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src="http://allromanceebooks.com/images/whatsHotHeader.gif" class="sizzleImg" /><div>Gary Starta and Astrid Cooper<div>Interview: Jul 18, 2008</div></div> <span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;"><div class="message-block" id="container-273" role="messagecontainer" style="padding: 0px; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 1px;" align="left"><table id="balloonmessage-93EE5CCA-6F31-4A33-8867-7EC1C8F4D499" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><tbody><tr style=""><td id="inner-container-93EE5CCA-6F31-4A33-8867-7EC1C8F4D499" style="padding: 0px; vertical-align: bottom;"><br></td><td style="padding: 0px; vertical-align: bottom;" width="50"><br></td></tr><tr style=""></tr></tbody></table></div><br></span><pre id="line130"><<span class="start-tag">div</span><span class="attribute-name"> class</span>=<span class="attribute-value">"aaplayer"</span>><<span class="start-tag">iframe</span><span class="attribute-name"> src</span>=<span class="attribute-value">"http://www.audioacrobat.com/playweb?audioid=P33f68166ef213594e80c5fe3fa34dd73Z1txRVRGY2dy&buffer=5&shape=6&fc=FFFF00&pc=FF3300&kc=9933FF&bc=0033FF&brand=1&player=ap21" </span><span class="attribute-name">height</span>=<span class="attribute-value">"20" </span><span class="attribute-name">width</span>=<span class="attribute-value">"246" </span><span class="attribute-name">frameborder</span>=<span class="attribute-value">"0" </span><span class="attribute-name">scrolling</span>=<span class="attribute-value">"no"</span>></<span class="end-tag">iframe</span>></<span class="end-tag">div</span>> <br><span class="comment"><br></span></pre><br><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: Helvetica; font-size: 12px;"><div class="message-block" id="container-288" role="messagecontainer" style="padding: 0px; display: table; width: 100%; margin-bottom: 1px;" align="left"><table id="balloonmessage-D9C97B46-4E65-4BE6-9D23-FDA6A01D05DB" style="border-collapse: collapse;"><tbody><tr style=""><td style="padding: 0px; vertical-align: bottom;" nowrap="nowrap" width="32"><span class="icon-container" style="display: inline;"><div class="personicon-container" style="text-align: center; max-width: 32px; max-height: 32px; min-width: 32px; min-height: 32px;"></div></span></td><td id="inner-container-D9C97B46-4E65-4BE6-9D23-FDA6A01D05DB" style="padding: 0px; vertical-align: bottom;"><br></td></tr></tbody></table></div></span><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style=""><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Wildfire</span></i></b><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> would like to welcome authors Gary Starta and Astrid Cooper.</span></b><br></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><h1 style="text-align: justify;"><font size="3"><b style=""><u><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: normal;">Gary Starta<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></font></h1><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> How long have you been writing? What inspired you to pick the pen up one day and create characters that capture the imagination? <o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gary</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">: I have been writing for decades, but only focused on creative writing, i.e. novels/short stories in the last four years. I always loved fiction, especially science fiction/fantasy, but was writing non-fiction, newspaper stories etc. I think I had psyched myself out about the creative process. I had worked as a journalist but eventually left that. When I met my soon to be wife, she demanded I begin writing. Days later, I was off on the journey, opting to write fiction. Immediately addicted-I have eight novels either published or in the works. The first novel I wrote focused on non-humans, it was about androids. I am fascinated about them because you can mirror humanity against them so easily.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> What is your writing process? Do you outline, fly by the seat of your pants or a combination of both?<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gary:<span style=""> </span></span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">A combination of both. I write sketchy notes, but nothing formal. The bits and pieces I plan and those ideas that come to me at the moment of writing eventually coalesce into my stories. I have a very non-technical approach, and I think that fascinates me, since I wouldn't want to write formula.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">How do you choose the setting for your next book?<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gary:<span style=""> </span></span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">It largely depends upon the characters. My next full-length novel-a paranormal/romance/suspense-will begin in Salem, Massachusetts. It will then take a strange science fiction kind of turn I don't want to reveal at this juncture. The main character in this novel is an FBI agent. So the first novel-Blood Web-which featured this character-Caitlin Diggs-naturally focused around Washington, DC. When I wrote <i style="">Alzabreah's Garden</i> I wanted it to take place on an alien planet, a place that could mirror Earth but not include humans. Alzabreah is a rogue scientist, developing male drones to be nothing more than love slaves. I wanted to show a world where woman can and would be dominant. I tend to write stories where females are the lead or dominant characters. Caitlin Diggs in <i style="">Blood Web</i> is second to no other FBI agent. She is the best at what she does. I think fiction is a great vehicle to change our society. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie: </span></b><strong><span style="font-weight: normal;">How long does it take you to finish a book from start to submission?<o:p></o:p></span></strong></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gary:<span style=""> </span></span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">It's usually been a six to nine month process. Kind of like a birth. Six months to write the novel. Another three months to fine tune, write queries and submit.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> How much does reader reaction mean to you as an author? <o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gary: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Everything! I try to inspire, surprise, interest and entertain them in every chapter. