Character Interviews

Interviews with a character from a book

  • Christmas or Holiday,  What's for Dinner

    What Rachel eats for dinner, from Waiting for a Miracle by Jennifer Wilck #RLFblog #ContemporaryRomance #Hanukkah #novella

    An invitation to her neighbor’s Hanukkah celebration turns into an unwanted blind date with her Kindergarten’s student’s dad in Jennifer Wilck’s Hanukkah novella, Waiting for a Miracle. Benjamin is gorgeous, but she’s set on being a foster mom, and doesn’t want anything to derail her plans. Can these two determined people trust in the miracle of Hanukkah to let love and light into their lives?

    Jennifer, welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! Please tell us about your book.

    Waiting for a Miracle by Jennifer Wilck

    What Rachel eats for dinner, from Waiting for a Miracle by Jennifer Wilck #RLFblog #ContemporaryRomance #Hanukkah #novellaGenre: Contemporary romance

    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): PG

    Benjamin Cohen, widowed father of six-year-old Jessie, is doing his best to hold it together through order and routine. The last thing he needs is his matchmaker mother to set him up with her next door neighbor, no matter how attractive she is. Rachel Schaecter’s dream of becoming a foster mother is right within her grasp, until her meddlesome neighbor tries to set her up with her handsome son. What’s worse? He’s the father of her favorite kindergarten student! She can’t afford to let anything come between her and her dream, no matter how gorgeous he may be. Can these two determined people trust in the miracle of Hanukkah to let love and light into their lives?

    Let’s chat about what to eat

    As the character, please answer at least six questions. You may answer all, or come back for a second interview and answer more of them. Your choice.

    First, what is your name and how old are you?

    My name is Rachel Schaechter, and I’m twenty-eight.

    What is the time period in which you live?

    Current day New York City.

    What is your favorite meal?

    I’m not a picky eater, and I love latkes, which are fried potato pancakes we eat at Hanukkah. And we usually have brisket for dinner, so let’s say that’s my favorite meal—brisket with latkes at Hanukkah.

    Tell us about a meal or food that says “home” to you.

    Well, one the main reasons I love our Hanukkah meal is that my mom used to make it every year when I was growing up. It reminds me of the warm holiday times with family sitting around the table, with the glow from the menorahs in the window.

    When you find yourself with some type of unknown food on your plate, what do you do?

    I’ll try it, especially if there’s a sauce. And it also depends on whether or not I’m with other people or not. For example, when Ben and I went to the Bryant Park Winter Village, there were lots of different food vendors there, in addition to the shops. I would have liked to try something new, if Ben and I hadn’t had a disagreement forcing me to leave early.

    Do you keep snacks on hand, and if so, what are they?

    Chocolate is a must. I’m a Kindergarten teacher, and I need a pick-me-up during the day, so I keep a stash of chocolate snacks in my desk drawer.

    How much coffee or tea do you drink?

    Usually just a cup of coffee a day—although i’ll admit that sometimes the size varies.

    Who are your favorite people to share meals with?

    Honestly, Benjamin and his daughter, Jessie. When he’s not being bossy, he’s a wonderful man to be around. And his six-year-old daughter is my favorite student. She’s so adorable and smart.

    Tell us what your author eats or drinks while writing about you.

    Coffee in the morning, tea in the afternoon, and water any other time.

    If your author has a pet, what does she feed the animal?

    Well, her dog is old and very finicky, so she’s been trying a lot of different food to try to get her interested. Currently, her dog likes turkey dog food and turkey bacon treats.

    Where to buy Waiting for a Miracle

    Publisher https://shop.aer.io/TheWildRosePress/p/Waiting_for_a_Miracle/9781509229574-11180
    Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Waiting-Miracle-Jennifer-Wilck-ebook/dp/B07ZMQ2BWZ
    Barnes and Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/waiting-for-a-miracle-jennifer-wilck/1134117349?ean=2940161018385
    iBooks https://books.apple.com/us/book/waiting-for-a-miracle/id1484912207
    Kobo https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/waiting-for-a-miracle-5

    Jennifer Wilck Social Media

    Jennifer started telling herself stories as a little girl when she couldn’t fall asleep at night. Pretty soon, her head was filled with these stories and the characters that populated them. Even as an adult, she thinks about the characters and stories at night before she falls asleep or walking the dog. Eventually, she started writing them down. Her favorite stories to write are those with smart, sassy, independent heroines; handsome, strong and slightly vulnerable heroes; and her stories always end with happily ever after.

    In the real world, she’s the mother of two amazing daughters and wife of one of the smartest men she knows. She believes humor is the only way to get through the day and does not believe in sharing her chocolate.

