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Interview & Giveaway with Laura Kaye

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome back the wonderful Laura Kaye to the blog.

We always love having Laura on the blog.  Today we are chatting about her newest release West of Want.

 

Can you please share with us a little about yourself

I write paranormal, contemporary and erotic romance and am celebrating the release of my eighth book, West of Want, book 2 in my Greek-mythology-based Hearts of the Anemoi series. I’m also a wife, mom of two young girls (ages 8 and 6), college history professor, Marylander, and total vampire addict.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Yes and no. From the time I knew I was going to be a college history professor, I knew writing and publishing would be a part of my life, and I’ve since published two non-fiction books in history. But it wasn’t until four years ago that I dreamed of being published in fiction. I had a head injury that, once it started to heal, left me with the desire to pursue various creative outlets, writing most specifically.

Are you a plotter or a pantser? And you explain the difference?

I’m a total pantser, that means I write by the seat of my pants. I almost never plot out a story before I write and I don’t write outlines. Plotters, on the other hand, nail down everything about the major plot points, sometimes all the way to the specifics of what happens in particular scenes, before they begin writing.

 What is your most interesting writing quirk?

Hmm…I don’t know if I have any! I’m pretty easy going when it comes to writing. I can write just about anywhere. I don’t need quiet or music or any particular setting. Maybe this: if I write when I’m especially tired my brain apparently stops working without my realizing it, because the next day when I reread what I’ve written, I’ll find all kinds of totally random words. Like, I’ll have meant to write “her” and it’ll say “hope” or something that bears no relationship at all! LOL

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

I’d love to! West of Want is the second book in my Hearts of the Anemoi series which is based on the mythology of the Anemoi, wind gods the Greeks associated with the seasons and the weather. The book tells the story of Zephyros Martius, Supreme God of the West Wind and Spring. Here’s the blurb:

Betrayal is all he’s ever known, but in her, he’ll find a love strong enough to be trusted…

When Marcella Raines’ twin brother dies, she honors his request to be buried at sea, never expecting the violent storm that swamps her boat. Though she’s gravely injured–and still emotionally damaged from her recent divorce–Ella fights to survive.

Zephyros Martius is the Supreme God of the West Wind and Spring, but being the strongest Anemoi hasn’t protected him from betrayal and loss. Worse, he’s sure his brother Eurus is behind it. When Zeph’s heartbreak whips up a storm that shipwrecks a human, his guilt forces him to save her.

Ella is drawn to the vulnerability Zeph hides beneath his otherworldly masculinity and ancient blue eyes. And her honesty, empathy, and unique, calming influence leave Zeph wanting…everything. When Eurus threatens Ella, she and Zeph struggle to let go of the past, defend their future, and embrace what they most want–a love that can be trusted.

How did you come with the idea for this story?

When writing book 1, North of Need, I came upon the mythology of the Anemoi to explain hero Owen’s background as a snow god (he’s the son and destined heir of Boreas, Supreme God of the North Wind and Winter). And that set off the idea for a series, since there were four cardinal Anemoi who were brothers in the mythology. West of Want’s particular story arose from the mythology in that Zephyros was a god that suffered repeated lost love, competition for love, etc.

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?

I’m currently writing the follow-up story to my recent contemporary romance release, Her Forbidden Hero. This new book will tell the story of Brady Scott, brother of the heroine in HFH. It’s tentatively slated for a early fall release.

Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?

Oh, man, it’s hard to pick just one! And either of the two who come immediately to mind would probably make me quake in my boots (I’m such a freaking introvert when it comes to meeting strangers…). It would be a tie between Stephen King, who has been my life-long favorite author, and J.R. Ward, who is my current favorite author. I got to see Ward up close at April’s Romantic Times Convention when I landed second row seats in her No Holds Barred Q&A session! That was awesome!

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?

Write, write, write. Keep writing. Keep practicing. Keep improving your craft. Because you can’t revise or sell what you haven’t written. And just because the first book doesn’t sell (true for a lot of authors) doesn’t mean the next one won’t. The number one quality an author needs is perseverance!

Can you share with us something off your bucket list.

Ooh! Let’s see…I would love to live in London. Or travel to Russia. Or see the Northern Lights. All on the bucket list for sure!

