Happy Friday All,
Some people have mentioned they're having trouble posting comments on here. I apologize. I don't know why that happens, but I know it happens on some other blogs. You can always email me your comments and I will post them for you if you find you can't post them here.
Now...drum roll please...today's an author interview day. I'd like you all to meet my friend and chaptermate, Cheri Jetton. Cheri has published "Sweet" Romances and a Romantic Suspense. She's also worked as an editor. I've read one of her Sweet Romances and her Romantic Suspense.
Me: Earlier this year you put out a Romantic Suspense entitled Crimson Snow. Can you tell us a little bit about what inspired the story?
Cheri: I think the setting spawned this one, Bethany. I was born and raised in California and have spent all but a couple of years of my adult life here in Houston. Very little snow in either place, but in 2001 I went to visit my brother on Sugar Island, MI and ended up spending the winter. It was awsome! By mid-winter the snow was hip deep. He and his wife keep bird feeders outside the breakfast room windows. A show unto itself. The pristine expanses of snow were marked only by little bird feet, rabbit tracks, and fox tracks. The trees sparkled under heavy pillows of snow that weighed down the branches.
It was all new to me and I savored every snowflake. Then, like a good writer I began to think, "what if...".
Me: Crimson Snow isn't the only novel you've published. Can you tell us about your other work and how it differs from Crimson Snow?
Cheri: My other three books are traditional (read, sweet) romances published by Avalon Books. Although "Texas Dawn" has a bit of suspense to it when someone starts harrasing the heroine, they wouldn't be considered mysteries, or even suspenses. "Blue Plate Special" and "Jessie and the Ranger" have no mystery at all, just men and women looking for love.
Me: You've done some editing as well as writing, what do you look for as an editor? What do you think makes a great novel?
Cheri: My editing job requires evaluating the manuscript for continuity, balance, and pesky writing errors. I take out redundant and repeated words, every "that" I possibly can, and trim overly verbose paragraphs. In short, I try to make the story more attention grabbing and readable.
Me: For Fun: What sort of movies do you enjoy?
Cheri: Romantic comedies, hands down!
Me: What advice do you have for aspiring authors?
Cheri: Study and pay attention! Nothing drives me battier when I'm working with a private client than to point out a problem, and find the author repeating that mistake again and again. If you can't learn from your mistakes, you aren't going to make it!
Keep it simple. Don't try so hard to impress with big words, long sentences, and unnatural dialog. Anytime you have the chance, attend workshops and take notes.
Me: What do you think is harder: Writing or editing? WHY?
Cheri: At this stage of my life, writing is probably harder, because I can't give it the time I'd like. I work full time with the public and unfortunately, I'm a person who needs a couple of days to decompress before my muse can come out of hiding. By then, it's time to go back to work!
Editing has its own frustrations, to be sure, but I don't usually need to call on my creativity to edit.
Me: For fun: What's your favorite color?
Cheri: Blue
Me: How do you feel about the options authors have in publishing nowadays as opposed to 10-20 years ago?
Cheri: I think they're awesome! It will be interesting to see where the self-published ebook trend takes the industry. I want to make a major point here, though. ONLY PUT UP YOUR BEST WORK!
Find an impartial critic to read your book. Listen to what they say. Maybe even show it to another one. These should be seasoned writers, with good publishing credits. If you go out there with weak, flawed writing, not only will you fail to win a following you'll weaken the market for everyone else who isn't Nora Roberts or Debbie Macomber.
The same is true if you go through an epublisher. Read some of the books they've published. Are they the same quality of stories you see in Harlequin, and the other print houses? If not, look elsewhere.
Me: What's some of the best experiences you've had as an author?
Cheri: LOL! I think the most special moment was when my youngest daughter called to tell me "Texas Dawn" kept her up all night. That is one of a writer's greatest accolades, and to have it come from your own child (who takes you for granted, right?) was just so special.
Me: Who are some authors you admire and WHY?
Cheri: I have the complete collection of Laveryle Spencer's books. I can't tell you why, I just love her writing. "Spring Fancy" had real emotional punch.
Me: Anything else you'd like to add?
Cheri: Um, if the man in your life needs a new suit, come see me?
