Lover’s Retreat is book #2 of the Romance Set in Paradise Series of stand alone modern, steamy, suspenseful and romantic stories. All set in exotic locations around the world.
For thirty seven year old recluse Yasmin O’Neil, life feels like one crisis after another. Her husband left her five years ago, she starts to suspect she’s losing her hearing, and then her mother is diagnosed with cancer. When her mother passes away her fortune changes. Yasmin is fifty thousand pounds richer from her mother’s estate. Yasmin takes her fate into her own hands after years of being a recluse, she rediscovers herself at a spiritual retreat in Sri Lanka south Asia, before she plans to spend the next six months travelling around the world. In Sri Lanka, Yasmin’s path crosses with Michael Thomas, an army soldier on his own path of self discovery. With their luke warm initial encounter the pair don’t hit it off straight away. After some push and pull the two are finally on the same page. Their encounter turns from luke warm to a steamy sizzling hot.
In Lover’s Retreat two very different characters originally on different paths, embrace the need for change and companionship. Set in the back drop of paradise, palm trees and untouched nature of Sri Lanka, these two lonely souls gain more than just self discovery they gain a soul mate.
Release Date: 20th July 2017
On Pre-sale now just .99p / .99$ until the flash sale ends on the 31st July. Click Links Below.
So here we are ten days into National Novel Writing month, and I’m getting into my groove I think. I did some research on the Jazz scene in the 1950s as that’s where I’m at with writing. You can see what my project is about here. Today I wrote less than I would have hoped. That said I did start late and it’s already just after 11:00 pm London time. And I was reading for research. But the good thing is as you can see, I still only need to write less than 1,000 words a day, for my next addition to my romance series. When I look at it like that, life really does not seem that bad actually. 🙂 I can knock out under 1,000 a day no probs… all I need to do is be disciplined and do it! No You-Tube, or messing around. Just park my ass and write .
Tomorrow’s another day, I’ll try this theory of park it and write it tomorrow.
How are you doing fellow #nanowrimo writers?? Is the word count coming along? What’s your camp like online? Mine is really lively actually, I can’t keep up with all the conversation. Some lovely writers though, I seem to be the only one writing romance… I can work with that it’s okay. Quite a few crime and fantasy writers in my camp.
And yes at your request, New York’s first female serial killer Lisa Vanacilli is back! In part two of “It Was The First Time I Killed A Man.” Plus we have two never seen bonus stories.
A suspenseful novel with a twist. Eight short stories, by two suspense authors, from diverse backgrounds. From opposite sides of the Atlantic these stories have been created. One author started the tale and the other ended it. No discussion, no pre-planning. Just creativity with the use of writing prompts, to craft one tale, with two different writers. This anthology of suspenseful, fast paced and engaging tales covers multiple genres. From heart felt romance, crime, fantasy, and steamy historical fiction.
Steamy Historical Crime Fiction: It was The First Time I Killed A Man.
It’s 1972 and New York’s first female serial killer Lisa Vanacilli is in the hot seat again, ten years after her conviction of murder to the first degree and innocent plea. The ruthless but sexy reporter Tiffany Low cracks Lisa for a confession… at a price. Lisa is strong, courageous and says it how it is. This story has been extended due to reader’s demand. And is only for adult readers.
Psychological Fiction: Every Time I Hear That Voice From The Basement.
George appears to be harmless. The local neighbourhood geek on the outside, married to Jolene. In reality, he’s a very disturbed man. His path crosses with Dana, the local check out girl. This is a psychological suspense story with a twist.
Crime Fiction: The Entrance To The Tunnel Is His Only Way Out.
Juan is a wanted man, and an ex-gang member on the run from Atlanta to Mexico. With hundred grand in cash stolen from his ex-boss, he meets an unlikely fate in Mexico. A fast-paced crime fiction story.
Contemporary Romance: When His Hands Run Up My Thighs I…
Love has no time limit, age limit or use by date. Sarah now in her fifties is reunited with her long-lost love Joshua. They last had contact in 1961. In the present day, thanks to the advancement of technology their paths cross. A heart-warming and modern tale, about long distance love, that will leave you warm inside.
Suspense: We Only Said Goodbye With Words, I Died A Hundred Times:
Russian Femme Fatale Mila Petrov is London’s top Madam. Her entertainment house is booming, she has a team of London’s strongest women behind her. Unfinished business from her past creeps up and haunts her. It’s nothing she can’t handle. A suspenseful historical tale, with a strong femme fatale.
Fantasy: The Ones Who Live At The Bottom Of The Ocean, Come To The Surface.
