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Author Spotlight · Interview with an Author

Interview with an Author featuring Alex Raine

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The Literary Vixen presents…

Joining us today is Alex Raine! Her debut Only Human: Paranormal Academy Romance (Legends Springs Series Book 1) released on October 25th 2022.

How long have you been writing?

A little over a year. It actually started as a dare from one of my author friends. Now, I have the bug.

What would you say is your most interesting writing quirk?

I don’t know if it’s interesting or not but I’m very slow, and I can’t follow an outline to save my soul! I have to write as it comes to me or no words hit the page.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

How hard it is to actually make a profitable career out of this. The income vs expenses is crazy different.

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

Humor. I hope that when they read my characters they laugh. I want my books to brighten someone’s day. I also want people to read it if for nothing else than to give my poor PA Angela someone to talk to about it lol. Bless her, she really needs that. 😉

What gave you that push to press the publish button?

My bestie author E.A. Shanniak. She gave the dare and pushed me to do it.

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

Crazy. Weird. Nerd. And none of those are insulting.

What was the highlight of writing this book?

Coming up with my characters. They pretty much wrote my first book and I’m waiting for them to finish telling me the story for book two.

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

I just published my first Vella story from the POV of one of my characters in Only Human. Cosa. I’m also working on Book two Only Blood.

What advice would you give to other authors?

Never give up. Always spring for an editor. Have friends or someone look your work over for errors and while it’s great to take advice, don’t let others change your voice.

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

That even though I don’t produce works extremely fast, know that what I do produce is straight from the heart. My characters are relatable and fun. All I ever ask is to give me and my book a chance.

Thank you Alex Raine for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out her debut release, Only Human today!

~Synopsis~

Welcome to Legend Springs University, the most elite university in the world.

Kimble –
I knew two things growing up: One, that my girls and I would always be BFFs. And two, that we were going to attend the best school in the world together, like we’d always dreamed.

What I didn’t know when I got my acceptance letter from Legend Springs University was that it was actually a school for the magical elite.

What? I don’t even believe in magic, so why have I been accepted to Legend Springs?

Riftyn –

I knew growing up that I was meant to be the next Alpha of the Wintercrest Pack. But my boys and I had always been a pack unto ourselves. As strange as it sounded for a werewolf, a dragon, a vampire, and a demon to be friends, we were. Brothers for life.

At Legend Springs, the girls wanted me for a night, but no one seemed to want to tie themselves to me long term.

But the moment I met Kimble Sawyer, our bond was instant, and everything changed.

Mysterious forces are trying to pull us apart.

How can I hold on to Kimble’s heart and become the Alpha I’m destined to be?

Publisher’s Note: Only Human is a New Adult, paranormal, magic academy, romantic comedy, filled with fated mates, shifters, vampires, demons, angels and more. Only Human is for mature readers only.

Alex Raine is the epitome of a country girl. Born and raised in the South, she enjoys riding horses and atvs, and hanging out with her family. She is an avid reader who likes anything from YA to Horror, with Paranormal Romance being her first love. If she isn’t spending time with her family and friends, you can find her curled up reading a good book or watching kitschy, B-rated movies.
Alex’s first book, Only Human, which is a humorous, slightly steamy PNR, debuted in October of 2022. She enjoys making new friends and encourages stalking so look for her on Facebook, Instagram, Amazon and Goodreads.

Website- www.alexrainebooks.com  

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FB Group- https://www.facebook.com/groups/rainstorms/

Goodreads – https://www.goodreads.com/user/show/151193100-alex-raine 

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Patreon- patreon.com/AlexRaineAuthor

Author Spotlight · Interview with an Author · New Release

Interview with an Author featuring Poppy Jacobson

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The Literary Vixen presents…

Joining us today is Poppy Jacobson! Her latest release, Lies like Rubies, Part One: A Dark, Reverse Harem, Mafia Romance (Savage Jewels Book 2) releases on April 7th 2023.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

Hiiiiiiiii.  My name is Poppy Jacobson. I write dark and kinky contemporary romance where the consent is dubious, and no one ever has to choose between their love interests. My debut story, Diamond in the Dark, is a dark, why choose, mafia romance about a woman who takes her sister’s place in a Faustian bargain with three men to protect her family.

