Q: What is your writing schedule?

A: My writing schedule is as follows: I write when I have an idea, and I can pull forth a strong story that will do my reader justice. And this usually takes place in the evening, when my son is settling in to relax before bed, and my husband is consumed by other projects. Alternatively, I can write during the day, when my son is at school. When I write I am usually ‘push writing.' When I begin to tire, and my brain turns to mush; I stop. I have been known to write six chapters in one day.

Q: How difficult was it to write this book?

A: The difficulty came before I started to write the novel. This is a period piece and a vampire story to boot. To have a certain accuracy, I did extensive research on 1820’s Europe and vampire lore. I want the reader to feel as if they are there standing with the characters and know their surroundings. Vivid detail is the key to making sure the reader can accurately distinguish the time shift within the novel.

Q: The first book that inspired you to be an author?

A: It was never a specific book, but my grandmother. She had an affinity for the written word, and I was slow to read in my younger years. I had special books to review, and she worked with me every night during the week to ensure I could read at my grade level. It was one year later I was reading on a high school level in the fourth grade. I entered journalism in middle school, and subsequently, had two short stories published within my high school's magazine.

Q: What process did you go through to publish this novel?

A: The process to publish a novel is based upon the fact that publishing companies DO NOT purchase ‘ideas.’ They will only publish finished manuscripts that have a strong story line with appealing characters. So the first step is to do research on your genre. Be aware that most publishing companies have a word minimum, and a general guideline you need to follow. With all the information taken into consideration, you then need to write a full and complete story that will appeal to your targeted audience. And lastly never take rejection to heart. Keep trying, and make sure the publisher knows your intense passion for your writing. Remember you are selling your work to them, why should they spend money to edit and cover your novel if you have no feeling for your story? Remember, “A professional writer is an amateur that did not quit.” –Richard Bach.

Q: If you were not writing erotica, what would you be writing?

A: I don’t know that I can write any other genre. I have always loved to compose entertaining stories that help women, and even men, fantasize. Writing about sexuality and highly sexual situations bring adventure and excitement to my stories and help the characters develop on a more personal level. The process brings everyone involved to life, and in the end gives them a pure identity. I would like to think I am responsible for a few people having a satisfying sexual experience.

Q: Is your story based on your personal experience?

A: I believe that every author takes an instance from their personal life and writes it into their works. You can try to write about true love and happily ever after, but those who have actually experienced this wonderful feeling can make it believable. Every Hero has a piece of my husband within them. Be it, their stubbornness or their undying love, and affection for their heroine. You do not have to be a sex goddess to write erotica. You just have to have a certain level of passion for writing and your characters.

Q: What else do you do besides write?

A: I have a wonderful family with a husband and a son. In addition, I have loads of beautiful nieces and nephews. Much of my time is spent experiencing their growth and making sure their little lives are filled with mirth and excitement. I am known as favorite auntie, and my house is, ‘the carnival.’ Complete with a bounce house, air hockey table, popcorn maker, a helium tank for balloons, junk food, and a pirates play station, where they can swing and play Buccaneers! We can only create one childhood for our loved ones, and I want to make it a memorable one.

Q: Do you like period pieces and vampire novels, and is that why you chose to write this novel?

A: I love period pieces, especially the Regency and Romantic periods. The fashions during these time periods were very specific and dramatic. Even noblemen had a role in moving fashions. Noblewomen and young ladies based their everyday lives on fashion, gossip, titles, and parties. It was their primary job to keep up appearances and be the toast of the ton. I find it fascinating that people were so self-consumed. That is the primary reason I try to write about women who are unconventional and rail against the stereotype of being an empty-headed member of society. I added the aspect of vampires to encourage strength and excitement within the works, and the women whom it affects.

Q: What do your parents think of your writing?

A. My parents and my family are my biggest supporters. My husband was the primary reason I became a writer. He encouraged me with a dare to write better than the mainstream novels that are published every day. I did, and now I am published. My father and step-mother sent me a congratulatory card when I told them I was going to be published, with a promise to purchase. My younger sister was so excited for me that she also promised to try to read the novel, which means a great deal to me. She hates to read ‘those kinds’ of books. My mother actually helped proof-read this novel to ensure it was as well-written as the other erotica novels she reads. It was, and I must add she loved every word and wanted more!

Q: What inspires you to keep writing?

A: My inspiration comes from my love of the written word. I enjoy thinking up and creating all levels of stories in my head, from contemporary to period novels. It is incredible to see your passion written down and being enjoyed by others. I love to sit at my computer and create a character and build a life around them, and in the end watch as they get their heart's desires. Plus, it helps to be told that a woman has enjoyed reading my stories and her husband thanks me.