Interview Peggy Jaeger, Author of Can’t Stand the Heat!
Welcome Peggy Jaeger, author of Can’t Stand the Heat, third in the Will Cook For Love Series! Pull up a chair, grab a drink of your choice from the cooler, a Chocolate Chip or Peanut Butter cookie from the plate, and let’s find out a little about Peggy and her newest release Can’t Stand the Heat. I truly enjoyed reading this book. Laugh out loud moments and shaking head moments at the teen girl character made the book for me.
Writing what you know can be easy, difficult, soul-sucking, and mind-bending. Writing about a personal experience you’ve had and incorporating it into your fiction is all those things and one more: intrusive.
Let me explain.
In my newest Will Cook For Love series book, CAN’T STAND THE HEAT, I have a secondary character, a
teenaged girl named Melora. Melora is a privileged child of divorced parents, a famous director, my hero Dominick Stamp, and her actress mother Flannery Adair. Melora’s been raised in the lap of Beverly Hills luxury, but with her mother’s past and sometimes erratic behavior, she’s had to adopt a more adult role than she’s equipped for age-wise. When Flannery is killed in a car crash and Dominick is severely injured, the young girl’s protected, spoiled life, changes. As a way of dealing with the emotional turmoil she’s thrown into, she develops a devastating eating disorder, specifically, anorexia with bouts of bulimia. In learning how to help his daughter, Dominick seeks out professional therapy for both of them and for most of the book we see his dedication in helping her heal emotionally and get healthy physically.
Writing a character with an eating disorder is an idea I’ve tossed back and forth for years but always shied away from because it hit so extremely close to home. But in creating Melora, I gave a voice and a face to someone battling the disease that I suffered from for over 30 years.
My bulimia started with an offhand remark by my father during one of my sporadic weekend visitations with to him. His mother had been a very famous fur model when she was alive and he said, offhandedly, to me, “If you lose a bunch of weight you could model and make some money for college. Not be such a financial burden on me.”
At twelve years old, hearing those words destroyed the very little self confidence I had and started me on a downward spiral where my weight went up and down sometimes 50 pounds at a time until I was in my forties. In a weekend I could gain eight pounds from binge eating, then lose ten with laxatives and vomiting. This cycle persisted for decades, exacerbated whenever any kind of emotional distress inched into my life.
With Melora, I was able to finally free the demons plaguing me by having her voice her concerns, her fears, even her anger at the circumstances she’s been forced to face at such a young age. With her words and actions, I was able to shine a light on a disease that waaaaaaay too many children/teenagers/young adults suffer from.
In all honesty, I’m still plagued with issues with food at the age of 57, and writing a character with an eating disorder based on my own experience has at equal times been freeing and mortifying. But as a writer, I need to be able to convey truth in the character’s motivations, movements, and thought processes so the reader believes what she’s reading. Literally, I need to walk in her shoes, talk in her voice.
Intruding into my own personal life and battles is, pardon the pun, fodder ( or food) for creativity.
Thank you Peggy. I’m sure a lot of us can relate to the issues you brought up in this book. In Peggy Jaeger’s delectable series, delicious food is just an appetizer for life’s main course: the kind of love that feeds your soul. At little about Can’t Stand the Heat.
Review: Can’t Stand the Heat!
This is the third book in the Will Cook for Love series. I’ve read Cooking with Kandy (first book) A Shot at Love (second book) and figured I would enjoy the third book, Can’t Stand the Heat as well. I was right.
What’s it about?
In order to get a chance at her own show, executive producer, Stacy Peters agrees to spend two months on a ranch in Montana wrangling a notoriously difficult director, Dominic Stamp. Yet things are not always as they appear. Underneath it all, he is a loving father to a teenage daughter with an eating disorder, and suffers from an injury received during an accident that killed his ex.
Stacy is a professional with a talent to calm and keep everything running smoothly, even when her words are twisted and motive questioned. Will Stacy’s personal and professional live survive? Will Dominic and his daughter see through the ruse created by the hateful diva? You’ll have to read the book to find out. I highly recommend Can’t Stand the Heat.
My Take on the Book.
