Category: Interviews

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My Daring interview with Reyes Farrow

Books-n-Kisses, is pleased to welcome Reyes Farrow to the blog today.  Today we are going to be doing something a little different.  We are, well Reyes has to take a test.  Yes, I am putting my neck on the line for you all to see just how well Reyes knows the Charley.  So without further ado, I begin.
Art work by PickyMe
Kelly:  Hi Reyes
Reyes: *nods head*
Kelly:  Ummm, I get the feeling you don’t really want to be here?
Reyes: You’re very perceptive.
Kelly:  What do you say we talk about your favorite thing Charley?
Reyes: . . .
Kelly: Uuummm, Okay, here we go…..
Q1) Charley’s favorite drink:
Reyes: *Sighing* I wouldn’t know, but I’m sure it’s loaded with caffeine.
Q2) Charley’s favorite piece of clothing:
Reyes: Easy. Blue Oyster Cult Reaper shirt.
Q3) Charley’s best friend
Reyes: Cookie.
Q4) Charley’s favorite hobby?
Reyes: Getting her ass in a sling.
Q5) Is Charley a good kisser?
Reyes: *a sinister smile emerges*
Q6) Why is Charley so pissed at you right now?
Reyes:  When is she not pissed at me?
Q7) Uuummm, What are you going to do to make it up to her? I would like details, please.
Reyes: *Raises eyebrows* Brave, aren’t you? I’d start by getting on bended knee in front of her. Then I’d grab her and turn her over my knee. You don’t get to hear the rest.
Q8) Charley’s idea of a perfect date.
Reyes: I’m not sure Charley’s ever been on a normal date. But if I had to guess, target practice with live objects, maybe?
Q9) What would Charley tell us about you that you won’t want her to share?
Reyes: Nothing if she values her Jeep.
Q10) Is there anything else you would like to share about Charley that we don’t already know?
Reyes: I always know the color of underwear she’s wearing. I like her underwear. Today they say, “bite me.” I’m planning on it. *leans forward* I’ll enjoy it, too.
Kelly:  Thank you Reyes for sitting down and doing this “How well do you know Charley quiz”. I will be turning over this quiz to be graded by Darynda.
Reyes: I scare her, you know.
Kelly: Hey D~ Thanks for stopping by and checking out Reyes’ answers.  So how did he do?
Darynda: He did pretty well. And, no, I’m not scared of him.
Reyes: *stares . . . a really long time*
Darynda: Okay, maybe a little. You know, I can write anything I want about you and it doesn’t have to be all sexy and smoldering. I can write mean stuff.
Reyes: You think I’m smoldering?
Darynda: Pfft. No.
Reyes: *stares . . . a really long time*
Darynda: Okay, maybe a little.
Reyes: *smug grin* Here to promote your book, writer lady?
US Cover
Darynda: Yes, actually, I do have a new book out. Third Grave Dead Ahead came out yesterday. Would you like to read it?
Reyes: *furrows his brows at Darynda before condensing into a dark, shrouded mist, flinging himself in her direction and whispers in her ear* Who do you think was peeking over your shoulder while you wrote it?
Darynda: *inhales sharply* That’s . . . good to know. *looking around* Wait, where did he go? Did you see where he went, Kelly? Do you think he’s gone?
Kelly: Wh-what?
Darynda: Reyes. Where do you think he went?
Kelly: I-I’m not really—

Darynda: I think I wet myself a little. *glances at Kelly* Great job with that test, by the way. I’m a little surprised you’re still alive, but super glad about it. Reyes’ answers were almost wordy. I’m impressed. I only get yes or no answers from him myself. But I also feel the need to apologize. If Reyes was rude or scared you. . .
Kelly: No, I’m good. I’m always this pale.

Darynda: That whole son-of-Satan thing doesn’t exactly make him user friendly. So, again, sorry. Also, I want to say thank you. I appreciate the opportunity to be here with you and your readers. I am always so honored when I’m asked to guest on your blog and share a bit of my world with your readers. As you can see, it can sometimes be a bit harrowing, but well worth it. Hope your readers agree.


Kelly:  I think since I survived this interview I say we give away a prize.  What do you think D? 


Darynda:  Sounds good to me.

Giveaway time: 
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Interview & Giveaway with Morgan Kearns

Books-n-Kisses pleased to welcome Morgan Kearns to the blog today.  We are so excited to share Morgan’s new release Heart Ache.

Morgan Kearns survived the intense and ever-changing insanity of television news for nearly 10 years before retiring to enter the jungle of raising four children. She writes novels that are ‘a real page turner’ and ‘couldn’t put the book down’ reads. She does an ‘amazing job bringing her characters to life’. 


Morgan loves to meet new characters as they step out of her imagination, introduce themselves and keep her up all night telling their stories. Morgan lives in Northern Arizona with her wonderfully supportive husband and her four great kids—and her bulldog, Gus.
Books-n-Kisses:  Hi Morgan, Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to sit down and talk with me about you and your new release Heart Ache.
Morgan: Thank YOU! I’m totally stoked to be here.
BnK: Can I get you anything before we get started?  Coffee, Soda, Cookie?
Morgan: I’m good, thanks.
Q1) Can you please tell my followers a little more about yourself
Morgan: I’m a mom, a wife, a friend. I love to laugh and you can assure yourself that every Morgan Kearns novel will end with a Happily-Ever-After. Although, you may doubt that until the very end. *wink*
Q2) Who do you feel has influenced your writing style?
Morgan: I’m not sure I could say. I can tell you the names of some of my favorite authors: JR Ward, Lynsay Sands, Lara Adrian, Christina Dodd, Tina Folsom, and a few of my Arizona Dreamin’ pals; Kris Tualla and Deena Remiel. You want great stories with fabulous characters? Check them out!
Q3) What is your most interesting writing quirk?
Morgan: I need music to write. I have playlists on my iPod for different scenes I’m writing; love songs, break up songs, intense songs (lots of Linkin Park in that one!). But when it comes to editing, I need it dead quiet. Any kind of noise whatsoever breaks my concentration and I’m done. The fam hates it when I edit. LOL!
Q4) What would you say is the most challenging thing for you about writing?
Morgan: Finding time. I have four kids (ages 11-5) and sometimes it’s literally a matter of taking the laptop and escaping in order to meet deadlines.

Q5) Can you tell us what inspired you to write Heart Ache?

