I am a wife and a mother of three.

24/02/2019

Mason review


Review written June 17, 2014 (Remastered for new blog)


Book Review -Mason by Tijan Writings

Mason is the prequel to the massive mash hit fallen crest high. This book takes you inside the head of the hot headed Mason Kade. Mason is a ball of fire just waiting to explode, he loves his family and if anyone crosses him or tries to hurt his family they need to run in the opposite direction.

As this is a prequel you get to read about the actual events that happened to Mason and his younger brother Logan. The Kade boys had a very privileged but yet also a very sad youth. Things aren’t as they seem in the kade household. You also get to see why Mason loves Logan so fiercely and why he is so protective over him. This book answer’s loads of unanswered questions that you read in the next few books.

One of my favourite parts is where he outs his father in front of the women’s husbands/partners found that part really amusing. I absolutely loved book by Tijan Writings. I recommended reading this for everyone.

Star rating 5/5

L.M.

Passion and ponies review

Review written June 18, 2014 (Remastered for new blog)

CONTENT WARNING- THIS REVIEW YOU’RE ABOUT TO READ MAY CONTAIN CONTENT WHICH IS ONLY SUITABLE FOR ADULTS AND THOSE WHOM READ EROTIC BOOKS!!



Passion and ponies review-

This book was so funny, not one to read in public as there is a high chance you will embarrass yourself.

Passion and ponies has the same kind of laugh out loud humour that’s the original series had.

This is one of the funniest books I have ever read on amazon. I laughed so much my eyes were streaming with tears. It was so hilarious that I had to stop at one point because I couldn’t see the words from laughing so much with tear in my eyes. I highly recommend this to everyone. I will leave you with this quote from the book.

“Were you dreaming about horses? You were fucking prancing in your sleep.”


Rating 5/5☆


L.M


Diamond lo e and moonstone dreams reviews

Review written June 23, 2014 (Remastered for new blog)



Reviews-Diamond love & Moonstone dreams


The most gripping intense books I’ve ever read. It was romantic yet heart wrenching at the same time.  To me the first book felt like something women do actually go through in real life but they fear about telling someone about what they are going through.


A lot of real raw emotions in these two books Congratulations Stefanie. I hope many women read this and it helps them to open up to someone, and seek help before thing get too far.




Amazing series x highly recommend you read this.


5/5 ☆ rating


L.M


Author interview with Rachel Van Dyken

Interview taken place on June 26, 2014 (Remastered for new blog)

 

AUTHOR INTERVIEW


WITH


RACHEL VAN DYKEN




While over here in the UK New York’s best seller Rachel Van Dyken Did an interview with us at Author2AuthorBlogChat. It was an absolute honor to interview the lady who inspired me to write. Please welcome the bubbly, beautiful and talented New York’s best seller Rachel.

 

1, Tell us a little about yourself.


I’m a hybrid author who LOVES wine and chocolate and…well food… ;) Writing is a huge passion and I can’t imagine doing anything else with my life. I have a really serious fear of ET and vacuum cleaners and I think that the world would be a better place if it was a musical.


2, how would you describe your book(s)?


Wow, that’s hard! I have a really large backlist. All of my books are dialogue driven I really feel like that’s what makes for an interesting story. I love showcasing secondary characters as much as primary characters and I like surprising my readers. My NA series (Eagle Elite) is about twenty something mafia bosses and my newest release The Dare is a romantic comedy about a girl resigned to spinsterhood and a sexy politician. They get slammed together by the notorious Grandma Nadine and are forced to attend a couple’s retreat where torture commences for the next six days. They have a history which kind of makes for a fun story line.


3, what genre is your work mainly? Do you tend to stay in the same vein or are you hoping (if not already) to explore new ventures?

I mainly work in the NA genre but I also have a lot of historical books. I like working in all genres because I also like reading in all genres. 

4, Share with us a quote from one of your favourite character?

Do it afraid–Wes Michels from Ruin

5, is it hard to come up with new idea’s and/or plot’s?

Sometimes it is, for the most part things flow really well, I think the hard part isn’t coming up with the idea but executing it.

6, how long does it take you to complete a finished book?

That totally depends! Ruin was written in two weeks, but some other books take a month or two. I try to finish a book in three months or less just so I can move on to my next project.

7, what inspired you to write your book (s)?

I loved to read and writing turned into a sort of therapy for me while I was working as a school counselor, it was kind of like my own personal journal and stories, my way of escape.

8, who is the easiest character to write and why? Hardest and why? The easiest character?

That was probably Wes Michels, he was just so great, it wasn’t hard to pick up his character and convey it. The hardest character so far for me has been Tristan Blake from Shame, the third book in the ruin series, he’s….complicated

9, Are your characters based on real people? People you may know on TV/Movie stars?

They are inspired by real people sometimes but never based on them.

