on her career by the breakup of a long-term romance, she revels in her success, but longs to find the right man. Chad Dixon and Robin notice each other at their apartment pool and the attraction is immediate, sensual, and intense. Handsome, smart, sensitive, and unattached—he is everything she wants. They soon realize neither of them needs anything or anyone else. 

Robin’s obsession with her new love leads to her neglecting her job responsibilities. An unethical co-worker takes advantage of her distraction to blame her for his own problems, and Robin is forced to give her attention on defending herself against his office politics. Then, Chase simply disappears into the night without any notice. She fears for his safety because of the danger in his government job and also wonders whether they will have a future. Despite her despair over Chase, she vanquishes her professional enemy. Chase returns as suddenly and smoothly as he left, surprised at her concern, because he had left her a note she never got. He proposes to her and she quickly says yes.     

 

Adult Excerpt: “Who do you work—” Before I finished my question, he scooted over next to me and gave me a long, wet kiss. Softly sucking my lower lip in his mouth, his tongue slid in, finding mine. Lord, he tasted sweet. Finally, he broke the kiss. Too late—I was already under his spell.

“Wow. What was that for?” The energy drained from my body along with any resistance I might have had. “You don’t waste any time, do you?”

“Didn’t you like it? I’ve wanted to do that since I first saw you this afternoon. I’m usually not this forward.”

“That’s not the point. You’re a great kisser but…”

“Sorry. I thought you wanted me to kiss you.”

“Again, beside the point. I don’t really know you.” I couldn’t take my eyes off him.

“But I want to know you and want you to know me.” He laid his hand on my upper thigh and my skin flashed hot at his touch. His hand moved up and down my thigh as I sat looking at him. Jesus, he was gorgeous—blue eyes, tan skin, sun bleached hair. Make no mistake, I really wanted him. The blade of his hand stopped at the top of my thigh in the crease where my thigh stops and the skin that becomes my fleshy folds begins. My clitoris jerked. It knew exactly where his hand was. All I could do was sit and look into his eyes as his finger slowly moved over to my clitoris, where it was greeted like a long lost lover. Damn, that’s not fair. A sensation like an electric current shot from my clit to every nerve in my body. With each breath, my nipples rubbed on my tank top, acting like little electrical generators. I closed my eyes, enjoying the feeling. My heart was racing; each beat sounded loud in my ear. It had been a long time since I’d felt any kind of sexual sensations, much less actually had sex.

“It was a nice kiss. What are you doing?” I said. I was having a hard time breathing. His hand was wandering over my body; he knew right where to go and exactly what he was doing.

“Admiring your beauty. I think you’re very nice looking. And, your skin is so smooth.”

As if to make the point, he squeezed my upper thigh then moved his hand over to gently rotate his finger over my clit. God, did that feel great. Gently, he pulled his hand up over my belly under my tank top, cupping my breast with his thumb on my nipple.

“You’re so soft, yet very firm. Your thighs…” He leaned over and kissed my thigh.

My heart rate shot straight up.

“Thank you, but I’m not sure we should be doing this. We just met.” I reached for his leg to push him away and accidently grabbed his penis—big mistake. It was huge and I instantly wanted it.

 

 

Guest Author Day with Drea Beecraft

Can you tell me a bit about your most recent release?

The Thrice Princess is a paranormal romance about vampires, gods, fairies, demons, and just about every other paranormal being you can think of.  Its a story of love and the beginning of a new life and new series.

For any readers who may not have read any of your books, can you just give us a little sneak peak into world?

I write mostly a paranormal/contemporary.  I tend to like the modern technology to much to venture any further then that ;0).

How much of yourself, if any, do you put into your characters?

It just depends in all they have a bit of my characteristics but some have more then others.

How do you keep sex scenes fresh and exciting so they don't become stale or repetitive?

I haven't had that many books come out that this is an issue yet but I think its just imagination and fantasy mixed in.

If you could throw a party with any five people (living or dead) who would you pick and why?