    Jennifer Wilck is an award-winning contemporary romance author for readers who are passionate about love, laughter, and happily ever after. Known for writing both Jewish and non-Jewish romances, her books feature damaged heroes, sassy and independent heroines, witty banter and hot chemistry. Jennifer’s ability to transport the reader into the scene, create characters the reader will fall in love with, and evoke a roller coaster of emotions, will hook you from the first page. You can find her books at all major online retailers in a variety of formats.

    Website https://www.jenniferwilck.com
    Blog http://jenniferwilck.blogspot.com
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/groups/879114386079365
    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/authorjenniferwilck
    Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/5032661.Jennifer_Wilck
    BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/jennifer-wilck
    Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/stores/Jennifer-Wilck/author/B005BT260M
    Get to know Jennifer Wilck better by signing up for an email newsletter https://www.jenniferwilck.com/contact.html#newsletter

  • Gay or MM,  Stressing the Hero

    Stressing Anthony from Anthony: Single Dads of Gaynor Beach by Gabbi Grey @gabbigrey #RLFblog #MMRomance

     

    What happens when a social worker delivers not one, but two bundles of joy to the unsuspecting sperm donor? Scott Wexler, discovering he has twin nine-month-old babies, needs all the help he can get.

    Anthony Rodrigues, Gaynor Beach’s social worker, can’t help but step in to assist in this heartwarming single dad gay romance.

    Let’s meet Anthony from Anthony, a gay romance, by Gabbi Grey. Welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here!

    Please tell us about your latest book.

    Anthony by Gabbi Grey

    Genre gay romance
    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): steamy

    Anthony

    During my seven years as a social worker in Gaynor Beach, California, delivering orphaned twins to their unsuspecting father is the biggest challenge I’ve ever faced. These babies lost their mother and they need a loving parent, but is adorable Scott Wexler up to that challenge? Transferring custody is one thing—walking away is something entirely different, especially with the stress of Christmas bearing down on Scott too.

    Scott

    After escaping a miserable childhood, I’ve made a fresh start in California. I’m in charge at the Gaynor Beach Public Library, I love helping people, and I’m feeling like an actual functional human being. Then social worker Anthony Rodrigues shows up on my doorstep with twins I fathered through a sperm donation, and suddenly I’m responsible for two tiny lives. Accepting help from the gorgeous social worker is a no brainer—admitting I want him to stay is going to take a lot more courage.

    This 74k word gay romance is a slow burn, mid-angst, instalove with a geeky librarian, a by-the-book social worker, adorable twin-toddler terrors, and a beleaguered cat named Crumpy.

    Stressing Anthony

    Every hero has a story. He has a background, a history, and a past. This interview allows us to meet a hero and get to know him better, by focusing on how he handles being relaxed, as well as how he handles stress.

    Please tell me about your hero.

    Age: 30
    Gender: Male
    Birthplace: Napa Valley, CA
    Profession: Social Worker
    Ethnicity: Hispanic

    What does your hero look like?

    Anthony’s tall, dark and handsome. These days he’s sporting a beard in an attempt to look more mature. His hair’s a little long and he likes that. Especially when his partner tugs on it while they’re making love.

    Who is the significant other in his life?

    Scott Wexler – librarian in Gaynor Beach – and new single dad. Scott’s a ginger with stunning green eyes and a bit of a geeky side. He’s also a little kinky, much to Anthony’s surprise.

    The Hero’s Relaxed Side

    This hero is at a party. Considering his story, describe the party.

    Anthony’s very dedicated to his work – if he’s going to show up at a party, it’ll be for work – mostly to impress his boss.

    How does the hero feel about being this particular party, and what body language is he displaying that gives it away?

    He’s relaxed and vigilant at the same time. He wants to make a good impression on those around him – image is everything.

    Is he more likely to mingle or remain aloof?

    He’ll mingle with his co-workers and try to engage his boss in a conversation.

    f he drinks, what is his drink of choice at this party?

    He’ll have a beer, if alcohol is being served.

    How much drink is his usual?

    One beer is his absolute limit. He’s dealt with an addict in his past and he’ll never let himself lost control.

    The hero figures out where the hiding places are and then goes there. Is it to hide, to avoid someone, or to go drag a friend back to the party?

    He’ll likely need a break away from the stress of having to make a good impression. He puts up a good façade, but it’s a little tiring.

    Is he likely to latch onto a friend and stay with him/her and ignore others, or is he the friend that others latch onto?

    If he were at a party with some other gay men, he’d latch on to a friend and stay with them. He’s very loyal.

    If someone picked a fight at this party, how is the hero going to handle it?

    He’s the intervener – he’ll do everything in his power to stop the fight before it escalates. And if he has to pick sides, he’ll pick the weaker person. He always stands up for the little guy.

    Is the hero the one most likely to get tossed out of the party, or the one who does the tossing?