10, without giving anything away, what is/are your favourite scene(s) in your books?

In The Dare my favorite scene is when Jace and Beth are trying to go through the sugar cane field and a spider named Frank make an appearance.

11, what is up next for you?

The Dare releases July 8 and after that Elicit releases August 11.

12, do you have any hobbies?

I love reading ha-ha, of course. I also love writing music and singing, playing the piano, and really really enjoy going for walks, which sounds cheesy but there’s just something about being outside.

13, is there anyone besides you in your family who writes?

My sister actually writes as Kristin Vayden, she’s really talented!

14, When did you start? What was your first piece?

First published piece. I started in 2011 my first published work was Every Girl Does It, and I still cringe when people read it.

15, Out of all the books and stories you’ve written which is your favorite?

That’s a super hard question because I think each book you’re on is your favorite, make sense? Right now the Eagle Elite series holds the top spot and Elicit holds the number one spot for favorite book.

16, what is your favourite genre to write?

New Adult

17, what is your favourite genre to read?

I read every genre.

18, who are your favourite author’s?

Oh wow that’s a hard question b/c I truly read everything! I love Julia Quinn, Eloisa James, Tessa Dare…

19, what are your favourite movies? Books?

I love romantic comedies and anything Disney. FROZEN! , Tell us a little about yourself. I’m a hybrid author who LOVES wine and chocolate and…well food… ;) Writing is a huge passion and I can’t imagine doing anything else with my life. I have a really serious fear of ET and vacuum cleaners and I think that the world would be a better place if it was a musical.

20, how long have you been writing for?

Close to 4 years

21, who or what has been your biggest literary influence?

My family…mainly my Grandma Nadine

22, how difficult is it for you to come up with one of your amazing plots?

It just depends…the story kind of creates itself as I start writing.

23, How about characters?

Are they easily born and developed? I think once you know your character, you immediately know how they are going to react in situations.

24, do you ever find yourself a struggling writer?

I think we all struggle, whether it be with the plot, writers block, criticism, finances, man the list goes on.

25, about how long does it take for you to complete a novel from concept to completion?

It depends on what I’m writing; it can take as little as two weeks to as long as three months.

26, have you ever trashed a novel or story before or after finishing it, feeling it wasn’t turning out as you planned?

No, oh my gosh, I don’t think I could give up! Actually I take that back, I have one book i wrote a while ago that I tried to “Fix” and re-write it may end up in the trash.

27, do you have a special time or place to write?

I write in my office during the day.

28, any funny experiences or quirks you’d like to share with your readers?

Other than my Starbucks obsession or Swedish fish obsession? No.

29, which one of your awesome books would you like to see be made in to a movie?

The Elite Series or The Bet

30, what was it like to publish your first book?

Scary, super intimidating, but a total rush.

31, what advice would you give to others who want to make writing their career?

Keep writing! A lot of authors put their eggs all in one basket…get a backlist and keep doing what you love.

31, what’s the worst job that you have ever done and why?

I was a dishwasher and I hated it, I hated it so much! My hands were burned and yeah…it was messy and I was cold from all the water.

32, do you ever get ideas at random moments, and if so how do you hang on to them?

Usually when I’m trying to sleep I normally email myself then spend hours the next day trying to decipher what the heck i was trying to say.

33, how do you overcome writers block?

I write a few books at once and switch between them.

34, Can you write on demand and under pressure, or do you need time and space before the creativity starts to flow?

I can write on demand, but sometimes I don’t feel like it’s as good when I force the process.


You before me review




Review written June 28th, 2014 (Remastered for new blog)


 You Before Me


By


Lindsay Paige

She seduces him from the gentleman he tries to be. He leads her to hopes and dreams. Ryan Kavanaugh isn’t the kind of girl guys bring home to their mom’s. She’ll have sex on a first date, she’ll drop the f – bomb without a second thought, and she’ll answer the door in jeans and a bra.

Gab O’Connor is exactly the kind of guy girls want. He’s a police officer and the classic good guy who takes his family’s opinions seriously and strives to be the best person he can be.

Two people in two different places in their lives, both being pulled in directions they don’t want to go. Ryan and Gabe both struggle with what they desire in life and in each other as well as what their families expect of them. Sometimes, you have to think of yourself first.

This book is sexy, fun and well written. The relationship between Ryan and Gabe was absolutely captivating. The chemistry between them is hot, they are like two magnets they have this push and pull towards each other. Ryan is funny and quirky with a sassy attitude and Gabe is a hot cop with a seductive side to him. When they first meet you can feel the sparks fly off the pages. This was an awesome book and I highly recommend it.