I was invested in the characters and the story from the first page. So much so, that quite often I wanted to shake Dominic for being such a tyrant, but loved how Stacy stood up to him and befriended his daughter. I wanted to strangle the manipulative #%*# diva that was forever causing problems. I laughed out loud at some of the pickles Stacy, Dominic (Nikko) and his daughter got into. See what I did there, pickles – food—cooking book. You know you want to smile. LOL
BTW – Don’t miss the great recipes in the back of the book!
With three successful TV series under her belt, including her cousin Kandy’s, executive producer Stacy Peters is ready to helm her own show. But to make that happen, she has to do her network boss one favor first—spend two months on a ranch in Montana wrangling the notoriously difficult director of Beef Battles. Apparently, he eats producers for breakfast. Yet all Stacy can think when she meets the lean, rugged man is how hungry he makes her . . .
Dominic Stamp—Nikko to his very few friends—has had enough interference from TV newbies. And when Stacy climbs out of the car in Montana, he’s not convinced she’s even old enough to drive, much less produce his show. But he can’t deny that the long-legged blonde with the stubborn will and the dazzling smile whets his appetite. And as Stacy proves her talent with the crew and the budget alike, Nikko vows to prove to her that love is on the menu for both of them…
Buy links:
Amazon , Apple, Google, Kobo, and Barnes and Nobel.
A Sneak Peek Between The Pages of Can’t Stand the Heat!
“I wish you’d do that more often,” he said, his hand circling her upper arm as he turned her, slowly, back to face him.
“What? Leave?”
He stared at her a beat, the line between his brows deepening. “Smile.”
Flabbergasted, she stood, rooted.
“More specifically,” he added, “smile at me. You do at everyone else. From Dixon, to his son; the crew. Even Melora. Everyone, but me.”
“I—”
His grip tightened a little as he pulled her in closer, their torsos almost touching.
“Why? Why can you show everyone else that little piece of yourself, but not me?”
“I…I don’t know how to answer that,” she said. “I know I was thrust on you without you wanting me here. I know you don’t like me, I—“
“That’s not true. I didn’t want to like you,” he admitted. “There’s a difference. You’re a producer. A bottom line watcher. An annoying necessity. Liking you goes against the grain.”
At that she did smile, because she knew it was true.
“See now,” he said, as he slid his other hand up her arm to settle on the back of her neck, fingers curling up into her hair to hold on. “When you do that? When you smile at me like that, so openly, so…freely? I can’t think about anything else.”
A gentle tug and he had her head pillowed in his spread palms as he bent his own down to hers.
Through her glasses she watched the fine whiskey in his eyes blend with the ink of his pupils as they dilated.
“I haven’t been able to think clearly about anything for the past few days.” His mouth was a whisper from hers. His gaze skimmed from her eyes to her mouth and back again in one slow string of heat. “Except for this.”
She thought she’d be prepared for the feel of his lips on hers again. After all, she’d done little else but reminisce about their texture and taste for days. But she was wrong.
So wrong.
Nothing could have ever prepared her for the way the slight pressure he placed on the back of her neck as he brought her closer sent a shiver of such carnal delight down her spine she almost hummed. Or the way his breath, warm and full, felt as it washed over her cheeks. And she certainly wasn’t prepared for the onslaught of emotions he released within her when he quite expertly parted her lips and deepened the kiss, pulling at her very soul.
No, nothing in her life had equipped her with how to deal with Nikko Stamp’s kiss.
So she simply let go of all thought, fear, and concern, and surrendered to it.
About the Author:
Peggy Jaeger is a contemporary romance writer who writes about strong women, the families who support them, and the men who can’t live without them.
Family and food play huge roles in Peggy’s stories because she believes there is nothing that holds a family structure together like sharing a meal…or two…or ten. Dotted with humor and characters that are as real as they are loving, Peggy brings all topics of daily life into her stories: life, death, sibling rivalry, illness and the desire for everyone to find their own happily ever after. Growing up the only child of divorced parents she longed for sisters, brothers and a family that vowed to stick together no matter what came their way. Through her books, she has created the families she wanted as that lonely child.
Tying into her love of families, her children’s book, THE KINDNESS TALES, was illustrated by her artist mother-in-law.
