Genre: YA Dystopian
Release Date: September 18, 2015

Seventeen-year-old Harper, incurable kleptomaniac, never expected to end up on a place like Penance. Yet, here she is, imprisoned on the secluded island full of delinquent teenagers. At first glance, the place is everything they want: freedom. No laws, no authorities, just pure, unadulterated liberty. 

With that freedom, however, comes danger. At the center of the chaos and brutality that rocks the island is Clint, a seasoned murderer working under the elusive, self-proclaimed Queen of Penance, Esme. Cold and brutal, Clint’s reputation has managed to keep the islanders in line — until now.

As Harper unwillingly becomes entrapped in the island’s politics, and a tragedy leaves Clint hunting for revenge, Penance’s unstable order begins to crumble. As their fates draw closer, both Harper and Clint must survive against bloodthirsty criminals, unnatural weather, and their own inner demons before their blood too is spilled in the sand.

WELCOME TO PENANCE ISLAND

THE PLACE WHERE YOU DIE.

1. Why YA dystopian?

I: Dystopian has certain qualities and themes that I often explore in my writing — traits of humanity, basically. Dystopian is basically more realistic, futuristic fantasy, another one of my favorite genres, with a strong focus on the individual.

M: It's so much fun to write.  I'd say it's even better than reading. You basically get to create your own world! How awesome is that?

2. Tell us a little bit about your main characters, Harper and Clint...

I: Harper is a grumpy kleptomaniac who’d rather be left alone. Her primary internal struggle on Penance is in regards to her morality—surviving on Penance calls for a lot more than base thievery; for Harper, it becomes a battle between keeping her morality, her sanity, and preserving her own life.

M: Clint is more or less a nice guy, who happens to have to kill a lot of people…  I like him. He's a very emotionally disturbed person, I'll leave it at that!

3. Penance Island—are there any real places that were the inspiration for this setting? 

I: Mitchell is the one who came up with the setting. I imagine Penance as a large island, mostly forest, somewhere in the Atlantic Ocean.

M: Not really, to be honest! When I originally thought of the island, I had just envisioned a little island like the one in Theodore Taylor's The Cay, but my imagination went wild, then Isabella came and brought her own perspective and boom. Penance was created.

4. Did you have a message in mind for your readers while writing Fire in the Stars?

I: Fire in the Stars exposes the horrible, brutal side of human beings, for sure. But, taking a semi-positive spin on it. I think a large part of the story speaks about the endurance and strength people possess.

M: Life isn't sunshine and fairytales. There are bad people in this world, like there are good. Humans have evil inside; it just takes a few key environmental factors for our demons to take control.

5. Your journey as a writer—how did it begin, where has it taken you?

I: I’ve been writing for as long as I could form sentences. As someone who’s horribly shy, writing gave me a way to express myself—the solitude of writing enables you to slow down and consider what you have to say, which is what I love. Writing has taken me to so many different heights and made me so much more confident in who I am. Basically, it’s given me a way to speak.

M: My journey as a writer began when I was 14 years old and someone told me that I'd have to wait until I went to college to accomplish something in my life. So I wrote my first book and worked to make it published with the sole purpose of showing teenagers everywhere that you don't have to be an adult or go to college to accomplish something and be successful. It doesn't matter who you are, where you come from, if you want something, go get it.

6. What inspired you to coauthor?

I: Honestly, it was something of a whim. Mitchell posted a wanted ad for a coauthor on a writing forum. I almost didn’t respond, but I decided, “hey, what the heck.” I’m rather glad I did, because not only did I get to work on an awesome project, but I got to meet this dork.

M: Back when I first thought of the island, I knew that I'd need a strong female character written by a strong female. Isabella created one and is one of the strongest girls I know and I'm beyond lucky to have her as a coauthor and best friend.

7. Did your process happen naturally or did you have to work on a method for coauthoring?

I: Much different than I expected. I think that’s because Mitchell and I work well together—both being pretty “go with the flow” writers, we’re open to each other's ideas. The thing is, our ideas always seem to be pretty similar, even when we haven’t discussed it. He’ll send me a chapter and I’ll be like, “hey, this is weird, but I was thinking the exact same thing.”

M: I'd say it was completely natural. Isabella and I have this weird thing where we literally know what the other is thinking when we write (it kinda scares us sometimes)! When we write, I don't really even have to plan too much with her, like she doesn't with me. Whatever we leave each other is exactly what we wanted and we work with it!

8. Mitchell is an airborne ranger. How has it been with him deployed…regarding logistics and timeline for release? Same goes for Isabella with high school. Did you run into any major roadblocks/how did you overcome them?

I: It’s been tricky. There are months when Mitchell can’t write, and high school is pretty demanding itself. Still, we work our way around it—you know, by writing a ridiculous amount of words in a very short time period. I actually think the roadblocks we’ve met have made both of us more strong, flexible writers. With Mitchell away for months at a time, I’ve had to step up my game and take care of editing and marketing, two things I wasn’t especially experienced with (or fond of). It’s made me step out of my comfort zone.

M: I feel like most setbacks came on my end with being deployed and going on rotations where I am unable to write for months at a time, as to where Isabella in high school only has a few days where she can't write. When we both are free, we kick it into MAXIMUM OVERDRIVE and start writing chapters left and right. When I'm gone, she really picks up the slack and never stops working. If it’s with marketing, editing (I hate editing and I know she does too, so I usually make out pretty well with not having to do it)! Or just setting things up, she really takes control and I have nothing but confidence and trust in her whenever I can't write or contribute for a period of time.

9. After writing your first novels, Sanguine Moon and Stranded Houses, what did you do differently in writing Fire in the Stars?

I: Edit. Editing is so important. Also, that people are really, really supportive, which is so great. Because of that, I feel like I learned, with my first novels, to be more honest and fearless in my writing.

M: I've learned that you're going to face negativity. You're going to face people that give you a bad review, or twist your words up during an interview, but it's how you bounce back that defines you as a writer. If anything, I've learned to let all the comments, positive or negative, roll off me. I'm the only one that brings definition to myself and what I write, good or bad, I can't let anyone else's comments get to my head. 

I've also learned to be a better editor and to plan out my writing a bit more! Thanks to my super amazing gingery coauthor friend.

10. Plotter or pantster? What’s your writing style?

I: Definitely a plotter. I am nearly obsessional about keeping journals for every project, filled with drafts of outlines and characters and all that good plotting stuff. Mostly, I like to see where I’m going. However, I’m not scared to deviate from the outline. It’ll go through tons of changes throughout the course of writing the book.

M: Definitely a panster. I like to let the characters write the book! Planning is more of Isabella’s thingy... She's too organized for me sometimes. She uses a lot of big words too. 

11. Why indie publish?

I: I feel like self-publishing has a bad reputation of being what “lazy” authors do. Which is ridiculous. We do all of our own editing, marketing, etc (or fork over hundreds of dollars to have someone else do it—and you still have to approve everything). There’s a lot of responsibility you need to learn to be a successful indie author, but it’s totally worth it. You get to make every decision regarding your book. You’re in control, and free to do as you wish regarding your book.

M: When self-publishing you get to stay in direct contact with the reader as to where with a publishing company, you have all these rules, lose out on money and just bleh. If we can do everything a company can do, why not?

12. What social media outlets do you use the most to stay connected with readers?

I: While Mitchell works a lot with actual people, I do most of the social media marketing. I love making graphics and planning virtual book tours and the like. I’d say I’ve found Instagram, Facebook, and Tumblr all wonderful outlets for marketing—not to mention the websites I’ve designed. Marketing should be a combo of being an excellent people person (see Mitchell aka Mr. Charismatic) and giving your readers a place to stay updated online. 

13. Mentors who have inspired your writing. What are you reading now?

I:  I’m currently reading a biography of Alexander Hamilton (Yes, yes I did put my summer reading off to the last minute). As far as mentors go, I’d have to point to my teachers. I’ve had the privilege of having excellent literature teachers who go to great lengths to help improve our writing by 1) making us read deep and analyze great works,  2) making us write and rewrite, 3) giving individual students attention and holding them up to their skill level.