5/5☆rating

L.M


Wicked INNOCENCE review



REVIEW  FOR WICKED INNOCENCE 


BY MISSY JOHNSON





Micha has her fake ID so she is set. She has one amazing voice, she auditions for the new sensation  RESURRECTION  but when she arrives little does she realise that the bands manager is none other than the guy she has been crushing  on for since she was small. Saxon Waite  is a hearthob and the sight of him makes micha ' s knees go weak. Never in her wildest  dreams did she think he would fancy her as much as she fancies him there is just one problem,  she's only 17. How will he react when he finds out. One band tour later with loads of fighting  and a few truths reveled will micha   get her HEA that she really deserves?

I was lucky enough to be a beta reader for missy johnson,  this is a fantastic  read and I was hooked from the very beginning,  I couldn’t  put it down till  i had finished  it. I am a huge fan of rockstar books and this was in my top 10 highly  recommended.

Hollow by Ava Conway review



My first thoughts when I read this book were.

I really enjoyed this story; I haven’t read anything like this before. You could feel the mixture of raw emotions, the pain and heartbreak they go through is heart wrenching. There are certain things that happen in the story that does happen in modern day life and I think the readers will have a connection for that reason with the book when they read it.

This is a very touching but yet heart-breaking story. I don’t want to give any spoilers but, Kyle what a douche ball. Lucy did not deserve what she went through .And her friend, what sort of friend is she doing that behind her so called friends back.  I can’t recommend this book enough.  Expect many more amazing stories to come from this talented Author. 



5/5☆rating 

L.M


The Dare Review




 


Review written July 8, 2014 (Remastered for new blog)

THE DARE, oh my this had my crying with laughter. You have to love Grandma Nadine everyone needs a grandmother like her she’s freaking awesome and very wise woman. What Grandma wants Grandma gets :D There were many many parts that had me in a fit of giggles but here is one that stands out for me.

“What say you Thor?” Jake asked, hands on hips.

“If he’s Thor, I’m Iron Man.” This from Travis.

“Dibs on Green arrow.” Jake raised his hand.

“Children.” Kacey shook her head.

“It’s like we’re honeymooning with little boys and capes. “

This book is highly recommended sad that this series is over or maybe it’s not as the fabulous Rachel Van Dyken as hinted there could possibly be another one in the series who knows. But for now what an amazing series.

THE BET


THE WAGER


THE DARE


Author interview with S.K HARTLEY



Interview Written July 9, 2014


Author Interview


With


S.K. Hartley


Please welcome
 the beautiful, energetic and amazing woman behind the bad boy series, Sofie.

How are you, Tell us a little about yourself?

I’m very well, thank you.


I’m a New Adult Romance author and I currently live in the UK. I’m 23 and I have an amazing husband and little man.

2, how would you describe your book(s)?


New Adult. Dark. Emotional. Gritty?


3, what genre is your work mainly? Do you tend to stay in the same vein or are you hoping (if not already) to explore new ventures?


nI’m usually New Adult but I do have a Contemporary in the works right now .

4, Share with us a quote from one of your favourite characters?


Never let your past define who you are. The past has gone, the future is a mystery, but the present is a gift.’ – Logan White, Finding Us.


5, is it hard to come up with new ideas and / or plot’s?


Sort of. There are times when I’ve thought of something and I realize it’s already been used. I think that’s why my plots are pretty unique.


6, who is your favourite actor?


Johnny Deep as Captain Jack Sparrow


7, what inspired you to write your book (s)?


My first novel was like a form of therapy for me. A lot of the prologue in book one was the emotional turmoil I went through when I was eighteen.


8, who is the easiest character to write and why? Hardest and why?


Hmmm. I’d say Ace. He was just full of snarky comments and rude gestures!


9, Are your characters based on real people? People you may know on TV / Movie stars?


The only person who has some connection to one of my characters is my husband. He actually said a couple of lines that one of my characters uses. I won’t tell you which, those are for me.


10, without giving anything away, what is/are your favourite


scenes in your book?


There isn’t a particular scene that I love, but I adore it when the characters realize their love for one another. That gets me every time.


11, what is up next for you?


I currently have a secret project in the works. It’s a contemporary standalone HEA – That’s all I can say for now.


12, do you have any hobbies?


I have qualifications in Graphic Design and Fine Art. When I’m not writing books or plotting, you can find me sketching or designing graphics.


13, is there anyone besides you in your family who writes?


No. As far as I know, I’m the only one.


14, When did you start you start? What was your first piece?


First published piece?


Published piece? Wow. Okay. Before I wrote Finding You (Book one) I sent a short 500 word erotic story to a UK magazine that was published and reviewed by and erotica author.


15, do you have any favourite books? Authors? Movies?


Favorite books? That’s like asking someone to choose their favorite child! (LOL!) – My go to re-reads are Scoring Wilder by R.S. Grey and The boy Who Sneaks in My Bedroom Window by Kirsty Mosely.