    He’d do the tossing – he has no patience for people who overindulge.

    Will he know when to leave, or stay late and make a nuisance of himself?

    He’ll know when to leave. Being around his co-workers might be awkward, but he can judge the perfect moment to make his exit.

    The Hero’s Stressed Out Side

    How does the hero handle it if the cops or some other authority figure pulls him aside when he was blameless in a situation?

    He’ll remain calm. He knows racial profiling is a thing, and he’ll be worried. But he’ll do everything he’s told and hope things are sorted out later. He’s innocent. He’ll hold tight to that.

    How does the hero react to hearing a scream?

    He runs toward those in needs – even if it comes at his peril.

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing that crosses his mind?

    How can I intervene? If there’s a weapon, he might stop to call the cops.

    If he sees someone being assaulted, what is the FIRST thing he does?

    Jumps in. He knows he’s mortal, but he’s not going to stand by and watch someone get hurt. He’ll put his own life on the line if it means he can save someone else.

    This hero attempts to rescue someone and realizes that he is in over his head. The odds are against him and there is no way out. He is going to get his butt handed to him. What does he do?

    Keeps going. He’s found himself in over his head a few times and has always come out on top, so he’ll stick firm to the belief he can do it again. Even if he goes down in defeat, he’ll be able to cling to the fact he tried.

    The hero runs into the one person from his past he wanted to avoid. He can’t get out of the situation and must interact in some way. What does he do?

    Funny, this exact thing happens to him. He doesn’t want the confrontation, but he also understands it has to happen. In the end, though, he protects those in his life who he loves the most.

    Someone younger than the hero is in charge of the situation, and they are handling it badly, perhaps bungling things. How does the hero deal with it?

    He’s faced this exact situation. He brings the twins to Scott – who’s a few years younger – and it’s soon clear that Scott’s not coping well. Anthony doesn’t hesitate – he steps in to offer a hand without being controlling. Oh, and he falls in love in the process.

    The hero is in physical pain but must bear up under it and keep going. What does he tell himself in order to get through the situation?

    You’ve borne unbearable emotional grief and anguish. You lost everyone who meant something to you. You can endure this physical pain because there’s something better on the other side.

    What mentor’s words come to mind in a bad situation?

    A high school guidance counsellor brought him back from the abyss and helped him get into college. You’re stronger than you think will always be his mantra.

    What lesson from his past gets him through a stressful situation?

    Tremendous personal losses have been his guiding principle – he ensures the helpless children in his community are cared for. The desire to keep doing that is enough to see him through even the darkest situations.

    What one thing would you like readers to know about your hero?

    He was a bit of a jerk in my book, Hugh, another book in the Single Dads of Gaynor Beach series. Yet even as I wrote him back then, I knew he had reasons for being the way he was and I also knew – without a shadow of a doubt – that I had to write his redemptive arc. I hope readers will feel I’ve done that.

    Thank you, Kayelle, for letting me share a glimpse into Anthony. I really appreciate you letting me visit.

    Where to buy Anthony

    Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Anthony-Single-Dads-Gaynor-Beach-ebook/dp/B0BJQL39SZ
    Barnes and Noble https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/anthony-gabbi-grey/1142694635
    iBooks https://books.apple.com/ca/book/anthony/id6444502148
    Kobo https://www.kobo.com/us/en/ebook/anthony-24
    Smashwords https://www.smashwords.com/books/view/1179503

    Gabbi Grey Social Media

    Gabbi lives in beautiful British Columbia where her fur baby chin-poo keeps her safe from the nasty neighborhood squirrels. Working for the government by day, she spends her early mornings writing contemporary, gay, sweet, and dark erotic BDSM romances. While she firmly believes in happy endings, she also believes in making her characters suffer before finding their true love. She also writes m/f romances as Gabbi Black.

    Website https://gabbigrey.com/
    Twitter https://twitter.com/GabbiGrey
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AuthorGabbiGrey
    Instagram https://www.instagram.com/authorgabbigrey/
    Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/15456297.Gabbi_Grey
    BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/authors/gabbi-grey
    Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/Gabbi-Grey/e/B07SJVFX1M
    Get to know Gabbi Grey better by signing up for an email newsletter

     

  • Christmas or Holiday,  Contemporary,  What's for Dinner

    What Sky Wheeler eats for dinner, from Makin’ Merry by LizAnne Axtel @LizAnneAxtell #RLFblog #Contemporary #HolidayRomance

    A very cold, snow covered Santa—with puppies— knocks on Kasey’s door in LizAnne Axtell’s holiday short, sweet, and steamy romance. Maybe Christmas won’t be so bad after all .

    LizAnne, welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! Please tell us about your book.