Cheri Jetton's Crimson Snow is available on Kindle and Nook. You can find her other titles through Avalon Books / Amazon
Have A Fabulous Friday!
Showing posts with label romance. Show all posts
Showing posts with label romance. Show all posts
Thursday, September 15, 2011
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
Get Your Hands On "Flesh Wounds"
Happy Thursday Everyone,
Tomorrow I plan to post the author interview for this month, but today I'd like to report on a new release by an author buddy of mine, Robin Badillo*
*(site is for viewers 18 years old and up, as noted on website).
Robin is releasing her newest adult romance novel, Flesh Wounds:
After five years away, Julia Benson has finally come home. Facing the painful memories awaiting her in the small Texas town is nothing compared the mess she’ll make when she gets there. Dealing with the ripple affect leaving caused the ones she loved is just as hard as dealing with being abandoned by a father who wasn’t everything she’d believed him to be.
Dylan Banks was the boy from across the street who’d loved Julia since they were twelve. She was the only girl for him and the only one he couldn’t have. Unable to repair that broken part of the girl he loved so much from afar, he now had a second chance to fill the void the only way he could… love her until she got it through her thick skull that not every man was like her father.
Can love really repair all that has gone wrong in Julia’s life or are some wounds just too deep to heal?
You can pick up your own copy of Flesh Wounds from Extasy Books on your E-reader.
Have A Thrilling Thursday!
Tomorrow I plan to post the author interview for this month, but today I'd like to report on a new release by an author buddy of mine, Robin Badillo*
*(site is for viewers 18 years old and up, as noted on website).
Robin is releasing her newest adult romance novel, Flesh Wounds:
Dylan Banks was the boy from across the street who’d loved Julia since they were twelve. She was the only girl for him and the only one he couldn’t have. Unable to repair that broken part of the girl he loved so much from afar, he now had a second chance to fill the void the only way he could… love her until she got it through her thick skull that not every man was like her father.
Can love really repair all that has gone wrong in Julia’s life or are some wounds just too deep to heal?
You can pick up your own copy of Flesh Wounds from Extasy Books on your E-reader.
Have A Thrilling Thursday!
Thursday, September 8, 2011
Checking In Before The Weekend...
Happy Friday All,
I know...it's weird not having me post all week (except Monday & Tuesday) but, I'm still super-busy. Edits, plus family obligations, and having allergy issues has made it very hard for me to figure out posts for the blog, so I've had to put it on hold most days.
However, I'm doing okay. Had to go to the doctor about my allergy issues, but it's all right. Got an antibiotic if I end up needing it, and they switched which over-the-counter decongestion I was taking. I've got a meeting on Saturday and they said I should be absolutely fine to go to it. (This is a meeting I look forward to).
Because of the doc appointment, I had to move my dental work to another time, but that's no big deal. It's a short appointment and I'm not really worried about it.
I do plan to post an author interview this month, but I haven't picked the day, yet. There's still some details to be ironed out there.
Question for the day: Has anyone read Nocturne by Syrie James? I saw this book in a store I was at the other day and saved the information for when I have a moment to read it. I haven't read this author's work before and I'm intrigued by this novel.
Have A Fabulous Friday & Enjoy your weekend!
However, I'm doing okay. Had to go to the doctor about my allergy issues, but it's all right. Got an antibiotic if I end up needing it, and they switched which over-the-counter decongestion I was taking. I've got a meeting on Saturday and they said I should be absolutely fine to go to it. (This is a meeting I look forward to).
Because of the doc appointment, I had to move my dental work to another time, but that's no big deal. It's a short appointment and I'm not really worried about it.
I do plan to post an author interview this month, but I haven't picked the day, yet. There's still some details to be ironed out there.
Question for the day: Has anyone read Nocturne by Syrie James? I saw this book in a store I was at the other day and saved the information for when I have a moment to read it. I haven't read this author's work before and I'm intrigued by this novel.
Have A Fabulous Friday & Enjoy your weekend!
Monday, August 29, 2011
Weather, Reading, & Editing
Happy Monday All,
So school is back in session, the weather hasn't exactly changed--well depending on where you live. On the East Coast they're cleaning up after Hurricane Irene and down here we're still wallowing in dry, very hot conditions. Over the weekend it hit 109 degrees. If you ever wondered what that feels like...come down to Texas. (Although, God willing, it'll cool down this Fall and Winter--that's the prayers and hopes of pretty much everyone I've talked to).