16, do you have a favourite character in your books?


I shouldn’t but I do. I LOVED writing Low in Finding Us (Book Three)


17, what is your favourite genre to write?


I’m writing Contemporary right now and LOVING it.

18, what is your favourite genre to read?

Contemporary and Erotica.


19, how long have you been writing?


I started writing around July 2013.


20, who or what has been your biggest literary influence?

Jamie McGuire. She wrote one of the most unforgettable characters in romance and she’s also pretty awesome in person.


21, How about characters? Are they easily born and developed?


When I plot, I plot out the characters flaws, addictions, likes/dislikes so they’re not necessarily easy to develop but they have an in depth personality.


22, do you ever find yourself a struggling writer?


Writers block drives me crazy. That’s when I struggle.

23, How about how long does it take for you to complete a novel, from concept to completion?


Around four months to write it then another 4-6 weeks to get it


polished and ready for publication.


24, have you ever trashed a novel or story before or after finishing it, feeling it wasn’t turning out as you planned?


Many, many times. But, their never trashed. I save them in a folder called ‘file drop’ – I can go back to them as and when I need to.


25, Do you have a special time or place to write?


I usually write at night once my little man is in bed. I


 write where ever I can.


26, any funny experiences or quirks you’d like to share


with your readers?

My first experience of a reader fangirling over me made me tear-up.

27, which of your books would you like to see made in to a movie?


The secret project I’m working on right now.


28, what was it like to publish your first book?


Surreal. I didn’t think anyone would read it so it was a real surprise.


29, what advice would you give to others who want to make


writing their career?


Never stop writing.

30 What is the worst job that you have ever done and why?


I worked as a waitress once. Long hours and bad tips.

31, do you ever get ideas at random moments, and if so


how do you hang on to them?


Yes! All the time and usually in the shower. I have a bath pen


I ‘borrowed’ from my son, so when I get an idea I write


it on the shower tile so I can remember it to take notes.

32, how do you overcome writers block?


I usually try and tackle my TBR List. Reading usually helps


lift the writer’s block.


33, Can you write on demand and under pressure, or do you need time and space before the creativity starts to flow?


I don’t do well writing under pressure at all.


Deadlines are my biggest flaw.

34, How supportive are your family of your work?

My family LOVE my job and what I’ve accomplished and couldn’t be any more supportive.


35, Are there any places in the world you would love to do a book tour that you have not yet had a chance?


Paris. Although I’ve been, I’d love to go back and do a tour there. It’s an amazingly beautiful place.


36, who is your favourite Football team?


American football or Soccer? I don’t follow American Football but


I support Manchester United soccer team.


37, is there a place you would love to do a book event that you haven’t already been to?


Vegas or Hawaii.


38, How supportive are your family when you travel world to do book signings?

They’re AMAZING. Especially my husband.


39, what are you afraid of?

The dark, leaving this world without making some


 form of change, moths.

40, what is your favourite colour?


Scarlet Red.


BAD BOY SERIES ALL OUT NOW


FINDING YOU

FINDING ME

FINDING US


Author interview with Anna Katmore



AUTHOR INTERVIEW

WITH

ANNA KATAMORE

 

 

Tell us a little about yourself.?

 


What can I say? I’m a girl with a passion for writing and that’s what I do. I’m starting to feel sick when I don’t get a chance to hack on the keyboard everyday. ;-)


Other than that I’m a moody person. I can go from ecstatic about something to depressed as hell within a single minute … which stresses my husband sometimes, LOL. But most of the time I’m a really happy person, and I like to show that and motivate others with it.


My best trait is probably that I can dream. No, seriously! Life it too short not to dream BIG and do everything you can to make those dreams come true. Quite a few people get easily frustrated when they want something but can’t imagine to ever get it. Not me. I know there’s nothing in this world I can’t do. Heck, sometimes I think I’d even manage to fly like Peter Pan if I only tried hard enough, ha ha ha.


On a side note, I love horses and dolphins. My greatest wish is to own both animals one day. Well that and to get a chance to turn my books into movies. ;-)



How would you describe your books?



They are all sweetly romantic, with a little humor in them. Some of them have deeper elements too, but generally I always try to keep my books a light read.


What genre is your work mainly? Do you tend to stay in the same vein or are you hoping (if not already) to explore new ventures?



As of yet, I only published YA romance books. That’s what they all have in common. Some are contemporary high school stories, one is a little paranormal with an angel in it, and then I did the fantasy of Neverland. I really like to explore new genres, but they all have to be subgenres of romance. I’d never write anything else.



Please share a quote from one of your favorite characters in your books with us.



It’s the moment when Ryan Hunter finds out that Liza wants to join his co-ed soccer team.


“Forty-five, Higgins! Forty-six, Stevenson! Forty-seven…” I looked up to see who was next and found myself face to face with the girl who dominated ninety-nine percent of my thoughts. Matthews.”