The sequel, Lies like Rubies, Part One, is another dark, why choose, mafia romance about a woman who’ll do anything to protect her daughter from her abusive ex.  Anything.

How long have you been writing?

I first put pen to paper in November 2021, for NaNoWriMo. I didn’t publish my first novel, or my second, but my third was Diamond in the Dark, which came out in August 2022 (get your copy here: https://geni.us/DiamondInTheDark).

Do you have a writing quirk or ritual?

I do my best writing first thing in the morning, before work.  I get up before dawn, log into discord to sprint with friends, and then get to writing. Aspirationally, I write a thousand new words a day, but I don’t often actually hit that number.

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

I like to joke that all of my books start out with a vibe and one scene idea, and then everything flows from there. It’s sort of true, though!

Do you have a favorite character that you have written? If so, who? And what makes them so special.

My favorite character is always the FMC I’m currently writing. Right now, that’s Morgan, an ex prom queen who’s hellbent on taking revenge on some men who wronged her. I love women who think they don’t have any power, any choices, and then slowly realize that in fact, they hold ALL of the power.

How do you deal the with emotional impact of a book (on yourself) as you are writing the story?

I am a cold-ass motherfucker. Heh. I think of my stories in terms of the emotional impact they have on the reader, but I don’t tend to get so deep into my characters’ heads that their emotions affect me.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

Writing isn’t a solitary activity! I have been delighted to find an amazing community of readers and authors who’ve supported me every step of the way.

When writing a series how do you keep things fresh, for both your readers and also yourself?

Hah. I haven’t written so many books yet that I even worry about keeping it fresh. Each book is new and exciting to me, and I hope it’s new and exciting to the reader too.

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

YES!  I’m working on two books right now and I am so so so excited about both of them.  Queen of Vengeance is about a woman returning to her hometown for her high school reunion, who takes murderous revenge on four men who wronged her on prom night.  You can preorder it here: https://geni.us/BHSQueenOfVengeance.

I’m also working with a good friend, Willow Sinclair, to cowrite a dark cowboy romance.  She writes steamy small-town romance, and I write dark and kinky (very dark, very kinky) mafia romance.  We put our heads together and asked, what if we smashed the two together?  Keep an eye out for a dark and taboo western romance coming out from the two of us in late summer.

What advice would you give to other authors?

Stop futzing around and publish. It’ll never be perfect. You’ll learn more from discovering what your readers like and by diving into the next book than endless rounds of editing to get it just a little bit better.

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

I contain multitudes, and so do my books.  I write stories about women who not only discover their own power but learn to wield it.  But they’re also deliciously smutty stories about women being railed by multiple men.

If you’re interested in a free story to get a taste for my writing, you can get one here: https://BookHip.com/LWFZMTP.

Thank you Poppy Jacobson for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out her newest release, Lies like Rubies today!

~Synopsis~

The dangerous mafia world is no place to raise a child. Nobody knows that better than me.

When my abusive ex returns from exile to snatch our four-year-old daughter away from me, I’m on my own against him, until three men with their own agendas show up and consume my life.

Dante, a violent and unpredictable arms trafficker, promises protection for my daughter in exchange for my body and my tears.

Lorenzo, my brother’s best friend, my father’s enforcer, and my first heartbreak, comes barreling back into my life in the name of keeping me safe.

And Nick, my daughter’s persistent and sexy pediatrician, dives back to the violent life he left behind in order to save us from the dark current pulling us under.

In a world where a woman’s value is defined by her purity, I’m damaged goods, but these men don’t care that I’m a single mom. And I’m going to use every weapon in my arsenal, including these deadly men, to keep Lizzie safe.

Will it be enough?

Lies like Rubies, Part One, is a dark, why choose romance that ends in a cliffhanger. Lies like Rubies, Part Two, concludes Sofia’s story. For a full list of content notes, please see the author’s website. The Lies like Rubies Duetand Diamond in the Dark are interconnected, but may be read separately.