Peggy holds a master’s degree in Nursing Administration and first found publication with several articles she authored on Alzheimer’s Disease during her time running an Alzheimer’s in-patient care unit during the 1990s.
In 2013, she placed first in two categories in the Dixie Kane Memorial Contest: Single Title Contemporary Romance and Short/Long Contemporary Romance.
In 2017 she came in 3rd in the New England Reader’s Choice contest for A KISS UNDER THE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS and was a finalist in the 2017 STILETTO contest for the same title.
A lifelong and avid romance reader and writer, she is a member of RWA and her local New Hampshire RWA Chapter.
Website/Blog: http://peggyjaeger.com/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/peggy_jaeger
Amazon Author page: http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B00T8E5LN0
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Peggy-Jaeger-Author/825914814095072?ref=bookmarks
Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/peggyjaeger/
Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/13478796.Peggy_Jaeger
Instagram: https://instagram.com/mmj122687/
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/peggy-jaeger
It was wonderful having you with us today. Please feel free to stop by anytime. Good Luck with Can’t Stand the Heat!
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Posted in Authors' Secrets Blog and tagged anorexia, bulimia, Contemporary Romance, Cooking, Eating Disorders by Tena Stetler with 5 comments.
Interview Ashley Pagano Author of Never Fear the Reaper
Give a warm welcome to Ashley Pagano, author of Never Fear the Reaper!
Pull up a chair, grab a drink of your choice from the cooler, a Chocolate Chip or Peanut Butter cookie from the plate, and let’s find out about Ashley Pagano and Never Fear the Reaper.
Interview with the Paranormal Huntress “Ryder” from the Never Fear the Reaper Series:
Hello there, welcome, and thank you for the interview.
Ahem . . . I have to admit I’m a bit apprehensive about this interview. (She mumbles a few snooty comments about the poor soul who tracked her down and signed her up for this).
You shouldn’t be nervous. If anything, it’s me who should be nervous. (Awkward laugh followed by my gaze creeping downward to her metal case holding her deadly Scythe that she’s purposely placed within arms length of our chairs). Promise you won’t slash me?
(Amused, she raises an eyebrow) I can’t be sure until I’ve heard the questions.
Fair enough. I’ll just fire away, then. (Nervously fiddle with the crinkled up paper filled with scratchy interview questions). So what can you tell us about yourself that may surprise us?
Well if you’ve read the books, you already know about my strange quirks and abilities. (She leans forward, intentionally invading my personal space).
Moving on. I think it’s safe to say you show some pretty strong favoritism towards Chase. What’s that all about? (Discretely push my chair backward).
I’m very fond of Chase. He’s my boyfriend so . . . I ought to be. (She tries to disguise her love-stricken smile).
So you’re actually in love with him? (Try to hide my eager, boyish giggles).
Yes.
(Well that was easier than expected) What can you tell us about the rumors circulating in regards to the love-triangle that has us all gaga and swooning over?
I have more important things to be concerned with than trivial love triangles. Haven’t you heard, I’ve been single-handily saving this world from demons? (Folds her arms tightly across her chest and cocks her head to the side).
What about the scrutiny about yours and Chase’s relationship? People are saying it’s a bittersweet thing?
Yes, we’re either sassing one another, putting each other in their place, or there’s fiery, steamy passion. It’s challenging, but so is everything else in my life. I need that kind of kick in the ass sometimes.
With all the demon hunting, ghost slaying, and poltergeist exterminating, when do you have time for each other?
All that is four play, mister. (She winks)
(Uncomfortably loosen my collar around my neck). It appears that Chase has quite a fan base. Do you ever get jealous of his attention?
You obviously haven’t met me. I wouldn’t consider any of his young lady fans competition.
Do you see a future with Chase? Or with this dangerous career?
He’s the only one who can embark on this career path with me. So yes to both.
Okay. On to the more relaxed questions. What’s your biggest pet peeve?
Ha. Ha. It’s too long a list for this interview.
Name an item you like to carry around at all times?
(Obviously glances over at her case then back at me).
Oh. Never mind. If you and Chase could go away on vacation anywhere, where would it be?
After all this chaos, we’ve talked about planning one soon. Perhaps a deserted island, with as minimal people and supernaturals as possible.