 


Is it hard to come up with new ideas and / or plots?



 


Sometimes it is. I do have some basic story lines in my mind for coming books, but shaping them into something detailed that works and keeps the reader’s interest is hard work and usually gives me three to four days of hell each time, ha ha.



 


What inspired you to write your first book?



 


I’ve always been drawn toward paper and pen. Only I didn’t know I wanted to become a writer back then. When I was seventeen, I read my first book by Lisa Jane Smith. She wrote amazing YA vampire romance. Within a few months I’ve read all books available by her. After that I was ready to write my own vampire romance. :-)



 


Who was the easiest character to write and why? Hardest and why?


 


 


I love writing male POVs. I never thought I would, but when I wrote RYAN HUNTER, everything came so easily out of my hands. I was totally dumbstruck. So yeah, he was definitely the one who talked to me the loudest. ;-)


Peter Pan was the character I struggled a little with. He was quite complex, went through things that messed with his mind, and it was hard to bring that out the way I wanted. I might write him differently today.



 


Without giving anything away, what is/are your favorite scenes in your book(s)?



 


I love the lime kiss of Ryan Hunter and Liza Matthews—from both books. Personally, I think it was the hottest thing I ever wrote. And the scene from Neverland, where James Hook rescued Angel from Peter Pan’s trap in the jungle. They are really my favorites.



 


Do you have any hobbies?


 


 


What, you mean other than writing??? LOL


But yes, I actually love to dance. Zumba. Ever heard of? It’s so cool and fun


and I love to dress in those funky, colorful outfits. ;-)



 


Do you have a specific writing style?



 


First person POV. I love writing books like I was telling stories to my diary.


(If I had one…)



 


How did you come up with titles?



 


I always struggle with titles the most. I think I spend more time thinking on them


 than writing the actual book.



 


How much of the book is realistic? Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?



 


Some actions of Ryan Hunter I based on how my husband acted around me when we first met. 
The half smile, the cool car, him being a playboy but finally falling for the right girl… 
Other than that mostly everything is totally made up in all my books.


If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?



 


Lisa Jane Smith, Kerrelyn Sparks, Stepheny Meyer.



 


What book are you currently reading?



 


None. I have time to read about 5 books a year—and now is not the time. But the next on my list is my friend Kelly Oram’s romance: V is for Virgin



 


. What are your current projects?


 


 


Right now I’m translating T IS FOR… into German. I’m from Austria, my first


language is German, and there are so many people here who want to read my books too,


 so I started to translate them a while ago. I couldn’t give the job to a random book translator, because I’m a perfectionist. I don’t translate line by line but the actual feeling of a paragraph.


 I want to make it all sound awesome in the end, even if it means one English s


entence is being translated with 5 German ones. :-)


If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?


Nope. In my opinion, Neverland and Pan’s Revenge are my masterworks.


But once I’m done with translating T IS FOR…, I’m going to edit that book again. I found so many things that bugged me, that I already pulled it down from the market and will re-release it, once I’ve made all the changes. Mostly wording and grammar.


 


 


Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?


 


 


Patience. Oh my God, I suck at patience, but I’m learning…


 


 


Do you have any advice for other writers?


 


 


Tons of advice, and I’m being asked that question time and again. Here’s a summary of the most basic steps: http://annakatmore.com/2013/05/11/you-want-to-be-an-author/


 


 


What is your favorite genre to read?


 


 


Same genre as I write. YA romance, preferably contemporary. My mom says I got stuck in my late teens. She might be right there… ;-)


How long have you been writing?


 


 


I’ve been writing stories for over ten years now. But there was a lot to learn on the way and twice I trashed an entire book. The books I published have been written in the past 3 years.


 


 


Do you have a favorite movie?


 


 


I love anything Disney, most of all the old classics like Alice in Wonderland, Peter Pan (duh!)


and Dumbo. But I’m also a sucker for action moves. Marvel is brilliant!


 


 


How difficult is it to come up with one of your amazing plots?


 


 


LOL… Very.


 


 


How about characters? Are they easily born and developed?


 


 


Most of them are. If a character is ready to be written, as an author you sort of 
start hearing his or her voice in your head. And you just write down what they tell you.


 


 


How long does it take you to complete a novel from concept to completion?


 


 


Now, I’d say about 3 months. But my debut novel took me two years.


 


 


What was your first published piece? And how was it to publish your first ever book?


 


 


Summer of my Secret Angel. And it was amazing. Like giving birth to a child. No shit.


 


 


Do you have a special time or place to write?


 


 


All day. In my writing cave, which is my home office. A very cozy room.


Any funny experiences or quirks you'd like to share with your readers?


I’m OCD. That’s not funny, you think? You’re right. ;-) Especially when someone walks into my room, picks up a thing and doesn’t put it back into the exact same place.