Poppy Jacobson writes dark and kinky contemporary romance where the consent is dubious, and no one ever has to choose between their love interests.  When she’s not peddling smut, she lives in Virginia with her husband and children, making soup and hiking on the weekends.

Author links: https://linktr.ee/poppyjacobson

Author Spotlight · Interview with an Author · New Release

Interview with an Author featuring Leslie Crowne

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The Literary Vixen presents…

Joining us today is Leslie Crowne! Her debut, Ella’s Rise: A Fairy Tale Retelling (Fairy Tale Realm Series Book 1) released on May 2nd 2023.

How long have you been writing?

All my life, in one form or another! But I published my first novel in 2016.

Describe a typical writing day.

I work on Author business for the first few hours, and in the afternoon I write or edit, whichever is needed for the book I’m working on.

Where do you get your inspiration for your books?

Usually from threads on social media. Readers talk about what they like or are looking for, and that sparks plot bunnies for me.

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

This is the debut of my new pen name, Leslie Crowne, so I hope Ella’s Rise brings interest for the Fairy Tale Realm series.

What gave you that push to press the publish button?

The desire to connect with readers.

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

A highly organized dreamer!

What was the highlight of writing this book?

The world building. It’s a retelling of Cinderella, so the bones of the story are there, but it’s set in my invented magical kingdom, and has some fun twists.

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

Book 2, a Beauty and the Beast retell, will be released soon. I am working on Book 3, untitled at present.

What advice would you give to other authors?

Never give up! This business is always changing so there are opportunities everywhere. Keep growing and trying different things until you find your niche.

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

They’re romantic, fun, and twisty, with a good bit of spice.

Thank you Leslie Crowne for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out her newest release, Ella’s Rise today!

~Synopsis~

A forgotten princess, bent on vengeance. A reluctant prince, thrust into a role he never wanted. When fate brings them together, there is more at stake than either of them could imagine.

Ella’s Vow…

I was raised by a family of blacksmiths since my parents, the King and Queen of Sartoon, were killed in a coup. No one else in the kingdom knows my true identity. I may be the forgotten Princess, but once I get my revenge on the current royal family, everyone will know my name.

What I didn’t count on when I snuck into the palace was meeting Thal—he’s not what I imagined, or expected in a Prince. To avoid being arrested, I agree to his demands. But can I trust him, or is he like his despicable father, the King?
And why does my heart beat out of my chest when he’s near?

Thal’s Dilemma…

I wasn’t supposed to be the heir to the throne—I’m the second son. Now I’m being pressured to find a bride and secure the kingdom. When I catch Ella Briggs sneaking into the palace, we strike a bargain. She’ll be my decoy, so I can avoid having to dance with so many hopeful women at the upcoming ball.

But soon I’m embroiled in her plans, and falling for her. When she’s in my arms, nothing else matters. As we grow closer, the stakes get higher, for Ella has secrets that could ruin us both.

And she is not who she pretends to be.

Ella’s Rise is an Adult Fairy Tale Retelling of the timeless tale, Cinderella, with an unexpected twist.

When her mother told her to get her head out of the clouds, Leslie Crowne didn’t listen. Good thing, because her vivid imagination has allowed her to spin tales of enchanting worlds and epic love affairs. Going deep into each character’s heart and building worlds that enhance each story, Leslie delivers layered plots with satisfying twists.

In the real world, she lives near Atlanta, Georgia with her husband, three cats, and a turtle named Myrtle who rules the house. She’s an avid reader and so grateful to live a life centered around books.

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100090284144642

Goodreads: https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/30394488.Leslie_Crowne

Instagram- @lesliecrowne

Book Bub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/leslie-crowne

Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/lesliecrowneauthor/

Author Spotlight · Interview with an Author

Interview with an Author featuring Sylvia Black

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The Literary Vixen presents…

Joining us today is Sylvia Black! Her book, Master Descallia : Dark Vampire Romance (Masters of the Consulate Book 1) released on April 30th 2021.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

A large thank you for having me! I’m excited to get to spend time with all of you. My name is Sylvia Black. I am an International Best-selling author of paranormal romance. I currently have six of an anticipated twelve book series published. They are dark vampire romances, in a world of witches, rogue shifters and the syndicate.