In spite of the heat, I'm managing to plug along. I finished reading Karsten Knight's Wildefire and interesting YA novel.
I'm prepping for another official book review (probably posting in October) while working on some edits.
Things are still pretty busy on my end, so I'll probably be in and out, but like I said before...I'm not gone.
Something to do while you're waiting on me to be less busy: pick up a copy of Christie Craig's Don't Mess With Texas available at Amazon ... Barnes & Noble ... Katy Budget Books
Have A Merry Monday!
So school is back in session, the weather hasn't exactly changed--well depending on where you live. On the East Coast they're cleaning up after Hurricane Irene and down here we're still wallowing in dry, very hot conditions. Over the weekend it hit 109 degrees. If you ever wondered what that feels like...come down to Texas. (Although, God willing, it'll cool down this Fall and Winter--that's the prayers and hopes of pretty much everyone I've talked to).In spite of the heat, I'm managing to plug along. I finished reading Karsten Knight's Wildefire and interesting YA novel.
I'm prepping for another official book review (probably posting in October) while working on some edits.
Things are still pretty busy on my end, so I'll probably be in and out, but like I said before...I'm not gone.
Something to do while you're waiting on me to be less busy: pick up a copy of Christie Craig's Don't Mess With Texas available at Amazon ... Barnes & Noble ... Katy Budget Books
Have A Merry Monday!
Monday, August 22, 2011
New Release, Rain, Conference & Ice Cream
Happy Tuesday Everyone,
Today is release day for Christie Craig's Don't Mess With Texas so everyone make sure you get your copy! This is one that will definitely make you laugh at out loud. She's an awesome person and incredibly witty--both in her books and in person. There's chances to meet her in person--check this blog post to see when and where.
Since we're nearing the end of August the time to submit your registration for the Lone Star Conference is getting shorter--that is because the conference is on October 15, 2011. I'm mailing in my registration this week. Writers get out there...it's worth your weight in gold to network, get support, and party with me (conference day just happens to be my birthday!)
Okay those of you with rain...care to share with Texas? We're in a drought and while I don't want a hurricane, we could sure use some rain to help us out of it. I think the lizards and bugs are beginning to look at the houses around here and think: "Let's move in! There's water in there!" I wouldn't be shocked if cats learn how to start to enjoy swimming just for the wet relief. It's hot, and it's dry and oh boy I'm looking forward to fall and winter with cooler weather (like in October when the Lone Star Conference happens--it's usually cooler by then). Like I said, I don't want a hurricane, but I wouldn't mind us getting a good, environment/people healing rain to make things better.
On the other hand, the heat is always a good excuse to eat ice cream and lucky me I got some chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream in the freezer.
Anyway, not to sound trite...but how's the weather on your side of the world?
Have A Terrific Tuesday!
Today is release day for Christie Craig's Don't Mess With Texas so everyone make sure you get your copy! This is one that will definitely make you laugh at out loud. She's an awesome person and incredibly witty--both in her books and in person. There's chances to meet her in person--check this blog post to see when and where.Since we're nearing the end of August the time to submit your registration for the Lone Star Conference is getting shorter--that is because the conference is on October 15, 2011. I'm mailing in my registration this week. Writers get out there...it's worth your weight in gold to network, get support, and party with me (conference day just happens to be my birthday!)
Okay those of you with rain...care to share with Texas? We're in a drought and while I don't want a hurricane, we could sure use some rain to help us out of it. I think the lizards and bugs are beginning to look at the houses around here and think: "Let's move in! There's water in there!" I wouldn't be shocked if cats learn how to start to enjoy swimming just for the wet relief. It's hot, and it's dry and oh boy I'm looking forward to fall and winter with cooler weather (like in October when the Lone Star Conference happens--it's usually cooler by then). Like I said, I don't want a hurricane, but I wouldn't mind us getting a good, environment/people healing rain to make things better.
On the other hand, the heat is always a good excuse to eat ice cream and lucky me I got some chocolate chip cookie dough ice cream in the freezer.