Morgan: I read a lot of paranormal romance. The male always finds his female and then ignores the signals screaming that she’s his. Stupid males! Well, I wanted a world, a signal that could NOT be denied. Fight it? Sure, he can do that all he wants. But he can’t deny she’s his!
In my world, upon maturation (at around 30), the male’s heart stops beating. When he touches his female for the first time it starts beating again. No denying it. It’s usually a holy sh!t moment for the male. It took Nikolai 400 years for his heart to find Gabby, but knowing she’s the one, doesn’t make having her easy.
Q6)  Please describe Heart Ache for us in 140 characters or less
Morgan : One Touch. One Beat. Captures His Heart Forever.
Q7) Can you tell us what is up next for you (current WIP)?
Morgan : For those of you who have read IN IT TO WIN IT, I’m writing Xavier’s story. For those of you who haven’t read it, Xavier is the left fielder for the Vegas  Rockets. In WIN he was a rookie. It’s years later and after a successful career, he’s returned to finish it in Rockets blue. Xavier has baggage. Lots of baggage. He’s a player on and off the field. But it’s not only an injury that comes OUT OF LEFT FIELD and changes life as he knows it.
Keep an eye out for Xavier’s story in May 2012.
Q8)  I always like to know what authors are reading or upcoming release you are looking forward to most.
Morgan: The novel of the year for me is JR Ward’s Lover Reborn. I’m a Cellie and cannot wait! My favorite color is amethyst. *wink*
Q9) What do you do when you are not writing?
Morgan: Climb mountains … of laundry. LOL! Seriously, if I have free time, I like to read. I enjoy taking a few minutes every day to hit the treadmill (my iPod and Kindle come with me). I work with the Cub Scouts and that’s always a riot and a half!  
Books-n-Kisses:  Morgan, It was so great to have you here.  I hope my followers enjoyed learning a little more about you.  What do you say we do a giveaway?
Morgan: Abso-frickin’-lutely! I’d like to offer one lucky person a free digital copy of HEART ACHE. Be sure to check out my blog for a chance at a “Touch Me” t-shirt, inspired by the series!  Click on link to take you over to my page to enter. http://authormorgankearns.blogspot.com/2012/01/have-you-read-heart-ache.html
GIVEAWAY TIME!!!!!!!
To enter for a chance to win an e-copy of Heart Ache please use the Rafflecopter form below.



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Interview with Linda Kage

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Linda Kaye to the blog today.  We are looking forward to learning a little more about Linda and her books The Right To Remain Mine (release date Feb 2012) & The Best Mistake (release date March 2012)
Linda:  Hi!  Thank you so much for letting stop by and chat with you guys.  If I start talking on too long, just take my mike away.  I’ll get the point!!

Q1) Please tell us a little about yourself
Linda : The youngest of eight kids, I was raised a good little protestant girl in southeast Kansas by poor dairy farmers. I married a cop (though he wasn’t one when I met him) at twenty-one, and we waited nine years to start our family.  Next month, our little girl who is so cute she’s a little too spoiled for her own good will turn two. Aside from writing contemporary YA and adult romance, I work as the acquisitions assistant in an academic library.  Yeah, I’m PAID to buy books all day long.  Cool, huh? Now if only I could buy all the romance stories I’d like to instead of medical and math books, I’d be in heaven!

Q2)  Tell us a typical writing day for you
Linda : No day is typical for me. With a full time job and a toddler and husband, I pretty much squeeze in writing when people are asleep, or not looking.

Q3) Have you always wanted to be an author or what made you become an author?
Linda: I have wanted to be an author since first grade. I read a poem that Mrs. Coltrane praised as if Shakespeare himself had penned it. From that point on, no one could convince me I wasn’t going to be writer. I guess that’s what you get when you have amazing teachers who encourage you and make you think you’re actually good at something!!

Q4) Tell us a little about your book The Best Mistake
Linda: I had a blast writing this humorous romance novella. I hope the fun stuff comes through to its readers. Deri Crandall feels like one big mistake.  An oops since birth, she never does anything right in the eyes of her family.  And here, all she wants from them is love and acceptance. Thinking she’ll finally get just that if she does what they tell her to and infiltrates their competitor’s company to steal all of Cole Harrety’s business secrets, she agrees…even though she plans to steal nothing from no one.  Saying yes to them is probably the biggest mistake she’s ever made, but sometimes a woman’s biggest mistake can turn out to be the best thing to ever happen to her.  She never imagined all the love and acceptance she craves will come from the one man she’s supposed to deceive.

Q5)  Tell us a little about The Right to Remain Mine
Linda: This is a full-length romance story with a dash of suspense; you don’t find out who the bad guy is until the very end. If you like reading about a hero and heroine who argue from the get-go until they argue themselves right into bed with each other, this is the story for you!!  Sheriff deputy, Raith Malloy hates lawyers.  And lawyer Willow DeVane abhors rude, overbearing alpha men.  But when they get together, boy, does the chemistry flow. After she’s physically attacked by a client, Raith needles his way into giving her self-defense training. But that only ends with them in bed together.  When their heated relationship grows rocky, they’re forced to put aside their difference after outside influences like a stalker breaking into Willow’s house bring them back together.  I wanted to bash Willow and Raith’s stubborn heads together more than once while I was writing their story. They aggravate as much as they kiss and make up.

Q6) How did you come up with the idea for these stories?
Linda: My idea for THE BEST MISTAKE came to me at work.  I stock the paper on the shelves in the supply closet.  One day, while I worried about how much it’d hurt if I overstocked the shelves and they collapsed on top of me, I came up for the beginning scene in the story.  The rest developed over time.   I can’t remember how THE RIGHT TO REMAIN MINE came about. I think I liked the idea of pairing up a lawyer with a cop and having them bicker at each other non-stop, in effect making their chemistry intense to the point of scalding hot!!

Q7)  What is your current work in progress?
Linda: I’m always working on about half a dozen or more stories.  Right now, I’m scratching out a YA about a mute girl and a boy whose parents recently divorced. I like to call this one SILENT, but who knows how long that title will stick. Then there’s a sweet adult romance I’m working on about an ex-drug addict who meets his teen daughter.  I’ve currently titled it ADDICTED TO ANSLEY.  I’ve stalled out on a prequel for my first adult romance, The Trouble with Tomboys.  This one is called FARM BOYS HAVE ALL THE FUN, but I’m stuck at a difficult part right now.  Then there is THE NEIGHBOR WARS about a woman whose children from the future come visit her. I’ve stalled out on that one too. There’s more, but I won’t bore you with them.

Q8) Who are some of your favorite authors?
Linda: Oh, goody.  One of my favorite lists to make.  Let’s see. Favorite authors. Catherine Anderson, Cherry Adair, Lara Adrian, Claire Ashgrove, Sandra Brown, Suzanne Brockmann, Marie Rose Dufour, Suzanne Enoch, Julie Garwood, Laura Lee Gurhke, Linda Howard, Elizabeth Hoyt, Larissa Ione, Tara Janzen, Sabrina Jeffries, Gennita Low, Eve Langlais, Lisa Kleypas, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Julie Quinn, Karen Robards, Annie Solomon, Anne Stuart, Gena Showalter, Katherine Sutcliffe, J. R. Ward, Kathleen E. Woodiwiss.

Q9) Have to ask because I am nosey.  What is in your to be read pile that you are dying to read next?
Linda: Right now, I simply CANNOT wait until July to read Elizabeth Hoyt’s Thief of Shadows.  I hate it (but honestly really LOVE it) when they supply an excerpt for the next book in the series at the end of the story, because then I want to start on that story…IMMEDIATELY. And I totally want to start on Thief of Shadows, like yesterday! 

Q10) Is there anything else you would to add?
Linda: Thanks so much for letting me talk on and on.  I love talking about books, not just my own. So if anyone wants to get a hold of me and recommend a great story they just read, I always love adding new fav authors to my list.