    Makin’ Merry by LizAnne Axtel

    What Sky Wheeler eats for dinner, from Makin' Merry by LizAnne Axtel @LizAnneAxtell #RLFblog #Contemporary #HolidayRomanceGenre Contemporary Instalove

    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): R

    Sky Wheeler doesn’t have a family of his own, so he has no problem playing Santa for the Turquoise Creek Ranch kids. Until a sudden snowstorm and broken down pickup leave him stranded in the middle of ranch country with no cell connection and a pair of starving foundling puppies. The house he passed a half mile back might be his only refuge from the cold.

    Alone and struggling to keep her family’s ranch after her divorce, Kasey Powers knows she can’t provide the kind of Christmas she’d hoped for her two kids. There’s only a handful of gifts under the tree and very little to fill the stockings hung on the mantle. She’s gotten used to making do, and she’ll stay up all night creating homemade gifts if that’s what it takes to put smiles on her kids’ faces.

    Then a very cold, snow covered, grouchy Santa knocks on her door.

    Let’s chat about what to eat

    First, what is your name and how old are you?

    Sky Wheeler. And I’m old enough to know better.

    If any, what food do you refuse to eat?

    Anything that lays on the plate and looks at me. Love me some fried fish, but not if the head’s still on.

    Tell us about a meal or food that says “home” to you.

    A meal that says home? Any meal shared with someone you love, with family. Home isn’t the place. Home’s the people. It could be a fancy holiday meal, or just a bowl of tomato soup, as long as I’m with my people, it’s home.

    What is the worst meal you’ve ever eaten?

    Went on a blind date once and ended up with whole shrimps on my plate. And by whole, I mean they still had their heads on. It’s the eye thing. Had no idea shrimp were so judgmental. But, so was my date. About everything. Never saw her again. And I’ve never gone on another blind date.

    Growing up, who was the best cook in your family?

    Me. But that’s not saying much. Both of my folks worked, so I made a lot of suppers for my younger brother and sister and me. Easy stuff like Mac and cheese or spaghetti. It was edible and filling, but not anything you’d find in a cookbook or restaurant. Utilitarian cooking.

    If you cook, what kind of food do you like to prepare?

    Any meals I cook are still at that utilitarian skill level. Mom did give me a cookbook when I moved out, and I’ve tried a few recipes, but I don’t enjoy cleaning up the mess I always make, or the not having a clue if it’s going to turn out edible or not. I haven’t messed up that boxed Mac and cheese. Yet.

    Do you skip breakfast or is eating that a must-do for you?

    I work on a ranch and that’s a hard, physical job, so breakfast is a must. And more than just a bowl of cereal, although that’s my go to if I’m running late. Usually I’ll have eggs with bacon or sausages. Toast. Leftovers from the night before. Anything filling to get me going.

    Do you keep snacks on hand, and if so, what are they?

    Not much of a snacker although I do carry jerky while I’m working in case I need some energy. Although… now that I think about it, I do have a hard time staying away from fresh baked cookies. Oatmeal raisin’s my favorite. With peanut butter a close second. Probably a good thing I can’t cook—or bake. Too many cookies and my horse would be giving me the side-eye.

    How much coffee or tea do you drink?

    Way too much coffee. Just plain. No fancy stuff.

    Favorite alcoholic beverage?

    An icy cold beer after a long day.

    What do you grab when there’s no time for a regular meal?

    Jerky, like I said before. Or a sandwich. I grew up with white bread and Miracle Whip, so that’s my go to with whatever meat and cheese that’s available.

    Who are your favorite people to share meals with?

    Family. Meals when the Turquoise Creek Ranch employees gather—because we’re just one big family—are raucous and filled with caring and friendship. But now that I’ve got my own little family, that’s where I want to be. The woman and kids I love. Because that’s when I’m home.

    Tell us what your author eats or drinks while writing about you.

    This is an easy one because LizAnne is consistent with her writing snacks. Chocolate—preferably milk chocolate with nothing in it—and Diet Pepsi.

    Where to buy Makin’ Merry

    Amazon https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0BFC4KSSW

    LizAnne Axtel Social Media

    A writer once wanted to write different things
    Like short little tales of the joy loving brings,
    True lovers who struggle with all of life’s stings.
    Instalove magic to tug your heartstrings.
    A little bit hot, a little more steamy,
    And always, you know, with heroes so dreamy
    With a promise the endings happy will be,
    This pen name was formed by author *lizzie.
    Her brain is a library with stories to tell,
    She writes and she hopes you’ll like them as well.