Wow this one is a hard one. My choice is everyone on my yahoo loops in one room that would be a blast lol.  (Since I can't pick five cause yeah that is just to much.)

What are at least five things you have on your bucket list and have you done any of them?

1. Meet Someone Famous

2. Travel to Scotland and Ireland

3. Make a difference in someones life

4. Dance in the rain

5. Show love and be loved in return

Now if you account for all the authors I have met (which I do) I have most definitely meet tons of famous people. Travel is just not in my cards at the moment but once my kids get older we will never know. As for making a diffrence in someones life I think I am but I am not to entirely sure. I have played in the rain but never danced and as romatic as it sounds I really want to try it out.  I show love every day to my children and family and I believe they love me in return.

Is there one series/author you feel is a must read for readers to explore (can be e book authors or print NY house authors)?

Oh my that is hard to pick just one. I am going to have to go towards The Black Dagger Brotherhood series by JR Ward it was my first ever series and I love them.

Do you listen to music when writing? Do you feel like some stories write themselves a soundtrack with specific music? If so, what book and what kind of music influenced it?

Sometimes I do but most of the time it is totally quiet except for the kids screaming and yelling lol.

What is coming up for you in 2011?

Hopefully more books if I get to writing.  Oh and I have my eye on a few confrences, what can I say I am a social creature.

Are any of your characters just like you or have personality quirks/traits of you or someone you know?

Some are like that yes they have my funny sense of humor or my no filter of a mouth tendency lol.

Where can readers find you on the web?

My Website: www.dreabecraft.webs.com

My Blog: www.dreabecraft.wordpress.com

My Facebook: www.facebook.com/#!/andreabecraft

Facebook Fan Page: www.facebook.com/#!/pages/Drea-Becraft/103481939716429

Twitter: www.twitter.com/dreabecraft

Publisher’s site: www.secretcravingspublishing.com/DreaBecraft.html

The Thrice Princess

Available at Secret Cravings

Buy HERE

While her fate was set during the previous great wars of immortals, Anastasia Gruff is nothing but mortal until the night she stumbles upon a scene that turns her world upside down. Now, she struggles to adjust to a world where nothing is what it seems, and feels more at home than ever before.

Devlin Miconis, heir to the vampire throne, is facing certain death. When a mortal woman saves his life, and gives him back his soul, he must figure out how to repay her. Now that she has given him something to live for, can he protect her from those who mean her harm?  

Adult Excerpt:

Stasia woke up with her muscles sore and her head pounding. Slowly taking stock one muscle at a time, starting at her toes and working up to her neck, she rotated and squirmed until most of the kinks were out. After each body part was stretched to satisfaction she turned onto her side to take in the room.

Staring aimlessly around the room Stasia arched her back and met a hard body behind her. Warm and hard, it took only seconds for fright to make her limbs contract and ready to blot from the bed. As if sensing her distress, strong arms banded around her waist.

“It’s all right, it’s just me, you are safe. I would never harm you, my Bandia.” The deep timbre of his voice comforted her.

The memories from the night before slowly leaked into her mind. One by one, the dots began to connect, remembering being carried to Devlin’s bedroom, being stripped down and him lying beside her, skin-to-skin helping to alleviate the pain of her turning.

Loosening her muscles, she slowly turned in his arms to look at his face. Handsome wasn’t enough to describe him.

Slowly lifting her hand to trace his nose, Stasia watched him with weary eyes, as she continued to his lips and down his strong jaw to the side of his neck.

“I can see the gears working.” Devlin spoke while rubbing his face onto her hand. “What’s going on in that beautiful brain of yours?”

Before she lost the nerve, Stasia ran her hands down his chest next stroking her way to his nipple.

Removing his hand from her hip, he caressed her lips gently with his index finger following each touch with a kiss. Making his way slowly down her neck, he nipped and licked while cupping one of her breast in his hand, making her nipple stiffen in response.

Fireworks shot through her body, and every nerve ending felt like pure lightning shot through. Feeling most of the heat concentrated on her now wet pussy, Stasia rubbed into his touch, grinding her hips against his long hard body.