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

I still haven’t read Tohr’s book, Lover Reborn! Partly that’s because I keep telling myself I have to wait until I get the current project done, but then I have to dive right into the next thing so I haven’t had time. And partly that’s because I know the Black Dagger Brotherhood series is starting to wind down, and I just don’t want it to end!

What is one book everyone should read before they die?

Maybe Mitch Albom’s Tuesdays with Morrie or Randy Pausch’s The Last Lecture. I really appreciated their views on important life lessons learned.

What is your favorite time of year & why?

I love the summer. You can be outdoors, you don’t have to wear layers, there are always festivals and carnivals to attend, and it’s just the time of year I anticipate for the rest of the time!

Who is your Celebrity crush?  And what would you do if you ever meet them?

Oh, gawd. For a long time it was *mumbles* (Robert Pattinson). And, I don’t know what I’d do if I met him, especially since I know how overwhelmed he is by all the fan love. I think my bigger celeb crush is probably Alex O’Loughlin, and I’ve heard he’s very open to meeting fans, so I’d totally ask for a hug and a picture! LOL

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Just thank you thank you to all the readers for giving my books a try and bringing my characters to life! I couldn’t do what I love without you! And thanks to Books-n-Kisses for hosting me again!

Oh, and GIVEAWAY!: All right, fess up! Who is YOUR celebrity crush? One commenter who leaves their email address will win a West of Want ebook and swag pack! Open to international! Good luck!

Don’t miss the West of Want in the Wild (thru 8/24) giveaway event, too!

 

Buy Laura’s Books

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Praise for West of Want:

“Laura Kaye’s captivating writing and vibrant world-building will have readers hooked on the gods of the Anemoi. WEST OF WANT is steamy, spellbinding, and a must-read for all romance fantasy fans.” ~Elisabeth Naughton, author of the Eternal Guardians series

“Sexy, emotional stories, powerful, evocative writing, a vivid and unique vision, and enough magic and mysticism to keep the most demanding reader satisfied, Laura Kaye delivers it all.  I love this series!”  ~Maggie Shayne, NY Times Bestselling Author

 

About Laura Kaye:

Voted Breakout Author of the Year in the 2011 GraveTells Readers’ Choice Awards, Laura is the bestselling and award-winning author of over a half-dozen books in paranormal, contemporary and erotic romance. Growing up, Laura’s large extended family believed in the supernatural, and family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses cemented in Laura a life-long fascination with all things paranormal. A published non-fiction author, Laura’s work as an historian and training as an archaeologist help her create vivid and accurate portrayals of other times and places. She lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

 

98 Replies to “Interview & Giveaway with Laura Kaye”

  1. I can’t decide if it’ll be Patrick Dempsey or Alex O’Loughlin. I think Alex’s accent makes him sexier 🙂

    Reply

  2. If I had to pick someone, it would be Christopher Helmsworth. I have loved him since first seeing in the new version of Star Trek. And watching him in Thor and The Avengers–*fanning self*–whooo buddy! I would probably embarrass myself, him and his wife if I ever saw him in person. (But what a memory it would make. Especially if he caught me as I fell. :})

    neald22@gmail.com

    Reply

  4. hmm – the Rock from an eye candy perspective – Alex O Laughlin for the accent – hmm and Joe M from True Blood 🙂

    Yum

    Kerryjcj AT verizon DOT net

    Reply

  7. Well, I adore, lust over David Gandy. He’s a model. Actors: Gerard butler, Mel Gibson, Jonathan Rhys Myers, Clive Owen……. It’s the eyes all in the eyes!!

    Reply

  11. Oooh tough question….Johnny Depp, Jason Momoa from Game of Thrones, Joe M from TrueBlood…I’m sure there’s a few more but those are the first three off the top of my head.

    Reply

  13. I’d have to say Manu Bennett, Dustin Clare, or Alex O’Laughlin. I love, love, love their accents.They’re not bad to look at either.

    e.balinski(at)att(dot)net

    Reply

  14. Oh yes, Laura! Alex O’Loughlin is mighty fine! Promise me that you’ll drag me with you if you ever get the chance to meet him!