    Website www.lizziestarr.com
    Twitter https://twitter.com/lizziestarr
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/authorlizziestarr/
    Pinterest https://www.pinterest.com/lizziestarr/
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    Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/-/e/B003F33Y0W
    Get to know *lizzie starr better by signing up for their email newsletter.
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  • Christmas or Holiday,  Know the Heroine

    Know the Heroine from the Holiday Romance A Witch’s Holiday Wedding by Tena Stetler @tenastetler #RLFblog #ParanormalRomance #HolidayRomance

    Know the Heroine from the Holiday Romance A Witch's Holiday Wedding by Tena Stetler @tenastetler #RLFblog #ParanormalRomance #HolidayRomanceTorn in too many directions, with a covert mission throws a wrench in Tena Stetler’s paranormal romance/mystery A Witch’s Holiday Wedding. Will Pepper and Lathen make it to the alter or will life as they know it be destroyed?

    Tena, welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! We’re excited to find out more about your heroine, but first, tell us about A Witch’s Holiday Wedding.

    A Witch’s Holiday Wedding by Tena Stetler

    Genre Paranormal Romance/Mystery

    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): PG13

    Elemental witch, Pepper McKay and former Navy SEAL, Lathen Quartz have built Lobster Cove Wildlife Rescue and Rehabilitation Center on enchanted McKay land. During a romantic interlude on Halloween night, Pepper happily agrees to become Lathen’s wife. What better day than Winter Solstice for their wedding in a town that loves celebrations and Christmas. However, planning a wedding and operating their wildlife center takes a toll on both Pepper and Lathen.

    When the couple takes a much-needed break for Thanksgiving with family in Colorado, a Maine snowstorm fills the center with injured wildlife. Lathen finds himself drawn into a covert military mission, while trying to deal with issues concerning friends and family. Pepper wants to cancel the wedding. Is she having second thoughts? Will the nosy McKay ghosts, Lathen’s werewolf pack, Pepper’s parents, and her best friend help or hinder the wedding and holiday plans?

    Know the Heroine from A Witch’s Holiday Wedding

    Here are some fun questions to help us know your heroine.

    Do you know how to fix things?

    Yes. I had to make do with a shoe string budget when she worked for Gwen in the Salem Sanctuary for ten years. Now the knowledge comes in hand for my own Rescue and Rehab in Lobster Cove, Maine.

    What are you like first thing in the morning?

    Slow and a bit of a bear first thing in the morning. I’m a night owl by nature.

    How do you act around people who don’t know what you are?

    Friendly but reserved. No one but my close friends and family know I’m a witch. I want to keep it that way.

    Do you let a worker handle things or do it yourself?

    I’ve hired responsible workers and let them handle the tasks assigned. They know to come to me with any questions.

    Recycle or toss?

    Recyle

    Who is the significant other in your life?

    Lathen Quartz

    Do you get by, live comfortably, live extravagantly?

    I live to get by comfortably. There’s too much unknown in the world of wildlife rescue to live extravagantly. The creatures in your care many need the funds more than you.

    What is your viewpoint on wealth?

    I live on a comfortable budget. I always believe in putting funds away for unexpected expenses. Believe me, there are always unexpected expenses with animal rescue, some in life or death situations.

    Do you see morality as black-and-white, or with shades of gray?

    Oh definitely black-and-white. There’s wrong and right, bad and good. I’m aware everyone makes mistakes, I’ve certainly made my share. But when individuals are purposely doing something cruel and someone or a poor creature ends up paying the price. That is unacceptable under any circumstances.

    If you could make any one thing happen, what would it be?

    That every mistreated animal or injured creature find safety in a wildlife sanctuary or be treated and released into their natural habitat. As far as people are concerned, I wish they’d realize that they are forever responsible for that which they have tamed.

    What is your biggest personal flaw?

    I tend to like animals more than I do people except the friends and family I surround myself with. I don’t trust easily. That trust has to be earned and a lot of people see that as unfair. It used to bother me what others thought, but now I figure it’s their loss.

    Thanks for helping us get to know your heroine!

    Where to buy A Witch’s Holiday Wedding

    Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Witchs-Holiday-Wedding-Lobster-Cove-ebook/dp/B01MA1GYIB
    UK https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B01MA1GYIB
    Amazon AU http://www.amazon.com.au/dp/B01MA1GYIB
    Amazon Canada https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B01MA1GYIB
    Barnes and Noble http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/a-witchs-holiday-wedding-tena-stetler/1124913622?ean=2940156845989
    iBooks https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/a-witchs-holiday-wedding/id1164098061?mt=11
    Kobo https://store.kobobooks.com/en-us/ebook/a-witch-s-holiday-wedding