M: At this very moment I am reading BZRK by Michael Grant (my all time favorite author ever). A mentor? I'd say him, too. I've spoken to him a few times and each time he never fails to leave me inspired. 

14. Dream cast? Who would you cast if your book is made into a TV series or movie?

I: Harper played by a snarky, red-haired Kaya Scodelario.  Nicholas Hoult and Alexandra Daddario as twins Gage and Hazel. Victoria Justice + glasses = Sofia.

M: If Taylor Lautner and Sirius Snape had a kid, then that's who I'd have play Clint. For Frank, I’d go to Hawaii and find the ten biggest men I could find, and have them yell as loud as they could. The deepest, loudest voice would win. Esme would be played by Isabelle Fuhrman. I absolutely love her and think she would fit the role perfectly.

15. Future projects? Will you stay in this genre or branch out?

I: We’re working on a couple more projects together. They could be considered dystopian, but more as subgroups. I’m still exploring different genres, but I don’t think I’ll ever settle on one genre. There are themes that stay constant in my books, but it’s changing up the setting and genre that make each one unique.

M: Personally, I plan on exploring this genre more with Isabella while also branching out to other genres on my own, some more fictional work on my end. While still keeping up with the ever-evolving world of dystopian.

Dog lover or cat lover?

I: Can I have both? Please? I suppose dogs. Unless kittens are involved.

M: Cats. I love cats, not just like a house cat, though. Like a cat that kills rodents and stuff. My one cat used to low crawl everywhere, so I called him Sniper, and I swear he listened like a dog. I could call him and still chill with him at my feet. And he'd bring me rabbits he killed and stuff! Badass cats are the best.

All-time favorite book, movie or TV character and why?

I: Verity/Julie from Code Name Verity. That book. That Scottish woman. 

M: The Wolf of Wall Street is by far my favorite movie of all time. They didn't hold back and weren't worried about being politically correct, but instead telling a real story. And Leo is bae so.

Stuck in a book—you’re thrown into a book world, which book/author’s world would you choose?

I: Would it be cliche to say Harry Potter? I mean, come on. Magic? Magical creatures? Magical society? Wicked. And you’d probably be safe, as long as you didn’t associate with Harry Potter himself.

M: Everyone says Harry Potter, but I'd have to go with The Hunger Games, or the Gone series by Michael Grant. I'd be interested in seeing how long I'd last in that type of situation. 

Now that I see Isabella said Harry Potter... Well... If I was in the world of Harry Potter, you can believe I'd play Quidditch with him and be best friends with him. And definitely date Ron's sister Ginny, (Bonnie Wright is absolutely amazing and I love her and the hair and smile and why can't she love me too)?

http://kazanjianrogge.wix.com/fireinthestars

WELCOME Andy Peloquin! I'm excited to be a tour stop today for Andy's new book, Blade of the Destroyer. Here's his guest article on DARK FANTASY:

What is needed for a dark fantasy novel? What sets dark fantasy apart from all the other fantasy genres?

Here are a few key ingredients that qualify a book for “dark” status:

1.  Darker themes of fantasy – It’s not just the quest of the hero or the epic journey to save the world, but you’ve got to include something a bit darker. Think death, murder, mayhem, and horrors inflicted upon people.

2.  Horror elements -- Monsters like vampires, werewolves, Lovecraftian deities, mythological creatures, and demons are all common elements of dark fantasy stories. Dark fantasy usually combines elements of horror with fantasy story lines.

3.  A dark, gloomy ambience/sense of dread -- If most of the story is filled with horror, death, brooding, and an overall pall of gloom, it’s a dark fantasy story. There’s very little happiness or joy in a dark fantasy world--and any bright moments are quickly overshadowed by suffering.

Why in the heck would anyone want to write in this depressing genre? It’s all horror and terror, so what’s the fun in that?

Well, for some us (such as myself), dark fantasy is the PERFECT genre to explore the darker side of human nature, but with a fantasy twist. For example, if I were to write a novel about a serial killer, it would be a thriller novel. But if I make the serial killer a monster or set the story in a fantasy world, it’s “dark fantasy.”

I’m a fantasy lover at heart, and I love telling stories set in a world I create. Being able to write my own worlds is a huge part of what makes fantasy my genre of choice. But instead of finding the “good” or the “happy” in these worlds, it’s much more enjoyable to explore the underbelly.

There are too many stories filled with heroes, heroines, and people doing good things for good reasons! We need a few more bastards, killers, and monsters that we can read and enjoy. It’s much more challenging to make an audience root for a serial killer than for “the hero.” That is a challenge that I love to take on, which is why I love dark fantasy.

The Last Bucelarii (Book 1): Blade of the Destroyer

The Hunter of Voramis is the perfect assassin: ruthless, unrelenting, immortal. Yet he is haunted by lost memories, bonded to a cursed dagger that feeds him power yet denies him peace of mind. Within him rages an unquenchable need for blood and death.

When he accepts a contract to avenge the stolen innocence of a girl, the Hunter becomes the prey. The death of a seemingly random target sends him hurtling toward destruction, yet could his path also lead to the truth of his buried past? 

Amazon Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/Blade-Destroyer-Last-Bucelarii-Book-ebook/dp/B012EI9M4A/

Amazon Paperback: http://www.amazon.com/Blade-Destroyer-Last-Bucelarii-Book/dp/1515038955/

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/25269614-blade-of-the-destroyer

1.  Tell us about your main character, the Hunter of Voramis -- The Hunter is an assassin, so he’s not a “happy” person. He’s a killer by nature, and he literally has a voice in his head that compels him to kill. Yet there are things that you can't help but like about him: he’s a protector, he cares about a select people, he’s as flawed as you or I.

2.  What is your mission for this series (number of books, any nuggets about characters we will see in future books)? -- I want to evolve the Hunter as a character. He will never be “good” and there will never be a “happy ending” to his story, but there will be an ending that will make you feel “yes, that's the right end to this.” There will either be five or six books total (I have up to Book 3 written), depending on how much story there is to tell.

3.  Favorite part of writing this story/least favorite part -- My most and least favorite part of writing is hearing back from beta readers. While writing this book, I thought I was doing good. After getting feedback, I ended up re-writing a third! It’s a lot of work and a challenge to incorporate, but it makes the writing MUCH better.

4.  Mentors/authors who have inspired your writing. What are you reading now? -- I respect Brandon Sanderson’s writings, stories, and characters, so I’m going through all of his books. I’m currently working on the Mistborn series, but I’ll drop everything the moment his next Stormlight Archive book is released.

5.  Your journey as a writer -- how did it begin, where has it taken you? -- I’d have to say that it started thanks to two individuals. One is my brother-in-law, who started writing fiction a few months before I did. Seeing him do that made me think, “Well, if he can, I can, too!” The other is a distant relative of mine who read something I wrote and wanted to publish it in a comic book series. The fact that she (a successful writer in her own right) saw value in my writing boosted my confidence and told me that I could create.

6.  Future projects? Will you stay in this genre or branch out? -- I plan to stick with dark fantasy for the time being. I know it’s not as widely accepted as YA fiction, epic fantasy, or thrillers, but it allows me to tell the dark, twisted stories I want to tell. I have many more stories about assassins, thieves, dark cults, and other terrible things.

7.  Plotter or Panster? -- A bit of both, actually. I usually have things fairly well plotted out before I start writing. I’ll take a week or so to plot out at least the first half of the book before I sit down to write. As I write, I come up with new twists, angles, and elements of the book. I figure things out as I go, but I have a lot figured out before I write. It helps me to avoid the dreaded writer’s block.

8.  Has your process changed from your debut novel, In the Days: A Tale of the Forgotten Continent? -- Absolutely! I wrote, edited, and released In the Days in about two months. It was a ton of fun and it got me out there, but I have come to see the value of taking my time. I’ve invested more time in beta readers, getting feedback, and carefully going over my work. I’m a perfectionist by nature, and this has allowed me to make my work as close to “perfect” as I can.