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> When you write, is atmosphere important? For example, do you use mood music or candles? Do you need complete quiet to concentrate?<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gary:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> I tend to go for complete quiet. I think I go into some kind of alpha state, so if I did have music on I probably wouldn't even hear it.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Most people envision an author's life as being really glamorous. What's the most unglamorous thing that you've done in the past week?<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gary: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Oh I can name plenty, lol. I am a cat lover and cleaning up after them goes with the territory.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> There are so many publishers out there, how do you decide who to submit your work to? <o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gary</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">: I use Internet resources a lot. It can tell you if they'll take your genre or not. I see myself as a cross genre author. While every story I have ever written involves a romance (it just seems natural to me to include at least one in every tale) I do also lean towards science fiction, fantasy and even mystery writing. So it's important to know what the publisher will accept before you submit and the Internet is a great resource for that.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Describe the space where you write.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gary:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> It's a corner of my bedroom. Right now I am facing a wall. I couldn't even tell you if a picture hangs there or not-when I'm in the writing zone-it wouldn't matter. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">What do you do when you aren't writing? Any hobbies or special interests that you can tell us about?<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gary: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">I think my interest in science fiction goes hand in hand with my DVD collection. I love to watch shows that inspire my writing.<b style=""> </b><o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Do you ever experience writer's block? If you do, how do you cope with it?<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gary</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">: I haven't really come down with that yet. I haven't felt totally blocked but I've only been at this for less than four years. When I do find myself stuck at a point where a story needs to progress or a situation needs resolution, I tend to back off a bit. I find the solution comes to me at the oddest moments-when I'm just waking up, just dosing off, driving, etc. So I find the ideas come best when you don't consciously push yourself.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Are there any absolutely-must-have characteristics for your heroes or heroines?<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gary: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">I think heroes need to walk alone at times. Caitlin Diggs, the FBI agent in <i style="">Blood Web,</i> is first and foremost an independent women and thinker. She would break protocol if necessary. She won't let romance affect her job. On the other hand, Mavra in <i style="">Alzabreah's Garden</i> would risk everything to save her love. She does not believe the genetically engineered love slaves should be mindless pawns. And when she falls in love with one, she has no choice but to save him. She must rebel, alone.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Dealing with writing deadlines can be a challenge. What do you do to cope with the stress?<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gary:<span style=""> </span></span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">I set blocks of time during the day where I can devote myself to writing/editing. I find planning time is key.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> What's next for you? <o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><st1:city w:st="on"><st1:place w:st="on"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gary</span></b></st1:place></st1:city><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">: </span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">I want to keep creating lively interesting characters who sometimes journey through paranormal circumstances to find their way. I think relationships, even those in the pre-stages, are the best way to create compelling story lines. Lovers who share opposite views never fail to intrigue me.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gary Starta is a former journalist who studied English and Journalism at the University of Massachusetts in Amherst.<o:p></o:p></span></i></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Backlist:<br></span></b><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">What Are You Made Of?</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">, PublishAmerica</span><br><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Blood Web</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">, Charles River Press</span><br><a href="http://allromanceebooks.com/product-alzabreahsgarden-7562-143.html"><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Alzabreah's Garden</span></i></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">, Eternal Press</span><br><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Murder By Association</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">, Eternal Press<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Coming soon:</span></b><br><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Extreme Liquidation</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> is in the submission stages.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style="">Links:</b><br><a href="http://www.garystarta.net"><o:p>Website</o:p></a><b style=""><o:p><br></o:p><span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></b></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><h1 style="text-align: justify;"><font size="3"><b style=""><u><span style="font-size: 14pt; font-style: normal;">Astrid Cooper<o:p></o:p></span></u></b></font></h1><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> When a new book comes out, are you nervous about how readers will react to it? <o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Astrid:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> I don't know any author who isn't nervous when a new book is released. I am no exception! I have to believe that I have written the best I can, without "cutting any corners".