• Character Interviews,  Contemporary

    Zi Trace from Tracing the Line by @allyabishop #RLFblog #romance

    Interview with Zi Trace
    This interview is designed for your hero or heroine to tell readers
    about himself or herself. Answer the questions as if the character were
    talking.
    Tell us about yourself,
    please.
    Hello. My name is Zi Trace, and I own and manage White Peony Lingerie
    and Sensual Pleasures, and I have two sisters, Lux and Blue. Our names are a
    long story, if you’re wondering, but suffice it to say, our mother was, um,
    creative.
    I’ve been divorced for two years, and, honestly, I’m just not up for
    dating. I’ve tried…well, I’ve surfed a few dating websites at the behest of Lux
    (she may have threatened to tie me down to the couch and make me if I didn’t do
    it of my own volition, but I’m just not in the mood. It’s not that I don’t like
    men—or sex, for that matter—but I’m done, honestly. My husband, er, my ex, I
    mean, did me in. And now I’m not sure I can go through all of that again.
    Authors call what you want
    but cannot have “the conflict” — what is yours?
    I try to share who I am…with everyone. But it’s…complicated. I didn’t
    grow up like other people, and now, when things start to go sideways, I
    struggle with the part of me that people will judge, you know? And even when I
    want to trust someone, when I want to give them the benefit of my trust…I can’t
    quite let go of the fear that they are going to let me down.
    What can you not do (but
    need to do) during this story?
    Oy, that’s a long list—do we have more than one page for this
    interview? :) Let’s see, I struggle letting go of my anger at Lux, I’m trying
    hard to understand Blue, but she baffles me. What else…? I demand too much from
    Kai Isaac when he tries to be there, and when I can’t stop my emotions from
    overwhelming me, I risk everything. And to be honest…sometimes being alone is
    easier, you know? You don’t have to clean up after others or worry that someone
    doesn’t have your back. But I hate that I feel that way…and I want to stop
    feeling so alone when I don’t have to be. I’m not sure how to get that trust
    back though.
    What inner doubt causes
    you the most difficulty?
    That I’ll end up alone. And that I’m not as desirable as I try to
    believe I am. I’ve done a lot of self work over the last few years, and I’m
    over a lot of the BS society tells us is required for beauty. But I’m still
    nervous. I’ve lost weight, and the loose skin that comes with that…it’s never
    quite the same, is it? I’ve got big hips, I’m very tall—nearly six foot—and
    that leaves me feeling a bit like a giant around my sisters. So when you spend
    all day helping women believe that they are gorgeous and sexy, you want someone
    to do the same for you.
    And Kai…yeah. He does that. But he’s…I hate to say it’s complicated
    again, but it is! He’s everything I’ve looked for, but he’s involved in a
    career that doesn’t resonate with what I believe. I’ll just leave it at that.
    Tell us about your
    significant other, that person who makes living worthwhile.
    Oy. Um, wow. So, Kai Isaac. He’s a filmmaker, and we meet when Lux
    cons me into showing up at a filming for an advertising video. I had no idea
    what was going to happen, and let’s just say…my issue with dating? Yeah. Kai
    blew that right out of the water.
    He’s over 6’6”, with a fantastic body, and these mesmerizing
    gold/green eyes that change based on his mood and thoughts. I…yeah, enough
    about that. He’s patient, kind, open, and always there. He’s as passionate
    about his career as I am about mine, and if he has a flaw—and really, who
    doesn’t?—it’s that he has to think through emotional decisions. He’ll never
    just answer. And usually, I love that about him. He doesn’t make foolish
    choices based on the moment…but some days…I don’t handle that very well. That
    probably says a lot more about me than it does him, doesn’t it? :sigh:
    Oh God, the man can cook, too! He’s amazing in the kitchen…and the
    bedroom. ;)
    What would that person say
    about you?
    Kai would insist that I’m hot, incredible at everything I do, and that
    I’m damned close to perfect. (Don’t tell him otherwise! ;) )
    What is your family like?