 


 


Which one of your awesome books would you like to see made in to a movie?


 


 


All of them! Neverland would make an epic fantasy romance movie.


Can someone give Dreamworks or Disney my number, please? ;-)


 


 


What is your favorite band or artist?


 


 


I quite like OneRepublic and Ed Sheeran.


 


 


What is the worst job that you have ever done and why?


 


 


Cleaning the bathroom, every freaking Friday. Because some things 
just have to be done…


Do you ever get ideas at random moments, and if so how do you
 hang on to them?

 Absolutely. They come—BAM—in the middle of watching a film, or when I’m at McDonald’s with my family. Usually I think about these ideas some more, then go to my computer and take notes. The worst moments when good ideas can come to me are in bed. Right before I’m falling asleep. I can NEVER remember them the next morning. And damn, it’s happening tso often. It frustrates me no end to think of the many good ideas that got lost in the ether that way…

Can you write on demand and under pressure, or do you need time and space before the creativity starts to flow?

No pressure, please! It’s ruining me…literally. I absolutely can’t write when someone’s breathing down my neck. That’s also the reason why I passed out on several publishing offers and parted with my agent. I’m walking on a fast pace, but I can only do it when I walk alone.

How would you overcome writers block?

Sit it out. That’s usually the time of the year when I actually do some 
serious housework, LOL.

THANK YOU ANNA FOR A BRILLIANT INTERVIEW

ALL ANNA'S BOOKS ARE AVALIBLE ON AMAZON NOW


Author interview with Terri Anne Browning

AUTHOR INTERVIEW

WITH

TERRI ANN BROWNING



Tell us a little about yourself?


Well, I'm married to the amazing Mike Browning and we have three adorable kids together as well as our loveable Olde English Bulldog, Link. Writing is my full time gig now and Mike helps me as my PA and business manager.



What genre is your work mainly? Do you tend to stay in the same vein or are you hoping (if not already) to explore new ventures?


Contemporary Romance. Mostly I stay in that genre, but when The Rocker... Series is over I'm going to do a spin off involving the kids and make it a New Adult.





Is it hard to come up with new ideas and / or plots?


Most of the time it isn't hard at all. While I'm writing one book the plot for the next, or even the next two to three books kind of fall into place and I can easily see what I need to so that I can move forward with the entire series.

What inspired you to write your book?


When I was sixteen I couldn't find a book that would hold my attention for longer than a few hours. Sometimes I would just quit reading in the middle of the book or skip through it because it just wasn't interesting enough. So I decided to write my own, and then I could control every aspect about the book and not be disappointed.

Who is the easiest character to write for and why? Hardest and why?


The easiest character to write was and is Emmie. She's become a part of me over the last seven books and I feel like I can write her in my sleep. Shane was and is the hardest to write. He is incredibly stubborn and there were times I just wanted to chuck the entire book because he wasn't going to do what I wanted. So with The Rocker Who Loves Me I had to grit my teeth and let him lead the way. It was incredibly frustrating.

Do you have a specific writing style?


I do my best writing in first person. It lets me get inside the characters better, whereas third person doesn't allow that opportunity

How much of the book is realistic? Are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?


Thankfully, the experiences that Emmie or Drake or even Harper have had are not things that I've had to experience first-hand. But I've known people that have had these real life experiences and have used that to guide my characters' reactions to give the books extra realistic edges.

What book are you reading now?


I've got a stack of books on my bedside table at the moment. Beck by Harper Sloan is waiting for me next. I'm behind in all my reading and I seriously need to catch up on a lot of my TBR list.

What are your current projects? If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your books?


I'm about to start another The Rocker... Series book. The Rocker Who Cherishes Me. Sometimes I wonder if about what changes I would make if I had to do it all over again. If I did, I might have put Emmie and Jesse together... But then I get all kinds of sick thinking about Nik and Layla and I can't even finish the thought.

Can you share a little of your current work with us?


Well, I can tell you that The Prologue for The Rocker Who Cherishes Me will be tissue worthy, and that it is going to be a rollercoaster of emotions.

Is there anything you find particularly challenging in your writing?


I tend to keep my books shorter than the normal novel. So that busy women/men can read in one setting if they chose to do so. So it’s sometimes hard to cut down all the things I want to put into the book. But mostly I've found that writing isn't a challenge at all.

Who is your favourite author and what is it that really strikes you about their work?


I have a list a mile long on my favorite authors and to pick just one would be like asking me to choose a favorite child. LOL. But the majority of my favorite authors all write fierce female characters who catch my attention from the very first chapter and keep me begging for more.

Who designed the covers?


Rachel Mizer at Shout Lines Design

What was the hardest part of writing your book?