<span style=""> </span>Being "true to my craft" is important.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> How long have you been writing? What inspired you to pick the pen up one day and create characters that capture the imagination?<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Astrid:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> I have been writing for over 48 years (since I first could hold a pencil). I have been writing professionally for 13 years. Why did I start to write? I was a lonely child and the characters in books I read were more real to me than flesh and blood people. I couldn't get enough books to read that "worked" for me, so I created my own and peopled the stories with aliens, spaceships, knights on quests and damsels in distress, as well as animals – especially cats...<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">: What makes your characters so vulnerable yet strong? Can you describe them to us? What do you do when characters stop talking to you when writing?<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Astrid:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> I am planning to have my website feature "characters" – pictures, bios and such – when the web mistress has time to do it! My characters NEVER stop talking to me. I have a problem with shutting them up to get some peace. LOL!! My characters are strong in their beliefs—they each have "a line in the sand" that they will not cross – i.e., they will make concessions and accept certain things, but once those conditions are compromised (by other characters or external factors, etc.) then they make a stand. Their vulnerability is often tied up with this "stance", but also with their love for the hero or the heroine. The hero will show his vulnerability to the heroine and vice versa – to be able to let one's guard down to one's love has to be the greatest compliment – they trust implicitly and know they will not be betrayed.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">: What do you feel is the most important thing that first-time authors should know?<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Astrid</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">: That there is always something to learn from the industry. Writing is an on-going process of learning. There never comes a time in any author's career when they can sit back and say "I know it all". Read widely and not in your chosen genre.<span style=""> </span>Study the "craft" of best-selling authors (again not just in your chosen genre).<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> What is your writing process? Do you outline, fly by the seat of your pants or a combination of both? <o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Astrid</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">: Mostly "organic", but I do write down ideas and snippets from scenes as they come to me. Characters direct my writing – I am just the instrument through which their stories are told. I never "censor" a character. And often the characters will divert from what I intended, or other characters "arrive" – again, I never cut this – some authors will say that this shows the writer has lost control of his/her creation. Twists and turns in the plot are the magic moments for me—if I am surprised by what happens, then I know my readers will be, too. I hear from readers who say how much they enjoyed the "twists"... My editing of my work takes time; <span style=""> </span>I add layers and textures and I make sure that my writing is "immediate" – i.e., the reader experiences the story and is not just an observer. One review recently said that she could almost feel "fur against skin" as she read the story…this is what I aim for—the reader is inside the story experiencing all the sensuality at the same time as the characters.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> What do you hope for your writing career in the next few years? Any goals that you have yet to obtain that you have set for yourself?<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Astrid</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">: I want to be able to support myself with the income from my writing. I have struggled to do this over the last few years and I do editing and assessment of manuscripts and mentor new writers and run workshops to supplement my income. I have an animal sanctuary on my property and I would like to take in more animals in need—but have to have a substantial income to do this!<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Most people envision an author's life as being really glamorous. What's the most unglamorous thing that you've done in the past week<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Astrid:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Taking out the wheelie garbage bin and it was so heavy that it overbalanced, dragging me down to the ground with it. Bruised, battered, bloodied and covered with litter in the middle of the road, late at night. "Unglamorous" doesn't describe it by half!<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">What books are currently on your nightstand?<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Astrid:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <i style="">Atonement</i> by Ian McEwen; <i style="">House of Suns</i> by Alastair Reynolds<b style="">.<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></b></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Do you prefer writing series books over non series or does it matter?<b style=""><o:p></o:p></b></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Astrid</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">: I write what I write – I never plan a series or a stand alone. It depends on the characters and the "world" I have created. My <i style="">Starlight</i> series started off as a 5,000 word story – it has blossomed into a series, with a spin-off novel coming out next year. If the characters and the world need a wide canvas for me to tell the story, then I write a series.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> What's next for you? <o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Astrid</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">: I have been working on two mainstream romantic fantasy series; I am also working on more stories in the <i style="">Starlight</i> series. I am also writing two non-fiction books: a writers' manual and another about metaphysics.