Tag: City Owl Press

Author Spotlight · Interview with an Author · New Release

Interview with an Author featuring E.E. Hornburg

theliteraryvixenLeave a comment

The Literary Vixen presents…

E.E. Hornburg is back and celebrating her new release, The Forest’s Keeper (The Cursed Queens Book 3) which released on March 21st 2023!

Congrats on your newest release! How’s release week been for you?

Thank you so much! It’s been so much fun this week seeing people share the book and get excited for this series! It’s great to find people discovering the series for the first time, but I love seeing the reactions and excitement of people who’ve been long time readers. I had a fantastic group of readers who were excited to help out with the release, and they remind me why I do this! It’s been fun for all of us to share in the joy.

Is this series completed or do you have more books planned?

We have one more book planned! There’s no title yet, but we’re planning to have it come out in about a year. It’s going to be a lot of fun, and star Finley and Ai. They’re two characters I introduced in The Shadow’s Heir and readers have been asking if they’ll be in the series more. The answer is yes! After that, we don’t have anything official planned. But I have a couple of ideas of where else this world can go that I’m excited to chat about with my editor to see if we want to continue. Even if I don’t though, I have a lot more books and worlds to explore!

What was the inspiration for creating The Cursed Queen series?

I’ve loved fairy tales my whole life and grew up watching Disney movies and reading the original Grimm fairy tales. My favorite musical is Into the Woods which is a mash-up and retelling of a bunch of fairy tales, so it was natural that I wrote retellings myself! The original “spark” of inspiration for these books was wondering what it would be like if the character of Snow White in both Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, and Snow White & Rose Red, were the same person. That’s how I came up with Eira and Rose. But then, I fell in love with building this magical world. One of my favorite historical fantasy series is His Fair Assassin by Robin LaFevers, and in those books she explores how in the medieval times many people were “dedicated” to specific saints (who actually were pagan gods and goddesses) and I found it fascinating how that shaped each character. I wanted to dig into that even more but in a whole other fantasy world, and loved coming up with all of the deities and the ways if a character was dedicated to them how that would influence magic and culture.

A lot has happened since the last time we chatted, catch us up on all your latest book news.

I know! My first interview with you was back in 2020 when my debut novel and the first book in The Cursed Queens came out, The Night’s Chosen. Since then, I published the second book, The Shadow’s Heir, which is a retelling of Cinderella. I started a Kindle Vella story called Ebenezer and Marley which is a new adult contemporary fantasy about the children of Santa Claus and Krampus. It’s not completed, but it’s not forgotten! I have ideas for it in the back of my head for that one, so I’m hoping to get the completed too. Now we have the third book, The Forest’s Keeper, which is a retelling of Little Red Riding Hood!

What is your favorite Disney food or snack to get while visiting the magical kingdom?

Oooooohhhhhh that’s a good and tough question! Haha. Well, you can never go wrong with a classic Dole Whip or a bucket of popcorn! But on my last trip I did try the ice cream inspired by Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs (very on brand, I know) over at Storybook Treats and loved the Bashful cone which was a chocolate and orange swirl!

Thank you E.E. Hornburg for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out her newest release, The Forest’s Keeper today!

~Synopsis~

Rose never imagined sitting on a throne, but with her sister Eira still in the mountains warding off a curse, she’s stuck playing ruler.

All she wants is to track down the former queen Amelia and get Eira her crown back, so she can have a sword in hand again and explore the blossoming relationship with her best friend, Cal.

When a mysterious wolf shape-shifter tracks her down and reveals there’s trouble in the magical Eral Forest, Rose is confident the former queen Amelia is behind it. Armed with a set of ancient and enchanted weapons, she and Cal travel with him the wolf to seek out the sorceress and set things right.

But while on their quest, Rose and Cal are captured by a clan of ogres, determined to settle a years old grudge against Rose’s family. Discovering there’s more than sorceresses and ogres lurking in Eral who want revenge, their relationship is pushed to the limit.

The fate of Eral lies in Rose’s hands, will she be able to gain her freedom or forever be cursed by destiny?