A beautiful coming of age story, featuring sixteen year old Zoe and her mother May-Li. Myth becomes reality, as Zoe finds out who and what she really is. Her mixed descent reveals more than what meets the eye. This fantasy story is set against the backdrop of a Greek island and Hong Kong, China.
Suspenseful Crime Fiction: Guilty As Charged, In Self-Defence
California’s sassy, tough, and likeable defence lawyer Catherine has taken on a case so high profile, if she wins she’ll become a partner of Martin Law Firm. Defending forty six year old Mrs. Chevelle. An ex Las Vegas show girl, now a Hollywood wife, on trial for the murder of her high-profile husband. She claims she’s innocent. Readers are taken on a fast -paced journey on a mission to seek the truth.
Contemporary Fiction: It’s A Man’s Man’s World:
A beautiful modern tale showing the love and appreciation of a woman. James Brown said it right when he said, “it’s a man’s man’s world, but it would mean nothing without a woman or a girl.
Stay tuned for more details on pre-sale! This serial novel will be available in e-book and paperback on Amazon, Smashwords, Barnes & Noble, ibooks
I ask myself week after week if I will ever be on time with this challenge? I think the answer is NO. But better late than never. So this week, romance writers are asked what we like to read. What a GREAT topic.
Before I became a writer, if I can call myself that now, with four books under my belt and number five and six dropping in July! I ran a book club here in London for about almost five years. It was a book club for women only. The feel of the club was that it’s our space, our time and place to forget the kids, husbands, work, bills to be paid, and the endless to do list we have as busy working mums, career girls, or stay at home mums. When I set up the club online I wanted to attract women from all walks of life, ages and backgrounds. And that I did! I surprised myself it grew to well over one hundred members. All I wanted was a get away once a month, and to speak to people who loved to read as much as me. I never imagined it would last almost five years and beyond if I stayed. Not all one hundred members attended each month, but turn out was good and it’s how I met my good friend and now editor. About twenty or so of us each month met up, after we read a choice of two books per month. We met in one of London’s famous book stores in central London, on a Saturday afternoon. Drank wine, talked about books, had lunch and gossiped the afternoon away. It was A LOT of fun. I met some really lovely friends. I only gave up running the club as I scored my first publishing deal, and found it hard to read, meet deadlines with writing, juggle a family as I became a mum and work. I miss it with all my heart. I remember when I was heavily pregnant I’d still fit my fat ass on the bus, and waddle up to the book store in crowded and busy central London protecting my bump, every month. Or I’d talk to the girls and participate via loud speaker on the phone, if I could not make it. Sometimes I feel like starting it all over again.
When it comes to reading, I read a lot and like to read believe it or not genres I don’t write and can’t write. Even if I tried I could not craft a paranormal or sci-fi book. I just don’t have the creativity in that respect. But I love to read it! I also love to read historical fiction. I can turn my hand to a bit of this as a writer. I also love of course romance, suspense, thriller and a good dose of crime fiction. Also urban romance or African – American fiction.
I like books that push boundaries, and I also really love first person story telling, especially in thriller and suspense. Some call this “amateur writing” whatever! It’s not easy to be consistent with it. I like to get up close, and be right next to characters even bad guys. I wrote a blog post on one of my favourite books that inspired me as a writer with this style. It’s Gillian Flynn’s Gone Girl, Gillian writes first person so so well. I wrote this well over a year ago I think, you can see it here.
Here is a list of my favourite books
Gone Girl- Gillian Flynn
A Thousand Splendid Suns- Khalid Hossani – I read this while in hospital during the birth of my son. I finished it during my labour and stay in the maternity ward. Such a wonderful book.
Americanahh- Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie – now this lady writes it how she likes it! And she really is herself one of the things I love about her.
Purple Hibiscus- Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie .
Half a Yellow Sun-Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
Deadly Embrace- Jackie Collins- my inspiration to write my first romantic suspense! Wonderful writer.
Faceless- Martina Cole- great British crime writer, I buy her books whenever she releases them.
Me Before You- Jo Jo Moyes- I’ve read a lot of her books always enjoy them.
Necessary Lies- Diane Chamberlain- Wonderful writer I’ve read a lot of hers.
The Coldest Winter- Sista Souljah- A classic African American story.
Midnight- Sista Souljah- A great love story between an African American immigrant boy and a Japanese girl.
Memoirs of a Geisha- Arthur Golden what a classic.
Women of the Silk-Gail Tsukiyama – my gosh I have never been so blown away by historical fiction.
Language of Threads- Gail Tsukiyama- the follow up to the book above I loved it.
The Seamstress- Maria Duanas – Fantastic historical fiction. This book highlights the strength of female character set in the backdrop of war. The story spans across north Africa and Spain. Totally engrossing story but a good 500 pages long.