If you had to switch jobs with anyone who would it be?
I don’t trust anyone else to do my job. (Huffs) But if I have to, I guess Chase could sub in for a day. He’s the only one who really understands.
What is your favorite movie?
Lara Croft, Kill Bill, Atomic Blonde . . . catch my drift here? (Sends me a crooked smirk).
If you could tell your fans one thing what would it be?
(Slits her eyes at me) Never disregard the things that ‘go bump in the night’.
Okay quick before Ashley Pagano catches on, is it true that Chase actually saves your life in the ending, epic warehouse battle? (Rubs hands together in anticipation)
If we’re keeping tally, I think I’ve saved his life more times than he’s saved mine.
Well it looks like our time is up. Thank you Ryder. This has been a very intriguing interview.
been to the other side and back again . . . But she’s never met anyone like
him.
can see things no one else can . . . But he only sees her.
the moment he witnesses her do the impossible . . . he is obsessed.
ghost exterminator, Ryder, to cleanse his house from a pesky poltergeist he
gets way more than he’s paying her for… There’s just something about Ryder that
has him mesmerized.
witnessed her do the unexplainable? Or the fact that she’s absolutely
breathtaking? Or perhaps it’s that eerie familiar feeling that they’ve met
before, perhaps in another lifetime.
Ryder on a whirlwind of life threatening adventures in exchange for a few
precious moments of alone time with her. With the Grimm Reaper’s Scythe as
their defense, Chase developing some supernatural gifts of his own, and an
intense crush developing between them what crazy supernatural force will target
them next?
she asks rather firmly, extending her long fingers for a professional handshake.
don’t be her, please don’t be her, please don’t be her, I repeat over and over
again to myself. This girl is too young and far too beautiful to be a ghost
hunter. Inconveniently, she is literally my definition of perfection, dressed
all in black. Long, dark brown hair, perfect bronze skin, bright green eyes
that are surrounded by the longest eyelashes I’ve ever seen, a gorgeous
pearl-white smile, and a slim yet slightly muscular build. I can’t help but let
her catch me looking her up and down. Her appearance makes me even more
uncomfortable with my situation. I even notice a colorful, feathery angel-wing
tattoo that creeps down her left arm, which is ironic, given her profession.
Come on, this girl cannot be doing a job like this.
response before I can conjure up an excuse for my gawking.
you expected, huh,” she says, while gesturing to the hostess with two of her
fingers.
you’re not…not really.” I figure it’s better to be honest with her right now.
Finally, I build up enough courage to return her handshake. I’m embarrassed
when my clammy palm touches her soft, cool skin.
hostess to a booth at the far end of the dining area, she responds, “Don’t
worry, no one ever does. They expect some older, more spiritual looking woman
who’s all decked out in crucifixes.”
of being an artist both figuratively and literally. Her love of art was
instilled by her mother who always inspired her to be creative either with a
paintbrush or with a pen and paper. As far back as she can remember her life
was always centered around introspection, storytelling, and imagination.
Because she is so artistic, she took to the idea of creative writing very
passionately. Her ability to describe a scene, person, or place, she compares
to painting a picture, where she can describe every detail vividly in order to
make the reader feel like they’re truly living in the story. Her works of
writing usually center around a powerhouse female protagonist (which reflect
her own personality), who progresses through many wild and extreme obstacles.
Ashley loves to write stories that end with a cliffhanger, that leave the
reader begging for more and questioning what happens next. Her most recent
novel sets the stage for the paranormal romance of the century and includes
ghosts, poltergeists, and demons who just love to get in the way of true love.
Ashley has won awards for her design, art, and writing.
time whatsoever and actually loves having a full “To-Do”list. Ashley is a wife
to her wonderful husband, Eric and a mother to a beautiful little baby girl
named Dakota. She is also a Graphic Designer and a health and fitness coach.
Her husband and daughter inspire her to be the best person she can be and
encourage her to pursue any of her dreams (no matter how extravagant they may
be).
It was wonderful having you with us today. Please feel free to stop by anytime. Good Luck with Never Fear the Reaper!