The hardest part of writing is the first sentence and the last sentence. The first sentence has to be perfect for me to move on with the rest of the book, and the last sentence has to be full of all the emotion the book was supposed to make you feel and leave you wanting more.

Did you learn anything from writing your book and what was it?


I've learned that there are some serious dark places within myself, as well as some softer brighter places that I didn't know about. So writing has helped me grow as a person as well as an author.

Do you have any advice for other writers?


I love hearing advice from other authors, as long as it is advice. I actually have one as a Beta reader so that I can get an opinion from that aspect. (Waves and blows a kiss to Mellie George)

Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?


I want to tell them all how much I love and appreciate their love and support. Their continued interest in my Rockers still amazes me and I would be nothing, absolutely nothing, without them.

What is your favourite genre to write?


Romance

What is your favourite genre to read?


Romance.

How long have you been writing for?


14 years.

What is your favourite movie?


Rock of Ages and Pitch Perfect

How difficult is it to come up with one of your amazing plots?


Plots aren't normally difficult for me. Half way through one book my characters have already screamed at me where they plan on going, so they make my work so much easier.

How about characters?  Are they easily born and developed?


Some are more difficult than others that is for sure. But normally during one book I've already introduced the next plot and any other secondary characters that will lead to the plot of the next lead characters' book. I'm strange like that. lol.

How long does it take you to complete a novel from concept to completion?


Normally, three months. Four tops. If I don't run into blocks or have family issues arise.

What was your first published piece? And how was it to publish your first book?


The first book I published was Reese: A Safe Haven Novella. It was thrilling and scary as hell. Also kind of a let-down because I was expecting the book to get popular overnight and be a huge success without even trying. LOL. So after I wrote The Rocker Who Holds Me, I was going to give it all up and go back to finish my nursing degree. Weeks before I was due to start school again the book took off and I was getting demands for more. And more. And more. So the first was sadly a let-down, but the second and everyone afterwards was a real high.

Have you ever trashed a novel or story before or after finishing it, feeling it wasn't turning out as you planned?


As a teenager I trashed work left and right. I don't think I actually finished a book until a few years ago, but at the time I didn't know about self-publishing and those works were lost along the way. Now, I always try to finish a book, even if I don't think it has potential.

Out of all your brilliant characters which ones were you favourite?


Emmie is my favorite female, and Jesse would have to be my favorite male. Most already know this, but I gave Jesse my husband's personality, so he holds a huge part of my heart.

Do you have a special time or place to write?


I have an office that I use for writing, but sometimes I do it from my front porch first thing in the morning. It is one of my favorite places.

Which one of your awesome books would you like to see be made in to a movie?


None. I'd rather they were all made into an HBO series. With no name actors and killer music.

What was the worse job you ever done?


When I was 19 I was the assistant manager of a Hardees. Out of all the jobs I've ever had, that was the worse for me.

Do you ever get any ideas at random moments, and if so how do you hand on to them?


All the time. I normally keep a notebook with me or if that isn't available I email myself with my iPhone.

Can you write on demand and under pressure, or do you need time and space before the creativity starts to flow and how do you overcome writers block?


I can write scenes on demand, but if you wanted a full book? No way. I'd need a while for the idea to cook before I even sat down to write it.

THANK YOU TERRI FOR A GREAT INTERVIEW 


FOR ALL OF TERRI'S BOOKS ARE AVALIBLE FOR DOWNLOAD ON AMAZON


L.M & D.W@A2ABC


Author interview with Alyssa Rae Taylor



Interview written July 9, 2014 (Remastered for new blog)


INTERVIEW


WITH


Alyssa Rae Taylor

Please welcome the Beautiful, bubbly and the brilliant author behind Resisting Ryann and Raising Ryann, Alyssa.


1, Tell us a little about yourself?


I am a mother of three beautiful girls,


an animal lover, and a bit of a workaholic.


I usually do my writing during the daytime,


and my reading at night when my husband


and kids are asleep. I am a huge fan


of Supernatural and Son’s of Anarchy.

2, how would you describe your books?


I would say they are a bit complex with a mixture of Romance, Action,


Humor and Suspense. There also may


be a plot twist or two inside the pages. ;)


3, what genre is your work mainly? Do you tend to stay in the same vein or are you hoping (if not already) to explore new ventures?


Goodness, this is a hard question. All of my books will have Romance, but I do like to throw in some action, suspense and mystery into the plot.


I’m not planning to steer away from Romance anytime soon. I do think it would be fun to write a dystopian novel/series,


but I’m not sure if I’m cut out for that.


4, Share with us a quote from one of your favourite characters?


"I’m in love with you,” he growls. “Can’t you see that? I live and breathe you. I bleed you,”


Luke Ryann.


5, is it hard to come up with new ideas and / or plot’s?

So far it hasn’t been too hard (crossing my fingers).