Books-n-Kisses: Linda, thank you for taking the time to stop by the blog today to chat about yourself and your books.  
Linda: Here are my LINKS if anyone is curious!
WEBSITE – http://www.lindakage.com/
BLOG – http://lindakage.blogspot.com/
FACEBOOK – http://www.facebook.com/linda.kage
TWITTER – http://twitter.com/lindakage
YOUTUBE – http://www.youtube.com/user/LindaKage
GOODREADS – http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3213942.Linda_Kage
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Interview with Clarissa Yip


Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Clarissa Yip to the blog today. We are going to be talking about her books One Chance, Silent Night Seduction and Tempting a Prince  
Clarissa: I’m so excited to be here! And it’s Monday! (I hate Mondays. Lol. Shhhhh.)

Q1) Can you tell us a little about yourself?
Clarissa: Well, I write contemporary romance. I live off of cupcakes and coffee. Have a Maltese, who thinks I’m his pet toy, and I’m usually hiding in my cave…

Q2) Have you always wanted to be an author?
Clarissa: No. Truthfully. I never really thought about it. I wrote because I loved it since I was a kid. You’d never find me without a journal or something to read. It wasn’t until I’ve decided to make a life change that I started to take my writing more seriously. Now five years later, I have ten published works, two print books, and a few other projects in the making. Time flies.

Q3) Who are some of your favorite writers? Who do you feel has influenced your writing?
Clarissa: The list could go forever! Lol. I love J.R. Ward, Julie Garwood, Judith McNaught, and there are too many to name. I think the people who have most influenced my writing are my critique partners at Passionate Critters. They’ve taught me so much and have helped me made the writer I am.

Q4) Can you tell us what a typical writing day for you is like. 
Clarissa: Now that is a tough question. Usually I’m editing until my eyes won’t stay open. I can only write when the house is quiet and everyone is asleep normally. My one CP says I must be a vampire. Lol. When I wake up in the mornings, I’m actually hunched over the computer, going through emails and figuring what I need to do for the day. I’m really not a morning person at all…

Let’s talk about your books
 Q5) Can you tell us a little about One Chance?
Clarissa: One Chance is a best friends romance. Jenna has been in love with Cade forever and she doesn’t find the courage to face him until she realizes that she’s going to lose him to another woman. I love seeing two people who are meant to be together finally hook up.

Q6) Can you tell us a little about Silent Night’s Seduction?
Clarissa: Silent Night’s Seduction is about Lily McCormick who is kidnapped and put on a plane to Alaska for a one-night stand with a mystery date. But that date turns out to be her ex-husband. She’s definitely a fiery chick, and seeing her ex once again only brings up the wrong that they’ve endured. I love their passion and seeing them find a second chance at love.

Q7) Can you tell us a little about Tempting a Prince?
Clarissa: Tempting a Prince is one of my favorites. Sarah is determined to get over her childhood crush and best friend’s brother, Evan, who has never noticed her. She’s ready to find Prince Charming. Only her date ends up being Evan…dum dum dum dummmmm…lol. You’ll have to find out what happens there in Vegas…

Q8) What is up next for you?
Clarissa: I’m actually finalizing edits for my new release coming in February, called True Connections. It’s part of Entangled Publishing’s new line, Ever Afters, and my story will be part of their Valentine’s Anthology. I’m very excited!
Here’s a sneak peak:
Blurb:
Scarred from a horrible relationship, proud and stubborn Lia McEvers returns home to open a matchmaking business in her old hometown, except her nemesis is still constantly annoying her…just by breathing. When their grandmothers involve her in a plan to help Max find a date for the Valentine’s party, Lia comes up with a few schemes of her own…that may just land her in a hot mess.
Successful tycoon Max Sheraton loves to take gambles, except when it comes to his grandmothers and Lia McEvil. Forced to sign up as a candidate at True Connections, he makes a pact to work with his enemy to appease their family, but he never saw trouble coming… 
Hidden desires unleash, and they find themselves in their grandmother’s matchmaking plans. When games turn serious, can Lia pay the stakes or run once again before Max can show her what he can offer?
Q9) What is the next book on your To Read Pile that you are dying to jump into?
Clarissa: Actually, I just picked up Catherine Mann’s Cover Me, and a few of Lora Leigh’s books. It’s been so long since I’ve had the time to pleasure read!

Q10) Is there anything else you would like to add?
Clarissa: Please stop by and visit me at http://clarissayip.com. I can be found on Twitter and Facebook. Don’t be shy! Drop me a note! Let me know what you are reading! I’m always looking for new reads.

Books-n-Kisses: Clarissa, again thank you so very much for making Books-n-Kisses a stop on your book tour.  I have enjoyed learning more about you and your book.  I look forward to reading and see what you come up with next.
Clarissa: Thank you so much for having me! It’s truly wonderful here! 
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Interview with Carrie Ann Ryan


Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Carrie Ann Ryan to the blog today. We are going to be talking about her book An Alpha’s Path.  

Carrie Ann Ryan is a paranormal and contemporary romance author. Her first book, An Alpha’s Path, is the first book in her Redwood Pack series. She’s also an avid reader and lover of romance and fiction novels. She love meeting new authors and new worlds. Any recommendations you have are appreciated. Carrie Ann lives in New England with her husband and two kittens.
Carrie Ann loves hearing from readers. You can find her at:
Twitter: @CarrieAnnRyan

Carrie Ann: Thank you so much for having me here today!

Q1) Can you tell us a little about yourself?
Carrie Ann: There isn’t much to tell. I’m a twenty-something chemistry instructor by day and a romance writer by night. I live in New England with my husband and write because I love to read romance so much.

Q2) Have you always wanted to be an author?
Carrie Ann: Not really. I’ve always loved to read and have written in one form of another all my life, but it wasn’t until recently that I decided to write. And oh, how happy I am that I did.

Q3) Who are some of your favorite writers? Who do you feel has influenced your writing?
Carrie Ann: I have so many, but Rebecca Royce, Yasmine Galenorn, and Lauren Dane are the three that come to mind. They write tight and beautifully. Love them.

Q4) Can you tell us what a typical writing day for you is like. 
Carrie Ann:  I usually work all day at the other job, come home make dinner and hang with the hubby. Then I sit at my laptop on our couch and write or edit for a couple hours. Days off, I usually read instead of work, then write. It works for me. J
Q5) Can you tell us a little about An Alpha’s Path?
Carrie Ann: An Alpha’s Path is about finding your soul mate and then realizing there are paranormal strings attached. What would you do? 
Here’s the blurb:
Melanie is a twenty-five year old chemist who has spent all of her adult life slaving at school. With her PhD in hand, she’s to start her dream job, but before she does, her friend persuades her to relax and try to live again. A blind date set up through her friends seems like the perfect solution. Melanie can take one night away from the lab and let her inner vixen out on a fixed blind date – a chance to get crazy with a perfect stranger. The gorgeous hunk she’s to meet exceeds her wildest dreams – but he is more than what he appears and Melanie’s analytical mind goes into overdrive.
          Kade, a slightly older werewolf (at over one hundred years), needs a night way from the Pack. Too many responsibilities and one near miss with a potential mate made Kade hide in his work, the only peace he can find. His brother convinces him to meet the sexy woman for a one night of fun. What could it hurt? But when he finds this woman could be his mate, can he convince her to leave her orderly, sane world and be with him and his wolf-half, for life?
Q6) What is up next for you?
Carrie Ann: So much! J An Alpha’s Path is the novella that kicks off the Redwood Pack series – in which the rest are full length novels. Book 2 in the series, A Taste for a Mate, comes out in February and is Jasper’s book. I’m also working on Book 2 in the series, Trinity Bound.