    Tena Stetler Social Media

    Tena Stetler is a best-selling author of award winning paranormal romance novels. She has an over-active imagination, which led to writing her first vampire romance as a tween to the chagrin of her mother and delight of her friends.
    With the Rocky Mountains outside her window, she sits at her computer surrounded by a wide array of paranormal creatures, with a Navy SEAL or two mixed in telling their tales. Her books tell stories of magical kick-ass women and strong mystical males that dare to love them. Travel, adventure and a bit of mystery flourish in her books along with a few companion animals to round out the tales.
    Colorado is her home; shared with her husband of many moons, a brilliant Chow Chow, a spoiled parrot and a forty-five-year-old box turtle. Any winter evening, you can find her curled up in front of a crackling fire with a good book, a mug of hot chocolate and a big bowl of popcorn.
    Website https://www.tenastetler.com
    Authors’ Secret’s Blog https://www.tenastetler.com/category/authors-secrets-blog/
    My Say What Blog https://www.tenastetler.com/category/my-say-what-blog/
    Twitter https://www.twitter.com/TenaStetler
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/tenastetler.author
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  • Character Sketch,  Contemporary,  Erotic

    Read the Contemporary Romance One Woman Only by Dee S Knight @DeeSKnight #RLFblog #Romance

    Read the Contemporary Romance One Woman Only by Dee S Knight @DeeSKnight #RLFblog #romance

    In Dee S. Knight’s One Woman Only, Jonah Goodman meets the high school sweetheart he left behind. Can he convince her to give him a second chance?

    Welcome Jonah Goodman from One Woman Only, a contemporary erotic romance.

    Jonah Goodman from One Woman Only

    Age: 36
    Gender: Male
    Birthplace: Lucky Strike, North Carolina
    Profession: Mechanic

    Please provide a physical description of yourself.

    I’m one of a set of identical triplets, though I think I’m probably the best looking of the bunch. 😉 We all have hazel eyes and black hair. Mine probably needs a trim and I’m sure I need a shave (the ladies seem to like a little scruff, you know?). I’m 6 feet two inches and I’m pretty muscular—have to be for my job, which is auto mechanic, often on the NASCAR circuit. I’m most often found in flannel shirts or tees, and rough jeans, though I can dress up when required—but I have to be required.

    Please tell us a little about yourself.

    My brothers and I grew up with super loving parents, though a bit unconditional. My mom is a former stripper and Dad “borrowed” a bit of money from the bank where he worked when money was tight. It takes a lot to raise three boys! But for the past 28 years or so, my mom has only taken off her clothes for Dad and Dad paid his debt to society long, long ago. For all their love and good intentions, they never married, though. So growing up in our small Bible Belt town was a little hard on me and my brothers. Daniel and Mark found their peace in books and math and I’m proud as hell of the men they grew up to be. I found my way in sports (and fighting the bullies when needed), and beneath the hood of a car. They got their PhD degrees and I got my GED, but hey, we all ended up doing what we love.

    Everyone thinks that I couldn’t care less about responsibility or commitment, but even I surprised myself when I filed for and was granted four patents for new car part innovations, and (get this!) starting setting crossword puzzles for the NASCAR programs. No one knows about any of that, though, and they don’t need to. I’m cool with their impressions of me—except for Kelly Shepherd. I wish she knew me well enough to see through the façade to the whole of who I am.

    Who is the significant other in your life?

    Kelly Shepherd. Damn, what a fine woman she grew into! Strawberry blond hair, big green eyes, and a figure that won’t quit. I fell in love with her when we were in junior high and then screwed up royally at the beginning of our senior year. When I left her high and dry—left my family and town, actually—she never forgave me. It probably ever would have worked anyway. Her family was the richest, most powerful in town and mine…wasn’t. But now, eighteen years after I made the biggest mistake of my life, we have a second chance at seeing what might have been had the stars aligned.

    How educated is this character? Is he book smart, self-taught, widely-experienced?

    Jonah never did particularly well in school, but the man is a genius when it comes to cars, engines, and motors of any kind. He’s self-taught, although he did learn form is dad when he was young, and his Uncle Zeb when he left home and moved in with his uncle in Darlington, South Carolina. He became so accomplished, NASCAR teams seek him out routinely.

    Does he scrape by, live comfortably, live extravagantly?

    Jonah has a doublewide trailer on five acres of his uncle’s property. Outside it looks like a regular old doublewide, but inside he’s tricked it out to have a chef’s kitchen, heated floors, the most modern bathroom seen anywhere, and other creature comforts. The house is kind of like Jonah himself—deceptively simple outside but much more than expectations inside.

    What special skills does your character rely on?

    He’s a pretty good BS thrower—part of his charm. He can talk the ladies into most anything, but lately he’s felt the need for a lot more then racing groupies can provide. And once he sees Kelly again, he knows what he wants. Getting her onto his team will take skills he hasn’t used in a while, though. Other than that, his compulsion to meet the challenges he finds in cars is a skill of sorts. It’s gotten him four patents and the chance to make it big.

    Is he close to family?