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Posted in Authors' Secrets Blog and tagged Ashley Pagano, Never Fear the Reaper, Paranormal Romance / YA Fiction, YA by Tena Stetler with comments disabled.
Interview Jennifer Wilck, Author of Five Minutes to Love
Give a warm welcome to Jennifer Wilck, author of FIve Minutes to Love, released on March 21, 2017.
Pull up a chair, grab a drink of your choice from the cooler, a Chocolate Chip or Peanut Butter cookie from the plate, and let’s find out a little about Jennifer, and Five Minutes to Love. I Jennifer see you’ve brought guests.
I have indeed. Jacob Black and Aviva Shulman from Five Minutes to Love.
Jennifer tell us a little about writing this story.
Tell us a little about writing this story. Was it fun or difficult? Do your characters always act as you expect? Are you a plotter, or fly (write) by the seat of your pants? This story was a lot of fun to write, especially the research I did into speed dating. Since I met my husband in college, I never went through anything like this. I talked to people who told me funny/horrible stories that happened to them at these types of events and was able to use some of them in the book. I also happened to be eating in a restaurant where an event was taking place and I spied on it with my daughter. I’m a pantser, so once I had the info about speed dating, the rest fell into place and the characters spoke to me.
A little more about Five Minutes to Love:
Aviva Shulman has had enough of the dating scene. Her father valued his high-powered career over his wife and family. She wants something more, someone who values her. But her roommates are determined to find her the perfect match.
Jacob Black doesn’t have time for relationships. A third-year law student, he’s focused on studying and getting a high-paying job with a top-notch law firm. But his overbearing mother wants him to find someone and settle down.
Their paths cross at a speed dating event and sparks fly. But is five minutes long enough to determine a future together?
Well then, Jacob, tell us about the real you—
I’m a twenty-five year old law student from New Jersey, studying environmental law. I have a roommate, Adam, who takes me with him on a speed dating event. I have a meddling mom who wants me to be a successful lawyer, but also wants me to meet a nice Jewish girl. I handle life pretty well as long as I can prioritize my to-do list.
What event in your past has left the most indelible impression on you? My dad died when I was a kid and my mom raised me, sacrificing a lot to put me through college and law school. My goal is to pass the Bar exam, work for the large New York City firm where I’ve interned, pay back my law school loans as soon as possible so I can support my mom as she’s supported me.
What do you most value? Honesty—yeah, that one is a little ironic, but really, it’s important to me—integrity and keeping our planet clean.
What is the type of woman you want to spend the rest of your life with? That’s easy—Aviva! She’s smart and has a wicked sense of humor. You should see the texts she sent me about bowling. She can handle herself in almost any situation, even when meeting my mother for the first time, and believe me, that takes talent. She’s beautiful, but not just on the outside. She has this inner glow that radiates from her, which is just incredible to see. And she’s one of the kindest people I know. She’s perfect.
What do you consider most important in life? Taking care of the people I love. Success will come if you work hard, but if you don’t take care of the people you love, all the success in the world won’t make you happy. I learned that the hard way.
What is your biggest secret? Well, at this point, I’d have to say lying to my mom about Aviva. You see, my mom wanted to set me up with some random woman she knew, and I wanted nothing to do with it. I was busy with my law studies and the last thing I wanted was a setup by my mom. I’d just met Aviva at that ridiculous speed dating event, but didn’t have much time to get to know her. When my mom started talking about setting me up, I told her I’d already met someone. Except, since I didn’t know much about Aviva, I made a bunch of stuff up. I didn’t think it was a big deal because I didn’t expect to meet her again. Certainly not have her meet my mom. But of course, whenever you lie, it comes back to haunt you. And boy did it ever! Luckily I was eventually able to smooth things over with both my mom and Aviva, but it wasn’t easy.
Okay, now its Aviva’s turn in the hot seat. Who are you really?
I’m a twenty-four year old public relations professional. I work in Jersey City and live in Hoboken with my two roommates, who are constantly trying to set me up with high-powered executives, all of whom I can’t stand. I’d much rather date a starving artist who has time to spend with me than someone who has money to shower me with gifts but no time to spend with me.
Who were the biggest role models in your life? I don’t know about role models, but my mom is my biggest cheerleader and I tell her everything. My dad is very successful at what he does and from a professional standpoint, I admire him.