Q7) What is the next book on your To Read Pile that you are dying to jump into?
Carrie Ann: My TBR pile is so large – so I will just talk about the ones actually out – and next on my list is NightShine by Lynn Viell. J

Q8) Is there anything else you would like to add?
Carrie Ann: Not much – other than thanks for having me!

Books-n-Kisses: Carrie Ann, again thank you so very much for making Books-n-Kisses a stop on your book tour.  I have enjoyed learning more about you and your book.  I look forward to reading and see what you come up with next.
Carrie Ann: Thank you so much for taking your time with me. This is my first released work and something that I’m proud of. I know it’s not perfect – but it’s perfect for me. I’ve learned so much and I can’t wait to write some more!
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Interview & Giveaway with Matt Taylor

I had the great pleasure of sitting down with Matt Taylor form Liz Borino’s Taylor Twin Series.  
Here is a look at what Matt & I talked about. 


Kelly : HI Matt!!!
Matt   Hi Kelly! How are you on this glorious day?         

Kelly :  I am good now that I am talking to you.. How are you doing?
Matt: I’m mostly well, thank you. It’s a beautiful Saturday in July and my baby is down for her nap after spending the afternoon at my brother’s
What more can I ask for?

Kelly: How is being a daddy?
Matt: Oh, I love it. She’s incredible. I’m even to the point that I don’t miss the sleep.
Alright, that’s a lie, but it is worth it.

Kelly:  hehehe… Yes, lack of sleep goes hand and hand with a baby.
Matt: I’ve heard that. Not everyone is as lucky as my twin, Chris. Do you know his daughter sleeps until 9AM most days?
I haven’t slept that late since college.

Kelly :  That is amazing!!  Truly.
Did you ever think that you and Chris would be having kids at the same time?
Matt: Actually, I never really thought I’d have them.

Kelly : Are you worried about being a good daddy?
Matt:  Every day of my life, but I can’t seem to find the manual and Dorothea is still alive.
And she’s generally very happy.

Kelly :    I am sure she is a great kid-o I would love to meet her when she wakes up.
Matt: Sure.
Carley is gone…somewhere

Kelly :  Speaking of Carley.  How are things going with you two?
Matt: Oh well there’s my headache. I thought I’d get through an entire conversation without it.
I’m sorry.

Kelly :  *raises eyebrow*  I thought you had told everyone your headaches where better.  Can I get you anything?
Matt: I really am trying and I guess life is hard on her.
No, thank you. I’ll take some more Immitrex. Maybe the fourth dose will have an effect.
I tell people they’re better because life tends to be easier that way.

Kelly:  4 doses… Matt is that safe?
Matt: Hey, weren’t we talking about Carley?

Kelly:  Way to avoid the topic Matt.. Okay back to Carley. How has she been since having Dorothea?
Matt: You know how she was before Dorothea was born?

Kelly:  Yeah
Matt:  Worse,  And now, get this, she’s friends with Sarah.

Kelly:  OH, well… ummm I am sorry… *leans in to give Matt a hug*
Matt: *hugs back*  I’m fine. I have to keep it together for Dorothea.

Kelly:  looks around So is she not happy cause you are in here talking to me?
Matt:  Carley? She thinks I have a client meeting

Kelly :  Oh.  Why didn’t you tell her I was interviewing you?
Matt: Because you appear to be a woman. And I don’t want to hear it from her

Kelly :  Last time I looked I was.  *smartass grin* and I totally understand.
Matt: Thank you for understanding.
So, business is good and so is parenthood. Can’t expect a perfect partner as well

Kelly: You should expect a perfect partner, Matt.  Have you thought about having her talk to someone?
Matt:  I would love that, if only so she wasn’t talking to me for an hour. I’m sorry that’s terrible. She refuses to talk to anyone professional.
Oh, aside from Sarah, who was trained by the Catholic Church. Isn’t that helpful?

Kelly:  I don’t like this Sarah chick.. If Carley won’t talk to someone else I am not sure what to say.
Matt: Welcome to my world.

Kelly :    I am so sorry Matt.
Matt:  Thanks, I’ll be fine. Like I said, it was a great day anyway.

Kelly :  It looks like our time is drawing to an end.  But I have a few more questions for you.
Matt: Go ahead. You tell me how much time you need. I’ll make it work

Kelly:  So I really want to know how you feel about Liz telling your story?
Matt: I like it. When she doesn’t do it properly we stop talking to her until she figures out what she did wrong.
She calls it writers block. I call it not listening properly

Kelly:  hehehe… That is a great way of putting it.
Matt: Thank you for taking my side. Most women band together and pull the estrogen card.

Kelly:  Oh I love to torture authors…
So, I have to ask… Who was the other lady talking to Chris when I got here?
Matt:   That would be his, or more accurately, our ex girlfriend, Ally.
If any readers want to know more about that, I’ll have Liz send them the short story.

Kelly: Our? Oh wait I think I heard a little something about that story..  HEHEHE… the readers will love that..
Matt:  But warn your readers it’s pretty racy.
I hope so. I missed her, but I don’t know if I can let on….I don’t think Carley will be happy.

Kelly:  I am sure Carley would not.. But I do have to say Ally is very beautiful.
Matt:  That she is. She always has been.
I’m looking forward to finding out what’s been going on with her the last few years.

Kelly:  Well it looks like she fits in really well.
What do you say we go meet her and then you can introduce me to your daughter.
Matt:  That will get me in trouble, but I’d love for you to meet Dorothea.
Thanks for the interview. You’re very talented at it.

Kelly:   hehehe… Okay, let’s go meet Dot.  Oh and Matt, Thank you so much for talking with me. And I promise things will get better for you.  Soon
Matt: Thank you. I’ll try to believe you. Have a great day.
*
Walks out of the room to go meet Matt’s beautiful little girl and hope to get to chat with this Ally girl*

If you would like to see what Matt meant by ‘OUR ex-girlfriend’ please leave Liz a quick comment or question along with your email address (use the (AT) not @ and (DOT) not |.| we don’t want spammers) and Liz will send you a short story of how this ‘OUR ex’ happened.


EXPECTATIONS
Book 1  
depicts the struggle between what we desire for
ourselves and our familial obligations. The struggle is personified by Chris and Matt Taylor, identical twins, who are trying to win their overbearing father’s approval and acquire their trust funds. Love, money, and desire collide as Matt and Chris decide what’s really important to them.


Order Here 




What Money Can’t Buy
Book 2
The sequel to Expectations, finds the two couples, Chris and Aiden and Matt and Carley, eagerly anticipating parenthood. However, their personal struggles continue. Though Matt overcame his dependency on alcohol, new temptations present themselves. And with Carley on bed rest, these temptations put a greater strain on their relationship. Chris continues to deal with issues regarding his father. These issues increase with greater proximity. When tragedy strikes, the best and worst in everyone is revealed. Can they stick together, or will their reactions tear them apart?