What inspired you to start writing?

My family traveled extensively when I was growing up. We lived in England for years, and when traveling, I would always have my nose buried in a book or a pencil in my hand to write my own. A grandmother born and raised in the Baltic sea region nurtured the love for old-world history and folklore of Europe.

What would you say is your most interesting writing quirk?

 I don’t know if there’s a quirk that I can think of other than constantly trying to keep one of my golden cocker spaniel puppies from taking over the keyboard. He loves to type!!

How do you deal with the emotional impact of a book (on yourself) as you are writing the story?

Great question! Sometimes as an author the emotions of your characters turn you inside out emotionally. I think the process of helping them find their way to a happily ever after is what helps me reconcile the emotions.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

 I didn’t realize that once I started writing, the stories would literally write themselves. I’ve heard authors say that before but didn’t really understand what they meant until I started to write myself and got a few books into the series. Sometimes it’s hard for me to keyboard fast enough to keep up to the stories spilling from the characters themselves.

What comes first for you — the plot or the characters — and why?

The characters, probably because all of my stories tend to be in the same world. There is always another hot, possessive master vampire called upon to help the plight of the vampires, and a woman he doesn’t want to get to know at first but falls head over heels for.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

That winding myths and lure into a plot would be so intriguing to me. Actually bringing pieces into the story at the right time is oddly challenging and fun!

What gave you that push to press the publish button?

I met a group of women at a writing conference years ago – before I had published my very first book. They have become my closest friends over the years, and they were instrumental.

Do you have any new series planned?

There are two spin-off series rattling around in my mind right now. If you are familiar with the Masters of the Consulate series, you probably already have a good idea of what comes next, but officially it’s being kept under wraps for the moment.

What advice would you give to other authors?

Just keep writing. Read in your genre, get to know your genre, and then just keep writing. A close friend offered me this advice years ago.

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

That the vampire masters are alpha, possessive, sinfully hot and end up falling hard for the women they come to love.

Thank you Sylvia Black for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out her book, Master Descallia today!

~Synopsis~

Salvatore Descallia, a purebred and Overlord to the Consulate of Masters, rules and fights with an iron fist. When he learns of the coup planned to blame his clan for disappearing women, he must move swiftly to deal with his enemies. He has every intention of killing everything in his way, until a new challenge presents itself, one with crystalline green eyes who is close to death.
To save her life, Salvatore gives her immortality in exchange for a life of servitude in the underworld.
Consumed by coursing desire, Lucianna Denaro is helpless against the dark-eyed dominant stranger who expects her to learn the dangers and rituals of his world. While the underworld is new and death lurks at every corner, it is his touch that threatens to scorch them to ashes with its heat.

Sylvia Black is a master’s prepared and International Best-Selling paranormal romance author with a special love for old-world history and the folklore of Europe. A grandmother born and raised in the Baltic sea region nurtured this love and it grew more profound as a young child living for years in England and traveling extensively. 

Sylvia likes to keep her readers on the edge of their seats one minute and fanning themselves as the heat rises in the next. Her novels feature handsome, dark-minded males who will stop at nothing to protect their mates. 

The perfect day for Sylvia would be spent sitting on a balcony overlooking the Amalfi Coast in Italy while enjoying an espresso as she writes. 

While not writing, she spends time with her husband and family, including an adorable fur-baby. She enjoys traveling extensively, especially when researching for her next novel. 

She also loves to spend time interacting with you, her readers, so please feel free to connect with her on social media! 

For a very limited time, you can download a free copy here of The Beginning, which is the prequel to the much-loved vampire series, Masters of the Consulate. It is the old world back story and gives readers an understanding of how the group of hunky vampire leaders came to be in the modern-day world. Download now

You can also find me on Facebook, Pinterest, Tik Toks and Instagram. Connect with me and say hello while checking out all the interesting pictures, videos, and fun!