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> </span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Do you remember the first romance novel that you read?<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Astrid:</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"> <i style="">The Flame and the Flower</i> by Kathleen Woodiwiss; but I let my romance reading slide for many years, only coming back to it when I discovered Dara Joy's <i style="">Knight of a Trillion Stars</i>. At last! (I thought) – stories that have a good balance of romance and speculative fiction!!!<span style=""> </span><o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">If I could encapsulate my life in a familiar sentence:<br>"To boldly go where no one has gone before …"<br>My life, career and writing has been a fascinating journey —meeting an Apollo astronaut, partying with Hollywood stars and being the first romance author in Australia to have a best-selling "fantasy romance" in a book shop – not once but twice. But when I first scratched a story on a piece of paper when I was five years old, I never knew I would realize my dream of becoming a published author. The journey has been exciting and it continues …<o:p></o:p></span></i></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Backlist:</span></b><br><a href="http://allromanceebooks.com/product-forbiddennights-444-166.html"><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Forbidden Nights</span></i></a><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">, Extasy Books</span><br><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">For Eternity, </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Extasy Books</span><br><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Pride's Passion, </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Extasy Books</span><br><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">3 short stories contained in the anthology "Violet Visions", </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Extasy Books</span><br><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Starlight Ecstasy, </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Extasy Books</span><br><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Starlight Desire, </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Extasy Books</span><br><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Starlight Rapture, </span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Extasy Books<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Coming soon:</span></b><br><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Starlight Passion</span></i><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">, Extasybooks<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Links:</span></b><br><a href="http://www.astridcooper.com"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Websit<span style="font-weight: bold;">e</span></span></a><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"></span></b></font></p><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">If you would like to request an interview, please send a query to <a href="mailto:info@allromanceebooks.com">info@allromanceebooks.com</a><o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Until next time!<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Julie Cummings<br>Wildfire Interview Coordinator<br>All Romance eBooks<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><div style="text-align: justify;"> </div><p style="text-align: justify;" class="MsoNormal"><font size="3"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p> </o:p></span></font></p> </div><div style="clear:both"><img src="http://allromanceebooks.com/images/weeklySizzle.jpg" class="sizzleImg" /><br style="line-height:18px"/><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style=""><i style=""><span style="font-size: 16pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br></span></i></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style=""><i style=""><span style="font-size: 16pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br></span></i></b></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><b style=""><i style=""><span style="font-size: 16pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";">Surrender To The Darkness</span></i></b><b style=""><span style="font-size: 16pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"> by Shiela Stewart</span><br><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">This story is rated <u><span style="color: red;">4 </span><span style="color: rgb(222, 31, 33);">flame</span></u>. </span></b>Frequent, explicit love scenes described using graphic and direct language.<b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p></o:p></span></b></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Red rose petals lay scattered over the white satin bed. Candles illuminated the room with a soft glow that flickered against the walls in a seductive dance. Music played quietly from some unseen stereo, a song of love and devotion. He took her hands in his as he led her into the room.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Her heart was pounding beneath her chest, making her lightheaded and giddy. This man she was about to give herself to was no ordinary man. He had a dark persona, his hair, a satiny shade of coal that fell along a strong elegant face, his clothing black and suited perfectly to his firm, trim body. And every time she looked at him she was lost in the love she felt for him. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"My Trinity. So sweet, so innocent, so trusting. I ask you tonight to be mine, to allow me to give to you what no other can give to you. To show you a world filled with endless possibilities. To spend this day and all the days of our life together as one." He lifted their joined hands to his chest and kept those gorgeous ice blue eyes steady on hers. She always melted when he looked at her. "Do you wish to be mine?"<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">The words came so easily to her that there was no pause for thought. "Yes." She wanted him like she'd never wanted anyone before in her life. When he looked at her, when he was with her she knew everything in her life would be alright. "I want to be yours, Basil."