Order HERE

Gift’s from the Past
Book 3
coming soon 1/25/12
Following Expectations and What Money Can’t Buy, the third novel in the Taylor Twins series, Gifts from the Past, finds the twins, Chris and Matt Taylor, immersed in the greatest challenges of their lives—parenthood. Chris and Aiden are raising their adopted daughter and their special needs son, who struggles with physical and emotional challenges daily. Matt, on the other hand, has a beautiful and happy baby girl. However, his fiancée, Carley, has gone from overemotional to abusive and Matt needs to decide his best course of action. When Ally, Chris’s college girlfriend, comes back into the twins’ lives, everything becomes complicated. Especially for Matt.
Gifts from the Past is a novel redefining love, family, loyalty, and ultimately survival

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Interview & Giveaway with Sarah Ballance


Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Sarah Ballance to the blog today.  We are looking forward to learning a little more about Sarah and her book Familiar Light
Sarah: Hi, and thanks for having me!

Q1) Please tell us a little about yourself
Sarah: I’m a stay-at-home, homeschooling mom of six kids ages 19 months to 13 years. That aside (ha!), I’m a full time author and have been happily married for what my husbands refers to as a “long, long time.” We live near the coast and absolutely love boating, although I live in constant fear one of the kids will fall overboard. (They wear life jackets, but I’m still scared!)

Q2)  Tell us a typical writing day for you
Sarah: I work on “admin” stuff until about ten most mornings. This includes preparing and loading material for my blog and completing interviews for tour spots. Although I check my computer several times throughout the day for messages and blog comments, I don’t usually get back to writing until after dinner. My husband takes over the house and the kids at that point, so I tend to give my WIP the most attention between 8:00 p.m. and midnight.

Q3) Have you always wanted to be an author or what made you become an author?
Sarah: I never, ever wanted to be an author. One day a friend suggested I write a book and I said I couldn’t. Later, it bugged me I’d said that so I decided to write one. That very first book was accepted by the first publisher I queried, and I’ll tell you, it’s a heck of an experience to have your first piece of fiction out there for all the world to see! LOL.

Q4) Tell us a little about your new book Familiar Light:
Sarah: When Laney returns to her hometown after seven years and a broken promise, Bridger’s reaction isn’t a good one. He initially rejects her, but their rocky reunion takes a frightening turn when she becomes the victim of a violent threat. No longer able to deny his feelings, Bridger vows to protect Laney from her attacker, but neither one of them are prepared for the lengths one man is willing to take his deadly obsession.

Q5) How did you come up with the idea for this story?
Sarah: The length and “Timeless Desire” theme were requirements of the Noble Romance Authors blog tour for which it was written. I wanted to add the element of suspense because I absolutely love the genre, and I actually had help from my husband when it came to hammering out a plot that would “work” in novella form. I wanted a mystery with some depth, but I didn’t want to rush it. Readers of FAMILIAR LIGHT will discover we found a rather unique solution to this particular problem. :c)

Q6)  What is your current work in progress?
Sarah: TIDE OF LIES is a novel-length romantic thriller that directly follows FAMILIAR LIGHT. It was turned in a while back and should be out soon. In the meantime, I’m working on LAST CALL, a romantic suspense coming this spring from For the Muse Publishing. Here’s the blurb:
An accidental witness to a murder-for-hire, ex-cop Rhys Clark becomes the target of ruthless killer—one determined to silence her at any cost. Playing dead seems to be the most likely way to stay alive, but when her protection comes in the form of mega-sexy former adversary Nick Massey, Rhys can think of  a few fates worse than death.

Nick Massey may have walked away from his troubles, but he never got past wanting Rhys. Once paired undercover, they’d been nothing but fireworks until a botched assignment ended her career, sending his into a tailspin. Now a mysterious client is willing to pay Nick anything to keep Rhys safe, but it isn’t until fate takes a critical turn that he realizes the devastating truth: he’s been her greatest threat all along.


Q7) Who are some of your favorite authors?
Sarah: I am not ashamed to admit I have stalking tendencies toward the Harlequin Intrigue authors. I would dearly love to join their ranks one day.     

Q8) Have to ask because I am nosey.  That is in your to be read pile that you are dying to read next?
Sarah: Oh my gosh. My TBR list is 100 books strong—I actually  have a spreadsheet, LOL. It’s so hard to pick one, but I do have an ARC from JoAnn Ross I’d LOVE to get into. I also have Renee Vincent’s newest book on my shelf, and it’s calling my name.

Q9) Is there anything else you would to add?
Sarah: Yes! I offer a weekly giveaway on my blog to email subscribers. Every weekend one is chosen by random.org as the recipient of a $10 gift certificate to Noble Romance or $5 to Amazon, winner’s choice. I hope you’ll all join me over there as I attempt to bribe you (LOL) into putting up with me, but the upside is I have fantastic guests and new giveaways every week. You really can’t lose!

Books-n-Kisses: Sarah, thank you for taking the time to stop by the blog today to chat about yourself and your books
Sarah: Thanks for having me! It’s been an honor. :c)

Want learn more about Sarah?  Check her out here: 
Website / Blog / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

Giveaway Time!!!
To Enter for a chance to win an e-gift card please fill out the following form. 
Winners will be announce on Sizzling PR’s FB Page HERE 
Click Here to take you to form 
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Interview & Giveaway with Sharon K Owen


Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome the wonderful Sharon K Owen to the blog today.  We are looking forward to learning a little more about Sharon and her book Thicker Than Water. 

Q1) Please tell us a little about yourself
Sharon: I published my first novel, Thicker Than Water (Brands Crossing Series) the first in a series of contemporary romantic suspense novels set in Brands Crossing, a mythical community in North Texas. This series chronicles the lives of the Kincaids, a prominent family in this small town, and focuses on a mystery that extends back to the mid-eighteenth century and the young Texas Republic in July of 2011.

I am also a university professor, an on-line creative writing instructor and a consultant on copy-editing, social media and self-publishing projects.
I share a cottage with my two cats, Matt and Cinders, in a small lake-side community near Fort Worth Texas and am finishing my second novel in the Brands Crossing series, Whatever Goes Around, which will be available in March of 2012.