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Author Spotlight · Coming Soon · Interview with an Author · Pre-Order

Interview with an Author featuring Via Mari

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The Literary Vixen presents…

Joining us today is Via Mari! Her upcoming release, Consigliere’s Revenge: Dark Mafia Romance (Sicilian Gods Book 3) releases on April 26th 2023.

Tell us a bit about yourself.

Hello- I’m pleased to have a chance to get to know you and others a little bit better. My name is Via Mari. I write steamy billionaire, mafia, and bodyguard romance. When not writing I’m spending time with my husband and our two cocker spaniel puppies, Reggie and Roscoe.

Have you always wanted to be a writer?

As a young child I used to write a lot. I was always reading a book while traveling with my parents. I actually wanted to be a journalist but ended up with a great career in the corporate world until I started writing again and was encouraged to publish.

What time of the day do you usually write?

I like to write late into the night, around 11 pm to 2 or 3 am. While that’s my favorite time, these days I find myself writing when my fingers just can’t stay away from the keyboard, too.

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

I have to admit, I’m half plotter and half prancer. The worlds are mostly in my mind, and develop as I go, although there is a main framework that I follow.

Which of your books were the most enjoyable to write?

The Brutal Kings series was my very first. It was enjoyable because it was so naughty and well just steamy… The Torzial Affair was fun because I really wanted Jenny to get the revenge she so desperately wanted. But, this last series? Sicilian Gods, now this is really fun because these men do not mess around! Sigh… This is a hard question. I loved writing every single word of all of them.

Where do you pull inspiration for your books?

Honestly, the characters. They really write their own story as we go. My stories are all in some way and shape connected so it’s exciting to see who I’m going to run into again from a previous or future book to be.

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

I have readers from all walks of life. I have readers in my newsletters who email me on the regular, readers who post Tik Toks and talk about my books, I have some in my reader group who post pictures of what they want to see written. One of my special readers clearly wants me to write about cowboys. Most of my readers either email me or message I find which I really enjoy. They tell me when they finished a recent book, what they liked, what they found perplexing, who they would like me to write about next. Others, just reach out to send me a meme or gif to wish me a nice day. I love interacting with my readers especially when they tell me I kept them up all night long because they couldn’t put it done. That brings a devilish smile to my face.

Favorite book when you were a kid.

Each and every one of the Nancy Drew and Hardy Boys collection.

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

Honest, hard working and caring.

What advice would you give to other authors?

When I first started writing as an adult someone told me to “just keep writing.” I found that as I took that advice, my rhythm came, the voices started to get distinct and I learned a tremendous amount. That’s the same advice I would give. Read a lot in the particular genre that you wish to write and then just keep writing until your own distinct voice appears.

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

What is the one thing you want people to know about you and your books? That they are set in a world of billionaires, mafioso and bodyguards and each and every one of them has a happily ever after. Most of all, I loved writing each and every one of them for you.

Thank you Via Mari for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out her upcoming release, Consigliere’s Revenge today!

~Synopsis~

A powerful mafioso with revenge on his mind. A reporter who needs to be controlled.
Will loyalty be stronger than his need to protect the woman who poses the gravest threat of all?

Everyone expects retaliation from the Larussio Crime Family after the brutal attack by our rivals and kidnapping of our innocent cousin.

The job for ensuring our retribution is well-thought-out, precise, and maintains our family’s position in the crime world falls to me, Lorenzo Larussio, Consigliere to the boss and underboss of our family.

My mind is absorbed with nothing but that…

Until the beautiful reporter who calls to my dark, sinister soul shows up at our casino, dressed to kill, leaving me unable to rid her from my mind.

Izzy Arden’s article hits a little too close home, and it’s up to me to ensure our secrets remain buried like those of our dead and not inked all over the world for everyone to see.

The fiery beauty is a force to be reckoned with, though, and not easily subdued. She fights for the truth no matter the danger, her emotional scars and mistrust pushing her to write about our most sacred traditions even knowing the threat it may bring.