Fifty Shades of Grey all of them- Yeah I went there. No matter what people say about this author’s “simple writing style” Christen Grey totally does it for me!
Crimson Rooms- Katharine McMahon I read this book YEARS ago, and remember it like I remember my own name. Historical fiction featuring a strong woman trying to solve a “problem” of the era.
Jane Eyre- I love Jane!
To Kill a Mocking Bird- Harper Lee…. Need I say more! It’s a classic. One I will make sure my son (who is only three) reads and understands.
The Colour Purple- Alice Walker- A classic.
I have many more but these are the first twenty that came into my head, while I wrote this writing prompt. I think I will re-read numbers ten – twelve and the follow up stories. Maybe even number five and twenty again.
Can you list twenty or less of your favourite books at the snap of a finger? Share them with me and leave a comment.I’d like to find new books to read.
I made a visit to a lovely book blogger’s page this evening. I read her random post on her reading habits. Inspired me to keep the post chain going. I love to read, I was (and still am) an avid reader before writer. Here are my habits what are yours?
Do you have a certain place in your home for reading?
Not really, I read anywhere. Including public places. Normally when I’m at home I read in bed or in the living room on the sofa. Curled up with a cup of tea or coffee, sometimes something a stronger. Okay, not sometimes most of the time.
— Bookmark or random piece of paper?
Bookmark all the way! I have collected some pretty ones over the years. It annoys me if they slip out or I lose them.
— Can you just stop reading or do you have to stop reading after a chapter / certain number of pages?
Most of the time I aim to finish the chapter. I find it hard to cut off and disconnect. If I’m really tired I may stop part way through, but I always aim for the long haul and finish a chapter.
— Do you eat or drink while read?
All the time! The crumbs on the E-reader is unbelievable.
— Multitasking: Music or TV while reading?
Ahh, hard one I always have something on in the background, the hard decision is music or TV. If I have the TV on it’s always the news channel I place it on, I have no idea why. If it’s music, something easy going is playing.
— One book at a time or several at once?
Just the one thank you! I give it my full attention.
— Reading at home or everywhere?
*Raises an eyebrow* what do you think?
— Reading out loud or silently in your head?
Silently in my head… what am I? Five years old?
— Do you read ahead or even skip pages?
No. Never. It’s a sin.
— Breaking the spine or keeping it like new?
Keeping it new…
— Do you write in your books?
Who? What? … Hell No! Why would you? When I was at university I didn’t even like making notes in my text books. But reading books? My escapism?.. You’ve lost ya damn mind.
This is a re-blog guys I’m getting ready to unleash Lover’s Retreatbook #2 of my Romance Set in Paradise series, I’d love a few more Beta Readers Chapter preview on link above more details…. See below!
Afternoon!
I’m putting out a call for Beta Readers. This call is for myself and also a Best Selling Romance author friend of mine. I won’t say who it is!! (Yet). We both would love a few quality, honest and reliable Beta Readers, who would be interested in reading samples or all of our novels/ novellas before they go to publication. You can be an author yourself or just a lover of fiction.
Do you like these genres/themes within stories:
Romance .
Suspense.
Paranormal (not my genre).
Time Travel genre.
Contemporary fiction /romance.
Thriller/ crime (that’s yours truly).
A multi cultural / diverse line up of characters.
Strong, likeable women.
Modern day Romeos for men.
Location based stories all around the world.
Stories that touch on real life issues.
Are you okay with:
My use of British English? If this will annoy you I’m sorry I may not be the author for you. I spell organised with a S! Favourite has a U… got it?
Are you:
Over 18 …..things can get a lil’ steamy in our stories. Both myself and the other author are not really into all that sweet wholesome romance. We write about love and sex in tasteful ways. Our characters do more than hold hands and walk in the park. *Wink
Have English as your first language.
Honest & reliable.
Able to keep things confidential?- This is important.We will send you our work before it’s published…don’t let the cat out the bag!
What does a Beta Reader do?
In a nutshell read and critique, in a constructive way. Offer their views on what’s been placed in front of you good or bad.
If you’re interested in being a Beta Reader for me, and/or the other author contact me here. Send me a message. We’d love to hear from you.
Thank you!
Oh we’ll throw in signed paperbacks of every book you Beta Read!
Raffata has randomly picked out the following five names as winners of my giveaway, that’s been going for just over a month! Congratulations… you can all decide which book you’d like a signed copy of. Send me a message here with your choice and postal address. Thanks for entering I hope you enjoy.
If you entered and never won, I still have a gift for you, there are ninety five free online copies of Havana Heat up for grabs. Click here to download.
Winners:
Sally Collingwood- UK
Jennifer Moville-UK
Amulya-India
Julie Berg-UK
Pam P.- USA
What would you like?? See Below.