6, how long does it take you to complete a finished book?


I wish I could say that it’s easy, but for me it takes about 7-12 months. I have a problem with hitting the delete button.


7, what inspired you to write your book?


When I attempted my first short story in college and received a 100 percent on the assignment. I was a big reader at the time, but had no idea that I could actually write. I thought it would be fun to write a story that was different from what I’ve ever read. I wanted to write something that I would enjoy reading myself.


8, who is the easiest character to write for and why? Hardest and why?


So far, I would say that Gia has been the easiest character to write. I still have most of the friends I had back in elementary school. So maybe that’s why it feels pretty natural coming up with her personality. What girl doesn’t have a best friend like Gia?


I think the hardest character to write would be Luke, probably because he’s a guy. The last thing I want to do is make Luke sound like a woman.


9, Are your characters based on real people? People you may know on TV / Movie stars?


I’m sure that certain characters from different places influenced my own. I will say that Richelle Mead’s Vampire Academy is partly where I came up with Luke’s character. I loved Dimitri’s confidence and self-control. I wanted to make sure Luke had those qualities when I wrote him.


10, without giving anything away, what is / are your favourite scenes in your book?


I’m not really sure how to answer that without giving anything away. I’ll just say that my favorite scenes in both Raising & Resisting Ryann are in the bathroom. Luke & Reese are together in both of them- and no I don’t have a fetish with bathrooms. I promise.


11, what’s up next for you?


Breaking Ryann (Bad Boy Reformed 3)


12, do you have any hobbies?


I love to read, & watch my girls play soccer, and dance, traveling with the family.


13, is there anyone besides you in your family who writes?


My oldest daughter writes as a hobby. She’s thirteen.


14, When did you start? What was your first piece? First published piece.


My first attempt at writing a book is my first published piece, Raising Ryann (Bad Boy Reformed 1) August, 2013.


15, do you have any favourite books or authors?


 

I love anything by Colleen Hoover,


and SC Stephens.


16, of all the books and stories you’ve written which is your favourite?


Raising Ryann, my first book of course. J


1

7, do you have a favourite character?

Luke Ryann


18, what is your favourite genre to write?


Romance/Women’s fiction


19, what is your favourite genre to read?


Romance/Women’s fiction


20, what are your favourite movies?


“The Notebook.” I haven’t been able to find another movie that tops it.


21, how long have you been writing?


Three years.


22, who or what has been your biggest literary influence?


Colleen Hoover.


23, How Difficult is it for you to come up with one of your amazing plots?


It all just depends on my mood. Sometimes I can come up with all these ideas, and get really excited about writing them down. Other times it’s hard to come up with anything.


 


24, How about characters? Are they easily born and developed? 
25, do you find yourself a struggling writer?


For me, I think the character writing is the easiest part. I love writing the characters.


26, about how long does it take you to take for you to complete a novel from concept to completion?


7-12 months, but that may change.


27, have you ever trashed a novel or story before or after finishing it, feeling it wasn’t turning out as you planned?


Not yet.


28, Do you have a special time or place to write?


I get into my writing mode usually between 10:00 am- 7:00 pm. I’m not sure why that is. My brain just seems to function best during that time frame. I usually write in my home office or on the couch with my laptop when my back starts to hurt. Sometimes I go to a coffee shop and write there.


29, any funny experiences or quirks you’d like to share with your readers?


Many of the scenes that are written in Raising Ryann were developed after a bottle of wine and slurred conversation with my best friend.


30, which one of your books would you like to see made into a movie?


The Bad Boy Reformed Trilogy (it’s all that I have out).


31, what is your favourite band/artist/song?


Coldplay, Warning Sign. I adore them.


32, what was it like to publish your first book?


At first it didn’t feel real, especially when Raising Ryann hit the Amazon top ten. I never would have guessed that this would have been my future- that readers would be begging me to release the next one. I truly feel blessed.


33, what advice would you give to others who want to make writing their career?


Follow your dreams and don’t give up. It takes a whole lot of work, but you’ll get there, as long as you continue to believe in yourself. Don’t let the negative energy stop you. It’s impossible to please everyone. If at first you don’t succeed try, and try, again.


34, do you ever get ideas at random moments, and if so how do you hang on to them?


Yes. Whenever I get an idea that I don’t want to let go of, I either write it down, or type it into my phone, otherwise I’ll get angry at myself for forgetting.


35, how do you overcome writers block?


As long as I force myself to write on a regular basis, I usually will pull out of a funk. Sometimes I just need to take a small break, even if it’s a couple of days. It can really help.


36, Can you write on demand and under pressure, or do you need time and space before the creativity starts to flow?


I am one of those writers that need more time to write a good story. I have to think up the entire plot before I even write the first words on the manuscript. How I would love to be a turbo writer, but that’s just not me.