Our enemies see her as a way to get to me. They shouldn’t have come for her, though, because now they’ll see why rumored in the back-alley streets of Italy they whisper Cosa Nostra with fear.

They will pay dearly for taking what does not belong to them, but will it cost me the one woman I’ve ever loved when she sees me for who I really am?

Consigliere’s Revenge is the explosive third book in the Sicilian Gods series by Via Mari. It is a deliciously dark, enemies to lovers, forced proximity, mafia romance. You will love these novels where the passion is fiery, the loyalty is fierce, and the stakes are high. Each book is a standalone with a guaranteed happily ever after.

Via Mari lives in the Midwest with her husband. As a child who was raised in both the United States and the United Kingdom, she spent countless hours traveling and developed a passion for the written word at a young age.

Her passions are writing steamy and suspenseful romance. She writes billionaire, mafia and bodyguard romance as Via and paranormal vampire romance under the pen name Sylvia Black.

She is an avid reader of romance. In fact, you can still find her curled up in an overstuffed chair, especially during winter when the wood fire is crackling and popping, reading a page-turning novel until the early hours of the morning.

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Author Spotlight · Interview with an Author · New Release

Interview with an Author featuring E.E. Hornburg

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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

Author Spotlight · Interview with an Author

Interview with an Author featuring Kenzie Graves

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The Literary Vixen presents…

Joining us today is Kenzie Graves! Her debut, She-Wolf and the Beast: A Rejected Mate Retelling (Love is Grimm Book 1) released on October 31st 2021.

What inspired you to start writing?

I always wanted to be a writer ever since I read Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone when I was about 11. I tried many times to write a story, but never seemed to be able to complete it. Then when I was about 21, I had a dream that was extremely vivid and I sat on that idea for four years. I was in a group chat with two indie authors in 2019 and they encouraged me to get that idea on paper. So, I finally did after I had my son in October 2019, and published the story in June 2020!

What would you say is your most interesting writing quirk?

I have been told that I tend to write the FMC’s best friend to always be extremely sassy. In every book that I have written, this has happened. That and every animal counterpart I write is very sassy and tends to want the FMC to do things to the MMC.

How do you deal with the emotional impact of a book (on yourself) as you are writing the story?

I actually tend to go through the emotions with my characters. If they are making a joke, I am laughing at it. If they are angry at another character, I am angry along with them. When their heart breaks or suffering from a loss, I am holding back tears as I type out the words. My characters are a part of me, so I experience everything that they go through as I type out the words.

How many books have you written? Which is your favorite?

I have written 11 books so far, and I would have to say Little Red Wolf has been my favorite. It was the first book that I wrote spicier scenes than normal, and it broke me out of my shell. The FMC and MMC were so fun to write. They truly loved each other from the moment I created them, and it was so easy to write their story because of it.

What books or authors have most influenced your own writing?

I would have to say Patricia Briggs and P.C Cast. Patricia Briggs’s Mercy Thompson series was the first series that was Urban Fantasy and a little PNR that made me only enjoy stories that had some form of magic or paranormal creature inside of it. Both authors are incredible with their world building, character arcs, and amazing storytelling that I aspire to have in my own stories.

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

Every so often I get a reader who reaches out to me. Not too long ago I had a reader join my group and post in it that Little Red Wolf got her out of a reading slump and it made my life. It truly keeps me wanting to write when I hear from my readers. I love when they post in my group or PM me on messenger!

What book is currently on your bedside table?

Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin. I watched the show and I hear the books are monumentally better, as books usually are, and I want to read the details that the show missed.

Do you have any new series planned?

I do! After Love is Grimm, I have a whole new world planned of 5 different kingdoms and in each kingdom the FMC will go through their own journey of rejection and finding mates that truly love her and will support her. Some may have some enemies to lovers thrown in, too.

If your book was to be made into a movie, who are the celebrities that would star in it?

My current series are standalones, so I’ll go with She-Wolf and the Beast. I’d say Bella Thorn for Isabelle, Dove Cameron for Abby, Dylan Sprouse for Colin, a young Johnny Depp for Garrett and Liam Hemsworth for Aiden.