9.  Things you wish you knew when you started out? -- I wish I knew how much work this was going to be, and how much time it would take! I haven’t gone out partying in nearly two years (though I don’t miss it), and I haven’t had a Saturday morning off in about that much time. Vacation is usually a few extra hours of writing, and not all of it is fun.

10.  Movie deal: dream cast for your story -- That’s a tough call! I’d love an actor who has a Jason Statham level of bad-assery, but with more refinement and much more hair. I'd love to have Benedict Cumberbatch as the villain!

Andy Peloquin--a third culture kid to the core -- has loved to read since before he could remember. Sherlock Holmes, the Phantom of the Opera, and Father Brown are just a few of the books that ensnared his imagination as a child.

When he discovered science fiction and fantasy through the pages of writers like Edgar Rice Burroughs, J.R.R Tolkien, and Orson Scott Card, he was immediately hooked and hasn't looked back since.

Andy's first attempt at writing produced In the Days: A Tale of the Forgotten Continent. He has learned from the mistakes he made and used the experience to produce Blade of the Destroyer, a book of which he is very proud.

Reading -- and now writing -- is his favorite escape, and it provides him an outlet for his innate creativity. He is an artist; words are his palette.

His website (http://www.andypeloquin.com) is a second home for him, a place where he can post his thoughts and feelings--along with reviews of books he finds laying around the internet.

He can also be found on his social media pages, such as:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AndyPeloquin 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/andyqpeloquin

www.linkedin.com/in/andypeloquin/ 

https://plus.google.com/100885994638914122147/about  

https://www.amazon.com/author/andypeloquin   

https://www.facebook.com/andrew.peloquin.1 

10 Things You Need to Know About Me:

1. Hot wings, ALWAYS!
2. I never forget a face, but rarely remember a name.
3. I'm a head taller than the average person (I'm 6' 6")
4. Marvel > DC
5. I was born in Japan, and lived there until the age of 14.
6. Selena Gomez and Five Finger Death Punch are both in my playlist.
7. Aliens are real, but it's self-centered of us to believe that they would come to visit Earth.
8. Watching sports: suck. Playing sports: EPIC!
9. I earned a purple belt in Karate/Hapkido/Taekwondo.
10. I dislike most Christmas music, aside from Trans-Siberian Orchestra.

When you steal from faerie queens, the consequences are painful and sometimes deadly.

Were-jaguar and TV personality, Riley O’Rourke, has been looking over her shoulder ever since she stole from the Dark Queen of the Unseelie faeries. When Riley is contacted by an informant with knowledge that can blow the lid off the story of the year, she can’t pass up the opportunity to investigate. What she finds instead is something that puts her at the mercy of the Dark Queen, who is not known for her compassion.

When Riley’s boyfriend, David, realizes she’s missing, he’ll do whatever it takes to get her back, including starting a war with the Unseelie. The balance of power among the Fae courts is shifting, and if David makes one wrong move, Riley could end up crushed in the struggle. But after being the subject of the Queens’s legendary cruelty, will there even be anything left of Riley to save?

The second book in the Revelations Trilogy continues the story of Riley O'Rourke, David Lo, and Neve MacAlpin. Buy it here.

Taming Shadows is the first book in the Revelations Trilogy and introduces us to Riley, David, and Neve. Buy it here.

What inspired you to write the Revelations Trilogy?

It was a combination of things, really. I have wanted to be an author since I was probably five or six years old, but my career went sort of in the opposite direction. I worked as a journalist for years—both as a staff writer and in the editorial department—for two different newspapers and a magazine. Then I discovered National Novel Writing Month (NaNoWriMo) and only wrote fiction during the month of November. I never went back to those books despite crossing the 50,000-word finish line with all but one. But in November of 2012, I decided that it was time to make my childhood dream true and picked a character who had been living inside my head for more than ten years. And the rest, as they say, is history.

Tell us a little bit about your character, Riley O’Rourke?

Riley has lived inside my brain since 2001, when my husband introduced me to Laurell Hamilton's Anita Blake series. I was very intrigued by the lycanthropes and wondered what sort of were-animal would do best in Southern Arizona. Then I discovered that there were wild jaguars living here and decided, yeah, that could work.

Riley has gone through a few permutations since she was first born. She was a lawyer when I first met her, then a ballet dancer, and finally a journalist. Most of the rest of her—her heritage, her involvement with the Fae and David, where she lives and where she's from—has stayed the same, though.

What would be her theme song? Who would you cast for her in a TV/movie?

She's had a few theme songs throughout the years, but I think the one that most           fits her is “Scars”, by Rush. And she's Maggie Q in my mind.

What’s your writing process like? (Any routines: time of day, snacks, music) Plotter or pantster?

When life and the day job (which would be an epic name for a band, by the way) allows, I like to write as soon as I get up until around lunch time. I always try to get at least 1,000 words a day if I can. My choice in music usually depends upon what sort of scene I'm writing that day—I have Spotify playlists for everything from love scenes to fight scenes. As far as snacks go, I've been trying to go for healthy stuff, so on the snack shelf of my desk, I have everything pretzel thins and trail mix from Trader Joe's. Of course, I wouldn't be me if I didn't have some gummis as well.      

I am definitely a pantster, much to my detriment, I think. I know how stories start         and end, but it's the middle stuff that bogs me down. Lately I've been trying   different outlining techniques to see which is the best fit for me. We'll see when I get finished with my experiment stories.

Favorite character to write/least favorite character to write and why?

My favorite character is Riley. She's so much like me, really...well, except for her Jaguar side and her shoe budget. But her snarky attitude and her outlook on life are very similar to mine.

My least favorite character to write is...well, no one. I really do love all my characters.

Any suggestions for the author embarking on series writing?

Make sure you know where you're going and approximately how many books it will take to get there. Pepper your books with things that will be explained in the next installment to keep your readers interested and wanting more. And please, for the love of all that you hold holy, answer ALL the questions in the final book in the series! 

Biggest mistakes fantasy authors make (in your opinion)?

Adhering to cliches. Yes, elves and dwarfs and orcs are established winners, but maybe you could write about something different? Dryads, golems, and goblins maybe?

You’re also an editor—what are the most common errors you find writers make?

Not taking advantage of an editor's services. I've run across so many indie and self-published authors who think that hiring a professional editor is a waste of their money. They can do everything else themselves. And then then get a ton of one-star reviews saying they needed to run the manuscript past an editor. Don't be that guy! If you can't afford a professional, turn your manuscript over to someone you trust—a friend who is a fellow author is the perfect choice.

What books have influenced your life the most?

The Hobbit, Peter Pan, and the Chronicles of Narnia. If not for them, I'm pretty sure I'd be writing either high-falutin' literary fiction or trashy romance novels.

Is there anything particular you want readers to take away from your books?

I just hope they enjoy them. I honestly did not write these to be something with a message or a moral. These are not high-falutin' literary fiction novels that can change your life. They're fun, escapist literature, and I hope that people read them with that in mind. 

Ups/downs of Indie publishing?

People still not considering me a “real” author or my books “real” books. I've put just as much—if not more—effort into getting these books into the hands of my readers than have traditionally published authors, and frankly, I'm a little sick of being told I'm not a real author.

Tell us about your upcoming adventures—more fantasy? Have you written/plan to write in other genres?

I've written a pirate-themed historical romance that will be coming out under a pen name in the fall, and I have a YA dystopian sci-fi thing that will be coming out next year. I'm still looking for something so epic that it will require multiple books to tell, because I like writing series and I think a lot of readers prefer series to stand alones.

Any predictions for the publishing world in the next decade?

 I think with the overwhelming amount of self-published authors and independent presses, the Big Five publishers are going to have to change their game even more. I also hope that there will eventually be some sort of standards for self-published authors, so that our reputations will stop being harmed by people who churn out sub-par garbage.