    He’s very close to his parents and especially close to his uncle, who is the most like Jonah in temperament and interests. Zeb owns a garage where Jonah works when he’s not on the NASCAR circuit for a season, and he has a house on a piece of Zeb’s land. The two spend a lot of time together. Jonah is not so close to his brothers, but mainly because they all live at a distance from each other. Mark and Daniel have always been the scholars and the serious brothers. Jonah feels very different.

    How do others perceive your character based upon looks? How true is this assumption?

    He is a good looking devil, and that’s the truth. When women see him, they think he’d be great in bed and a fine catch. Only the former is true because Jonah has never stayed with one woman long enough to be a “catch.” When men see him, they thing he’s a guy’s guy and would be great to have a few beers with. Both would be true.

    If someone from your character’s past showed up, who would he most want it to be, and why? OR who would he most NOT want it to be, and why?

    He would NOT want to see Kelly Shepherd. In fact, he’s managed to avoid seeing her for the past eighteen years, ever since he dropped her off after the homecoming dance their senior year. Now however, at his parents’ wedding, his past is slamming into his present, and he can’t avoid Kelly any longer.

    Can your hero keep a secret? If not, why not? If yes, why?

    Yes. For eighteen years he’s kept the secret of why he dropped out of school and left home after homecoming. No one knew—not his brothers, or parents, or even Kelly. He never said anything mostly out of embarrassment but also to protect Kelly’s reputation.

    What is your hero’s breaking point?

    When Jonah did everything possible to prove he was a good man and someone Kelly could rely on, she still wouldn’t give him her trust. That was when he reached the point where he wasn’t ready to do more.

    How emotionally expressive is your character to others?

    Everyone thinks Jonah is the brother who shows no responsibility or commitment but of the three boys, he’s the one who has stayed in touch with the others more. He’s emotionally involved with his uncle and sensitive to how his uncle feels after the death of his wife. Jonah especially shows emotion with Daniel’s new stepson, and with children in general.

    About Your Writer: Questions for your character to answer about you.

    To honor the person who chose to share your story, please answer these questions.

    Why do you think your writer chose to write about you?

    Well, I am the most interesting of the Goodman brothers. I work on cars—some of the fanciest and slickest cars around—and on NASCAR teams, with all that entails. My brothers teach school and do something with math. God only knows what, exactly. So, who would you rather write about? Dee chose the right brother!

    What do you wish your writer had not told others about you?

    That I’ve finally reached that point in life where I’m lonely and wanting… Just wanting. A guy who has the privilege to do what I do should be happy with life as it is, not longing for something more to fill a void. Nosy Dee could have kept my loneliness to herself.

    When your writer is writing about you, what do you think makes your writer the most happy? What makes your writer the most sad?

    Happiest: That I decided to go after Kelly for real and also after the biggest prize in my career. There was no holding me back.

    Saddest: That I let pride and fear hold me back from doing those two things sooner.

    Why do you think your writer loves to write?

    She’s a damn control freak and likes taking charge of her characters’ lives. It’s a power play, but a power play over make believe people in her head. How sad is that?

    What do you wish your writer would write next?

    A book on automotive history. Or maybe how NASCAR started. But I don’t have much hope for either.

    What other character from your book do you think your writer should write a book about? Care to tell us why?

    Mark. He’s my bona fide genius of a brother. No one in the family really understands what he does so if she wrote his story maybe we’d find out.

    Is there anything you’d like to say to your writer?

    Good job, Dee! Thanks for giving me my heart’s desire.

    Where to buy One Woman Only

    Publisher Nomad Authors Publishing
    Amazon KU https://mybook.to/OneWomanOnly

    Dee S Knight Social Media

    A few years ago, Dee S Knight began writing, making getting up in the morning fun. During the day, her characters killed people, fell in love, became drunk with power, or sober with responsibility. And they had sex, lots of sex. Writing was so much fun Dee decided to keep at it. That’s how she spends her days. Her nights? Well, she’s lucky that her dream man, childhood sweetheart, and long-time hubby are all the same guy, and nights are their secret. For romance ranging from sweet to historical, contemporary to paranormal and more join Dee on Nomad Authors.
    Website https://nomadauthors.com
    Blog http://nomadauthors.com/blog
    Twitter http://twitter.com/DeeSKnight
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/DeeSKnight2018
    Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/265222.Dee_S_Knight
    Amazon http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B079BGZNDN
    Newsletter https://landing.mailerlite.com/webforms/landing/h8t2y6
    LinkedIn http://linkedin.com/in/dee-s-knight-0500749

     

  • Character Interviews,  Know the Heroine,  Paranormal

    Know Rowena from The Holiday Mermaid by Alice Renaud @alicerauthor #RLFblog #ParanormalRomance #PNR

    Know Rowena from The Holiday Mermaid by Alice Renaud @alicerauthor #RLFblog #ParanormalRomance #PNRRowena broke Adam’s heart when she left him without a word in Alice Renaud’s paranormal romance The Holiday Mermaid. Now it’s almost Christmas, and she’s back… but she has webbed hands and feet, and a tail! Can Adam and Rowena put their past behind them and build a future together?