    My older sister Lux is a former Dominatrix, now online dating maven in
    the process of expanding her empire. If there’s a BDSM lover in need of a
    mate(s), she’s got you covered. And dear God, you should see her boyfriend. Red
    hair, built, horse trainer/underwear model with a thick Scottish accent? Even I
    did a double-take when I met Fin MacKenzie.
    Blue—she’s the youngest—is the wild child. Hard to believe given Lux’s
    intro, eh? Blue had it the hardest growing up, and I’m not sure why. She was
    adorable—tiny with carroty ringlets and a teeny body—she looked like a doll.
    But she was always treated differently by those who took care of us,
    and when it was just Lux and I raising her (practically), I don’t think we were
    enough. Not when we were just kids ourselves.
    She’s lovely—long red hair, petite, with a streak of fire that never
    quits. Well, not usually. But something broke in Blue a long time ago, and I’m
    not sure anyone can fix it. I’m here for her—I love her dearly. But until she
    figures out the demons that drive her, she’ll always have those shadows behind
    her eyes.
    What special skills do you
    rely on?
    I can usually talk to anyone. That’s helped me in business. Of course,
    that’s all useless when Kai shows up and turns me into a blushing
    sixteen-year-old. That man…
    If someone from your past
    showed up, who would you NOT want it to be, and why?
    My mother. She formed our childhoods with mental illness and neglect,
    and if there’s one person I struggle with categorizing in my life, it’s a
    mother who was as sick herself as she made my little sister. I try to forgive
    and move on, to love who she tried to be in spite of her actions, but when I
    see Blue’s brokenness and Lux’s bitterness, it’s not as easy as it sounds.
    Still…I try. That counts, right?
    Why are you happy (or not
    happy) with the way your story ended?
    No cheating! You have to read to find out…but this is a romance,
    right? :)
    About the Writer
    When you do something effortlessly and people commend
    you continuously, you have found your gift.
    That’s what I tell people all the time. And it’s true.
    I get story. I always have. I started writing when I was
    eight on a Smith Corona (the electronic kind — I’m not THAT old). I wrote
    stories in every spiral notebook I had. Eventually, I graduated to a Mac (yes,
    I’m one of THOSE people). I imagined new worlds, emotional conflicts, and HEAs
    while I waited at stoplights or wandered the grocery store. But here’s the
    thing: I didn’t just dream it up and write it down — I critiqued what I read. I
    knew when ideas were good, and when they stunk. I ran writing groups, judged
    creative contests, and eventually got two graduate degrees in writing. That’s
    right: I love it that much.
    So here I am, years later, writing kickass heroines and
    devastating good guys, along with some mystery and vampires thrown in (I
    promise: THEY’RE COMING). And what’s really cool? I do what I love. Wanna write
    a success story for your life: I promise you, that’s it. Do what you love. And
    hopefully, you can make a living at it too. That’s the golden ticket, Charlie.
    And chocolate doesn’t hurt, either…
    What
    was your biggest challenge in writing this book?
    The Without a Trace series started as a
    co-writing deal that fell through. So when I wrote the second book, I was still
    fleshing out the ideas that were never fully my own—I’d been responsible to
    another author to make sure the ideas were shared.
    Zi’s book, Without a Trace (the sister’s
    last names are all “Trace”), was my first real foray into what I wanted my
    romance series to entail. So in that sense, it was a freeing feeling to be able
    to write whatever I wanted! But I also knew I wanted this story to have impact
    for those who have experienced abusive childhoods. Part of the reason Lux from Inside
    the Lines
    fell out of touch with Zi and Blue is due to the issues in their
    family. Sometimes, we try to simplify those things so we don’t have to get into
    the gritty details, but I didn’t want to be dishonest.
    Many of us have dealt with painful backgrounds,
    and I wanted their story to reflect what is possible when you are able to still
    believe you are worthy, and still believe that love is possible, even when
    we’re all a bit broken. I hope I was able to do that.
    Why
    did you choose this character for the interview today?
    Zi Trace is a force to be reckoned with,
    especially because she never gives up. She fights for what she wants, even
    though she’s the most nurturing of the three. Zi keeps going. She’s also a real
    woman with the realities of weight loss on the body, the pain of a failed
    relationship and pregnancy, and the stains left behind by decisions she never
    had a choice in. She’s the one everything happened “around,” but rarely to. And
    she was the caretaker of Blue when Lux left, which has its own challenges.