Are you a homebody or adventurer?
I am an adventurer living on a homebody's budget.

What kind of paranormal/preternatural creature would you choose to be?
Maybe a magic-user of some sort, like Orla Brown in my own books.

You’re stranded on a deserted island. Which author would you choose as company and why?
 I actually have a list! Here they are, in order from top to bottom:

1.       Diana Gabaldon
2.       Neil Peart
3.       Kevin Hearne
4.       Jim Butcher
5.       Brandon Sanderson

In 2050, _______ will rule the world.
The cynical idealist part of me says greed, because I don't see that changing any time soon. Then the optimist pipes up and says compassion, because if we don't change the way most of us are living, we won't be around in 2050. Wow, that's kinda heavy. Um... Dog lovers will rule the world in 2050. Because dogs >> everything else.

Favorite guilty pleasure?
 Chick flicks. My favorites are PS I Love You, Say Anything, Love Actually, and anything with Doris Day and Rock Hudson.

Fiona Skye is a fantasy author, currently living in the deserts of Southern Arizona. She shares a home with her husband, two kids, three cats, two rats, a betta fish, and a Border Collie.

Fiona’s passion for story telling began early in life. She loved playing make-believe and inventing elaborate fantasy worlds for her friends and her to play in. At age twelve, she wrote her first short story, which was based on a song by a 1980s hair band. After giving it to her English teacher for editing and rewrites, she learned to love the entire writing process, and has dedicated her life since then to writing, only to be occasionally distracted by her insatiable love of yarn and crochet, and the dogged pursuit of the perfect plate of cheese enchiladas.

She counts Diana Gabaldon and Jim Butcher as her favorite authors and biggest influences. Joining these two on the list of people she would wait in queue for a week to have a coffee with are Neil Peart, Kevin Hearne, and Brandon Sanderson.

CONNECT WITH FIONA HERE:

Website & Blog: http://fiona-skye.com/

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/fionaskyewriter

Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/fionaskyewriter

Pinterest: http://www.pinterest.com/FionaSkyeWriter/

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/fiona_skye

I’m so excited this week. It’s here: the paperback collection of the first three novellas in The Darkling Chronicles.

Join me on the tour June 1 – June 5. There are so many amazing blogs and an awesome giveaway! 

Many thanks to everyone who has made this journey possible. I have incredible beta readers (alpha readers) who I couldn’t live without! And then there are these professionals who keep me on course: 

Editing: Nancy S. Thompson
Cover Design: Robin Harper, Wicked by Design
Formatting: Angela McLaurin, Fictional Formats
Blog Tour: Heather Davenport, Book Plug Promotions

Shadow Blues
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Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/1GrXkkv

Google Play: http://bit.ly/1EDYOrh

Smashwords: http://bit.ly/1J31lyk

Apple: http://apple.co/1dyNIdq

Kobo: http://bit.ly/1FPpZQH

 Shadow Fire
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1Nc54cd

Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/1xi86Yt

Google Play: http://bit.ly/1dujh7I

Smashwords: http://bit.ly/1HMMKa6

Apple: http://apple.co/1SD6BM6

Kobo: http://bit.ly/1dyOirs

 Shadow Thief
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1M3I3v0

Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/1CdaizD

Google Play: http://bit.ly/1GxdUvy

Smashwords: http://bit.ly/1KpZVuZ

Apple: http://apple.co/1AuXSG4

Kobo: http://bit.ly/1FEbGgk

 Paperback
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1CrDXGL

Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/1CrDXX9

GENRE:
Fantasy

Shadow Blues
The Darkling Chronicles #1
(Novella)


LOVE


At the age of four, Patrick Benjamin Solomon becomes Anka Rehmling’s human charge. By eight, he can SEE her. At thirteen, he breaks her heart, and by eighteen, she finds herself fighting for his life. 

As a darkling shadowcaster, Anka casts shadows in the human world, harnessing some of the earth’s UV light to bring back to Montenai—a world full of darklings, nymphs, satyrs, phantoms, and dragon lords. Her job is crucial to preserving the vitality and balance in her town of Shadowland. However, Anka has trouble following the strict rules set by the Shadowland Council, a ruling body comprised of three dragon lords. 

The lords’ decree states all shadowcasters will abide by the rules or face the penalty of harsh punishment, banishment, or death. Torn between her world and Ben's, Anka must choose to defy the Council or turn her back on love.


Shadow Fire
The Darkling Chronicles #2
(Novella)


COURAGE


As a darkling shadowcaster, Bianca Rehmling works under the three dragon lords of the Shadowland Council, casting shadows for her human charge on the earth’s plane and harnessing energy to bring back for the balance and wellbeing of her kind. She’s always been a law-abiding darkling, as opposed to her younger sister, Anka. When Anka broke shadowcasting rules over the summer, she suffered the wrath of the council, something Bianca never wants to witness again.

To protect her sister, Bianca harbors some dark secrets, ones that could cause the decline of Shadowland. When a deadly illness called Shadow Fever strikes the village, Bianca fears her own rule-breaking has caused a fatal imbalance in the world of Montenai. She hasn’t been doing her job, her duty, and the dragon lords suspect.


Family or duty? With loved ones suffering, and the dragon lords breathing down her neck, Bianca keeps her nymph friends close and her enemies…closer. When an unlikely ally offers to help, Bianca must decide whether to trust him or brave the heat alone.

Shadow Thief
The Darkling Chronicles #3
(Novella)


SURVIVAL


Natcha is a creature of fire, drawing in shadow to cloak herself from the dangers of the world. She has never known what she is or where she came from, but she knows her wings and claws make her different. The sea cliffs of Montenai are her home, the Aglatian Sea her playground, and the phantoms her family.


All her life, she has hidden in the Faunlier Mountains with her sister Nalene. Only the oath she swore as a child to a darkling father to watch over his son draws her toward the turmoil in Shadowland.


When unrest among the darklings, satyrs, nymphs, and dragon lords begins to bleed into her own life, Natcha wagers the welfare of one against the welfare of many. To protect all she holds dear, she must incur the wrath of Shadowland’s leaders and become… the Thief.

The last two Novellas in the series:
Shadow Ice
The Darkling Chronicles #4
(Novella)

SACRIFICE

So much pain to bear for something new to come.

Despite a rocky start in life, Nalene has survived twenty years in the sea cliffs of the Aglatian Sea. She struggles daily to master her water energy rather than succumb to it. An icy constitution has forced her to rely on her sister for care, protection, and guidance.

But the tides are turning and powers shifting in Montenai. Once a sickly creature with no purpose, Nalene emerges a strong, willful guardian. This reclusive orphan has everyone’s attention, including a new seer who predicts “only one can survive” the battle to come.

Challenged by dragon lords, championed by outcasts, Nalene meets strife at every turn. As a crisis of faith wages within her, she forges ahead because she won’t give up on hope. What is she willing to sacrifice to fulfill her destiny?


 Shadow King
The Darkling Chronicles #5
(Novella)


HOME

A family tragedy at the age of twelve thrusts Serena into the world of shadowcasting. She relishes the dragon lords’ protection and training but loves her new job and human charge even more.

Because of her great-great-grandfather’s alliance with a vicious nymph queen, Serena finds other Montenaians refuse to trust or accept her. It doesn’t help that she has the same birthmark and orange spark in her eyes as the relative who brought shame to the Brisson name.

Stepping through the portal to Paris allows Serena to escape her family’s reputation as well as her mother’s harsh traditions. Every day Serena pushes to be “worthy of the dragon,” regardless of her brother warning her the path leads to horrible loss. 

For years, the lore of dragon and astrei has molded the practices and beliefs of Montenaians. No one has felt this more than the phantom, Serena. This Drifter’s history is the key to Shadowland’s fate. Can she protect them from a dangerous future and still find her way home?