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">He drew her closer and with elegant rhythm he touched his lips to hers. The kiss was soft, sensual and made her pulse soar. As it always did. Slowly, she felt him back her towards the bed. She'd never been with a man before, never let one do what she was about to let Basil do, and though she was nervous, she was not about to stop.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">He released her hands to cup her face in his palms. She had no idea what to do with her hands other than putting them on his hips. While his lips caressed hers, his hands slid down her face and over her throat to the buttons on her plaid shirt. She quivered when he undid the first button.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"I won't hurt you, but if you want to stop—"<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"I'm okay. I want this," she reassured him, then to show him she meant what she said she released the next few buttons. "I want you." <o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">He parted her shirt and kissed her neck and shoulders as he slid the fabric away. "Beautiful."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">She knew she was blushing by the heat in her cheeks. He took her lips again. This time the kiss was a little more urgent. She felt his fingers skim over the bare flesh on her arms before settling on the snap of her jeans. Telling herself to stay calm, she tried to focus on the way his lips felt on hers. So soft, so sweet and so tender. Then he drew the zipper down and her heart began to drum wildly. Was it fear or anticipation? Both.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Her hands rested on his shoulders and she could feel his dark hair brush over her knuckles when he angled his head as he kissed her. Then he released her, looking deeply into her eyes before pressing his lips to her neck. She was sure he could tell how nervous she was and maybe that was why he was being so gentle. For that she was grateful. His lips touched her chest with a soft kiss, then he repeated the action as he worked his way down her body. He knelt before her, his head tilted up as he drew her jeans past her hips.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">She felt awkward just standing there in her underwear. Then he kissed her belly, and her body ignited with a fire that scorched her inside and out.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">She stepped out of her jeans and he stood to face her. "I knew from the very first moment I set my eyes on you that you were mine. My heart beats for you." He took her hand in his and placed it over his heart. "I promise you now that I will always be yours."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Her eyes burnt with tears. And she surrendered to him completely.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">He released the clasp on her bra, then drew each strap down slowly while kissing her shoulders tenderly. As he drew it down, it fell to the floor in a silent heap. He cupped her full breast in his palms and twirled the nipples with his thumb. Then lowering, he replaced his mouth with his thumbs, kissing each nipple, still holding her breasts in his hands. His eyes lifted to hers as he took one into his mouth.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">She threw her head back and moaned. It was an odd sensation, his warm wet mouth on her nipple, suckling, nibbling, teasing, and it made her body tingle. He released one and went to the next. Each time he drew it in his mouth her body reacted with an electric sizzle. She found her hands cupping his head and holding him against her breasts.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">He removed his shirt as he suckled her and when the black silky fabric fell to the floor she saw the muscles in his shoulders bunch. He stood to meet her gaze and she admired the strength in his chest.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Then he scooped her into his arms and carried her to the bed.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">The satin fabric felt cool and silky pressed against her naked flesh. She could feel the cool rose petals in her back. He looked down at her with such devotion she felt herself falling even deeper in love. "I don't want to disappoint you."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Cupping her chin in his hand, he responded softly. "You could never disappoint me, my fiery princess."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Why do you call me that?"<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">He smiled as he kissed her forehead. "You have a fire in your eyes telling me there is spirit hidden deep within you. I want to bring that out."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"I don't know what to do." She was so nervous and scared she would let him down. What if after they were finished he changed his mind?<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"You will." He kissed her neck now, then slowly worked his lips down her body, skimming over each breast then down her belly. She quivered and she knew he felt it. When his fingers skimmed along the edge of her panties, she quivered a little more. Then with great ease and delicacy he slid them down her hips, pressing his lips to the exposed skin as he drew them down.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">She knew all about sex. She wasn't a complete virgin though no man had ever penetrated her; she knew what to expect. It wasn't just the act of penetration but so much more. Men liked to get head and to perform oral sex on a woman. Both acts scared the hell out of her.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Then his lips touched the tip of her core and the sensation shocked her so deeply her mind went absolutely blank. It was a soft brush of lips, a flutter of breath against damp flesh, but it was incredibly potent. Instinctually, she spread her legs for him. His tongue slid out between her lips, lapping up the juices that were beginning to flow, and her back arched in response. She'd never felt anything as glorious as his mouth, his tongue touching what no man had ever touched before. He quickened his pace, sliding his tongue over her, toying with her, flicking the sensitive bud until she felt something wild come over her.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Gripping the bedding, she bucked wildly as her body exploded with a mind numbing orgasm.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">She lay spent and heard the zipper of his fly come down. Opening her eyes, she watched as he removed his pants. She'd seen penises before, but none close up. Seeing him, his, now, not only made her giddy, but more nervous than she'd been before.