Emily is an author of fantasy novels who has had a lifelong love affair with stories and the written word. She is the author of the fairy tale retellings series, The Cursed Queens, published with City Owl Press.

She’s a Chicago South-Sider, aunt to the best niece and nephew ever, expert at the fan-girl flail, a wheelchair “part-timer” with Osteogenesis Imperfecta, Hufflepuff, coffee addict, and has a degree in youth and theatre ministry.

When not devouring or creating books, you can find Emily watching Gilmore Girls (for the 20th time), belting out showtunes, attending the latest con, brainstorming how she can go to Disney World (again), or figuring out how to make the perfect combination of chocolate and nachos.

Website: https://emilyhornburg.com/

Instagram: instagram.com/eehornburg/

Twitter: @eehornburg

Join my reader community for regular updates:  http://eepurl.com/drsUtX

Review

Cambion’s Law by Erin Fulmer – My Review

theliteraryvixenLeave a comment


Title: Cambion’s Law

Author: Erin Fulmer

Release Date: November 9th 2021

Genre: Shifter Thrillers

Lawyer. Demon. Lily Knight is both—half-human, half-succubus, and utterly dangerous.

Lily protects her secret and the safety of those around her by abstaining from the skin-to-skin contact that would grant her superhuman powers. An ambitious criminal prosecutor, she’s all work and no play, determined to prove herself in the courtroom to atone for the ex-lovers she’s left for dead in her past.

But after a fellow succubus turns up murdered and the police arrest an innocent man, Lily discovers evidence of a supernatural killer stalking the foggy San Francisco streets. And when human justice falls short, she launches an unsanctioned investigation to find the real culprit.

To stop the killer, she must embrace the full power of her heritage and risk the soul of the handsome suspect she can’t help but fall for. Can Lily face her true nature without losing her humanity—or will she become the monster she fears most of all?

If you love Richelle Mead, Lisa Edmonds, or Seanan McGuire, discover a paranormal mystery series complete with a fierce heroine that will have you begging for the next book!

This is my first book by Erin Fulmer and it won’t be my last. Her storytelling style drew me in and I was here for the ride that is Cambion’s Law. I have never read a demon book quite like this one. The author definitely added her own twist and I was here for it. These characters were great! I have my faves! 

This was such an entertaining read. I had trouble putting it down. I needed to know what was going to happen next! Erin Fulmer is a new to me author and I look forward to reading more from her! I highly recommend this one! I give this 5 stars. 

Review

Wicked Match (The Wicked Book 2) by Luna Joya – My Review

theliteraryvixenLeave a comment

Title: Wicked Match (The Wicked Book 2)

Author: Luna Joya

Release Date: November 8th 2022

Genre: Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy, Fantasy Romance

Can a good girl witch princess and a bad boy bodyguard fight their way from enemies to lovers and stop a killer?

Good girl Prys Bane is the ultimate witch princess—titled, rich, beautiful, and from the best royal bloodlines. But the STEM genius would rather hide with her statistics and crush on a forbidden bodyguard than marry a proper prince. Better to guarantee that no one discovers her true magic—powers more suited to a storybook villain than any princess.

Bad boy John Donovan has pretended to be a bodyguard while hiding his supernatural double agent status from everyone—even his own sisters who see him as the villain. Crushing on Prys seemed safe until he learns she’s not only the witch magistrate investigating a murder where his sister is the chief suspect, but Prys is also the matchmaker hired to force him into an arranged marriage.

When John and Prys are pulled into a deadly mystery that comes closer and closer to the couple by the hour, they must work together. When Prys discovers John’s kink, these enemies quickly become lovers whose passions ignite. Can this princess and her antihero find happily ever after or will the killer be a best friend whose betrayal neither can survive?

Who doesn’t love a good girl/bad boy story?

Especially one written by the fabulous Luna Joya. She brings all the steam and that slow burn will leave you wanting more. Long after you’ve finished. In Wicked Match, we learn more about John. Secrets will be revealed. Everything is not as it seems. I devoured this book! That twist! That ending! It had my heart racing and me shouting at my kindle. I’m not dramatic at all. 