MONDAY, JUNE 1:

Moonless Bites http://www.moonlessbites.com/
Review & Excerpts

Tiger Hebert’s Blog: http://www.tigerhebert.com/#!blog/c1ecg
Article on Worldbuilding

Literary Mania Reviews: http://literarymaniareviews.blogspot.com/
Review & Author Interview

TUESDAY, JUNE 2:

SA Gibson https://gibsonauthor.wordpress.com/
Feature Post

Mythical Books http://www.mythicalbooks.blogspot.ro/
Feature Post

Skye Writing http://fiona-skye.com/blog/
Feature Post & Author Interview

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 3:

Undercover Book Reviews
http://undercoverbookreviews.blogspot.com/
Feature Post

Maria’s Book Blog
http://www.marialovesbooks.com/
Feature Post

Naughty and Nice Book Blog
http://www.naughtyandnicebookblog.com/
Feature Post

Life & Times of a Would Be Somebody
http://wouldbesomebody.blogspot.com/
Feature Post & Character Interview

THURSDAY, JUNE 4:

Paranormal Romance and Authors That Rock
https://pratr.wordpress.com/
Review & Excerpts

Deausha & Kitty’s YA Book Blog
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Deausha-Kittys-YA-Book-Blog/709258539116151
Feature Post

Writers of Bad Ass Ladies and Big Ass Dragons
https://lornageorge.wordpress.com/
Feature Post

 FRIDAY, JUNE 5

Monlatable Book Reviews
http://www.monlatablereviews.com/
Feature Post

Archaeolibrarian—I Dig Good Books!
http://archaeolibrarianologist.blogspot.de/
Feature Post
 
Deal Sharing Aunt
http://www.dealsharingaunt.blogspot.com/
Feature Post & Author Interview
 
Twin Opinions
http://www.twinopinionsreview.blogspot.com/
Review & Excerpt
 
Storysculpting
http://storysculpting.blogspot.com/
Feature Post

Jen Ponce Writer of Kick Ass Women and Oogy Monsters
http://jenniferponce.com/
Feature Post

TUESDAY, JUNE 9:

Jo Michael’s Blog
http://jomichaels.blogspot.com/
Feature Post

I'm so excited for this author event this weekend at Barnes & Noble, Hamilton Place Mall, Chattanooga, 2 PM.

I'll be signing copies of urban fantasy First Born. I'm in good company with amazing authors, David B. Coe (Spell Blind) and Stephen R. Babb (The Lay of Lirazel).

Hope to see you there!
http://store-locator.barnesandnoble.com/event/4832120

Three lives entangled…

Sam - Carefree, innocent, and in love. All is destroyed when life has other plans. Love isn't easy, especially when your heart is torn in two.

Alec - The weight of a life changing secret is suffocating. His love for her is his oxygen. Will his love be enough or will he be too late?

Emmett - Life gives and life takes away. Tormented by what and who he can’t have. Will he fight or lose his soul?

When fate steps in, their lives are irrevocably changed.

Love's Secret Torment is the story of three people's search for answers as they deal with life's cruel turns. Does surviving their destiny and living with the aftermath come at too great a cost? Join them on their journey as they face the rocky steps of a fate-twisted adulthood.

Amazon: http://amzn.to/18oB90Z​

B&N: http://barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1121423496

Google Play: https://play.google.com/store/books/details/Stacy_L_Darnell_Love_s_Secret_Torment?id=wB43BwAAQBAJ​

I’m excited to welcome Stacy L. Darnell to my blog today to celebrate the release of her debut novel, Love’s Secret Torment.

Hi Tricia! Thanks for having me today. 

Who/what inspired you to start writing?

I’ve always wanted to write. When I was growing up, I wrote a lot of short poems, which are in a journal on the top shelf of my closet, and will never see the light of day. LOL

Tell us about your characters Sam, Alec, and Emmett.

Sam is a really happy, carefree young woman. She typically sees the good side of things, until life starts throwing curveballs at her. Then she must face hurdles that she never even imagined. She loves with all of her heart, but sometimes love isn’t enough.

Alec is a smart, proper kind of guy. He has his faults, but is very loving, and has a heart of gold. When a certain something happens, he’s forced to make a hard choice and must deal with the consequences. 

Emmett is, well, Emmett. Ha ha. He likes to have fun, but he’s never been the commitment type. He’s loyal—sometimes too loyal. When he loves, he loves deeply – the same goes for all of his emotions, when he’s mad or upset, it’s pretty phenomenal for him.

Why romance? Do you think you’ll branch out into other genres?

I’m writing in the romance genre because that’s the way the story unfolded in my head. I’ve started another standalone, called “Sweet Conundrum” and it’s also a romance. I don’t foresee branching out into other genres. I’m pretty comfortable in romance.

About 13 years ago, I started a paranormal story, and to be quite honest, I think it’s dreadful. However, I can’t bring myself to shred it, so it sits in the bottom of my file drawer. It reminds me of where I started and how far I’ve come. 

Did you find any scene or character difficult to write and if so how did you get through it?

There’s this one scene, an intimate one, and it’s from Emmett’s POV. I remember when I received my first batch of edits back and my editor said to me, “Stacy, it’s ok to fade to black for sex scenes, but you have to give them something to fade to black with.” I’ll admit, I was nervous about that. But as I went through my rewrites, I was very happy with how they all turned out. However, when I got to one that was in Emmett’s POV, I remember messaging Nancy, my editor, and one of my critique partners (Ahem Tricia), something along the lines of: “OMG! I can’t write sex from Emmett’s POV! I don’t know what goes on in a guy’s sex-crazed mind!”

To which they both replied: “You can do it!”

So, I listened to my Spotify playlist, focused on Emmett and Sam…let the world slip away, and immersed myself into the scene. Emmett has always spoken the loudest in my head, so it didn’t take long for him to bring that scene to life. It’s actually one of my favorites.

How long did it take you to write the story and was there any particular research or experiences that played into the development of the piece?

I started writing this story around August of 2013. It started from 3-4 lines that grew into a prologue. My friend Alison talked me into entering the prologue into a contest in one of our book groups. I won third place and was on cloud nine thousand after that. I never even dreamed anyone would like my story. Over the last two years, that prologue has changed a bit, and grown into a story that I love and am very proud of.

There are some experiences that played into the development; some scenes that I wrote, take place where I was at the time I wrote them. For instance, my family had taken a vacation to Panama City Beach, FL and as I was sitting on the beach watching my husband and son bodysurf, I started picturing my characters there. So I grabbed my notebook and pen (Yes, I totally had a notebook and pen…on the beach with me. I know, I am a nerd and I’m okay with that), and I wrote out the first draft of the trip to Panama City Beach chapter.

I love Starbucks, and so does Sam…

One of the key plot points is very close to home for me. My situation is different from the one in the story, so I did some research to be sure I had the details correct for the book.

Sam has a chocolate lab named Gage, and so do I. I adore my fur baby and had to include him. 

What’s your writing process like? Plotter or Pantster?

I’d say a little of both. But mostly I’m a Pantster.

What has been the most difficult part about this journey/what has been the most positive part?

My first answer is the rewrites-it was both the most difficult and positive part. Why? Because even though my initial reaction at times was a near panic-meltdown, (thankfully, my bestie kidnapped me and gave me chocolate brownies and Coco-Cola that day) it forced me to dig deep, and the end result was even better than I had originally had it. Molding it into a beautiful story that I am proud of and also helping me improve on my craft.

Separately, the most difficult part of this journey has been the indie publishing side of it. There is far more involved than I had imagined. But it is worth every second.

The most positive part of this journey is definitely the amazing people that I’ve met and worked with during this entire process. The support of my family and friends has been amazing.

Are there any books or authors that have influenced you in your writing? What are you reading right now?

There isn’t really a specific book or author. I am influenced by all who have trudged ahead in the pursuit of bringing their stories to the world.

I don’t really read while I’m writing. My mind is pretty much solely focused on the story in my head. I did take a quick break this week from everything, and beta read for a friend who is writing an amazing adult thriller.

Is there anything particular you want readers to take away from your book?