What advice would you give to other authors?

I would have to say learn your genre, build your readership, and have an understanding of how to market within your genre before you even start writing. I didn’t, and it has been a struggle. I am learning as I go, which is the hard way, and it will make your life easier if you learn those things before you jump into publishing.

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

It is my passion to be an author. I’ve wanted to do this since I was eleven years old and becoming a bookworm. I’ve always been someone who loves to help others, and I see this as my way of helping others I don’t even know. If I can provide you an escape from reality when you need it most, then I did what I set out to do. I hope to make someone’s day by reading the worlds and characters I have created just like the authors I read growing up did for me.

Thank you Kenzie Graves for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out She-Wolf and the Beast today!

~Synopsis~

A rejection. A deal. A curse that needs to be broken.

After being rejected at her birthday party, Isabelle Crane banishes her Fated Mate from the pack. Garrett refuses to accept that fate.

Garrett attacks the pack, causing Isabelle’s father to seek help from the Alpha of the Sanction, Aiden Black. Only, The Beast keeps her father captive and Isabelle trades his life for hers. The Beast accepts in hopes that Isabelle is the key to breaking his curse.

As Isabelle adjusts to her life in a new pack, Garrett lurks around the territory. He wants to reclaim Isabelle and doesn’t care who he hurts to get her back.

If you like Disney’s Beauty and the Beast and Jaymin Eve’s Shadowbeast Shifters, you’ll devour She-Wolf and the Beast!

Find out how this fairytale retelling mixes with wolf shifter romances by reading it today!

This is a standalone within a series, 100k words full-length dark paranormal romance novel. Content is 18+ with sexual and adult content.

Kenzie Graves is a paranormal romance author within the dark, rejected mates, and why choose subgenres. She is a mother of two and two fur-babies. Her love of reading evolved into her love of creating her own worlds and characters for others to enjoy!

https://linktr.ee/kenziegraves

Author Spotlight · Interview with an Author · New Release

Interview with an Author featuring Nyx Halliwell

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The Literary Vixen presents…

Joining us today is Nyx Halliwell! Her latest release, Haunted Honeymoon, Confessions of a Closet Medium, Book 7: A Supernatural Southern Cozy Mystery about a Reluctant Ghost Whisperer released on February 14th 2023.

Have you always wanted to be a writer?

It’s been a dream since childhood. I was an introverted, shy girl who loved to read and devoured books. My favorite place was our local library, and the only thing about school that excited me was the book fair!

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

I see each scene before I write it, like a movie playing out in my head. Since I write series, I keep track of my characters and places in detail in a story bible to make sure I don’t forget important facts. I find that diving deep into the settings with my characters is helpful and fun. Like in my Confessions of a Closet Medium Series, I grew up in a small town and often base some of the characters and situations on things I remember about mine. Every time I start a new book in this series, it’s like going home.

What time of the day do you usually write?

After I’ve had coffee lol. Mostly before noon, but sometimes later. There are days (and nights) where a scene or character dialogue exchange pops into my head and I have to get it down so I don’t forget it. I have notepads everywhere for those moments.

What gave you that final push to press publish on your first book?

I wanted to share my stories with others.

Which of your books were the most enjoyable to write?

Tough question! I’ve enjoyed each and every one. The Confessions Series, about my reluctant ghost whisperer, is definitely a favorite. As soon as I finish one story, I can’t wait to start the next.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

Readers love magic. I do, too, so I’m always thrilled to get messages and emails from those who discover my witches and psychic medium and can’t get enough of them!

What are some challenges that have come up during your writing and publishing journey?

Finding readers. It’s a tough market to be seen and heard in, and I want to grow my readership organically, not bribe people with tons of free giveaways or by buying reviews like some authors do. That totally goes against my policy. The readers who love my stories are like family, and you can’t put a price on that.

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

My latest release is Haunted Honeymoon (A Supernatural Southern Cozy Mystery about a Reluctant Ghost Whisperer), Confessions of a Closet Medium, Book 7. My main character, Ava, and her husband plan on spending the weekend on a lovely tropical island for their honeymoon, only to discover a bunch of ghosts are stuck there and need Ava’s help.