This was another highly enjoyable read. It has action, suspense, steam, and a twist you didn’t see coming. If you’re a fan of paranormal romance with steam, this book is for you! Skip adding it to your TBR and just dive right in. I give this 5 stars. 

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion*

New Release · Review

Wicked Crown (The Wicked Book 1) by Luna Joya – My Review

theliteraryvixenLeave a comment


Title: Wicked Crown (The Wicked Book 1)

Author: Luna Joya

Release Date: July 5th 2022

Genre: Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy


She’s not who-or what-she appears to be. Neither is he.

Supermodel Vori would be happy to stay in the human world, blissfully ignoring her true nature. But no. The blood vow she once made requires her to return to the Goblin Court. And since going alone would mean consenting to an arranged marriage, she needs a fake husband. Someone no one would miss if there was an unfortunate…accident. Vori knows the perfect villain for the job.

Witch Perry used to be a hotshot lawyer. But that was before he made all the wrong choices, wound up in league with a demon, and was left to rot in prison. Now, he has a second chance. He can finally earn his redemption. Too bad his last hope is the woman he ghosted two years ago.

It’s not long before Vori and Perry realize they aren’t as different as they thought-and that the line between enemies and lovers can be razor thin. But if they want their happily ever after, they’ll first have to stop a supernatural killer and survive a royal smackdown. Should be easy for a goblin princess and her dashing antihero, right?

If only.

Wicked Crown is a fierce alluring read that will leave you wanting more!

Ever since I was introduced to Vori, I wanted to know more about her. She intrigued me from that first intro and I was thrilled she got her very own book! Can we take a moment to admire that fire cover?

Right away, I was pulled into the book. This story was everything I wanted. Action, intrigue, steam, and most of all, Vori’s story. I was already invested because I’m a huge fan and follower of The Legacy Series. Vori is much more that what she portrays herself to be.

I can’t recommend this book enough! If you love paranormal romance with steam and action, this book is for you. Skip adding this to your TBR and one click it today! I give this 5 stars.

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion*

Author Spotlight · Interview with an Author · New Release

Interview with an Author featuring S.C. Grayson

theliteraryvixenLeave a comment

The Literary Vixen presents…

Joining us today is S.C. Grayson! Her debut, Spears and Shadows (Defenders of the Light Book 1) released June 16th 2022.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

 Hi! I’m S.C. Grayson, and I’m a fantasy romance author. My first book, Spears and Shadows, released on June 16th. I was born and raised in Chicago (and I show my love for my hometown in my books), but I now live in Pittsburgh with my husband and our two adorable cats. When I’m not writing, I’m a registered nurse and a breast cancer researcher.

Congrats on your debut release! How was that experience for you?

It’s been great! My debut has been out for about a month now, and I’m still waiting for the day it will really sink in that I’m a published author now. It still doesn’t feel real. I don’t even know what to do with my personal copy of Spears and Shadows. It’s sitting laying sideways across other books on my shelf, haphazardly shoved in there because I’m out of room. I should make a place of honor for it I suppose, but I just haven’t gotten there.

How long have you been writing?

Fiction? This book is my first foray into fiction, and I started writing it back in 2018. After I finished drafting it, the story sat on my computer untouched for almost a whole year, since I didn’t know if I was going to publish it. At first, I started writing it just for myself, so when I realized I wanted to share it with the world, it took me a while to figure out how I wanted to do that.

In terms of writing in general though, I’ve been at that for quite a while! I’m currently a nurse researcher working towards my PhD, so I’ve written a good number of scientific publications regarding my research of breast cancer genetics. I even wrote a chapter in a genetics textbook that is being published in September! It feels extra special to publish fiction and nonfiction in the same year.

Describe a typical writing day.

I’m not sure I have a “typical” day, considering I don’t really have a writing routine. I tend to write huge chunks at a time, followed by a period of days with no (fiction) writing when I get busy with science. When I am dedicating a day to my writing though, I walk to my favorite local coffee shop and camp out with an iced americano and one of their homemade rice krispie treats. I think I wrote at least 75% of Spears and Shadows while sitting in that coffee shop!