That no matter what life throws at you, don’t give up. Fight and strive for your happiness. 

Why Indie publish?

I love the ability to decide what my cover looks like; from what I understand (and I could be wrong) that isn’t always the case with traditionally published books. I didn’t want to take all the time trying to find an agent and go through the process of querying publishers, when I could spend that time writing the next story in my head. I also love the indie world.

Do you have a favorite step in the indie publishing process (cover art, writing, editing, promoting)?

Definitely seeing my cover and the contents of my story come to life at the end. My cover designer, Robin Harper and my formatter, Tami Norman are absolutely amazing. It is beyond my wildest dreams how the cover and interior design of my book has turned out.

What can your readers look forward to next?

I’m working on my new WIP, “Sweet Conundrum” which is another standalone. It’s NA/Contemporary Romance. But it’s very different from “Love’s Secret Torment”. There are two main characters; the only similarity is it is dual POV. Merrik and Paige are alive in my head and I love love love their story.

You’re stranded on an island—what book character would you choose to have with you?

Wow, that’s a hard one. There are so many BBF’s (Book Boyfriends) that I love. Ah, but I’ve found an easy way to answer. I would choose Katniss Everdeen, because she’s resourceful and survived the hunger games twice. I think being stranded on an island would be safer, and I'd have a longer survival chance living with her than with a BBF (Bahahahah).

Favorite TV or book character growing up?

I didn’t really watch a lot of TV growing up. I was always listening to music (an eclectic mix) and hanging out with friends. The only real TV I watched was when home sick from school lol. That usually consisted of The Price is Right, and Guiding Light (my sister, Penny had me watching that for as long as I could remember – I did always crush on Josh Lewis when I was a kid). 

For movies, I am a total fangirl over Robert Downey Jr. (so is Sam ha ha). 

Favorite hobby that isn’t reading or writing?

I like painting, I’m not very good at it, but my husband graciously supports me to the point of hanging them in the living room. 

If you had to choose just one—Coca-Cola or Starbucks? 

Awwww now…that’s just not right LOL. I seriously can’t choose. Hmmm, Gah. I have to say Starbucks.

Stacy is a New Adult/Contemporary Romance author. Love's Secret Torment is her debut novel. She has started her second novel, Sweet Conundrum, due out later this year.

Stacy lives with her husband Mike, son Austin and chocolate lab Gage just outside of Atlanta, Georgia. She loves the seasonal weather changes, taking walks with Gage, and spending time with her family and friends.

While happily addicted to Starbucks writing is her passion and sharing her stories with the world is a dream come true.

The sound of tapping woke me up. I cracked my eyes open, waiting for everything to come into focus. The sun peeked through my bedroom curtains. It was such a beautiful morning. Shaking my head with a wry smirk, I crawled off the bed, knowing only one person would be plinking pebbles at my window.

I shuffled to my window and spread the curtains wide. Smiling up at me was my Alec. I didn’t know how it was possible and had never experienced anything like it in my life, but damn, I loved him.

He waved me down, and I noticed he had a Starbucks cup in his hand. He knew me too well. I was a coffee and hot tea junkie and thanked God every single day that we had a Starbucks within five miles from anywhere in town. I threw my bathrobe on over my sleep shorts and tank top and ran downstairs to see what my sweet guy was up to.

“Hi baby,” I said as I wrapped my arms around him and my body molded into his.

“Good morning Samone,” he said back as he smiled. “I have a surprise for you,” he chuckled, knowing how I loved surprises, especially from him. 

Facebook: www.facebook.com/StacyLDarnellAuthor
Twitter: @StacyLDarnell
Blog: http://StacyLDarnellAuthor.blogspot.com
Instagram: @StacyLDarnell
TSU: @StacyLDarnell

Title: Heartwood(Carved Hearts #3)
Authors: L.G. Pace III & Michelle Pace
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Release Date: February 9, 2015
Cover Design: Wicked By Design

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/24279056-heartwood

“When we were kids, my cousins planned for their weddings like they were coronations. Sleepovers revolved around notebooks stuffed with clippings from bridal magazines and elaborate plans scrawled in purple ink. Horse drawn carriages, twenty tiered cakes, groomsmen in tails, and scads of bridesmaids, none of whom were nearly as pretty as the bride. Me? I'd just yawn and wander off to the backyard and play fetch with their dog. I never cared about any of that crap, at least not until I met Joe."

 With her wedding rapidly approaching, Molly's days consist of herding Joe off to tux fittings and diaper changings times two. She misses life on the food truck, but she isn't quite ready to leave the twins. Planning for every detail to be as perfect as her groom, she hopes her instincts are wrong that it's all too good to be true.

 Knowing Molly like he does, Joe can plainly see that his girl needs to decompress. She's as stubborn as always, and talking her into a honeymoon without the babies proves easier said than done. Molly's on edge about every little thing, from the nosey next door neighbor to cars speeding down their quiet street. While Joe revels in their otherwise blissful existence, he worries that Molly's paranoia may be a symptom of something bigger.

Come back to Austin one last time for the wedding of Molly Elizabeth Hildebrandt and Joseph Samuel Jensen. Raise a glass in celebration alongside their family and closest friends. Wave goodbye as they ride off into the sunset toward a dark fork in the road that could destroy their happily ever after. Will they finally get their fairytale ending? Find out in Heartwood, the explosive conclusion to the Carved Hearts series.

Good Wood (Carved Hearts #1)

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1DMxl4t
Barnes & Noble: http://bit.ly/1r3LDoL
KOBO: http://bit.ly/ZRoZtc

MollyWood (Carved Hearts #2)

Amazon US: http://amzn.to/1sm7rfo
Amazon UK : http://amzn.to/1oGOk50
KOBO: http://bitly.com/1xo8gsw

Heartwood (Carved Hearts #3)

Amazon: http://amzn.to/1A3mTYe
KOBO: http://bit.ly/1ALk0uK
Smashwords: http://bit.ly/1zMM4Ls

Congrats on the release of Heartwood Les and Michelle! 

What inspired you to write the Carved Hearts series?
Les - Bad sales.

Michelle - He was raving about how he was going to write an erotic book about the perfect man who gets completely wrecked. He said “He’s going to be a carpenter like Jesus with six pack abs and I’m going to name it Good Wood.” He proceeded to ramble out the general idea for Joe’s back story and how some cute baker was going to open a cupcake shop next door and rescue him from his self-destructive ways. After he finally spun down from his ravings, I said “You know…that’s not half bad. But the heroine sucks. Let me help you with that.” Needless to say, we scrapped the cupcake shop thing. I tried to get him to change the title, but he was hell-bent on Good Wood.

Can you tell us a little bit about your main characters Molly and Joe?
Les - Joe has what he thinks is the perfect life. In one night his entire life is destroyed, seemingly beyond repair. This is our prequel in book one, and it seems to take people a bit off guard. Chapter one is three years later where we meet Molly Hildebrandt, and we see what’s left of Joe through her eyes. He’s her childhood crush, and the best friend of her older brothers, Mac and Mason. Joe and the twins (Mac and Mason) are 5 years older, and her crush was unrequited. She hasn’t seen Joe in years and knows nothing about the tragedy that befell him.

 Michelle - Molly went off to culinary school on the west coast to escape her overbearing family and have some adventure. After a messy divorce, she sells her half of her business to her sous chef and flees back home to Austin and start up a food truck. Her brothers clue her into a great location, the construction site they are working at restoring a historic hotel. Molly and her employees are cooking for the construction workers when she crosses paths with Joe. He’s hotter than ever, but the charismatic guy she used to adore seems to have left the building.