Releasing a strangled moan, he looked into her eyes. The ice blue of his irises seemed to darken into a more aqua blue. The most astonishing part of them were his corneas, they now glowed bright red.

The sight should have scared her, but only added more arousal to her already drenched panties. Grabbing his hand from her breast and pulling it to her mouth. Kissing each digit then took the index finger into the recesses of her mouth. Swirling her tongue around the end and popping it back out just as fast.

When did she become so wanton? It must be the man that did it to her., either that or the power running rapid through her veins; Stasia secretly hoped it was the latter. With a groan, she began to rain peck like kisses down his arm, until she reached his mating mark.

 Beginning to trace the tribal design with her tongue, showing each line very detailed attention and earning a very male groan for her efforts.

Leaning over she felt the warm air as he spoke softly into her ear. “Woman you must stop. I can’t contain myself if you continue to do that.”

Looking up into his irresistible eyes, she gave him the sexiest smile she could muster. “Who says I want you to contain yourself?”

Guest Author Day with Avril Ashton

I love my community. And by that I mean the writing community. In the short time I started writing professionally, I’ve been embraced by the warmest, funniest, most talented, and completely insane group of people ever.

It’s always a surprise when I say I’m quiet in real life, exceptionally aloof, and kinda bad at the whole communication thingy. Yet and still, I can’t be that way when dealing with my crazy pals over the ‘net. I find I can be someone with them, someone more Me. I can let my hair down—what’s left after I tear them off, and laugh, joke, cry, and bitch about whatever. Whenever.

These not-entirely-faceless people get me, and understand me, and can relate to whatever I’m going through in my writing life. They’ve been there, done it, and survived to tell the tale. It warms my heart—which debunks the theory that I’m a heartless bitch—when an author reaches out to offer help, suggestions, advice. And even inspiration, though they might not know it.

I always tear up when an author shouts out the news of contracts signed, new releases, or anything positive happening in their world. They share. Isn’t that amazing? We’re supposed to be competitors, aren’t we? Yet everyone’s friendly, everyone’s inviting, everyone’s helping. It’s a unique place to be and I’m glad I’m a part of it.

Avril Ashton

www.avril-ashton.blogspot.com

www.avrilashton.weebly.com

www.facebook.com/writeravrilashton

www.twitter.com/#!/AvrilAsh

 ONE WICKED NIGHT~ Available Now

Publisher Buy Link: http://tinyurl.com/3hqx4yv

BLURB:  Justice Alexandre kills for a living. A lover of the shadows, he makes no excuses for what he does. Besides, people bore him. He has no use for them…until a hot summer night in a Toronto nightclub. A woman with misery in her eyes whispers three words in his ear, shattering his world like shards of crystal at his feet.

She wants to lose herself—or maybe find herself, Myka Prentiss can’t readily decide. What she does know is the dark stranger hugging the shadows at the back of the club calls to her in ways she can’t explain. Putting fear aside, accepting the heady pull, she makes her move and asks for one nameless night. Nothing between them but hot sweat and tangled sheets.

He accepts.

When they’re done, she walks away, wanting more. Back to an unfulfilled life, she’s comforted only by her memories…until her dark stranger shows up at her door with an announcement.

He’s been hired to kill her.       

Guest Author Day with Layla Hunter

Why don't you start with telling us a little about yourself? What genre do you write in and why?

Maybe because I’m a Scorpio, I find myself blessed with a particularly passionate ‘alter ego’ so inevitably, I’ve been strongly drawn to erotic romance. I tried my hand at erotica, but I found that I need a romance to be central to my story, and have the ‘intimacy’ between my characters a sensual enhancement to their relationship. And the hopeless romantic in me needs a HEA, or at the very least, a HFN ending.

I’ve always loved the paranormal/fantasy genre as well, and I’m drawn as powerfully to that genre as I am erotic contemporary romance. 

Please tell us about your latest book.  What can we expect from you in the future?