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

This is one of the questions I get asked the most and still is one of the hardest for me to answer. I’m not always sure where my ideas come from when they pop into my head. I do know that what makes me sit down and write is the need to make the kind of stories I would like to read. I started by first book because I had been reading a lot for a period, and I still felt like I was looking for a specific story that I wasn’t able to find. I decided that I owned a laptop, so I might as well fix the problem by creating it myself!

What do you hope your readers take away from this book?

First and foremost, I want my readers to be entertained. Especially in this day and age, I feel like we could all use a little escapism. If I offer readers a chance to spend an afternoon engrossed in another world, then I will have done my job.

What is the significance of the title?

To be transparent, the title wasn’t settled on until well after I had signed a publishing contract, much closer to publication. For me, the spear was really important as it symbolizes the start of the adventure. The weapon is what draws Nora, the main character, into the whole new world she discovers. The Shadow is the evil in the story, and while it is a dark and mysterious force, it isn’t the traditional characterization of evil. The concept of an evil that is born from the good, just like light casts a shadow, is a central tenant of the story. So, Spears and Shadows refers to two of the most important aspects of the story. Plus, who doesn’t like a little alliteration?

If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

Enthusiastic, unconventional, compassionate.

What was the highlight of writing this book?

Sharing my book with my sister and my husband for the first time was incredible. They are the first people to read everything I write. My sister and I have been reading fantasy and discussing it since I could read, so being able to talk with her about a story I wrote was really special. This book really wouldn’t exist without my husband’s support, so handing him the first copy and having him open it to see the dedication to him in the front was a teary moment for me.

Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with me?

Yes! I have the first book in another series scheduled to release in January. It is called Beauty and the Blade and is a reimagining of Beauty and the Beast taking place in a dystopian version of Victorian London that is being overrun by magical street gangs. Spears and Shadows is also getting not one, but two sequels! So all the reviewers who have been saying they want to know more about the side characters, your time is coming.

What advice would you give to other authors?

Write the story you want to tell. You can figure the rest out later.

What is the one thing you want people to know about you and your books?

I write because I love telling stories! I have a job outside of writing that I wouldn’t leave even if I sold a million copies. So for me, this is about sharing books and connecting with people through the characters I create. With that in mind, I don’t think I’ll ever be tired of hearing from readers. I genuinely love to connect with all of you!

 

Thank you S.C. Grayson for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out her latest release, Spears and Shadows today!

~Synopsis~

Nora struggled with work-life balance even before an immortal sorcerer showed up and turned her career-and her love life, upside down.

Historian Nora Zvezda is gunning for a promotion at The Chicago Field Museum. The discovery of two ancient Greek weapons unlike any she’s seen before might be her big break-but the artifacts are more than they seem.

Trying to uncover their secrets, Nora enlists the help of professor of ancient languages, Dr. Adam Scott, an undeniably handsome man of intrigue. Nora has been too busy to worry about romance, but Adam seems to be overflowing with charm-and secrets, the biggest being his rank among the Eteria, a secret society of powerful sorcerers who’ve been in hiding since the days of the Greek empire.

When Nora’s work with the ancient and mystical weapons draws the attention of the Shadow, a powerful force that feeds off fear and negative emotions, she finds herself thrust in the middle of a perilous, age-old war between good and evil.

To protect herself, she must join the Eteria in their fight, all while struggling not to sacrifice the life she’s worked so hard for. Complicating things further is her undeniable desire for Adam and the feeling that he may be hiding more than his status as an immortal sorcerer.

S.C. Grayson has been reading fantasy novels since she was a little girl stealing books from her older sister’s shelves, and that has developed into a love of writing and storytelling. Her writing is currently focused on fantasy and paranormal romance. When she is not sitting in a local coffee shop writing and consuming an iced americano, Grayson is a nurse working towards a PhD in nursing with a focus on breast cancer genetics. She lives in Pittsburgh with her loving husband and their two cats, who enjoy contributing to her work by walking across her keyboard at inopportune moments (the cats, not the husband).