    I debated writing Kai’s point of view, but
    really…he’s so besotted with Zi, what else can he say? ;)
    When
    writing the book, what did you discover about this character that surprised
    you?
    How strong we are when the cards are down. Zi
    risks everything to save herself yet again, and when she’s wrong, she owns it.
    That’s one of the reasons I loved writing her—she embraces her truth, even when
    it’s not comfortable.
    She’s also a bit more of a prude than she
    realized, so when Kai wants to try some, um, more open-minded sexual
    experiences, she’s surprised by her reaction. I daresay many of us feel that
    way! And it was fun to see a lingerie store owner—who has a backroom full of
    sexual toys for women—explore her own prejudices and discover the broader nuances
    of her sexuality.
    Are
    any sequels planned for this book?
    Oh, this is book three! There’s a fourth book
    that will be released in October, and that will finish the Trace sisters’
    stories—Blue’s book. But there’s a book for Noah Storm that I”m working on (for
    those who are already fans—yes, Noah’s book is coming, I promise), plus I have
    a spin-off idea I’m working on utilizing some of the characters we’ve already
    met. So there’s much more to come in this romance world!
    What
    genre(s) would you like to write that you haven’t tried yet?
    I’m working on a paranormal romance as well, and
    I love mysteries. I have an idea for a romantic suspense novel as well, so…
    What
    would your readers be surprised to learn about you?
    1. I never ever thought I’d write romance. My
    background is in literary writing, and I’ve worked in the publishing field and
    edited literary works for years now. But when an opportunity arose to write
    steamy romance, I couldn’t resist the challenge. And I’ve had a blast.
    2. I’ll write pretty much anywhere, but many
    know I’m also a professional editor and author coach. I stand 90% of the day at
    a standing desk! I even have a small “elliptical” machine that fits underneath,
    and I pull that out when I’m in conferences or meetings and get in my workout!
    :D
    Why
    should readers who haven’t picked up one of your books before give this one a
    try?
    Oo, good question! Let’s see.
    1. I am passionate about art, exploring our
    world and helping us find solutions, comfort, and/or challenges to help us live
    bolder and with more love and acceptance of others. I’m not shy about tackling
    tough subjects.
    2. You get to meet Lux and Fin, Ella and Ian,
    Noah and Tag (he’s a rescued pit bull with a heart of gold), and learn a bit
    more about Blue who, while troubled, will surprise you when this saga is done.
    3. Who doesn’t love a sexy read?! I work hard to
    make sure my sex scenes are unique, plot-focused, and tasteful. They might be a
    little kinky (or a lot!), but they are always done with respect to the
    characters’ agency. There’s nothing wrong with a little D/s play, as long as
    everyone wants it, amiright? ;D
    Plus, the prequel Crossing the Lines is
    free right now. So if you aren’t sure, start with that one and see if enjoy my
    style.
    Is
    there anything you’d like to say to your readers?
    Thank YOU for loving my books. Without your
    feedback, I wouldn’t be brainstorming even more ideas and stories for these
    characters. I’m honored that you took a chance on a new author, and I hope I
    continue to give you a reason to keep coming back for more. <3 YOU ROCK!
    About the Book
    Title Tracing
    the Line
    Genre Erotic romance
    Author Ally Bishop
    Book heat level (based on movie ratings): R
    They say love doesn’t hurt.
    But it’s a lie. I promise you, love someone long enough,
    and they’ll destroy your soul.
    I’ve spent my life taking care of everyone else: my
    family, my ex-husband, my friends. Deep down, I know I should focus on myself,
    but how can I when I’ve got one sister about to implode while the other battles
    her own guilt?
    The minute I met Kai Isaac, I should’ve run in the
    opposite direction. His business isn’t one I want any part of, and I’ve got way
    too much drama in my life already.
    But his kiss…those eyes…the raging inferno he
    creates when he touches me…I can’t stay away. Life’s reeling out of control,
    and he’s my only refuge from the storm.