Anyway, not to sound trite...but how's the weather on your side of the world?
Have A Terrific Tuesday!
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Git Yer Cowboy Hat & Laugh Out Loud With The New Christie Craig Novel
Happy Monday Everybody,
****CONTEST PORTION OF THIS POST IS NOW OFFICIALLY CLOSED!*******
Friday afternoon I finished reading Christie Craig’s new book, Don’t Mess With Texas, which is available on August 23, 2011.
This is laugh out loud humorous fun! A heroine who pukes on the hero, a no-nonsense Nana (loved her! Nana needs her own story, she's just that funny), a strong defend-and-protect type hero--mix it all together and you've got a novel jammed pack with Christie’s humor, romance, mystery, suspense and everything else she could think of including an English Bulldog sleeping in a coffin.
Ex-cop turned P.I. Dallas O’Connor and his buddies got a bum deal when they were framed for a crime they didn’t do. Now out of jail and setting up their P.I. firm they’re ready to kick some serious butt and make sure those who are falsely accused get a fair shake in this system.
They’re gonna make sure a 19 year old boy doesn’t get locked up for a murder he didn’t do and while they’re at it make sure the people who framed them pay.
Well, he was, that is, until Artist Nikki Hunt pukes on him when he comes to investigate a crime scene with his brother, Tony (who is still a cop).
Right from the start Dallas is taken by Nikki--and it’s not just because of her vomiting skills (which are impressive) but there’s something special about Nikki. She's bright, funny, independent and he's fascinated by her.
But he can’t--won’t--get involved. She’s the prime suspect in Jack Leon’s murder. Jack is Nikki’s ex-husband--emphasis on the ex. Jack had Nikki come meet him for dinner…and stuck her with the bill.
Two people heard Nikki say she was going to kill him, but what they don’t get is that Nikki didn’t mean literally--she was talking to herself…a habit she’s never been able to break.
Can Dallas deny the fireworks between him and Nikki? Can Nikki overcome her fears of being left in the dust with a broken heart (long enough to see Dallas isn't like Jack)?
One thing’s for sure, the attraction’s undeniable, and the temperature isn’t the only thing that’s hot in Texas!
And yes, I really enjoyed this book. It was funny, fun, and classic Christie Craig Laugh-Out-Loud-And-Enjoy novel.
Don’t Mess With Texas will be available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Katy Budget Books…
Christie Craig is doing a giveaway on this blog, as well!
She’s got for one lucky reader of this blog a necklace and earring set made by Kathy at Beadmore Designs:
There’s 2 ways t enter for a chance to win this gorgeous (and very Texan looking) jewelry set:
1. You can comment here and include your email address in your comment.
2. You can email me
ONE entry per person. The contest will close at 10:30 p.m. Central Time on Monday, August 22, 2011.
Have A Mirth-filled Monday!
****CONTEST PORTION OF THIS POST IS NOW OFFICIALLY CLOSED!*******
Friday afternoon I finished reading Christie Craig’s new book, Don’t Mess With Texas, which is available on August 23, 2011.
Ex-cop turned P.I. Dallas O’Connor and his buddies got a bum deal when they were framed for a crime they didn’t do. Now out of jail and setting up their P.I. firm they’re ready to kick some serious butt and make sure those who are falsely accused get a fair shake in this system.
They’re gonna make sure a 19 year old boy doesn’t get locked up for a murder he didn’t do and while they’re at it make sure the people who framed them pay.
Well, he was, that is, until Artist Nikki Hunt pukes on him when he comes to investigate a crime scene with his brother, Tony (who is still a cop).
Right from the start Dallas is taken by Nikki--and it’s not just because of her vomiting skills (which are impressive) but there’s something special about Nikki. She's bright, funny, independent and he's fascinated by her.
But he can’t--won’t--get involved. She’s the prime suspect in Jack Leon’s murder. Jack is Nikki’s ex-husband--emphasis on the ex. Jack had Nikki come meet him for dinner…and stuck her with the bill.
Two people heard Nikki say she was going to kill him, but what they don’t get is that Nikki didn’t mean literally--she was talking to herself…a habit she’s never been able to break.
Can Dallas deny the fireworks between him and Nikki? Can Nikki overcome her fears of being left in the dust with a broken heart (long enough to see Dallas isn't like Jack)?