    Reply

  15. Gerard Butler, Brendan Fraiser, Jason Mamosa.. Though Robert Downey Jr is looking hot these days..

    Reply

  17. My crush is joe manganiello from true blood. He is gorgeous and has a gorgeous body. Could think of lots of stuff to do to his abs like…oops sorry.
    Great interview. Love finding out about great authors. Love north of need, but my favorite was forever freed. Keep on writing the great books. Thanks for the great giveaway.
    Christinebails@yahoo.com

    Reply

  19. Your books are great and the covers are awesome. My hubby once got mad at me at a party because he heard me talking with a bunch of other women about hot celebs and I said “I would not kick him out of bed!” when someone mentioned Bon Jovi. So I guess he would be mine. LOL

    Reply

  20. Fun interview! I have a huge celebrity “crush” list – but the man at the top right now is Michael Fassbender, followed by Chris Hemsworth…..*sigh*. Thanks for the great giveaway!

    Reply

  23. My celebrity crush is Matt Smith from Doctor Who or Benedict Ciumberbatch from SHERLOCK!! You can’t make me choose which one 😀 It’d be a crime for me to choose just one :d lol I’m a big fan of Laura’s books thanks for the interview and gveaway 🙂

    amieesnow(at)gmail(dot)com

    Reply

  24. Love the interview. My celebrity crush is Gerard Butler. Don’t hear much about him in the tabloids, but his works says wonders. Have been following his career for a long time.

    I so want to get this series, just haven’t had the time, but will be soon.

    Thanks for the giveway,

    Elizabeth Gray
    elizabethgr@sbcglobal.net

    Reply

  31. I think that my first celebrity crush was Sean Connery next was Mel Gibson in Braveheart.

    malgorzata(dot)rejkowicz83(at)gmail(dot)com

    Reply

  32. I have a couple. Definitely Chris Hemsworth. I also really like Chris Pine. There’s way too many to name. I also watch a lot of South Korean shows and love Cha Seung Won.

    Reply

  34. I think I have to go with George Clooney…..he seems to just get better and better with age, yum!!!
    Love your books, just finished “Seduced by the Vampire King” and it was soooo very good. Loved book 1, but book 2 is my favorite….hope there is more to come!
    Thanks for the giveaway and interview!

    Reply

    1. CLOONEY! Yes, yes! 🙂

      Yay! So glad you enjoyed my vampires! My first supernatural loves! 🙂 There will be at least two more in that series, Crystal! Thanks so much!

      Reply

  37. My crush is Orlando Bloom. I don’t know what I’d do with him, but I’d sure like to give it a try.
    I loved his long blond hair in Lord of the Rings, he was just awesome in that role. Loved him in Troy. Don’t get me started with Pirates of the Caribbean. Just totally awesome in those movies.
    He’s just so lickable. =^..^=

    I “liked” Laura’s amazon page, I’m number 211.

    Reply

  45. Hi Laura,
    thank you for the chance at such a great giveaway. i love this series. my long standing crush is Sam Elliot (that voice of his gets me every time). of course there is my current(last few years) crush Hugh Jackman. i think it is the voice and all the sexiness combined together that just makes them swoon worthy. LOL!

    tammy ramey
    trvlagnt1t@yahoo.com

    Reply

  47. Hugh Jackman though I admit when I 1st watched The Sound of Music I absolutely adored Christopher Plummer….He’s still a most distinguished looking gentleman.

    Reply

  48. i am tottaly in love with CHRIS HEMSWORTH…
    when i read romance books…i always imagine chris as the hero…look at his muscles and his smiles….i am melting just for thinking about chris hemsworth ;p

    thx u for the chance of win…

    -nurma-

    Reply

  49. I guess my biggest celebrity crush would be Hugh Jackman. I have thought he was hot since I first saw him. But I also really like the guy that play Jax on Sons of Anarchy (Charlie Hunnam).

    Reply

  53. You guys! I’m really enjoying all your celebrity crushes! Especially love all the crushing on Hugh Jackman, my inspiration for Zephyros! 🙂 Good luck and thanks so much!

    Reply

  54. So my celebrity crush is Johnny Depp. I know, I know not very original but I’ve had a crush on him since Sleepy Hollow came out when I was 11/12 years old and I was the only one that thought he was hot. Everyone else thought he was “gross” because he was old (remember we were 11/12 years old lol).

    Thanks for the giveaway!

    whitewolfreads AT gmail DOT com

    Reply

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