Website/newsletter sign up: https://www.scgrayson.com/
Spears and Shadows on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B1CJF65W
New Release · Review

Bad Girls Drink Blood (Blood Fae Druid Book 1) by S.L. Choi – My Review

theliteraryvixenLeave a comment


Title: Bad Girls Drink Blood (Blood Fae Druid Book 1)

Author: S.L. Choi

Release Date: May 17th 2022

Genre: Paranormal Suspense, Fantasy

Part sun fae, part blood fae, all abomination.

After a life spent dodging slurs, threats, and assassination attempts, Lane Callaghan gave her past the one finger salute and ditched her former fae home for good.

The detective agency she and her sisters run on the edge of Las Vegas continues to limp along, with Lane doing more debt collecting and intimidating than investigating, but anything to pay the bills. Between working for low-lifes to bring down even lower-lifes, eating cheesy poofs by the bucket, and flirting with the criminally attractive bartender where she conducts business, life is good.

That ends when a routine job goes sideways leaving Lane with a sack full of stolen sun shards—the source of sun fae power. Without the shards, the sun fae face giving up their magic completely, or risk death if they use their power.

As far as Lane’s concerned, good riddance, considering they would rather see her dead—except her father and adopted sister are sun fae. Lane must choose to return home to save the fae bastards that almost killed her…or let them burn.

“With tantalizing hints of a wolfy blood tryst, a heavy dose of sisterly love, and plot twists to make the ride a surprise, S.L. Choi’s, Bad Girls Drink Blood is too much fun. If you like the Hollows, you will love this.” — Kim Harrison, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Hollows series

Bad Girls Drink Blood has the heroine we didn’t know we needed and may not deserve! Lane is one tough cookie. She doesn’t back down from a fight and she always gets the job done. 

What an entertaining ride this book was! You get a front seat into the adventures and shenanigans that Lane seems to find herself in. Her humor is on point, which had me laughing. Action and humor. A great combo! Teddy is dreamy! New book boyfriend? I think so! The banter between the characters was great. It made this a fun read. Oh there were plenty of moments that got you right in your feels too. That ending left me longing for the next book. I needs it!! 

A fantastic debut for S.L. Choi! The book is well written and the world building is impressive. This witty, action packed paranormal goodness will have you on one crazy ride. A ride that you won’t want to get off any time soon! I give this 5 stars. 

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion*

New Release · Review

The Shadow’s Heir (The Cursed Queens Book 2) by E.E. Hornburg – My Review

theliteraryvixenLeave a comment


Title: The Shadow’s Heir (The Cursed Queens Book 2)

Author: E.E. Hornburg

Release Date: May 17th 2022

Genre: Fantasy, Retellings

Myra has spent years hiding—in servitude of the now imprisoned Queen Amelia, and from a lineage she never wanted.

Now that she is freed from Amelia’s clutches, Myra is ready for a new start, but the echoes of the past, and the truth of who she is—a direct descendant of Stula, the goddess of death—will only disrupt the peace she wants to find in the kingdom of Oxare.

The kingdom is beautiful, as is the handsome prince Alvis and though his offer to join him at the Golden Palace is tempting, Myra is determined to make her own way.

But when a life on her own becomes too difficult, Myra is forced to accept Alvis’ offer and lands in the thick of a plot to free Queen Amelia. To keep the entire realm and her people safe, Myra and Alvis must find out who among the Golden Palace court is the betrayer before Amelia escapes.

But with each passing day Myra feels her connection to Alvis growing stronger, and her past continues to haunt her. Can they protect the kingdom and each other, before Amelia takes her revenge and Alvis finds out the truth?

Fans of Sarah J Maas, Hannah Whitten, and Emma Hamm will love this magical Cinderella retelling and follow up to The Night’s Chosen!

Fantastic world building! Mystery and deception. People are more than what they seem.

I could not put this book down! I was totally captivated right from the start. I knew that Myra and Alvis’ story was going to be truly special and I was not disappointed! The characters added color and flavor to the story. Unique in their own way. Loved how witty most of them were. The playful banter put a smile on my face. Can we befriend fictional characters? That’s truly how I felt with some of them. With the magical word weaving from Miss Hornburg, I was able to easily imagine the sounds and sights of another world. I loved the connection between Alvis and Myra. A slow burn kind of dance. That ending has me wanting more! I need book three ASAP!