One thing’s for sure, the attraction’s undeniable, and the temperature isn’t the only thing that’s hot in Texas!
And yes, I really enjoyed this book. It was funny, fun, and classic Christie Craig Laugh-Out-Loud-And-Enjoy novel.
Don’t Mess With Texas will be available from Amazon, Barnes & Noble and Katy Budget Books…
But wait!
That’s NOT all!
Christie Craig is doing a giveaway on this blog, as well!
She’s got for one lucky reader of this blog a necklace and earring set made by Kathy at Beadmore Designs:
There’s 2 ways t enter for a chance to win this gorgeous (and very Texan looking) jewelry set:
1. You can comment here and include your email address in your comment.
Or
2. You can email me
ONE entry per person. The contest will close at 10:30 p.m. Central Time on Monday, August 22, 2011.
Have A Mirth-filled Monday!
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Friday--Updates
Happy Friday All,
Wow...it's already Friday? Hard to believe. Edits are coming along pretty well, which I'm very happy about.
Next week is an official book review and I'm working hard to get done reading the book (which is really good by the way, just got several things going on as well, so it takes time).
Found out recently (because I made it to that side of the Internet) Tess St. John posted an excerpt of Eyes Of Jade. The cover is really awesome, so I recommend taking a cyberspace trip out that direction to check it out.
Christie Craig has her book signing coming up (August 27, 2011). I talked about this sometime ago in this post.
Don't forget to register for the Lone Star Conference! God willing I'll be there--3rd year (yeah that's how much I like it).
Anyway, what are you up to these days?
Have A Fantastical Friday!
Wow...it's already Friday? Hard to believe. Edits are coming along pretty well, which I'm very happy about.
Next week is an official book review and I'm working hard to get done reading the book (which is really good by the way, just got several things going on as well, so it takes time).
Found out recently (because I made it to that side of the Internet) Tess St. John posted an excerpt of Eyes Of Jade. The cover is really awesome, so I recommend taking a cyberspace trip out that direction to check it out.
Christie Craig has her book signing coming up (August 27, 2011). I talked about this sometime ago in this post.
Don't forget to register for the Lone Star Conference! God willing I'll be there--3rd year (yeah that's how much I like it).
Anyway, what are you up to these days?
Have A Fantastical Friday!
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Spotlight On Author: Jennifer Bray-Weber
Happy Friday Everybody,
As promised, today is the day I'm posting my August Author Interview. I know every author I'm always excited about (I must sound like a broken record LOL). But I always have a reason for being excited about whoever I interview.
This particular interview is with Jennifer Bray-Weber, who, besides being an incredibly talented author, is a really cool person. She also has a great sense of humor and is a lot of fun to hang out with; so, without further ado, I give you the awesome Jennifer Bray-Weber...
Me: Your novel, Blood And Treasure focuses on pirates. I've read from other interviews you've done, that you got the idea from a dream, but did you always want to write about pirates or was it just after you had that dream that the idea came to you?
Jennifer: Thank you for having me, Bethany.
I started out writing dark stories set in various times throughout history. The Roman Empire, Salem Witch Trials, and the Civil War have been the backdrop to most of these tales. The common thread to these stories is the tragic endings. Hardly anyone gets out alive! My favorite is about a Civil War veteran battling deep depression. The final word in this short story is ‘Bang’. I still get goose bumps. Some might suggest I see a professional. I say mwuahahaha….
Me: How many books do you plan to have in the Romancing The Pirate series and do you have an idea when the next one will be released?
Jennifer: There are 5 total in the "Romancing The Pirate" series. Each story is an adventure for the pirate ship Rissa and her crew. The pirate captains in "Blood And Treasure", "A Kiss In The Wind", and "The Bruised Sky" get more than they bargain for in the lasses they encounter. Sea battles, vicious enemies, and the testy sea aren’t nearly as dangerous as these captains losing their hearts. "In Clash Of The Tides", the pirate captain is a woman who buys her hero off the auction block. The last novel, yet to be titled, is a dual love story between modern day treasure hunters seeking the mystery behind the sunken Rissa and the pirate captain and his heroine on the doomed vessel.