    My sister Lux says trusting someone means not knowing
    everything about them and being okay with it…but what if not knowing the
    truth ruins everything?
    Buy This Book
    Barnes & Noble:
    http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/books/1122491159?ean=2940151088930
    Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B013NRW9G4
    Author Social Media
    Website http://allybishop.com
    Blog http://allybishop.com
    Amazon Author Page http://bit.ly/aabishop
  • Character Interviews,  Contemporary

    Ella Storm from Crossing the Line by @allyabishop #RLFblog #romance

    Ella Storm from Crossing the Line by @allyabishop #RLFblog #romance
    Interview with Ella Storm
    This interview is designed for your hero or heroine to tell readers
    about himself or herself. Answer the questions as if the character were
    talking.
    Tell us about yourself,
    please.
    Hi! I’m Ella. I live in Brooklyn, New York with my brother Noah—long
    story. We own a mystery dinner theater company together, and we’re finally
    (finally!) getting some higher-end clientele. I’m super nervous and excited
    about that.
    Authors call what you want
    but cannot have “the conflict” — what is yours?
    Um. Hm. I suck at dating? Seriously. I can’t seem to get myself out
    there. Lux (my brother’s BFF and my friend as well) and Noah go out on the
    town. All. The. Time. But the idea of hanging out at bars, going home with
    someone just because he’s attractive? Not my thing. Totally fine if it’s your
    thing! But I can’t get into it.
    What can you not do (but
    need to do) during this story?
    I can’t figure out who I am. I like structure, deadlines, and
    schedules. And when I meet Ian…he changes everything.
    What inner doubt causes
    you the most difficulty?
    I was almost engaged to a guy in college, and I thought…well, I guess
    we all think we’ve met “the one,” right? Jonathan was handsome and funny, super
    smart in that cool way. But I should have known better—he wanted to be the star
    in any relationship. And he did a number on me. I can’t seem to get past that.
    In the story world your
    author created, explain what it is you fear most and why.
    Wow. Ask a personal question, eh? I guess…I want to believe Ian likes
    me as much as I like him. But how’s that even possible? Especially once I learn
    who he is?
    Tell us about your
    significant other, that person who makes living worthwhile.
    Ian Crane. He’s a lawyer and crazy sexy in that just-a-little-mussed
    way. We’re leagues apart though, and I’m not sure if this can work.
    What would that person say
    about you?
    Ian would say I’m beautiful and brilliant and perfect. :sigh:
    What is your family like?
    I don’t have much family. My brother and I were raised by our
    grandparents after our parents were killed in a car accident when we were
    teens. Other than that, Lux is who we count as family.
    What special skills do you
    rely on?
    I write all of our mysteries, organize the events and moving parts, while
    Noah does the business end of things: invoicing, tracking, etc. I’m also
    starting to get into scrapbooking (but don’t say anything to Noah about it—I’ll
    never live it down).
    If someone from your past
    showed up, who would you NOT want it to be, and why?
    Jonathan. He hurt something in me that’s still pretty broken.
    Why are you happy (or not
    happy) with the way your story ended?
    :grins: I can’t give that away! You have to read to find out. ;)
    About the Writer
    When you do something effortlessly
    and people commend you continuously, you have found your gift.
    That’s what I tell people all the
    time. And it’s true.
    I get story. I always have. I
    started writing when I was eight on a Smith Corona (the electronic kind — I’m
    not THAT old). I wrote stories in every spiral notebook I had. Eventually, I
    graduated to a Mac (yes, I’m one of THOSE people). I imagined new worlds,
    emotional conflicts, and HEAs while I waited at stoplights or wandered the
    grocery store. But here’s the thing: I didn’t just dream it up and write it
    down — I critiqued what I read. I knew when ideas were good, and when they
    stunk. I ran writing groups, judged creative contests, and eventually got two
    graduate degrees in writing. That’s right: I love it that much.