Havana Heat
Havana Heat is book one of the Romance in Paradise Series of modern,steamy, suspenseful and romantic stories, set in exotic locations around the world. In Havana Heat readers are transported to the paradise of Cuba’s capital Havana, following the romance and heat build between Spaniard Detective Sebastian Garcia, and London born and bred wedding planner Melinda Jones.Melinda’s path crosses with the handsome and charming Detective at Casa de Amour Hotel as a guest at her client’s exotic location wedding. Both characters are in search of a slice of paradise, away from their own troubled love life back home in London. Once their paths cross the romance and sizzle begins.
When all hell breaks out at Casa de Amour Hotel, and conflict builds over their past both characters are faced with a decision to take a risk and see out their romance, or walk away forever asking themselves what could have been. Romance, thrills and excitement await in book one of this modern romance series set in paradise in the Caribbean.
Lover’s Retreat: ( Not released until June).
Lover’s Retreat is book #2 of the Romance Set in Paradise Series of modern,steamy, suspenseful and romantic stories, set in exotic locations around the world. For thirty seven year old recluse Yasmin O’Neil, life feels like one crisis after another. Her husband left her five years ago, she starts to suspect she’s losing her hearing and then her mother is diagnosed with Cancer. When her mother passes away her fortune changes, Yasmin is fifty thousand pounds richer from her mother’s estate. She takes her fate into her own hands after years of being a recluse, she rediscovers herself at a spiritual self development retreat in Sri Lanka south Asia, before she plans to spend the next six months travelling around the world. In Sri Lanka, Yasmin’s path crosses with Michael Thomas, an army soldier on his own path of self discovery. With their luke warm initial encounter the pair don’t hit it off straight away. After some push and pull the two are finally on the same page. Their encounter turns from luke warm to sizzling hot.
In Lover’s Retreat two very different characters originally on different paths, embrace the need for change and companionship. Set in the back drop of paradise, palm trees and untouched nature of Sri Lanka, these two lonely souls gain more than just self discovery they gain a soul mate.
Not Just For Christmas:
In Not Just For Christmas readers are taken on a romantic journey set in London, during the festive season following two characters originally opposed to each other fall in love. There’s enough warmth and sensuality to keep readers warm at any time of year.
As Christmas draws near thirty five year old social worker Ava Green, finds herself desperate to not be alone at her favourite time of year. Following the break up of her engagement earlier in the year, Ava has spent ten months on a mission to get over her ex. With the support of her two of her closest girlfriends Tasha and Marie, Ava makes a bold move that surprises her girlfriends in order to find a companion for the festive season. Ava’s path crosses with tall dark and handsome Detective Jerome Samuels, a divorcee in search of love. Once their paths cross after a few bumps along the way there’s no turning back, these two characters are caught up in a whirlwind of sensual and heartwarming romance, that Detective Jerome Samuels hopes is not just for Christmas, he’s on a mission to claim his lady Ava.
A Stranger in France
In A Stranger in France readers are taken on a fast paced, modern day romantic journey, that spans across the city of London, the glitz and glam of France, and the beautiful English coast. There’s enough suspense to keep you on the edge of your seat turning pages.
Career driven and successful thirty two year old Kate Brown travels to southern France to visit her best friend Tanya Adams, for a well deserved short break, and to forget her worries in London. Her path crosses with tall, dark, devilishly handsome and wealthy Nicholas D’Coix. As a young man, Nicholas turned himself around and built an empire of wealth, he’s now one of Paris’ top three entrepreneurs. In a whirlwind of steamy romance Nicholas and Kate fall in love.
Kate returns to London leaving Nicholas behind and the two are still very much in love. Kate faces a few surprises of her own on her return to London. She makes a bold life changing move, to make the most of her life changing dilemma. Touching on real life issues these two strong characters battle it out, against all the odds in the name of love for a beautiful happy ever after.
This month, I’ve lined up two contrasting authors for you to meet. The second is Ms. Sara Ackerman. Sara is an author within a genre I also love to read, historical romance. Ahhh, there’s something about romance set against the backdrop of history that really interests me as a reader. Sara caught my eye over a year ago, when I first joined the world of WordPress and blogging as an author. Sara is not only a talented author she speaks three languages one of which I speak myself! It was a pleasure to interview her. Let’s get to know her style.. over to you Sara.
Hello nice to meet you! Tell us a bit about you where are you from and other than writing what else do you enjoy?
Hello from the Midwest! I come from a small town in Wisconsin where I teach at the secondary level. I’ve been a lover of language for years, and actually speak three languages: English, French and Spanish. I’m thinking of Mandarin Chinese or Arabic for my next language. In my free time I read, play games with my family and visit friends and family.