This is a series I highly recommend and has fast become a favorite of mine. Enjoy retellings with a twist? These books are for you. Take a chance. You won’t be disappointed! I give this 5 stars. 

*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest opinion*

Author Spotlight · Interview with an Author · New Release

Interview with an Author featuring S.L. Choi

theliteraryvixenLeave a comment

The Literary Vixen presents…

Joining us today is S.L. Choi! Her debut book, Bad Girls Drink Blood (Blood Fae Druid Book 1) released on May 17th 2022.

Congrats on your new release! How has the new release been going for you?

Thank you! And thank you so much for all of your support. How has it been going? CRAZY!!! Everyone warned me, but I was not prepared lol

How long have you been writing?

I’m sure everyone says this, but as far back as I can remember. I wrote poetry when I was younger. A LOT of poetry. Teens are just a giant ball of emotions. They feel everything so intensely, and poetry was my outlet.

I’ve always written little bits of stories here and there, but I didn’t try to take an idea from start to finish until the last few years.

Describe a typical writing day.

Wake up. Tend to my furry overlords. Drink coffee. Stare at the computer. Drink more coffee.  It sounds like I’m making a joke, but that is pretty much my day. Though, I am typing/editing/working social media during the staring phase.

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

Another cliché answer, but everywhere! This book was a line that popped into my head while driving down the road.

Now that I think about it, a lot of my ideas come to me while I’m driving – aka the worst possible time! I’ve pulled over so many times to ensure I didn’t lose an idea.

What do you hope your readers take away from this book?

I wish I had a deep, thought-provoking statement to give you, but really, I just want my readers to feel compelled to turn the pages and have a great time. 

WAIT! I take that back. The thing I love about urban fantasy (and my favorite series) are the ones where I feel like I can drive to the location and find the characters, or at least find where they are hanging out. I’d love it if someone was driving down the Strip and said that’s where (censored for spoilers) would be.

What is the significance of the title?

The original title was darker, not at all the same vibe. My editor wanted a new title. Bad Guy by Billie Eilish screamed Lane, and even inspired a few (very obvious) lines. Lane sees herself as a bad girl/guy. Lane drinks blood. Bad Girls Drink Blood.

If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

Sarcastic, awkward, self-deprecating.I said st 

I asked my critique partner because I was stumped and she gave me a whole (incorrect) list: talented, supportive, hilarious, dedicated, kind. Boy do I have her fooled!

What was the highlight of writing this book?

Finishing. Seriously. Not because I hated writing, but because it was such a sense of accomplishment. I DO have another finished book, but this one had been living in my head for a long, long time.

Are you working on anything at the present you would like to share with me?

I’m working on the edits for book 2 of the Blood Fae Druid series. I also have a book on the backburner about a messy Vakyrie (think Thor, Ragnarök inspo for vibes)

What advice would you give to other authors?

Find your people. Typically, the only company you keep are your characters when you’re deep into writing. I walk around everywhere talking to my characters, talking through scenes, testing dialogue. But your characters won’t be there to support you when rejections roll in, or reviews roll in, or critiques, or comments, or anything else that live in your head after you read it. 

Find. Your. Support.

What is the one thing you want people to know about you and your books?

Wooooowwwwww. This is hard for such a simple question. I think bottom line is I don’t take myself seriously (have you seen my TikTok? I can’t be bothered to put on makeup or even get out of my pjs). So, don’t try to take my book seriously either. Enjoy the ride!

 

Thank you S.L. Choi for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out her newest release, Bad Girls Drink Blood today!

~Synopsis~

Part sun fae, part blood fae, all abomination.

After a life spent dodging slurs, threats, and assassination attempts, Lane Callaghan gave her past the one finger salute and ditched her former fae home for good.

The detective agency she and her sisters run on the edge of Las Vegas continues to limp along, with Lane doing more debt collecting and intimidating than investigating, but anything to pay the bills. Between working for low-lifes to bring down even lower-lifes, eating cheesy poofs by the bucket, and flirting with the criminally attractive bartender where she conducts business, life is good.