Q2)  Tell us a typical writing day for you
Sharon: Oh boy, now I’ll be exposed in all my eccentricities. Okay here goes.
I’m a night owl, so I’m usually at my computer writing from around 2 am until 4:30 or 5 am. This is a really creative time for me usually.
Then, I’ll head back to bed for one of my frequent “naps” (I’ve learned the technique of taking 2 or 3 periodic naps during the day from my cats).
By 7:30 or 8:00 I’m back at my computer handling email, class work (I teach composition and communications at an online university), checking out favorite blogs.
After completing various errands and chores and another nap. I’m back at the computer from around 2:00 pm – 6:30. Again, handling email and class work and reviewing writing from early morning session. I usually make some notes on the work I’ve done on my novel.
Finally, after an hour or so of reading or watching favorite TV shows (recorded so that I can watch without commercials when I choose) I’m back at the computer for one more session before heading for bed at around 10:30.
Q3) Have you always wanted to be an author or what made you become an author?
Sharon: I’ve always known I was a story teller and a creator of imaginary universes. From my first memories as a child, I created stories in which I was, of course, the star, the heroine, the rescuer. Later, I started writing the stories down but seldom shared them with anyone else. Eventually, I had the courage to put them out there in the universe for others to make a decision on their worthiness
I love to create characters and put them in situations that intrigue, inspire and entertain me. Then, I write them down and hope they will have the same effect on my readers.
I write the kind of books I like to read. I always want to entertain my readers and make their reading experience a positive one. I always hope my readers enjoy the book and feel better after they read it.
Q4) Tell us a little about your book Thicker Than Water (will add book cover at posting)
Sharon: Thicker Than Water (Brands Crossing Series) is the first in a series of contemporary romantic suspense novels set in Brands Crossing, a mythical community in North Texas. This series chronicles the lives of the Kincaids, a prominent family in this small town, and focuses on a mystery that extends back to the mid-eighteenth century and the young Texas Republic.

Thicker Than Water: As a child, KATE O’DONNELL spends summers at her grandparents’ estate in Brands Crossing where she and her girl cousins battle make-believe monsters, rescue endangered victims and a save a mythical kingdom. At twenty-five Kate is a singer/songwriter living in Nashville and pursuing a promising relationship with computer game designer PHILLIP NORWOOD. There, her only battles are fought in Aidenne’s Revenge, Phillip’s online fantasy game based on her childhood adventures. With her grandfather’s sudden death from injuries he sustained in a suspicious car crash, Kate is forced to make a choice. Will she remain in Nashville to focus on Phillip and her music career? Or will she move back to Brands Crossing and honor the promise she made to her grandfather that she would investigate the mystery surrounding his death? Family trumps career and romance and Kate heads back to Texas where the monsters, victims and endangered kingdoms are all too real. In an attempt to protect Kate from danger, Phillip joins her quest and helps her search for incriminating documents, investigate a centuries-old family feud and confront an anonymous rose-bearing admirer who stalks Kate in both real and virtual universes. Thicker Than Water is the first in a series of novels set in Brands Crossing, Texas. It chronicles the lives of the Kincaids, a prominent family in this mythical town, and focuses on a mystery that extends back to the mid-eighteenth century and the young Texas Republic.
Q5) How did you come up with the idea for Thicker Than Water?
Sharon: As I did when I was a child, I create a lot of stories in my head to entertain myself. The idea for Thicker Than Water originated when I started thinking about the close ties among members of a family and how those connections remain even after the individuals are leading separate lives. Kate O’Donnell, the protagonist, especially intrigued me because she is such a complex character. A talented singer/songwriter/musician, she moves from Nashville at 18, hoping to establish a successful musical career without depending on financial or social assistance from her influential family back in Texas. When a family crisis arises, however, she doesn’t hesitate to leave a promising career and romance in Nashville and return home to support her family.
Although I love music and am a star performer in the shower or my car, I lack the talent to make a career of that. Kate has that talent out the wazoo. So I can vicariously enjoy the rush of performing through her.
Q6)  Will we see more of these characters in any future books?
Sharon: There will be several other books in this series and all the characters will make return appearances. Each book will have a different viewpoint character (from the original cast) and his/her story will tell more of the history and current situations in the Kincaid family of Brands Crossing.

Q7) What is your current work in progress?
Sharon: The second novel, Whatever Goes Around, will be published in March of 2012.

Whatever Goes Around (Brands Crossing Series): CLAIRE KINCAID is the self-appointed fixer of all problems in her family. Despite her siblings’ and cousins’ beliefs that they are capable of managing their own lives, Claire knows they really need her guidance and offers it at every opportunity. When she discovers that sinister forces are disrupting her sister Madelaine’s and her cousin Ann Marie’s personal and professional lives, she doesn’t hesitate to take steps to set things straight. Unfortuanately, she underestimates the enemies she confronts and unknowingly puts herself and her family in danger. Forced to rely on the help of family and friends, she has to reexamine her long-held belief that she always knows best

Q8) Best piece of advice you would give to a buddy author?
Sharon: Read. Read. Read. The most important things for a writer is a love of books and the ability to tell a story. Everything else can be learned. I believe the most successful authors write about what they know and in a genre they enjoy reading. They should also take creative writing classes and join a good writing workshop.

Q9) Have to ask because I am nosey.  What is in your to be read pile that you are dying to read next?
Sharon: I love the Holly Winter Dog Lover Mysteries  by Susan Conant and I have several I haven’t read yet on my list of “next to reads”.
I’m also looking forward to the new Nora Roberts and J.D. Robb Novels which will be published soon: The Last Boyfriend (May 2012) The Witness (April 2012) and Celebrity in Death (February 2012).

Q10) Is there anything else you would to add?
Sharon: Thank you, Kelly, so much for the opportunity to answer these questions.
I hope all your readers will check out my blog, website and other social network pages.
http://sharonkowensimplycreating.wordpress.com
http://sharonkowen.com
https://www.facebook.com/?ref=hp#!/sharonkowen
https://twitter.com/#!/sharon_k_owen
My books (paperback and E book) may be purchased at:
Amazon.com http://www.amazon.com/Thicker-Than-Water-Brands-Crossing/dp/1453772936/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1325034364&sr=8-1
Until February 29th my Ebook can be downloaded for $2.99 at Amazon.com
Kelly:  Sharon, again huge thank you for stopping by the blog to day to chat about you and your books.  I hope the readers enjoyed.  

GIVEAWAY TIME!!!!! 
For a chance to win a copy of Thicker Than Water by Sharon. Please use the rafflecopter from below to enter. 


a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Interview & Giveaway with Jenna Bayley Burke

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Jenna Bayley-Burke to the blog today.  We are looking forward to learning a little more about Jenna and her book For Kicks (release 1/24/12). Jenna, I have to say it was an extreme pleasure to meet you up at the Emerald City Writers Conference in October.  I am so excited to share you with my followers.    
Jenna: Thanks so much for letting me stop by. And for coming to chat at the ECWC book signing. It’s so great to be able to put a face on a cyber-friend.

Q1) Please tell us a little about yourself

Jenna: I could live on chocolate and champagne, but my days are actually fueled by copious amounts of tea and the kids’ schedules. I think that’s why I write romance novels, I want to be whisked away somewhere to have schmexy adventures.

Q2)  Tell us a typical writing day for you
Jenna: I wake up too early so I can chat with the husband before he heads to work and get a shower in before the kids stir. While they breakfast, I check email, Facebook, Twitter…Three mornings a week I’m able to have all of them in school, so I’ll come home and put on my lounge pants (zebra for serious writing days, leopard for research and revisions) and either play #1k1hr on Twitter (writers challenge one another to write a thousand words in an hour, it’s actually what we do for fun) or turn off the internet and work on a story. If I am disciplined, I can get two solid hours. At lunchtime I get my girl back, so we eat and chat about her morning. On mornings she doesn’t have school, I volunteer at the elementary school or head to Zumba. While she naps I manage another hour of writing before the boys come home. Between homework, scouts, and whatever sport they’re playing, there isn’t time to work until after dinner when the husband comes home. He handles baths most nights, while I catch up on email, Facebook, Twitter… Once the kids are in bed and quiet, I try to work for another hour or three.  