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Was that supposed to fit inside of her?<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"I wanted you to have pleasure before you feel the pain," he murmured as he climbed on top of her, slipping in between her parted legs. "Will you still have me?"<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">She drew in a deep breath and nodded. She wanted him, despite what he'd just said. "But slowly."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"As slow as you like, my love." He kissed her now, a soft parting of lips and a gentle caress of his tongue.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">She felt him as he pressed to her core, felt the tip as it slid between and inside. His mouth seduced her and while he held himself up on one hand, he used to other to stroke the side of her body soothingly. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Open a little more," he whispered against her lips, and she did. "Do you know what I am, Trinity?"<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">She nodded, her eyes lost in his.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"What I truly am?"<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Yes," she panted, her body suddenly aching for more.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Will you allow me to take you completely?"<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Yes," she said breathlessly.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Then all of you I shall have."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">He pulled his lips back and his fangs gleamed in the candle light. Yes, she knew what he was, had suspected right from the beginning. She didn't know why it didn't frighten her, why he'd never frightened her. From the very first moment he had come to her when she'd been grieving in her parent's back yard, she'd known he was no ordinary man.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Basil Hawthorne was a vampire.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">She turned her head to the side and spread her legs even further. In one sharp thrust he penetrated her, then sunk his fangs into her neck. "Take me, take all of me." He drank from her and she could feel the pulling as he sucked the blood from her veins. His hips pistoned inside of her but the pain wasn't as bad as she'd expected. There was no fear now, only a desire so great it overcame her. She felt her body give to him, and felt herself begin to float away.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">She felt no pain now. No grief, no loss. She saw the smiles of her parents and sister right before they'd left for their ski trip and it filled her heart completely. She'd been so lost when they'd died, until Basil had entered her life. And now he was giving her anew.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">There was darkness and it surrounded her. But she wasn't afraid. It was warm and welcoming and covered her in its loving arms. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Drink from me now, my love, and we will be one for now, for tomorrow, for ever."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">His voice, always so deep, rumbled out at her now and brought her back. She opened her mouth as he pressed his flesh to her lips and something inside of her said, <i style="">drink</i>. His blood was warm and slipped between her lips slowly, and the instant it touched her throat she began to gag.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Relax, swallow, just swallow," he murmured.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">She drank, took him in one gulp at a time, and as his life's fluid filled her completely she felt herself drifting away.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">~<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">She felt something cool caress her cheek and opening her eyes, could only see a blur of things around her. It was dark, yet she could see as if there were lights on. <o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"I was beginning to worry you would sleep the day away."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Turning her head she saw Basil smiling beside her. He caressed her cheek again; the soft cool sensation reminded her of the rose petals she'd been laying on. Still lay on now. "Basil?"<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Yes, my love."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Am I…dead?"<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">He laughed then kissed her lips. "Vampires aren't dead, sweetness. You are as alive now as you were before, with enhancements."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Enhancements?" She sat up and felt the petals fall from her body. She felt…odd. Not hollow like she'd thought, but different. Her body felt…alive.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"You'll be stronger now, faster. Your hearing will be more keen, and your eyesight is as clear during the daylight as it is at night."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">She placed her palm to her chest and was amazed that it still beat. "I can feel my heart beating."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Your heart beats, your lungs need oxygen, and your pulse will still race when I touch you."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">He was right. The instant his lips brushed her shoulder she felt her pulse soar. "Do I have fangs?" She jumped out of his bed and ran to the washroom. Completely naked. Flipping the light switch on, she shielded her eyes from the harsh light. Coming in behind her, he clicked it off.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"Your eyes will need time to readjust and you'll need to feed often for the next few days. But yes, you do have fangs."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">He stood behind her, looking over her shoulder as she peeled her lips back. And sure enough, there they were. Her incisors were pointed and sharp and…her once hazel eyes were now a bluey green. "Why are my eyes different?"<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"The impurities in your system have changed the color. But because my blood is royal, pure, you attained my color mixed with yours. The more impure the blood, the more the eyes change. Most vampires have yellow eyes."