    So here I am, years later, writing
    kickass heroines and devastating good guys, along with some mystery and
    vampires thrown in (I promise: THEY’RE COMING). And what’s really cool? I do
    what I love. Wanna write a success story for your life: I promise you, that’s
    it. Do what you love. And hopefully, you can make a living at it too. That’s
    the golden ticket, Charlie.
    And chocolate doesn’t hurt,
    either…
    What
    was your biggest challenge in writing this book?
    When I originally wrote Inside the Lines, I had
    no intention of writing a book about Ella and Noah. When readers asked to learn
    more about the Storm siblings, I figured, what the heck? But when I sat down to
    write the book, I had no idea what Ella’s story was. Enter creative writing and
    outlining. :) Thankfully, Ella was perfectly content to do what she wanted,
    whether or not I liked it. And Noah’s always a little contrary.
    Why
    did you choose this character for the interview today?
    Ella’s the main female lead in Crossing the
    Line. What I personally like about Ella is that she’s very sweet—everyone loves
    Ella. But she’s not a pushover. Even when things go wrong in her life, she may
    not want to deal with them, but she does. And she’s perfectly capable of taking
    care of herself, with or without a man.
    When
    writing the book, what did you discover about this character that surprised
    you?
    Ella’s pretty sturdy—and I knew that. But she
    also has a breaking point, like everyone else. Seeing her and Noah at odds
    wasn’t what I expected, but I think you get a better feel for why Ella has
    evolved the way she has. And hopefully, it offers a clue to what Noah’s hangups
    are for his future story.
    Are
    any sequels planned for this book?
    Crossing the Line is a prequel to Inside the
    Lines, the first book of the Without a Trace series, which follows Lux and her
    sisters. The third book in the series, Tracing the Line, will be released in
    August 2015.
    What
    genre(s) would you like to write that you haven’t tried yet?
    I’m currently working on two paranormal series,
    so we’ll see how those pan out. :)
    What
    would your readers be surprised to learn about you?
    I never ever thought I’d write romance. My
    background is in literary writing, and I’ve worked in the publishing field and
    edited literary works for years now. But when an opportunity arose to write
    steamy romance, I couldn’t resist the challenge. And I’ve had a blast.
    Why
    should readers who haven’t picked up one of your books before give this one a
    try?
    Oo, good question! Let’s see.
    1. My focus for every book is to make sure the
    characters have authentic problems that real people have, that they have flaws
    that make them human, and that I honor the romance genre with the content. So
    if you enjoy romance and you like to feel as though the characters you reach
    could be friends of yours, then this book is for you.
    2. I write steamy romance…so you won’t have to
    look far for some heat in any book I write. ;)
    3. I explore something different with each book,
    including mental illness, the realities of kinky sensuality, and diverse
    characters with different backgrounds. This book’s a great start to see if
    you’ll enjoy my style.
    Is
    there anything you’d like to say to your readers?
    Thank you so much for reading, and for giving me
    the encouragement to continue the series! I’ve had a blast hearing your
    feedback, and I appreciate your willingness to take a chance on my series.
    Without you, authors have no purpose—so thank you for loving the written word.
    <3
    About the Book
    Title Crossing the Line
    Genre Erotic romance
    Author Ally Bishop
    Book heat level (based on
    movie ratings): R
    I’ve never believed in love at
    first sight, which is probably why I write mysteries, and not romances, for a
    living. Besides, I’m too focused on expanding Elementary, a mystery dinner
    party business I own with my brother Noah. I don’t have time for romance.
    When the handsome and successful
    Ian Crane books our services, I can barely keep my wits about me. He’s setting
    fire to all my rules, and I can’t resist his flames. I don’t recognize the
    woman I’m becoming, but I don’t want to go back to who I was.
    There’s a part of me that can’t
    help wondering, what if he’s too good to be true? Because if he is, my heart
    will be nothing more than ashes.
    Heat rating: Toasty warm, with
    plenty of flames
    Buy This Book
    Amazon http://bit.ly/xingtheline
    Barnes and Noble http://bit.ly/xingthelineBN
    CreateSpace http://bit.ly/xingtheline
    Author Social Media
    Website http://allybishop.com
    Blog http://allybishop.com
    Amazon Author Page http://bit.ly/aabishop