Kim: Tres bien! I speak French too. I love languages also. While they are challenging to learn,the satisfaction is unbelievable when you can speak to a native and be understood.
How did you start writing? What was your inspiration to create?
My day job is teaching. There is a high rate of burnout for teacher’s especially in areas like ESL (what I teach) and other high needs’ jobs. One year I packed up my room and took all my personal belongings home, convinced I wasn’t going to return in the fall. I sat down at the computer that June and just started to write. I wrote for three months and by the time August rolled around, I had finished my first novel and was ready to return to school.
Inspiration comes from universal struggles and themes–the desire for acceptance, self-discovery, love, family. Also, I enjoy exploring what if questions and the possibilities which can arise from different scenarios.
Kim: Go Sara! Excellent. Here in the UK, the burnout is high also. I totally understand the problems within the profession. Your inspiration sounds fantastic. I think when we use real life as a base to start to write, our stories can become much more powerful.
Who is your favourite author, is there anyone out there that inspires you?
This a toughie. Mary Balogh is indisputably the queen of Regency era historical romance. Her plots, lively characters and poignant twists never fail to leave me wanting more. Yet Julia Quinn has a witty and fast-paced dialogue with sassy, intelligent females who know what they want. Both authors have inspired my own style, though, which is a blend somewhere in between. I tend to have more serious stories with intelligent, headstrong females.
Kim: umm hmm, yes I like headstrong and intelligent. 🙂 I need to look into some of these authors you mention. Thanks for the heads up.
What genre do you enjoy reading?
I’m a romance junkie all the way. Life is already stressful enough. Romance novels offer the perfect escape and a guaranteed happy ending. I do stray and will also read YA, fantasy and cozy mysteries, but my one true love is romance.
Kim: Haha, I too am a massive junkie for romance. It’s funny you should mention escapism as for me that’s what the genre offers. When I brainstormed my Romance Set in Paradise series, this is exactly what I’ve kept in mind while writing and creating.
So you’ve published a series, what is the series about?
The Westby Sisters’ trilogy is about 3 sisters who were all cursed at a young age for a horrible lie they told. Each sister has a different curse to bear: Amelia (Little White Lies) can only tell the truth, Evelyn (Silence is Golden) can’t speak to anyone outside her immediate family and Beatrice (Silver Tongued Temptress) tells the truth but no one believes a word she says. Set during the Napoleonic wars, each sister struggles to find herself and overcome her limitations. There’s action and adventure. One reader asked if there were any murders because she enjoyed a little suspense, so yes, there are several murders, too, and of course, romance.
Kim: Oh suspense… yes yes! * claps her hands in excitement* . Can I be cheeky and ask for one of your author review copies so I can read?.. pretty please.
What three tips would you give any aspiring writer?
Write what you love. Worry about edits after you’ve finished. If you get stuck, take a break, eat some chocolate and repeat.
Kim: haha I like this tip. I would 100% support the write what you like part, there is a reader out there for every author. No matter your style. Haters will always be there, use them as your motivation to create!
What are you working on now? What will you release next?
I’m working on the third book in the Westby Sister’s trilogy, Silver Tongued Temptress. My next release is June 7th, Silence is Golden, the second book in the Westby Sister’s trilogy.
Kim: cool, keep us posted over at Meet The Author on any promos that you do. Good luck for 7th June.
What does “success” look like to you? When would you say “damn, I’ve made it baby!”
My first book was self-published as a proof of concept, to see if I could do it. When I was getting several hundred downloads a day, then I decided to send it to publishers to see if I could get it professionally published. For me, it’s all about proof of concept. If I can do something I’ve set out to accomplish, then I’ve made it. My standards are all based on personal goals, not on how much money I’ve made or how many awards I’ve won, but on whether or not I can do something I’ve never tried before.
Kim: very refreshing Sara. Many of us do think about the awards, titles and lists that we make. I like your style. I think your approach will keep an author grounded and doing it for the love of writing rather than £ or in your case $.
What’s your favourite movie?
Pride and Prejudice, the Kiera Knightley version. Matthew MacFayden is dreamy. His voice could melt the panties off of a saint.
Where would you like to travel to and why?
Scotland. My first book is set in the Highlands. My husband is Scottish (on his mother’s side) and I think men in kilt’s are damned sexy. If I do get there, I’m buying one for the hubs and ‘requesting’ he wear it.