What kind of man do you want to spend the rest of your life with? I want someone who wants to make time for me. Who prioritizes me. Someone like Jacob, although I don’t see how it can work with his law career. But he keeps telling me I’m a priority, so I have to trust in what he says and believe that he’s nothing like my dad.
(or if you don’t want romance – Why not?)
What kind of man would you never choose? I’d never choose someone whose goal is to climb the corporate ladder. The men my roommates set me up with are all like that and I can’t stand it.
What is most important to you in life? Balance, between life and work, and work and love.
What is your biggest fear? Keeping Jacob from pursuing his dreams.
A sneak peek between the pages of Five Minutes to Love!
Aviva grabbed her ball, patted his arm, and aimed at the pins. Strike. She didn’t move. Jacob couldn’t figure out why she stood still, until her shoulders began to shake.
She was laughing. At him.
She turned around. Tears ran down her face. She inhaled. “I’m sorry. I swear I have no idea how it happened.”
“Sure you don’t.” As his grin widened, he bit the insides of his cheeks, folded his arms and did his best to look sad. “What a way to get a guy when he’s down.”
“You’re not down. You just challenged the bowling gods. They don’t like human challengers.”
“Bowling gods?”
“Of course. How else do you think we recreational bowlers manage it?” She stepped toward him. Her green eyes were wide with fake innocence.
“Bowling gods.”
“Exactly. You challenged them.” At this point, they were toe-to-toe. Her floral scent wafted around him. He refocused on her words.
“As you like to say, Aviva, technically, I challenged you.”
“Yes, but with bowling skill, so you actually challenged them too.”
She looked supremely satisfied with her circuitous bowling logic. Jacob had an urge to kiss her. Her lips were full and pink and tantalizingly close.
Buy link to Five Minutes to Love:
Amazon, Barnes & Barnes and Noble, and The Wild Rose Press
Speed Round (one word only answer): Yep, I know torture for a writer!<evil laugh>
Favorite movie: Dirty Dancing
Favorite book: Jane Eyre
Last book read: Axel
Favorite color: Blue
Stilettos or flipflops: Stilettos
Coffee or tea: Coffee
Ebook or audiobook or paperback: ebook
Pencil or pen: pen
Favorite song: Honesty
Streak or not: Not
Favorite dessert: chocolate
Favorite junk food: chocolate
Favorite thing to do to relax: TV
Champagne or gin: gin
Paranormal or Historical: historical
Wonder Woman or Top Model: Wonder Woman
Favorite TV show: Alienist
Hot or cold: cold
POV: 3rd
I’d die if I don’t have: family
Review or Not: review
About the Author:
Despite being an only child, Jennifer is happy to share anything other than chocolate. She learned her sarcasm from her dad and practices it daily on her children. And she believes laughter can get you through anything.
You can find Jennifer at the following:
Website: http://www.jenniferwilck.com
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Jennifer-Wilck-201342863240160/
Facebook Readers Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/2055470311366345/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JWilck
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/authorjenniferwilck/
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/jennifer-wilck
It was wonderful having you with us today. Please feel free to stop by anytime. Good Luck with Five Minutes to Love!
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Posted in Authors' Secrets Blog and tagged Contemporary Romance, Five Minutes to Love, Jennifer Wilck, Speed Dating by Tena Stetler with 18 comments.
Interview with Anna Abner Author of The Shopgirl’s Prophecy!
What event in your past has left the most indelible impression on you? I don’t want to talk about my dad leaving, okay? But if you want something that screwed me up, when my prophecy came out, my whole life got tipped upside down. I went from a mediocre engineering student to a giant disappointment. People who’ve never met me, hate me now.
What do you most value? I don’t really have anything that belongs to me anymore. I live in a hotel. Everything I have was bought by our investors. But if you’re asking what means the most to me, then it’s the memories I have growing up with my grandpa. He was a great man who taught me about respect, hard work, and honor, and I can never repay him.
What is the type of woman you want to spend the rest of your life with? I’m a little distracted right now with the end of the human race, though I will say I’m partial to blonde cheerleader types.