I love the idea of her food truck business. What sparked the idea and how did you work this into your story?
Michelle - We were both wrapping up other novels and took the kids to a food truck park in Ft. Worth for a break. We dig the Food Network shows and had always wanted to visit one. I saw this beautiful blue truck with a Betty Page-looking pin up mural of a tattooed chef gripping a spatula Rosie the Riveter-style and winking. She had a tattoo of Texas and crossed spatulas on her arm, and I turned to Les and said “that’s Molly.” Not long after, I approached the owner of the truck (her name is Lee and she is fantastic) and I explained we wanted our heroine to be a food truck owner and asked if I could pick her brain. She was very accommodating and gave me many ideas I incorporated into Mollywood (book 2) and Heartwood (book 3). Ironically, she has since changed her truck completely (long gone is my Molly-esque mural), and she moved her truck to Austin and started making wraps (like Molly)! Art imitates life and vice versa.

You have some cool muses. Tell us about your experience in finding your cover model, the photo shoot for the series, and of course, what led to your meeting of Jensen Ackles. Les may have a different take on muses for Molly and Joe – would love to know what his are for writing this series.
Michelle - lol. Everyone assumes that I had some Jensen fetish and that’s how he became our Joe. In actuality, we picked him long before our trip to the food park and our Molly idea solidified. Les forced me to watch Supernatural while I was finishing my novel, Crazy Love.  Since that time I have not only become a fan of the show, I have converted many others.

About three seasons into Supernatural, I looked up at the screen during one of Jensen’s dramatic scenes and said, “You know, he’d make a great Joe.” Les replied, “Yeah, he would.”

So we googled him to see what his name was. We were surprised and delighted to see that he was originally from Dallas since we live just outside of Ft. Worth. We first met him together in Dallas. It was pretty uneventful and he seemed much more concerned about appeasing Les than interacting with me (Les can be scary). Later that night I got a second chance to be photographed with him. I was determined to interact with him, so I pranced up and basically eye-raped him (I was trying to see if his eyes were really that green). He called me sweetheart and I was struck speechless and things after that were just all manner of awkward. He tolerated me with a great deal of patience and class.  

When we saw him again this past month, things went much smoother and I was a lot more prepared for the experience. He signed the books (seeming incredibly curious about wtf was going on) and had a great sense of humor about our photograph session. He’s three hundred and fifty million times better looking in person, by the way. It’s actually hard to look directly at him and yet somehow impossible not to stare.

Ruby Franco, our cover model–now that’s a story! I scoured the internet for the perfect girl after the food truck-eureka moment. I found this Facebook page dedicated to Rockabilly Pin-ups. I was clicking through and though many of the girls were knock-outs, they didn’t have the sweet/sassy combo I had in mind, nor did they have the right coloring. I was about to give up when bam! Ruby Franco appeared on my screen.  

It was a black and white tint of the very picture we used for Good Wood. I clicked on the hyperlink for her name and OMG…she was from Dallas, too! I flipped through her pictures and just couldn’t believe she was a real person. I immediately contacted her and said, “I really want to buy some of your pictures for my book covers and teasers!” She responded very quickly and was a total doll to work with. I only bought pics she had the rights to (as indie authors this was important to both Les and I, as we wanted to support her as an artist) and though she is still the embodiment of Molly, she’s added many more tattoos since what I refer to as “the Molly era” photo shoots, so we didn’t do a specific shoot for the Carved Hearts books. I think she said the pics were a year and a half old at the time we did Good Wood, and that was about 8 months ago or more. Also, she changes her hair color and style more than I do, which is saying something.

I got the chance to meet up with her after The Holiday with the Belles Author Event, and she is fabulous! Smart, sassy, dry, funny. She’s a total stunner in person. She loves to cook, and I didn’t even realize until much later (after I purchased pictures from her) how may of her tattoos revolve around cooking and food. She doesn’t know this yet, but I plan to take her with me the next time I see Jensen next fall so we can get a photo of them together! I may have to photobomb it.

What inspired you to co-author with each other? Did you find the process easier or harder than you expected?

Michelle - I found it easier than any of my other co-author experiences. Obviously we live together, so that made it convenient. We’ve also known one another for over twenty-five years, so we tap about story ideas like Seth Rogen and Adam Sandler talk about jokes in the movie Funny People. To the casual observer it might sound clinical and not romantic, but we know what we mean and it works well on the page. I love the rotating point of view and how strong it binds the reader to our characters. Though it can be restrictive in the sense that we rotate chapters, the betas grew very attached to Molly and Joe very quickly. We were surprised to see how the reviews from the general public reflected the same sentiment.

Les - Michelle co-authored with a few other people and it took a lot of her time. I decided I was going to selfishly monopolize her time. We both have different processes which I think compliment each other. Having never coauthored with anyone I found it the experience unique.

What’s your writing process like?

Michelle - We started out with him writing Joe and me writing Molly, but that quickly went out the window. I create a planning document, cast everyone, name them, give them dossiers and write down any random lines or scenes I see happening (many of them far into the book). Most of it does get used, those I do look back on some of the discarded ideas later and laugh. I usually have purses full of stapled Post-Its and lined paper with random ideas or lines that come to me as well as notes on my phone.

Les - I’m much more of a storyteller than a writer. I turn the ideas over in my head until I get the next part ready to go. I could be sitting in a room telling the story to a group as easily as I am writing it down. So I often had ideas that sprang from something she wrote or I would flesh out what she needed to write the next part. Again, I think our styles compliment each other nicely.

What are your “must haves” when writing?

Michelle - Coffee, Shiner, and preferably my laptop. I’m not hard to please and have trouble turning off the “writing fever,” not turning it on.

Les - I have to be in the mood. I know a lot of people who say they have to write so much a day and then edit it down. I take my hat off to them. For me, if the feeling isn't there I just do something else. Then, when the mood strikes me I have been known to write chapters at a time. I miss writing in Starbucks. There is something magical about being in a place that I am not responsible for cleaning that will give me coffee and food if I give them a plastic rectangle. It’s like Narnia and Willy Wonka wrapped into one. 

Is there anything you wish someone would have told you before you started to write?

Michelle - I wish I had been able to pick Lee’s (Sauzy’s Food Truck and Royal Roots) brain before we finished Good Wood. She read it before we met and was incredibly positive about it, but I would love to have incorporated more of the details and flavor from our chats into book one.

Les - Take the time to find the support people necessary to do this easily. My first book, I tried to do almost everything myself and it damn near killed me. And remember that language is beautiful but it has to be functional as well. My first novel sounds like an English teacher exploded inside of it. 

The Sound Waves Series, Crazy Love, The Perpetual Quest for the Perfect Life, and now Carved Hearts … Michelle, you’ve written some diverse characters. Do you have a favorite character? Is there one you find the most difficult to write?

My favorite character besides everyone from Carved Hearts is Cedric from The Sound Wave series. He was a last minute addition after we’d signed contracts with the publisher and he is the heart of those books to me. I can’t imagine them without him.

I found Perpetual Quest hard to write from the standpoint of how emotional the subject matter was personally for me, but some of the things we did to Molly and Joe in Carved Hearts (especially the last book, Heartwood) easily rival that. There were times when I questioned how much our readers might tolerate, but in the end, we are the god and goddess of their universe, and frankly, this is what happened.

Prior to Carved Hearts, Les, you wrote The Lost One and Vigilance. Do you have a favorite character? Is there one you find the most difficult to write?

Les - Hmmm…There are a lot of characters in Vigilance that I freaking love. And Eric in The Lost One is no slouch. But if I had to pick, it would be Joe. He is also the one I tortured the most and that is from a guy that also wrote a zombie book.

Also Les – you’ve written in the paranormal genre prior to this. Did you find it easier or harder to write in the contemporary romance genre?

Les - The Lost One was contemporary paranormal so there are a lot of similarities. But it is harder to write because instead of just talking about the world there are parts of it you have to create. 

Are there any books or authors that have influenced you in your writing? What are you reading right now?

Michelle - I am a big fan of Stephen King, John Irving, Rebecca Wells, Jeff Lindsay, and Amy Tan. I love gut-wrenching life experiences and the golden nugget truisms that they pan out. I appreciate well-developed characters that live and breathe and who I’m so invested in that I bite my nails to the quick when they are put into harrowing circumstances. I love books about ensembles of characters, not just one point of view and everyone else painted as “concerned onlooker number one”. I feel like you learn a lot about a character through the eyes of other characters. I also appreciate well-timed humor and books that know when not to take themselves too seriously.