My next novel, "A Kiss In The Wind", is scheduled for release in spring 2012 with Carina Press.
Me: For Fun: What music puts you in a good mood?
Jennifer: Everything from Metallica and Def Leppard to Breaking Benjamin and Shinedown. Yep – I’m a heavy beats and hard rockin’, loud music kind of girl.
Me: What advice do you have for aspiring authors?
Jennifer: Listen to those who speak of hard work, writing the best story you can, perseverance, growing the proverbial thick skin, and finding great critique partners. It’s all great advice. But I’m all about opportunities. Never, EVER let opportunity pass you by. My career has been enriched because I tackled opportunity, put it in a strangle hold, and held it for ransom within an inch of its life.
Me: You recently went to the RWA National Conference in New York City. What do you find is the most helpful about conferences like that?
Jennifer: Networking. There is so much value in attending writing conferences. Workshops, meetings, book signings, awards ceremonies, and parties all provide the opportunity (BUZZ WORD!!) to meet others, learn from industry pros, exchange and absorb knowledge, and forge new friendships.
Me: Do you have a favorite character who you've written, and if so, who is it and why are they are you favorite?
Jennifer: Captain Blade Tyburn of "A Kiss In The Wind". He’s an infamous libertine with devilish good looks, quick wit, and insatiable desire for women. That is, until he meets his match in knife-wielding, pick-pocket Marisol.
Henri, the small (don’t call him a dwarf! ) curmudgeonly cook, runs a very close second. The only thing he fancies more than the little bows in his beard is his rum.
Me: For Fun: What's your favorite Holiday and why?
Jennifer: It’s a tie between Christmas and Halloween. Christmas is magical. Family traditions, good will, twinkling lights, yummy food, festive decorations and lots of parties makes for an enchanting holiday. I like Halloween for many of the same reasons, except Halloween is mischievous. I love mischief. Lots of mischief.
Me: What's something you learned about pirates that you found really fascinating?
Jennifer: Pirates were democratic and lived by codes. Captains were elected by the crew and often split power with the quartermaster. Articles were drawn up by the crew and signed by the crew. These articles were detailed and included rules of behavior, care of weaponry, punishments, treatment of women, and the division of shares.
Me: Do you find that pirate legends are close to the truth or not at all?
Jennifer: All legends are based on some sort of truth. I will say that the "Pirates Of The Caribbean" franchise does depict pirates, shipboard terminology, and pirate superstitions with a lot of elemental authenticity. But just so you know, the Kraken, half-sea-creature-half-man pirates, and giant goddesses are not real. Not sure about zombies, the Flying Dutchman, or man-eating mermaids.
Me: Are you planning to stick with pirates or do you have other series ideas in mind?
Jennifer: In my future I see more pirates, serial killers, Confederate spies, fire-breathing dragons, and a paranormal world built around the 7 virtues and 7 sins. Thankfully, not all in the same book.
Me: Anything else you'd like to add?
Jennifer: Should I tickle your fancy, please visit me at the following places on the World Wide Web.
www.jbrayweber.com.
https://www.facebook.com/jbrayweber
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jennifer-Bray-Weber-Author/172485736149726
http://twitter.com/@jbrayweber
Thank you, Jennifer Bray-Weber for dropping by! You can get a copy of Blood And Treasure (which is really, really good by the way) on Amazon Kindle and Amazon in Paperback, as well as on Barnes & Noble Nook.
Have A Fantastical Friday!
As promised, today is the day I'm posting my August Author Interview. I know every author I'm always excited about (I must sound like a broken record LOL). But I always have a reason for being excited about whoever I interview.
This particular interview is with Jennifer Bray-Weber, who, besides being an incredibly talented author, is a really cool person. She also has a great sense of humor and is a lot of fun to hang out with; so, without further ado, I give you the awesome Jennifer Bray-Weber...
Jennifer: Thank you for having me, Bethany.
I started out writing dark stories set in various times throughout history. The Roman Empire, Salem Witch Trials, and the Civil War have been the backdrop to most of these tales. The common thread to these stories is the tragic endings. Hardly anyone gets out alive! My favorite is about a Civil War veteran battling deep depression. The final word in this short story is ‘Bang’. I still get goose bumps. Some might suggest I see a professional. I say mwuahahaha….