Kim: * cracks up laughing* hmm, totally off the subject but I love a man in a sharp suit, you can knock me down with a feather every time. * daydreams about Nicholas D’Coix in A Stranger in France.*
I’ve snapped out of my daydream over hot men in suits or kilts! That’s a wrap. I really enjoyed getting to know Sara and her style a bit better, I hope you did too. Her books sound great, ideal for a romance lover who loves to read about strong women within a great setting and era. Connect with Sara below:
Sara’s Book Blurbs:
Little White Lies
Available now from Wild Rose Publishing, Amazon and Barnes and Noble
Amelia Westby always tells the truth, a terrible curse in a society that values little white lies. When she meets Tavis McGuire, she finds a way to escape the scrutiny of London’s jaded ton. Tavis is passionate and caring, offering Amelia a chance at a new life, but when a dangerous secret threatens to destroy their happiness, Amelia must break her curse or lose the man she loves. After his brother’s death, Tavis McGuire returns from the continent to inherit the Earldom of Stanton, an estate near financial ruin. To save his home and clear his family’s name, he becomes embroiled in a dangerous game of espionage. When his investigation leads him to a beautiful woman who holds information he needs to catch a traitor, Tavis must decide whether to honor his duty to his country or to follow his heart.
Silence is Golden
Available June 7th from Wild Rose Publishing, Amazon and Barnes and Noble
Ever since Evelyn Westby was cursed, she hasn’t been able to speak to anyone outside her family. That hasn’t stopped men from seeking her favor, especially the handsome and eligible Lord Alexander Newgate. But when her sister elopes and her betrothal is then canceled, Evie will do anything to win back her fiancé, even travel to war-torn France to find the gypsy who cursed her.
Alfred Coombes takes his fate into his own hands when he quits his employment to follow the call of adventure. On the road, he meets Lady Evelyn Westby and sees she needs a protector. Sacrificing his own journey, he becomes her guardian. Treacherous weather and a sinister smuggler throw them together, and he must decide whether to continue his journey or take a chance on a new adventure with a captivating beauty.
Author site: https://seackerman.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/saraeackerman/
Next Month: Something a little different! Another great author stay tuned. If you’re an author and you’d like to feature on Meet The Author contact me here.
If you’re an author and you’d like a feature contact me here.
It’s the 25th of the month! That means I have another author for you to meet. This month it’s erotica author Ms. Ava Sterling. Ava caught my eye last year, we started to follow each other’s author site. What made me take note of Ava is 1. her genre, I have so much respect for writers who can comfortably write a good sex scene. Erotica is my guilty pleasure when it comes to reading. 🙂 and I hate it when people call it “smut” it’s not. As a romance author myself I write the odd sex scene (okay I write a lot). I like to see how others create emotion and sensuality (which is more along the lines of how I go about writing). I also like to see how others create down right dirty red hot scenes! … Ava ‘s writing is red hot! 2. she is soooo damn productive as a writer. I remember liking one of Ava’s new release posts, then within a few days there was another one. I said to myself didn’t Ava just release one the other day?? Ms. Sterling knocks them out rapidly, I love it. I had the pleasure of reading a good few of Ava’s stories. The first time was while at the airport passing time in April.. I was sat in front of my mum, each time she raised her eyes to me from her newspaper I hid my smile and raised my tablet . :). I also got lucky one Saturday night, I decided not to write that night, I wanted to read and escape. In my inbox was one of Ava’s stories just waiting for me. I indulged again. Ava is very sexy, her scenes are hot, steamy and well written. I as a woman can relate to what I’ve read. Let’s get to know her style… Ms. Sterling over to you.
Hello nice to meet you! Tell us a bit about you where are you from and other than writing what else do you enjoy?
Thank you, Kim! It’s great to be on. I’m from the Midwest area of the United States. It’s fairly moderate when it comes to temperature and it can get a little humid in the summer. Other than writing, I enjoy running, watching movies, archery, and reading.
How did you start writing? What was your inspiration to create?
I started writing like a lot of people have, by just jotting down story ideas and wandering into it from there. I get asked a lot whether my stories are based off of my personal experiences, and sure, some of them are. I imagine it would be difficult for writer not to write about his or her personal experiences at least in some way.
Kim: *lifts her eyebrows* okay… hmm. Ya know I’ve never actually created a sex scene based on my own experience- consciously. Or have I??
What genre do you enjoy reading?
I try to read widely. Of course, I read the expected erotica and romance, but I also enjoy fantasy and even some science fiction.
Kim: I really respect paranormal and fantasy stuff, it takes a special kind of creativity to create a whole new world. I like paranormal romance too.
How did publishing your first book change your process of writing?
Oh gosh, everything. It’s an experience publishing your first book, and you never quite go about it the same way, for the better. Probably more accurately, my writing and publishing process changed quite a bit after the first dozen short stories, as it became more systematic and more of a natural process.