My latest novella, Skin Deep, an erotic contemporary romance (4 flames *winks*), is now available at Secret Cravings Publishing. Let me share the blurb:

“Emily Monroe, a statuesque high school English teacher, is convinced that getting a tattoo to cover the remnants of her brush with Morphea is the only option left to open the door to self-acceptance, allowing her to finally move on with her life after the devastating diagnosis left more than physical scars in its wake.

Rick Sutton, owner of Skin Deep, a successful tattoo shop, has his own cross to bear. Crippling guilt and the specter of unrequited justice overshadows every aspect of his life, trapping him within the haunted corridors of his heart and soul; until the day Emily walks into his shop.

Instantly, he recognizes a kindred spirit in Emily, and a tenuous bond is formed. When the intimidating yet teddy-bear of a man offers her a glimpse into his passionate side, she is moved by what she sees and takes a leap of faith. Together they traverse the physical and emotional journey of freeing themselves of their perceived flaws, an erotic undertaking that proves to them beauty is only Skin Deep.”

Here is the link for the trailer … http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c9Dr9IM1csQ

Currently, I’m working on several projects. Sounds crazy, I know, but I love to write! First up is an erotic paranormal which will likely be the first in a series starring a recurring ghost who fancies himself a ‘matchmaker’ of sorts after his own story is told.

Second up is another erotic paranormal involving a sardonic FBI Agent who is haunted by the ghost of the man she killed, and a sexy psychiatrist with a few spooky secrets of his own!

And my longest work, Grave Ink, an erotic contemporary wherein my heroine, Liz, a bi-sexual spitfire who owns her own tattoo shop in Dallas finds herself falling for Leo, the quiet on the surface owner of a funeral parlor. Keep in mind still waters run deep and in Leo’s case, a bit dark and sexy! *winks* The story has a quirky ensemble cast of characters (as one might expect in such an odd coupling) and involves a complex love triangle with Liz’s on again/off again lover, Jasmine. To be honest, this has been one of my favorite stories written and I can hardly wait to get started on the first round of edits!

All of the above will be submitted to SCP first to see if they will have me and my stories again! *smiles*

I have a list (literally) of stories I want to write so the plan is to write until my butt goes numb!

I’m also a member of Truly, Madly, Deeply Romance Authors … a group of 26 authors each dedicated to putting out FREE reads twice a year! I’m very excited about this project and honored to be among the talented authors that have been gathered. 

How do we find out about you and your books?

You can visit my website, www.laylahunter.com. I absolutely love meeting other writers and readers of romance, so feel free to contact me. I’ve found priceless support and encouragement in many of my Yahoo groups and RWA Chapters, so I’m always eager to ‘pay it forward’ to other writers, especially newly published ones such as myself.

You can find me here as well …

laylahunter@gmail.com

http://www.facebook.com/people/Layla-Hunter/1173090819

www.twitter.com/Layla_Hunter

http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/4371251

http://trulymadlydeeplyromanceauthorsblogspot.com

I’m working on setting up my blog, so I hope to host a “Blog Party” soon!

http://layla-hunter.blogspot.com/

How much of your personality and life experiences are in your writing?

I believe that we all put a bit of ourselves in our writing even if we try not to; I know that I certainly do. In my opinion, the unique voice of an author comes from a part of her/himself. 

As for life experiences, Skin Deep is quite personal to me as I was diagnosed with Morphea about a decade ago, so I understand what Emily is going through. In this case, I probably placed a bit more of myself in this book than I care to admit, but it was a journey worth taking. Not many people know what Morphea is, no less heard of the condition, so it was important for me to write about it. I’m also donating 10% of my royalties from the sales of Skin Deep to The Scleroderma Foundation.

When did you first think about writing and what prompted you to submit your first ms?

I can’t remember a time when I didn’t think about writing. I swear I must have been a writer of some sort in another life! *laughs* Truth is, I really don’t have a choice … I find I HAVE to write or the characters in my head will keep me up at night. They are relentless about wanting their stories told.