Me: How many books do you plan to have in the Romancing The Pirate series and do you have an idea when the next one will be released?
Jennifer: There are 5 total in the "Romancing The Pirate" series. Each story is an adventure for the pirate ship Rissa and her crew. The pirate captains in "Blood And Treasure", "A Kiss In The Wind", and "The Bruised Sky" get more than they bargain for in the lasses they encounter. Sea battles, vicious enemies, and the testy sea aren’t nearly as dangerous as these captains losing their hearts. "In Clash Of The Tides", the pirate captain is a woman who buys her hero off the auction block. The last novel, yet to be titled, is a dual love story between modern day treasure hunters seeking the mystery behind the sunken Rissa and the pirate captain and his heroine on the doomed vessel.
My next novel, "A Kiss In The Wind", is scheduled for release in spring 2012 with Carina Press.
Me: For Fun: What music puts you in a good mood?
Jennifer: Everything from Metallica and Def Leppard to Breaking Benjamin and Shinedown. Yep – I’m a heavy beats and hard rockin’, loud music kind of girl.
Me: What advice do you have for aspiring authors?
Jennifer: Listen to those who speak of hard work, writing the best story you can, perseverance, growing the proverbial thick skin, and finding great critique partners. It’s all great advice. But I’m all about opportunities. Never, EVER let opportunity pass you by. My career has been enriched because I tackled opportunity, put it in a strangle hold, and held it for ransom within an inch of its life.
Me: You recently went to the RWA National Conference in New York City. What do you find is the most helpful about conferences like that?
Jennifer: Networking. There is so much value in attending writing conferences. Workshops, meetings, book signings, awards ceremonies, and parties all provide the opportunity (BUZZ WORD!!) to meet others, learn from industry pros, exchange and absorb knowledge, and forge new friendships.
Me: Do you have a favorite character who you've written, and if so, who is it and why are they are you favorite?
Jennifer: Captain Blade Tyburn of "A Kiss In The Wind". He’s an infamous libertine with devilish good looks, quick wit, and insatiable desire for women. That is, until he meets his match in knife-wielding, pick-pocket Marisol.
Henri, the small (don’t call him a dwarf! ) curmudgeonly cook, runs a very close second. The only thing he fancies more than the little bows in his beard is his rum.
Me: For Fun: What's your favorite Holiday and why?
Jennifer: It’s a tie between Christmas and Halloween. Christmas is magical. Family traditions, good will, twinkling lights, yummy food, festive decorations and lots of parties makes for an enchanting holiday. I like Halloween for many of the same reasons, except Halloween is mischievous. I love mischief. Lots of mischief.
Me: What's something you learned about pirates that you found really fascinating?
Jennifer: Pirates were democratic and lived by codes. Captains were elected by the crew and often split power with the quartermaster. Articles were drawn up by the crew and signed by the crew. These articles were detailed and included rules of behavior, care of weaponry, punishments, treatment of women, and the division of shares.
Me: Do you find that pirate legends are close to the truth or not at all?
Jennifer: All legends are based on some sort of truth. I will say that the "Pirates Of The Caribbean" franchise does depict pirates, shipboard terminology, and pirate superstitions with a lot of elemental authenticity. But just so you know, the Kraken, half-sea-creature-half-man pirates, and giant goddesses are not real. Not sure about zombies, the Flying Dutchman, or man-eating mermaids.
Me: Are you planning to stick with pirates or do you have other series ideas in mind?
Jennifer: In my future I see more pirates, serial killers, Confederate spies, fire-breathing dragons, and a paranormal world built around the 7 virtues and 7 sins. Thankfully, not all in the same book.
Me: Anything else you'd like to add?
Jennifer: Should I tickle your fancy, please visit me at the following places on the World Wide Web.
www.jbrayweber.com.
https://www.facebook.com/jbrayweber
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Jennifer-Bray-Weber-Author/172485736149726
http://twitter.com/@jbrayweber
Thank you, Jennifer Bray-Weber for dropping by! You can get a copy of Blood And Treasure (which is really, really good by the way) on Amazon Kindle and Amazon in Paperback, as well as on Barnes & Noble Nook.
Have A Fantastical Friday!
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