I am currently listening to the 6th Dexter book on audio and reading La Luxure by CD Hussey.

Les - Stephen King, Harry Harrison, Issac Asimov, R.A. Salvatore, Ed Greenwood, Robert Jordan, Arthur C. Clark, and so many others I can’t list them. Growing up I lived in the country, no cable and my nearest neighbor was a half hour away. I read a lot. We bought books at auction and garage sales by the box. One of the greatest gifts I think a parent can give their children is a love for reading. I just finished rereading the five Game of Thrones books. I love to reread good books. Next I think I am going to work through some of the unread books on my Kindle. 

What new projects are on the horizon? Do you see yourself writing in different genres? Co-authoring again?

Michelle - We plan to co-author a paranormal romance series together soon. We’re in the planning/researching phase. We both have several independent projects in the works as well.

Les - I’m working on the sequel to The Lost One now.  

L.G.Pace III has spent several decades pouring creative energy into other things besides writing. He began his current journey by telling his two daughters bedtime stories about a magical realm and a hero named Terel. Though that story is still sitting unfinished in the electronic universe he has managed to bring two other stories out of the dark maelstrom of his mind for others to enjoy.

He dwells in the great state of Texas with his wife, novelist Michelle Pace, and their children.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LGPaceIII
Twitter: https://twitter.com/LGP3Author
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6982344.L_G_Pace_III

Michelle Pace lives in north Texas with her husband, Les, who is also a novelist. An Iowan native, she is the mother of two lovely daughters, Holly and Bridgette, and one uber-charismatic son, Kai. A former singer and actress, Michelle has always enjoyed entertaining people and is excited to continue to do so as a writer.



Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MichelleKisnerPace
Twitter: https://twitter.com/MichelleKPace
Website: http://www.michellepaceauthor.com/
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Evil villain or Sexy villain?
Michelle - I love villains like Loki from The Avengers and Ben from Lost. I want a villain you love to hate, but you can’t help but empathize with.

Les - Evil villain. Because just because you have good reasons for what you do doesn’t mean you aren’t a black-hearted bastard.

You’re trapped in an elevator -- which of your characters would you choose as company and why? 
Michelle - Joe (Carved Hearts). The view would be amazing and he’d most likely be able to get us out.

Les - Eric from The Lost One because he has a way with machines. One might even say it’s like magic. He would have us the hell out of the elevator in about two seconds.

What TV or book character did you have a crush on growing up?
Michelle - Rhett Butler
Les - Daisy Duke.

Favorite hobby that isn’t reading or writing?
Michelle - Movies and TV. I would love to write screenplays, and I treat my books as if I am writing them to be adapted as such. I also sing and I used to be a stage actress.

Les - Movies, TV and video games. The newer video games are like living a movie. I had a dream that by this time in our history we would have a working Holodeck. Pity…

   I was blocks away from the restaurant when traffic came to a crawl. Anxiously tapping the steering wheel, I finally passed the scene of the accident which had tied up both lanes. It seemed some tourist had slammed their Winnebago into a Smart Car, and Austin's rubberneckers needed an eyeful. The gridlock continued, and growing ever more frustrated, I pulled out my phone and texted my date.

   Traffic. I'm a mile away.

   She didn't respond. I was about to call her, when my phone chimed.

   I glanced down at the picture message. No accompanying words, but I didn't need any. The top of her garter belt jutted out from her skirt. It was visibly pinned to black stockings. I licked my lips, ready to park and sprint the remaining blocks to the restaurant. Taking a deep breath, I soldiered on.

   When I finally entered Bess Bistro, I scanned the place eagerly. It didn't take me long to find her in the dimly lit restaurant. She sat at the bar facing away from me sipping a martini. I watched as she placed her glass carefully on the surface in front of her. Her upswept hair accentuated her long, lovely neck which begged to be tasted. Seeing those stockings in the flesh made my temperature rise, and the way her midnight blue dress hugged her heart-shaped ass had me salivating.

   Some old dude with graying temples and a droopy porn mustache was giving her the full court press. He was turned sideways on his stool, leaning into her personal space and talking to her cleavage. She nodded politely in response to whatever nonsense he was spewing, as his lustful eyes continued to violate every inch of her exposed skin. 

   A couple of years back, I might have punched him right in the 'stache, but this was the new and improved me. The guy that didn't fly into jealous rages or break irritating people into itty bitty bits. However, when he reached out and stroked her dangling earring, 'Old Joe' reared his ugly head. I was tempted to rip him off of his stool and toss him out the front door by the seat of his Depends. Instead, I took a moment and another deep breath. I had kids to think about now. Everything I did (or didn't do) set an example for them. True, they were far too little to know what I might do here, but their blabbermouth aunts would be more than happy to fill them in later in life. As I stood contemplating the pros and cons of my next action, a far more civilized strategy occurred to me. I felt a devilish grin bloom on my face and I sauntered to the bar.

   I slid onto the empty barstool next to her. Reaching out, I picked up her drink and took a sip. “Is this martini dirty?”


   “Well, if it wasn't before, it certainly is now.” Her stunning eyes took in my tailored suit, and the corners of her mouth curled coyly as she reached out and reclaimed her drink from me. Her full sleeve of tattoos somehow meshed perfectly with the silky dark material she wore. She was dazzling, and I was glad I'd decided to wear her favorite tie.

   “What's a woman like you doing sitting at a bar alone?” My greedy eyes devoured her plunging neckline and her glossy, full lips. She giggled quietly, and the way her fingertips trailed along the stem of her glass made me heady with anticipation. Mustache Rides shot me a dirty look and turned reluctantly back to his scotch.

   “Waiting on my fiancé.” She looked up at me from under her sultry lashes.

   “He made you wait?” I asked. She nodded, and the bartender who'd been hovering nearby approached.Johnnie Blue. Make it a double.”

   “He's a busy man.” Molly sighed dramatically, lifting her speared olives to her lips. She tugged one off showily with her teeth, her eyes fixed on mine.

   Oh...it was definitely on now.

  “ He's a fool, ” I shot back.

   The bartender barely stifled a chuckle as he poured my whiskey. It was clear he thought I was trying to pick her up, and of course, I was. Though we owned a house and had children together, and it was my ring on that pretty finger of hers, these facts were all irrelevant.

   Tonight Molly planned to make me work for it.

   She glanced at the bartender, and then back at me. She was well aware we had an audience. Her amusement was thinly veiled, but she kept a straight face and stayed in character.

   “How late is he?” I continued, my voice sounding wanton and thick.

   “Very.” Her decisive response reeked of promiscuity and I could feel the bartender assessing us curiously.

   “I can keep you company while you wait if you like.” I leaned my elbows onto the bar and looked her over casually. She turned toward me and crossed her long legs. She was purposely drawing my attention to one of her best features, and I allowed my eyes to drop. My gaze trailed from the black straps at her ankles all the way up to her risqué hemline that ended far above the knee.

   “Buy me another drink and maybe I'll let you buy me dinner.” With that, she downed the last swallow of her martini. With a wicked smile, I turned back to the bartender who shook his head in blatant admiration.

   “Oh, she definitely needs another one of those,” I stated. 

   Mustache Man muttered something and abandoned his drink on the bar. The bartender glanced at Molly, and the gentle curl of her lips made him blush so profusely that his bald head looked sunburnt.

Stacy is a New Adult/Contemporary Romance author. Her debut novel "Love's Secret Torment" is tentatively due out in February, 2015. She has started her second novel "Sweet Conundrum" due out later that year.

Stacy lives with her husband Mike, son Austin and chocolate lab Gage just outside of Atlanta, Georgia. She loves the seasonal weather changes, taking walks with Gage and spending time with her family and friends.

While happily addicted to Starbucks, writing is her passion and sharing her stories with the world is a dream come true.

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