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">He was royal. He'd told her once that his father had been a king, but he hadn't told her much more than that. "I feel so…different." <o:p></o:p></span></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">He skimmed his hands over her arms, smiling over her shoulder. "You look more beautiful than ever."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">She stared at herself in the mirror. Her long dark brown hair was a little messy, her face was paler than it had been before, she had blue green eyes and she had fangs. She was different, and she loved it. "I want to dye my hair red. Not just any red, blood red." She spun around smiling, and wrapped her arms around his neck. "And I want to go shopping. I need new clothes."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Laughing, he laid his hands on her hips. "What's brought this on?"<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">She toyed with his hair. "I'm a new person. God, Basil, if I'd known I would feel like this before, I would have given myself to you weeks ago when you first came to me."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"It wasn't the right time then. Yesterday was." He lifted her up and spun her around, making her squeal. "And whatever my fiery princess wants, she gets."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">"I want a new wardrobe. I want a new look. I'm a new person, but first…" She jumped up and wrapped her legs around his waist. "I want you."<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Laughing, he carried her to the bed.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p><p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">This time when she surrendered herself to him, she took with as much as she gave.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">And for the first time in a very long time, she felt alive.<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">The End<b style=""><o:p></o:p></b></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Shiela Stewart has been writing for the better part of her 40 years, pouring her heart out in words, living a fantasy through the characters she creates. It has always been a dream of hers to have her work published, a dream she has finally seen come to life.<o:p></o:p></span></i></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">When not writing, she is busy working on two websites for organizations she belongs to, tending to her three children, and spending time with the love of her life, William.<o:p></o:p></span></i></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: justify;"><font size="2"><i style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Shiela has a deep affection for animals and it's evident in the four cats, one dog, eight fish and three turtles she owns. Aside from writing, she enjoys sketching, painting, singing and dancing, as well as stargazing, astronomy and astrology. Her favorite time of the day is sunset.<o:p></o:p></span></i></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="2"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Backlist:<br></span></b><i style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://allromanceebooks.com/product-kidnapped-1053-149.html">Kidnapped</a>,</span></i><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Linden Bay Romance</span><br><i style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://allromanceebooks.com/product-secretsofthedead-3035-149.html">Secrets of the Dead</a>,</span></i><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Linden Bay Romance</span><br><i style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://allromanceebooks.com/product-discoveryinpassion-5227-149.html">Discovery in Passion</a>,</span></i><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Linden Bay Romance</span><br><i style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://allromanceebooks.com/product-escapeinpassion-6097-149.html">Escape in Passion</a>,</span></i><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Linden Bay Romance</span><br><a href="http://allromanceebooks.com/product-mercyinpassion-7645-149.html"><i style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";">Mercy in Passion,</span></i></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Linden Bay Romance</span><br><i style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"><a href="http://allromanceebooks.com/product-seducingthedarkness-9737-144.html">Seducing the Darkness</a>,</span></i><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Linden Bay Romance</span><br><i style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";">Desiring the Darkness,</span></i><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Linden Bay Romance<o:p></o:p></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="2"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Coming Soon:<span style=""></span></span></b><br><i style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";">Embracing the Darkness,</span></i><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Linden Bay Romance</span><br><i style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";">Charming the Darkness,</span></i><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Linden Bay Romance</span><br><i style=""><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";">Penetrating the Darkness,</span></i><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: "Times New Roman";"> Linden Bay Romance</span><o:p></o:p></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="2"><b style=""><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">Links</span></b><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";">:<br><a href="http://www.shielasbooks.ca">Website</a><br></span></font></p> <p class="MsoNormal"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><br></span></font></p><div style="text-align: center;"><font size="2"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman";"><o:p><img src="http://www.allromanceebooks.com/images/WHIR.jpg"><br><br><br></o:p></span></font></div><br>Cat Johnson and Pepper Espinoza - July 7, 2008 - What's Hot in Romance!<p><!-- AudioAcrobat.com Player code BEGIN --></p><div class="aaplayer"><iframe src="http://www.audioacrobat.com/playweb?audioid=P33f68166ef213594e80c5fe3fa34dd73Z1txRVRGY2dy&buffer=5&shape=6&fc=FFFF00&pc=FF3300&kc=9933FF&bc=0033FF&brand=1&player=ap21" frameborder="0" height="20" scrolling="no" width="246">
Alessia Brio - July 14, 2008 - What's Hot in Romance!
Sent: Jul 18, 2008