That ends when a routine job goes sideways leaving Lane with a sack full of stolen sun shards—the source of sun fae power. Without the shards, the sun fae face giving up their magic completely, or risk death if they use their power.

As far as Lane’s concerned, good riddance, considering they would rather see her dead—except her father and adopted sister are sun fae. Lane must choose to return home to save the fae bastards that almost killed her…or let them burn.

“With tantalizing hints of a wolfy blood tryst, a heavy dose of sisterly love, and plot twists to make the ride a surprise, S.L. Choi’s, Bad Girls Drink Blood is too much fun. If you like the Hollows, you will love this.” — Kim Harrison, #1 New York Times bestselling author of the Hollows series.

S.L. Choi is an urban fantasy author with a deep love for humor, fast-paced action, and hit-you-in-the-heart feels. She grew up imagining goblins living in the rocks outside her bedroom window, while fairies flew through the flowers. Now she puts those stories to paper. When not writing, she is either photographing the beautiful New England area, hiking, gaming with her equally nerdy husband, or attending to the small furry overlords who rule them both.

https://linktr.ee/SLChoi

Author Spotlight · Interview with an Author

Interview with an Author featuring Shari Nichols

theliteraryvixenLeave a comment

The Literary Vixen presents…

Joining us today is Shari Nichols! Her series, Ravens Hollow Coven is available now.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

First off, thank you so much for having me here, Laura. 

I live in NJ with my husband near a beautiful 50,000 acre park. We’re now empty nesters so we enjoy going there whenever we can. It’s my sanctuary. We do a lot of weekend trips with friends now. Take me out for a nice dinner and a glass of wine and I’m good to go. I can’t wait to start traveling again.

Have you always wanted to be a writer?

Yes and no. I’ve always loved to create stories, but I never imagined I could have a career as a writer. I wrote for the school newspaper in both high school and college. But I went to school for business. It wasn’t until I took some time off from work to raise my family that I decided I wanted to write.

What time of the day do you usually write?

I like to start first thing in the morning, but when I’m deep into the story, it’s whenever I can get the words on the page. I like to do sprints.

How much ‘world building’ takes place before you start writing?

Quite a bit. Okay, Laura, I may be breaking the fourth wall, but here goes. The first thing I do is create character charts to find out more about who my characters are, when and where they were born. Their sun signs, what they look like, their personality traits. I also ask what they want. What’s their conflict? What happened in their childhood and what wounds did they endure? What about past loves? Then I tie their wounds into the plot and do a short chapter by chapter outline. I include turning points like the first time they kiss, when they learn to trust each other, when they realize they’re in love. I include the black moment and the climax that leads to the HEA. 

I change as I go because sometimes things come up. I never stick one hundred percent to the outline. And when I get stuck, I call a writing friend and ask for help, which is more often than not.

Which of your books were the most enjoyable to write?

Wow, that’s like asking me to pick my favorite child. I can’t! I loved writing each book for different reasons. My first book, HAUNTED is loosely based on my friend’s real life experience with a ghost. I was riveted by the story and found it compelling, I knew I had to write about it someday. I did quite a bit of research for that book and learned so much about the spirit world. As for my Raven’s Hollow series, it’s all about the witches, the vampires and he demons. Think Practical Magic meets Supernatural. I love anything to do with magic. I’m a huge HP fan so these books have been thrilling to write.

Who is the author you most admire in your genre?

Do I have to name just one? I love Kresley Cole. She’s a genius world builder. I got to meet her at an RWA conference in NYC. She was absolutely lovely. I also love Christine Feehan. She’s an amazing writer. I love Nora Roberts. I also got to meet her at an NJRW meeting and loved her humor!

Do you hear from your readers much? What do they say?

I do hear from my readers, but of course I’d love to hear more! Maybe you can help me out with this, Laura! ☺I’m humbled beyond words when I get an email or a FB message from a reader that says they loved a book or a character and want to know about my next release.

Favorite book when you were a kid.

I loved all of the Nancy Drew books. I read everything from Judy Blume. Her books are honest and raw. They got me through those awkward middle school years.

If you had to describe yourself in three words, what would they be?

Curious, goofy, passionate.

What advice would you give to other authors?