About 15 years ago, I was ready to submit my first ms when our daughter came along and *fast forward 15 years.* Amazing how those years fly by! But here I am … better late than never I always say, and with another decade of life experiences under my belt to enrich my writing.

What is your normal day like? 

I work full-time, so Monday through Fridays are usually spoken for, unless it’s a holiday. Often, though, I’ll write during my lunch hour and of course, in the evenings, but the weekends are when I immerse myself in my alternate worlds and accomplish most of my writing. I am a Night Owl so staying up late is nothing new for me and I do some of my best writing while everyone else sleeps.

When did you know you wanted to be a writer? 

As far back as I can remember! My Nanns slipped me a few True Romance comic books and a romance novel when I was about eleven, and it may sound corny, but it was love at first sight. I wanted to read everything I could get my hands on AND after a couple of years, I wanted to write stories that would make others feel the way the books I read made me feel.

Where do you get most of the ideas for your stories?

I’m sure this will sound strange, but I have amazingly vivid and emotional dreams (likely tied to my very overactive imagination), so many of the seeds for my stories have come from there. I also play the “What if …” game and take advantage of one of my writing groups Flash Fiction prompts to stir up a sleepy Muse (as if that is ever the case … my Muse seems to be on 24/7 … but I’m not complaining!).

What are some of your hobbies?

Writing. *laughs* Seriously? Let’s see … I love to read, but after sitting at the computer for so long, I’m more likely to want to get up and move, but reading (and research) are on the top of my list (I LOVE Google!). I love walking and hiking (great for plotting!). Photography is a long-time passion of mine and I’m considering picking up the camera a little more often so I can use some of my own photos for upcoming book trailers. Bellydancing! Amazing exercise and so much fun! Shooting sports … my husband loves to shoot and owns several handguns so we’ll go to the range together and blow off some steam! Spending time with my family, watching movies or playing the Wii together is something we love to do too!

Who are some of your favorite authors, and if we were to visit your home, what books would we find on your bookshelf, end table, floor or e-reader?

I love the feel of a book in my hands, turning the pages … there is something about a book that will never compare with an e-reader. That being said, I finally decided to buy an e-reader for Christmas and I love it too! Why not partake in the best of both worlds?

The only books on there now are Esperanza by Trish J. MacGregor, Dane – Lords of Satyr by Elizabeth Amber, Tiger’s Curse by Colleen Houck, and all of the January releases from my fellow authors at Secret Cravings Publishing. I had to promise myself to read one book before buying another otherwise my ‘Nook library’ will look like my house … many, many books in just as many ‘to be read’ piles throughout, but as you can see, I couldn’t resist.

There are so many authors I enjoy reading, and I’m always on the hunt for new authors too! Some of my favorites, though, would have to be Freda Warrington, Jean Auel (I have a letter from her from a long time ago that I treasure), Isobel Carmody, Charles DeLint, Neil Gaiman, Thea Devine, Lori Foster, Stephen King, Leanna Renee Hieber, Susan Carroll, Philippa Gregory and ANYTHING by Josh Whedon! That’s just naming a few.

If you could be any character of any book or movie, who would you be?

I’m sure my choice would change now and again, but in this very moment I will admit I’d love to be Elena from the Vampire Diaries! Damon would be my vamp of choice, though! *waggles wickedly*

You’re on a remote island with a handsome man, a computer, and a “mysterious” source of electricity to power your computer. What do you do?

*grins* Hmmm … that’s an easy one. I can always write while he sleeps! *winks*

Which do you prefer:

Denim or Leather on a man/woman/significant other? 

Denim jeans and a leather jacket ... *purrs* Yes, choosing both might be perceived as cheating but one of my favorite quotes is “Well-behaved women rarely make history.”

Irish or Italian accent in a man?

Oh, Irish … melts me to the core every time! A rich brogue will make my knees weak.

Front seat or Back seat to make out in?

Why not both? The decision would depend on the mood and the location.