What do you consider most important in life? There’s nothing more important than family, and sometimes the family you create is even more important than the family you were born into.
What is your biggest secret? Well, it wouldn’t be much of a secret if I told everyone who asked. But most people wouldn’t know by looking at me that my bank account is bulging at the seams. That’s all I’m going to say.
Ohhhh.. I like the sound of that. But…. on to the stunningly beautiful woman sitting next to you.
Alina, who are you really? Why? What have you heard? I’m just a regular person. Nothing unusual to see here, guys.
Who were the biggest role models in your life? My father taught me a lot. Everything I am came from him. I think my mom could have been a big role model for me, but I wasn’t lucky enough to have her growing up.
What kind of man do you want to spend the rest of your life with? Romance just isn’t in my future. I’m happy being single, really. It’s safer that way, for everyone.
What kind of man would you never choose? I’ve had bad experiences with popular jocks. I definitely will never waste time on one of those beefy jerks.
What is most important to you in life? I value my privacy, as well as peace and quiet.
What is your biggest fear? There are things I must keep secret, for everyone’s safety. It’s why I live such a secluded life in London.
Anna, tell us a little about writing this story. Was it fun or difficult? Do your characters always act as you expect? Are you a plotter, or fly (write) by the seat of your pants?
Shopgirl’s Prophecy is the beginning of a paranormal series I’ve been obsessed with for over ten years. I’ve always loved this story, and I’m so excited to share it with you. Writing it wasn’t difficult at all! It was a joy to create each character, each setting, and each turning point. That’s not to say the novel didn’t go through several iterations. In one, Oleksander had a mother more vicious than he is. In another, the entire novel takes place in the Ukrainian countryside. But I’m very happy with the final version, and I love the way it turned out.
When I started Shopgirl’s Prophecy, I was a pantser, writing in whichever direction the wind blew. Over time, though, I learned to embrace organization and planning. Currently, before I write a novel, I complete a pre-writing packet and use it as a blueprint for plot and characters. It helps me feel more in control of my work.
Click on the cover to read more or purchase.
Tell us a little about The Shopgirl’s Prophecy.
Powerful witches, tortured vampires, and sexy shifters fight the evil horde on the Vegas Strip.
Chapter One
hissed, yanking on Connor’s black jacket. A spotlight swept over their heads,
and he tasted dry earth as he flattened onto the sand.
close,” Roz complained.
like cockroaches across the ground, avoiding a parked Humvee, and staying out
of the guards’ eye line. The things they couldn’t avoid at the secret army
facility in The-Middle-of-Nowhere, Nevada were surveillance cameras on every
wall and post. Hence, the need for speed and an electro-magnetic pulse device
the size of a suitcase strapped to Connor’s back. If they were caught breaking
into Oleksander the Destroyer’s cell, they’d never see daylight again. Sort of
the way Oleksander had been in the dark of an army prison for the past twenty
years.
hadn’t known six months ago—a lackluster engineering student at the University
of Chicago—that the Seer Ilvane would write down his name and forever link him
with the end of the human race.
Cleveland will release the Destroyer and bring about the apocalypse.
way to fix the prophecy and save the world except to kill the vampire lord.
button,” Connor said, nodding at the EMP. Thank the fates for Anton and
Natasha, their very generous benefactors from New Zealand and their high-tech
toys.
button.” Roz activated the device, and every electric light on the base,
hopefully the cameras and security doors too, blinked off. “Now,” she ordered.
“Move.”
balls of his feet, Connor ran for building 2A, which he knew from poring over
satellite photos of the installation, was where the army kept the vampires. He
hunched over the card reader controlling the prison’s heavy-duty outer door,
sweat rolling down the back of his neck. “Please,” he breathed. A single second
delay while they stood like a couple of sore thumbs at the gateway to a
vampire’s cell on a secret military base could ruin everything.
best and yanked. The immense door swung open on soundless hinges.
fifty percent sure the EMP was going to work,” Roz admitted as she followed him
inside and sealed the door.
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Posted in Authors' Secrets Blog and tagged A Beasts of Vegas Novel, Anna Abner, Paranormal Romance, Shopgirl's Prophecy by Tena Stetler with comments disabled.