I’d say join a critique group. Send your work out to beta readers. Submit to publishers, agents and contests. Get feedback. Don’t reinvent the wheel by creating a genre that no one has ever heard of. You always want another set of eyes on your work before you submit. You want to make sure you’re putting out the very best work you can. Go to writer’s conferences and meetings. Talk to other writers and network. Enter contests. Read books about writing and read everything in your genre. Keep striving to get better and try not to compare yourself to anyone else. You’re on your own journey. Be consistent. Try to write every day and put the distractions aside. Use a timer and have fun.

What is the one thing you want people to know about you and your books?

All of my books are loosely based on real events and inspired by real people. Book one in my RH series, MIDNIGHT DESIRE is loosely based on a chilling crime story that took place in London, England in the nineties. I set it in a paranormal world, made my heroine a witch and turned the story into a romance. In book two, MIDNIGHT TEMPTATION, my hero’s a vampire and was inspired by my grandfather’s struggle to get out of Europe after he awoke from his funeral and climbed out of his coffin. In book three, MIDNIGHT CRAVING, (out this July), my heroine’s backstory is based on a childhood friend who suffered sexual abuse. Book four in the series, AFTER MIDNIGHT (out in October) is a novella, and the only book in the series that doesn’t have a suspense element. It’s just a light, whimsical, sexy read. 

As for me, I’m starting an MA program in creative writing this summer and looking forward to this new adventure. I’ve outlined a three book contemporary series, Love in the City about three best friends from college navigating friendships, careers and love while living in the Big Apple. I’m excited to get started on book one. 

Thank you for having me, Laura! This was so much fun!

Thank you Shari Nichols for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out her series today!


~Synopsis~

When tarot card reader Gillian Howe hosts a supernatural speed dating event, she’s hopeful to discover her chance at love.

Making the perfect match is her passion. Too bad she can’t find one for herself.

A chance encounter with a wealthy vampire soon finds her plunged into a secret society of trancing, blood bonds, and human escort rings. She’ll need help to survive, but the vampire detective is the last person she wants…even if he is scorching hot.

Garrett Mulroney has dealt with his share of the supernatural. His sire tried to force him into a life of debauchery, but he chose to uphold the law.

The fact that the one woman he can’t seem to get out of his lust-filled dreams is at the center of his investigation doesn’t bode well. It’s a good thing she hates his guts, because it helps douse his growing desire for her and focus on the case.

But when Gillian’s cousin is kidnapped into the Du Sang Brotherhood, she becomes the prime witness.

Now they’re forced to put their differences aside and go undercover by pretending to be a couple. The more time they spend together, the more Garrett wants her in his life—and in his bed.

Will they be able to develop the love and trust needed to take down the Brotherhood or become its next victim?

If you like Hailey Edwards, Lisa Edmonds, BR Kingsolver, or Jennifer Blackstream, you’ll love this paranormal romance with mystery, magic, and suspense!

BookBub | Goodreads

Shari Nichols grew up in a small town in Connecticut where haunted houses, ghosts and Ouija boards were common places, spurring her fascination with all things paranormal. Ever since she read her first Barbara Cartland novel, her life-long dream has been to write sexy, romantic stories. When she’s not writing, she’s reading, going to the gym, or hanging out with family and friends. 

Shari’s a member of Romance Writers of America, New Jersey Romance Writers, Liberty States Fiction Writers and Fantasy, Futuristic, and Paranormal Romance Writers. Shari’s new series,   Ravens’ Hollow Coven, is an urban fantasy with City Owl Press. 

Awards:  New York Book Festival Honorable Mention, Reviewers Choice Award for Best Book, Reviewers Choice Award for Best Series, Beverley Award, Golden Leaf Finalist For Best Book, Golden Leaf Finalist For Best Book by a New Jersey Author, HOLT Medallion Finalist, Literary Titan Silver Medal Winner.

Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/sharinich

Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/shari_nichols/

Twitter – https://twitter.com/shari_nich

Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/9851324.Shari_Nichols

BookBub – https://www.bookbub.com/profile/shari-nichols

Website – http://sharinicholsauthor.com/contact.html