Q3) Have you always wanted to be an author or what made you become an author?
Jenna: I love to people watch, and have always made up grand stories about their lives. I wanted to be an author, but really, who does that? I played with the idea after I had my eldest and had his naptimes free. After our second son, my husband got laid off and though he managed not to have an employment gap, I was scared enough to start writing a book so I’d have some way of making money for the family. (That book became Compromising Positions). The following year I had a health scare. It’s odd what comes to mind when you think your time is short. I hated the thought that my boys might someday find my collection of started stories, and wonder why I never finished anything. With bravery from pain meds, I signed on for NaNoWriMo, a program to draft a book in a month. With the support there, I finished a novel for the first time. And sold it six months later. (Just One Spark, Mills & Boon, 2006)

Q4) Tell us a little about your new book For Kicks:
Jenna: For Kicks is my therapy for years in retail management. I was able to ‘what what you know’ and also change things so they had a better outcome. My mom likes this story best, probably because after writing the book I stopped talking about retail!

Q5) How did you come up with the idea for this story?
Jenna: David Beckham. He could inspire mud to write a novel. I wanted to bring him more down to earth, so gave him a damaged past. I knew he’d want to try to save the damsel in distress, so was sure to pair him with a woman more than capable of saving herself, thank you very much.

Q6)  What is your current work in progress?
Jenna: Right now I have two projects going – a series of stories about bridesmaids at a wedding, and a different take on a marriage of convenience. I’m expecting edits on my next release, Drive Me Crazy, any day.

Q7) Who are some of your favorite authors?
Jenna: Vicki Lewis Thompson. Managed to sneak into her limo for a ride back from the Harlequin party at RWA Nationals in NYC. Made my night! Everything she writes is fresh and witty and…wonderful. She’s told me so many great stories, I consider her a friend though we’ve barely met.

Q8) Have to ask because I am nosey.  That is in your to be read pile that you are dying to read next?
Jenna: Right now I have two projects going – a series of stories about bridesmaids at a wedding, and a different take on a marriage of convenience. I’m expecting edits on my next release, Drive Me Crazy, any day.


Books-n-Kisses: Jenna, thank you for taking the time to stop by the blog today to chat about yourself and your books
Jenna: Thanks so much for letting me come hang out!
Find Jenna here:
Website http://www.jennabayleyburke.com/
Facebook http://www.facebook.com/jenna.bayleyburke?ref=ts&sk=wall
Twitter https://twitter.com/jennabb
Jenna is offering a $5 e-gift card to either Amazon or Barnes & Noble, winner’s choice.  To enter fill out Rafflecopter form below.  


a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Interview with Cassandra Carr

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Cassandra Carr to the blog today. We are going to be talking about her new books Head Games, Caught, and  Impact

BIO: Cassandra Carr is a multi-published erotic romance author who lives in Western New York with her husband, Inspiration, and her daughter, Too Cute for Words. When not writing she enjoys watching hockey and hanging out on Twitter. Her debut novel, Talk to Me, was released by Loose Id on March 22, 2011. Head Games, Buffalo Intimidators book 1, will release on November 2, 2011 from Siren Bookstrand, and Caught will release December 13, 2011 from Loose Id. For more information about Cassandra, check out her website at http://www.booksbycassandracarr.com, “like” her Facebook fan page athttp://www.facebook.com/AuthorCassandraCarr or follow her on Twitter athttp://www.twitter.com/Cassandra_Carr.
Cassandra: Thanks so much for having me here today! I’m really excited to talk to your readers about me and my life and my books!

Q1) Can you tell us a little about yourself?
Cassandra: I’m a mom to a toddler girl and a wife to my wonderful hubby, who brings home the bacon so I can stay home and raise our daughter and write. I’ve only been writing seriously since 2008 and I sold my first book, Talk to Me (March 22, 2011 release from Loose Id) in November 2010. I live in the Western New York area and absolutely love it here!

Q2) Have you always wanted to be an author?
Cassandra: Honestly, no. I went to school for psychology but figured out it wasn’t for me, so I switched to human resource management. Guess what? Not for me either. Luckily I was able to move into market research and then into a broader scope within marketing. I was laid off from a dot com position at the end of 2005 and did some contract work after that, but couldn’t find another full-time job in the recessionary economy. So I started thinking about the box and decided to try to make a living writing.

Q3) Who are some of your favorite writers? Who do you feel has influenced your writing?
Cassandra:  I have so, so many authors that I love and that inspire me! Two of my favorites are Maya Banks and Lisa Kleypas, but like I said, there are tons of others. I wouldn’t say they influence me as a writer, though I certainly admire their skill! I don’t think anyone in particular influences my writing. I’m just me.

Q4) Can you tell us what a typical writing day for you is like. 
Cassandra: LOL I wish there was a typical writing day, but since I stay home with my toddler, there really isn’t. While she’s awake I do all the “other” stuff involved in writing – my blogs, guest blogs, promotion, etc. When she goes down for her nap or goes to bed at night I get my actual writing done. I do have some daycare and I try to write a lot during those times.

Let’s Talk Books:
Q5) Can you tell us a little about your book Head Games?
Cassandra:  Head Games is book 1 in the Buffalo Intimidators series, and follows two hockey goaltenders as they pursue bistro owner Kelly. Kelly wants both men, but it takes a while for her to reconcile that fact within herself. Leo is a hoot and Scott is sweet and sexy.

Q6) Can you tell us a little about your book Caught?
Cassandra:  Caught is a BDSM holiday-themed novella. Callie comes home for the holidays and meets up with her former Dom Jack. She agrees to rekindle their dominant/submissive relationship while she’s in town, but Jack is playing for keeps. He just has to convince her of that, which is no small feat.

Q7) Can you tell us a little about your book Impact?
Cassandra:  Impact is a bull rider story with BDSM elements. Connor is a Dom, but only in secret – not even his best friend Brady knows. One night at a BDSM club, Connor’s identity is revealed and someone from the bull riding tour sees him. She’s a submissive who’s looking for some experience with BDSM and wants Connor to teach her. Then she falls in love with him and tries to make him see he can have everything he wants – a career, love, and a lifestyle he craves.

Q8) What is up next for you?
Cassandra: Oh, gosh, what isn’t? I’m nearly finished with the first draft of book 2 of the Intimidators series, Cold As Ice. And Ellora’s Cave will be releasing my short story Take Me at the Ballgame to help launch their brand-new line, EC for Men. I’m writing an anthology with two friends of mine that we hope to submit by the end of the year. I have about a million other projects going too, but those are some of the highlights!

Q9) What is the next book on your To Read Pile that you are dying to jump into?
Cassandra: That’s so hard to say! I’ve got – no joke – probably 200 books in my to-be-read pile or on my Nook. There are so many I can’t wait to read. I need about 30 hours in every day to even come close to accomplishing what I’d like to!

Q10) Is there anything else you would like to add?
Cassandra:  Just to keep watching my website at http://www.booksbycassandracarr.com to find out what’s releasing next! I expect to have a very busy 2012! Oh, and I’ll be at RT this year, so if you’re there, come see me at one of the book signings. I’m scheduled to do both.