Dark eyes or Light eyes?

Sexy eyes, whether light or dark. You know the ones … they seem to look right through you, setting your heart to pounding and stirring butterflies to life in your stomach.

Sleeping bag or Bed?

*laughs* A bed first and foremost, but again, why not both? There’s something exciting about adding the outdoor element to lovemaking (minus the bugs and snakes, of course.) 

Dinner or Movie for a first date?

Both options offer different experiences. With a movie, you can relax a little since you won’t have to talk the entire time (for those of us who are shy) but I don’t think that’s the real idea behind a first date … you want to get to know the person. But dinner is one to one and you have no option but to talk. Honestly, I’d prefer an activity … let’s say a trip to the zoo, a museum or an aquarium… a nice outing, time to talk but a chance to breathe now and again.

Coffee or Tea?

Oh, I am a coffee girl ALL the way! Although a good cup of tea at the end of a long day is a soothing way to wind down.

Chiseled jaw line or Chiseled abs?

Hmmm … if I had to pick one, I’d say a chiseled jaw line.

Sneak Peek into Skin Deep

Now Available at Secret Cravings Publishing

Erotic Romance

Check out the Book Trailer HERE

Emily Monroe is convinced getting a tattoo to mask her external flaws is the key to self-acceptance. Then she meets Rick Sutton, a kindred spirit traversing the haunted corridors of his own heart.

Together, they embark on an erotic journey that proves beauty is only Skin Deep.

Adult Excerpt:

Still shaken from the overt sexual reaction to his touch as well as the sight of the breathtaking canvas of her back, she let him guide her back to the table and help her up. With legs swinging nervously over the edge, she watched anxiously as he dipped the brush into the powder, tapping it against the side of the jar before returning to stand before her.

Her feet stilled as the brush swept over her breasts again and again until she lost herself in the resultant rush of heat, responding with a soft cry before stopping herself.

"God, Em…you're driving me crazy."

"I…I could say the same." Her voice caught and made a small noise that sounded almost like a purr.

"Do you trust me, Em?"

"Yes."

He rid himself of the jar and brush. Then, placing the pillow behind her, gently urged her back against the table until she was lying down, all the while searching her gaze for any sign of dissent. Apparently confident she wanted him to proceed he sat on the stool and rolled himself into position in front of her.

Those large hands hid the gentler truth of a tender touch as he eased her legs open, sliding his palms underneath her backside and raising her towards him.

As his tongue grazed the sensitive flesh of her inner thighs, she drew in a sharp breath before releasing a deep sigh, followed by a deeper moan.

"It's been a long time Rick." You just might want to let me dust the cobwebs off first, she was tempted to suggest but remained quiet, curious.

"That's a real shame. You don't mind if I remedy that unfortunate situation," he replied playfully, lowering his head between her thighs.

About to protest, the first rush of warm breath against the silky fabric of her panties quieted any objections. Moving his mouth along the outline of her mons, he seemed in no rush, intent on exploring her fully. Following the contours of her outer lips, he gently nipped and pulled against the fabric, rousing a scintillating need within.

A soft cry escaped her lips when he nuzzled her, his nose brushing against the swollen pearl nestled in damp folds. Undulating waves of warmth and wanting rippled over her from head to toe and her hips arched instinctively as the ache for something more began to grow.

Damn, it had been so long, too long. The intimate feel of his mouth refreshed her memory, reminding her first and foremost of the passionate woman within, before revealing with stunning clarity that she was still sexy and desirable, despite her perceived flaws.

Reaching down, her fingers moved through his hair, his locks slipping over her skin, tickling as if she’d just passed them through a spider's web. When she urged him against her, he stilled, lifting his head.

"Rick…" Her voice filled with an almost desperate pleading and when he didn't respond immediately, she panicked, the old fears creeping back in to steal this moment from her.

Lifting herself on her elbows, she looked into his eyes, her gaze searching his.

"You want more, Em?" He grinned at her mischievously.

She smiled despite herself. "Yes! Tease.”