Kim: yes, agreed. The first one is like child birth, slow and painful in places.
What has been your most proud moment as an author?
My favorite moment as an author is receiving positive feedback about my stories. There’s just something about that moment when someone reaches out and says that they like what you created. It’s a natural high that fuels many authors.
Kim: nods her head * smiles*
Was there ever a time you wanted to pick up your laptop, and then launch it out the window with frustration?
It might be a boring answer, but not really. Although I do enjoy writing actual, believable plots into my short stories, because they aren’t long, I don’t have to concentrate much on intricate plot threads. I just focus on the characters and how they interact, and it seems to go pretty naturally from there.
Kim: I’m so jealous, NEVER Ava are you sure?? I’m happy for you that you’ve never experienced this. You have a very good point though,when I wrote A Stranger in France (90,000 words) I almost launched mine right out the kitchen window, a few times LOL.
Am I the only one who gets hung up on commas? Do they make you go blah! when you’re writing?
They used to trip me up a lot more than they do now. I used to be a prolific comma putter-inner. In other words, I would overuse commas. I’ve gotten better about it over time.
Kim: I’m trapped in between putter-inner and taker-outta. Blah!
What three tips would you give any aspiring writer?
These days, it seems to be about volume. Quality will always be important, but with so many self published authors cranking out stories and novels so quickly, it seems like an author needs more out there than ever before.
My main advice would be to keep going beyond what is comfortable for you. Continue even when it seems fruitless and you want to stop. My two other tips would be to keep an eye to the market and what sells and to develop a solid social media presence.
Kim: Sounds good to me. Especially encouragement to keep going.
What does “success” look like to you? When would you say “damn, I’ve made it baby!”
For me, success would be living comfortably solely on the income of my writing. I don’t need or expect a lot, just being able to pay my bills would be fine with me, but not having a boss breathing down my neck is the ultimate dream. I’m a very independent person, and I would much rather perform for my readers then perform for a boss at a day job.
Kim: Ditto.. day jobs suck when you’re a writer. It’s always nice to be paid for what you love doing.
What kind of research do you do, and how long do you spend researching before beginning a book?
Ha. This question holds a bit more meaning when asked of an erotica author. I’d love to be cheeky and say that I have performed long hours of research for my books, but really, I just write about either my personal experiences, experiences I wish I’ve had, or experiences I would rather not have because I’m not brave enough but like to explore in a story.
Kim’s reaction: Practical “hands on” research as an Eroticaauthor could be fun.
What are you working on now? What will you release next?
Right now (today actually!) I’ll be publishing a story about a woman who receives a happy ending from her male massage therapist. It’s my first massage therapy story, and I’m pretty excited about that. My last published story is about a married couple who decide to visit a swinger’s club. It’s their first experience in the swingers world, and of course they’re shy and unsure of themselves. Luckily, they find another couple who takes them under their wing.
Kim: Thanks for the update! Now I’m wondering how much of what I’ve read, and will read in the future is real??
Where can we get your books?
I try to put up my books on as many places as possible, such as Amazon, Kobo, Barnes & Noble’s, Apple, Smashwords, etc. That way, it removes all barriers from anyone around the world who wants to read my books. The best place to view a list of my stories is on my website. I also have a grid view for even quicker perusing.
What would you like readers to know?
That I appreciate each and every one of them. It is for them I write, and without them, none of this would be possible.
Kim: aww how nice Ava.
And that’s a wrap, it’s been lovely meeting Ava this month. It’s official I love this woman, her stories and bravery. I will for sure be reading more. If you’d like to take a look at this author’s ” toe curling stories” and indulge in a little connect with her below.
Is this for real?” Grace flipped over the gold embossed invitation in her hand, the parchment paper thick and expensive beneath her fingers. Whoever made it must’ve spent a fortune. “A swingers club? Really?”
She eyed her husband curiously, watching as he pulled off his belt. Was he serious? They had mentioned branching out to spice things up and keep their marriage interesting, but this was quite a move without a baby step in-between.
Steve nodded, removing his sports coat. “Yeah.” He took a seat beside her, the mattress dipping down under him. He loosened his tie, pulling it off to toss on the chair by the bed, along with his blazer. “We talked about this.” His voice was melodic, soothing. It was the thing that always pulled her in, lulling her into a state of compliance.
“Yeah, but I didn’t think you’d tell your friends!” Her tone was incredulous, but not upset. To say she was surprised would be an understatement. “Who all knows?” Studying his face, she awaited his reply. Boys and their locker room talk, she thought to herself. Strangely, that thought gave her a little jolt. What all did his friends know about her? When they had visited, did they envision her in all sort of slutty scenarios? Grace wasn’t sure she hated the idea. What would it be like being passed around all his friends?