Books-n-Kisses: Cassandra, again thank you so very much for making Books-n-Kisses a stop on your book tour.  I have enjoyed learning more about you and your book.  I look forward to reading and see what you come up with next.
Cassandra:  Again, thanks for having me. This was fun!
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Interview with Marissa Dobson

Books-n-Kisses is super excited to welcome our good friend Marissa Dobson to the blog today.  We are so excited to share Marissa’s new story Snowy Fate.

Books-n-Kisses:  Hi Marissa, Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to sit down and talk with me about you and your new release Snowy Fate.
Marissa: Hi Kelly, glad to be here.
BnK: Can I get you anything before we get started?  Coffee, Soda, Gummy bears?
Marissa: I would say gummy bears, but no one would get that since it is somewhat of an inside joke. So I am going to go with coffee. Nothing gets you going in the morning like a strong cup of joe.
Q1) Can you please tell my followers a little more about yourself
Marissa: There isn’t a whole lot to tell.
Born and raised in the Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania area, I now reside about an hour from Washington, D.C.  I’m a lady who likes to keep busy, and am always busy doing something. With two different college degrees, I believe you are never done learning.
Being the first daughter to an avid reader, this gave me the advantage of learning to read at a young age. Since learning to read I have always had my nose in a book. It wasn’t until I was a teenager that I started writing down the stories I came up with.
I am blessed with a wonderful supportive husband, Thomas. He is my other half and allows me to stay home and pursue my writing. My writing buddies Max (a cocker spaniel) and Dawne (a beagle mix) are always around to listen to me bounce ideas off them. They might not be able to answer, but they are helpful in their own ways.
I am the owner of Sizzling PR and co-owner of Ruby Lioness Press.
I love to hear from readers, you can email me at marissa@marissadobson.com Or visit me at http://www.marissadobson.com/
Q2) Who do you feel has influenced your writing style?
Marissa: It’s hard to narrow it down to one or two people. I would honestly have to say that every author I have read and talked to influenced me in some way.
Q3) What is your most interesting writing quirk?
Marissa: Who’s been spreading rumors? I’m as normal as they come. Honestly I don’t know if I have anything that is interesting. I have to have a drink with me, even if half the time it isn’t touched. I like having my curtains open so I can look out and watch the world go by while I’m writing.
Q4) What would you say is the most challenging thing for you about writing?
Marissa: The first page. Seriously starting a new book is the hardest for me. Once I get started there isn’t a problem but the first page is also like pulling teeth. To make matters worse I normally change it a few times so I keep putting myself thought the torment.
Order HERE
Q5) Can you tell us what inspired you to write Snowy Fate?
Marissa: Honestly I’m not sure. Sometimes things just come to me. I was sitting in my office trying to work on another project, and instead of staring at the blinking cursor I was watching it snow out my office window. One thing led to another and I closed the project I had opened and jumped into Snowy Fate. I couldn’t tear myself away from it and the first draft was completed in less than a week.
Q6)  Please describe Snowy Fate for us in 140 characters or less
Marissa: Only fate knows when you’re ready for love. A snowstorm, and a secret with bring two destined mated together.
Q7) Can you tell us what is up next for you (current WIP)?
Marissa: My current work in progress is the third book in the Live series, Fighting to Live. It is the story of Chase, Jay’s second in command (you will meet Jay in Learning to Live). He finally gets his story and finds true love, but it might be too late. The woman he is meant to be with is dying.  Chase makes her want to fight to live; he refuses to allow her to give up. Can Chase save her? Or will he lose her to a battle he can’t win?
Q8)  What do you do when you are not writing?
Marissa: That’s easy…work. Owning Sizzling PR (a marketing and public relations company for authors) and co-owner at Ruby Lioness Press my days are pretty busy. If I can get some me time, then I am reading.
Q10) Marissa, Is there anything else you would like to add?
Marissa: I recently transferred my website and now have a blog please bookmark it and follow it. Lots of great things coming there soon. Feel free to email me, marissa@marissadobson.com I love hearing from readers
My links…
Website / Facebook / Twitter
Books-n-Kisses:  Marissa, It was so great to have you here.  I hope my followers enjoyed learning a little more about you. 
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Interview & Giveaway with Jessica Subject


Hi Jessica, Welcome to Books-n-Kisses.  I am very excited to have you here today to talk about your new book Beneath the Starry Sky.
Jessica: Thank you so much! It’s a pleasure to be here.
Q1) Tell us a little about yourself.
Jessica: I’m an author, and also a mother and wife. Most of my stories I write are science fiction romance, but Beneath the Starry Sky is a contemporary romance. I enjoy reading as well, most subgenres of romance, thrillers, and more.
Q2) Describe Beneath the Starry Sky in 140 characters or less.
Jessica: For both Tamara and Josh, letting go is the first step to love…with a little help from Madame Eve.
Q3) How did you come up with the idea for this story?
Jessica: The heroine, Tamara is the best friend of Carrie from Celestial Seduction. After CS was published, I had to write Tamara’s story. She wouldn’t leave me alone until I did. J
Q4) What did you find most challenging about writing this story?
Jessica: I always find it hard to evoke the same emotions to the readers that I feel with my characters, but with my editor, I think I managed to do so.
Q5) Have you always wanted to be an author?
Jessica: No, not always, but looking back, I should have seen this career path all along. I’ve been writing lesson plans when playing school, newsletters for my youth group and the pet supply store I used to work at for years. I even wrote my first romance story in grade seven. Just over three years ago, I sat down to pen a story for my daughter, and I haven’t stopped.
Q6) What do you do when you are not writing?
Jessica: Spending time with my family and reading, mostly.
Q7) Favorite book and why?
Jessica: Oh, I hate choosing just one, and my answer changes every month. LOL The most recent novel I added to my “favorite reads of 2011” was The Hunger Games by Suzanne Collins. I’ve owned the trilogy for some time, but with the urging of a friend, finally read it. Plus, I like to read books before their movies come out. I loved this book as it is non-stop action from the very beginning, filled with intense emotions (which I love), and unforgettable characters.
Q8) Favorite inspirational quote and why?
Jessica:  Remain orderly in your life so you can remain free and chaotic in your work – Thom Yorke This is what I strive for everyday.
Q9) What is your current work in progress?
Jessica: I’m working on book two in my Mark of the Stars series. Plus, I have a couple other shorter things on the go.
Q10) Anything else you would like to share with us?
Jessica: I love to hear from my readers! You can find me on twitter @jsubject, facebook, Google +, and Goodreads.
Thanks again for having me today!
Books-n-Kisses: Jessica, Thank you so much for taking time out of your busy schedule to sit down with me and share your story.  I look forward to reading more of your books in the future.
GIVEAWAY TIME:
Jessica E. Subject will be giving away $20 in All Romance Ebook Bucks (which can be used at All Romance Ebooks and OmniLit) as well as three ebook copies of Beneath the Starry Sky. Simply leave a comment (with your email address) on any of the posts during the tour for your chance to WIN! The more posts you visit, the more chances to WIN!  Winner will be announce on her blog on Jan 21st