    Alice, welcome to Romance Lives Forever. I’m Kayelle Allen, author and owner of this blog. Happy to have you here! We’re excited to find out more about your heroine, but first, tell us about The Holiday Mermaid.

    The Holiday Mermaid by Alice Renaud

    Genre paranormal romance
    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): R

    Adam fell for surfer girl Rowena the second he saw her. But just as their summer fling was becoming serious, she left him without any explanation. Now, with Christmas just a few days away, she’s back… and Adam discovers that she’s a shape-shifting mermaid, from a Clan that hates humans. Can he love her as she is? Can she brave her family to be with Adam for good, not just for Christmas?

    Know Rowena from The Holiday Mermaid

    Here are some fun questions to help us know your heroine.

    It’s late, she’s bored. What does she do?

    She goes for a swim. There’s always some fish to chase or a dolphin to chat to.

    What kind of food would she impulse buy if hungry?

    Fresh seafood. Oysters, shrimp, mussels… raw or cooked she loves them all.

    Describe the kind of clothes she prefers to wear.

    As little as possible. Clothes are a hindrance when you’re a shape shifting mermaid, they make the transformation more difficult.

    Does she know how to fix things?

    Yes, as long as it’s something related to a boat or the sea. She can repair a fishing net in minutes, but don’t ask her to change a plug or fix a car engine. She’s never driven in her life, and she spent most of her life underwater until she met Adam.

    She tried to do something and it went badly. Tell us about it.

    She was always attracted to the human world. One summer, she took advantage of the fact that her uncle and cousins were away to visit a human village on the coast. She met a young local man, Adam, and was immediately drawn to him. She thought she could have a summer fling, and then go back to her life as a dutiful mermaid of the Regor Clan. But she fell in love. She left Adam without a word or a note, because she couldn’t tell him the truth… but couldn’t bear to lie to him.

    How does she act around children she doesn’t know?

    She loves children. She is warm and playful with them. She finds it easier to relate to human children than to adults. She would love to have children of her own one day.

    What is she like first thing in the morning?

    Bright and sparky and ready to go, to catch the morning tide!

    How does she act around people who don’t know what she is?

    She is always on her guard, for fear of betraying her secret. Shape-shifting mermaids and mermen are supposed to keep their true nature hidden from humans.

    Will she let a worker handle things or do it herself?

    She’d have to let a worker handle things if it was something she didn’t have a clue about – like human inventions such as cars or electricity. But she prefers to do things herself when she can. She was brought up to work hard and be self-sufficient, as her parents died young and she was brought up mostly by her stern and traditional uncle, Rhys, leader of the Regor Clan.

    Earrings/piercings/tattoos or unadorned skin?

    Mermaids in the Regor Clan don’t wear jewelry or tattoos until they get married.

    Personal vehicle or public transport?

    In the human world, public transport. But she likes her surfboard best of all.

    Recycle or toss?

    Recycle. Mermen and mermaids love the sea and the coast and do everything in their power to keep them clean.

    Thanks for helping us get to know your heroine!

    Where to buy The Holiday Mermaid

    Publisher https://blackvelvetseductions.com
    Amazon https://amzn.to/3DYdQNE

    Alice Renaud Social Media

    Alice lives in London, UK, with her husband and son. By day she’s a compliance manager for a pharmaceutical company. By night she writes fantasy romance about shape-shifting mermen, water monsters, and time-traveling witches. Her Sea of Love fantasy romance series is inspired by the landscapes and legends of Brittany and Wales. Both the series and the third book, Mermaids Marry in Green, won their categories in the Paranormal Romance Guild Reviewer’s Choice Award 2020. Alice has also contributed short stories for the BVS anthologies “Mystic Desire,” “Desire Me Again,” “Cowboy Desire,” “Rainbow Desire,” and “Dark Desire”. Alice loves reading and writing stories, and sharing them with anyone who’s interested!

    Website https://nomadauthors.com/alicerenaud/alicebooks.html
    Twitter https://twitter.com/alicerauthor
    Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AliceRenaudAuthorRomance/
    Goodreads https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/18670218.Alice_Renaud
    BookBub https://www.bookbub.com/profile/alice-renaud
    Amazon Author Page https://www.amazon.com/Alice-Renaud/e/B07L52P17B
    Get to know Alice Renaud better by signing up for her email newsletter. Be first to get freebies! Deals! And latest news! Hot and steamy! Soft and tender! Romance you will love! Become an Insider, sign up to our newsletter. https://blackvelvetseductions.com/?page_id=2472