Jesus, she definitely needed to lay off the erotica.
“Only Pete.” He slipped off his sleek, black shoes next. As an ad executive, Steve dressed his best every day, and she loved watching him peel off each layer of his designer suits. “He told me he had a way to help, then the next day he came to work with that.”
His gaze scanned her expression as he gestured to the invitation still clasped in her hand. “Do you know how hard something like this is to get? We’re going, aren’t we?” His voice lifted like an eager schoolboy. She knew how excited this topic made him; he’d mentioned it every night since it first came up. “Pete tells me it’s the cream of the crop. Serious business. Everyone is vetted, so things are safe. I know how careful you are. Background checks and such. I think they even have guards on duty.”
“I’m guessing we’re having background checks done on us as we speak?” It was smart, though; she had to admit that. There was a sense of security in taking a chance on sexual matters when they were handled by responsible adults.
He moved the hair from her neck, and she shivered. “Probably.”
“So, Masquerade Night, huh?”
She thought about all the variety that offered and the idea of shopping crept into her mind. A lovely new dress. Something sleek and tight, clinging to every curve. Something clandestine had always appealed to her. A mask gave a sense of anonymity and allowed one the excuse to act like someone else, to indulge the parts that were usually kept hidden.
“This coming Friday.” He smiled, trailing the backs of his fingers over her freckled shoulder before pulling down the thin strap of her camisole and placing a kiss there. “I’ll even buy you something new and sexy.” His teeth raked across her skin. “What d’ya say, baby girl?”
Excerpt from Cougar’s Fling.
“I hope you took him for all he’s got.” Brenda gestured with a piece of cranberry biscotti, then dunked it daintily into her coffee. “You gave him ten years of your life! The best years in my opinion. The least he can do is shell out alimony.”
Evie’s stomach twisted into a knot, a never-ending Celtic knot by the feel of it. Thirty-five and already divorced. It wasn’t what she had envisioned when she met Richard in college. “Can we stop talking about this, please?” All of it was beginning to give her a headache.
It was enough the divorce papers had just been finalized that morning; she didn’t need the constant reminder of how crap her life had turned. She merely wanted to move on. Richard was the past. Who knew what her future would be–hopefully something better. Younger. Blond with muscles and maybe some tattoos. She smiled to herself.
A bundle of brochures lay in front of her on their small table for two. Traveling, she hoped, would help life make some sense again. A few months abroad just to get a new perspective on things. The problem was, she couldn’t decide on where to go.
“Help me make a decision,” she pleaded with her friend. “You know me, I’m thirty shades of indecisive. I’m the type of girl who spends ten minutes in the front of the freezer section just trying to decide what flavor ice cream to get.”
Brenda sighed, clearly bothered that she wasn’t allowed to bash Richard. That was one of her favorite pastimes. “What are your choices?” Her fingers spread out the various pamphlets as she looked them over.
“Prague, London, Jakarta, Melbourne, and Toronto.”
“Eh, not Toronto. That’s still North America. You want to go somewhere different so it feels more like a vacation.”
She has a good point, Evie thought.
“London’s nice,” a soft male voice said, drifting from behind them. “I was there last summer. Had a blast.”
Evie turned her head, and her gaze met with one of Richard’s former students. He was young, sporting a baby face and a mop of tousled, brown hair. But she remembered him. Richard used to tutor him at their house during the kid’s senior year. That was two years ago, right when things started to head south.
“Mrs. Leeds, yeah?” the boy asked as he bussed a table near them.
He barely looked the same now. His lanky body had filled out nicely to be lean, taut muscle. The white T-shirt he wore clung to his arms, displaying enough bulk to be muscular, but not beefy. She always had a soft spot for men like that. Runners. Gymnasts. Swimmers. Lithe, agile bodies were incredibly sexy to her.
“Hey…um, I’m sorry.” She shook her head, pulling herself from her thoughts. “I’ve forgotten your name.”
He wore a blue apron, and in the center of it was the logo of the coffee house; she couldn’t make out the name on his placard, however. He smiled the most attractive grin she’d ever seen. It lit up his entire face, causing his eyes to crinkle at the corners. That always made her melt.
“Craig.”
After tossing the discarded cups into a nearby garbage can, he stepped closer to her but stopped short of extending his hand. “It’s really great seeing ya again.”
Brenda chose that moment to clear her throat, announcing her presence. “Who’s your little friend, Evie?” Her voice dripped with curiosity. Evie could only imagine what she was thinking, and it couldn’t have been good.
Next month’s author: A little different from the norm let’s just say… Stay tuned. if you’re an author and you’d like a feature contact me here.
Author, Kim Knight 