What advice would you give to other authors?

Do what you love. Write what brings you joy. You’ll feel good about your books and your readers will enjoy them more than if you force yourself to write to market and there’s no joy in it. Joy in the writer; joy in the reader.

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

They’re fun! There’s always a mystery, a touch of romance, and they always have talking pets.

Thank you Nyx Halliwell for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out her newest release, Haunted Honeymoon today!

~Synopsis~

A tropical island getaway seems like the perfect honeymoon setting for newlyweds Ava and Logan, but a haunted mansion, a strange disappearance, and a goat named Fred, make them wish they’d stayed in Thornhollow.

★ ★ ★ ★ ★ “From the moment I met Ava I just knew she was going to become one of my favorite heroines. “ ~ Reader review

Long walks on the beach, a couples massage, romantic dinners—it’s all I’ve been wishing for. A honeymoon gift from a friend sends us to an island retreat that promises the perfect weekend getaway for me and Logan.

Arriving at the secluded spot, however, we discover the staff are ‘missing’, and ghosts inhabit the dilapidated historic mansion that once belonged to the island’s owner. The only living person seems to be a mysterious woman who insists her goat, Fred, talks to her and predicts the future.

Fred claims an ancient curse is at work and a phantom killer who wants the island to himself stalks the land. If Logan and I don’t leave, we’re next on his list.

But we’re trapped—our only means of escape lying at the bottom of the sea. Can I use my ghost-whispering skills to help the earthbound spirits cross over, as well as track down this killer? Or will the ancient evil that haunts this place make my honeymoon one to die for?

Read Ava and Tabby’s next ghost adventure today!

USA TODAY bestselling author Nyx Halliwell loves writing magical stories as much as she loves baking and crafting. She believes cats really can talk, but don’t tell her three rescue puppies!
She enjoys binge-watching mystery shows with her hubby and reading all types of stories involving magic and animals.
Connect with Nyx today and become a VIP. See pictures of her pets and be the first to know about new books and sales!

Newsletter signup: http://eepurl.com/gwKHB9
Author Spotlight · Interview with an Author · New Release

Interview with an Author featuring Misty Evans

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The Literary Vixen presents…

Joining us today is Misty Evans! Her latest release, Grave Girl, (A Slow-burn Vampire Romance), The Accidental Reaper Paranormal Urban Fantasy Series, Book 4 released on January 17th 2023.

Have you always wanted to be a writer?

Since I was in 4th grade! I placed in a contest with a true story about my dad (who was my hero) and it was printed in our local paper. I’ve always loved books and storytelling, and seeing my byline in the paper clinched it for me. It’s one of the reasons I also coach other writers through Writing Raven (https://writing-raven.com) my author solutions business for writers.

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

I’m a very visual person, so I see the story, characters, and locations in my mind before I start. The thing is, I have a poor memory, lol, so I make lots of notes and put them in a series bible. I interview characters and outline locations, including specific buildings, like houses, that will show up in every story. I always write series, so as I work on each new edition to the series, I add to that bible. Helps me keep everything straight.

What time of the day do you usually write?

First thing in the morning when my brain is fresh and I have fewer items on my to-do list. There are times, when I write in the afternoon or evening, and I can write just about anywhere, including when we’re traveling. I usually have my dogs in my lap, so I may write longhand in a notebook, but I’m always writing.

What gave you that final push to press publish on your first book?

My first books were released by a publisher, and it was a thrill, but I’m more geared toward indie publishing. I’m a very DIY person, and I like the control of it. When indie publishing came along, I was an early adapter and was delighted to press publish on my first indie book.

Which of your books were the most enjoyable to write?

All of them! I love writing, and all of my babies are special to me, no matter their genre or which pen name I am writing under. I do tend to really enjoy books with magic because of the limitless ways I can use it in my stories to make them entertaining.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

I wrote my first book after 9/11, because I needed to feel some control over my world and I wanted the good guys to win. All of my books have an HEA, or a happy-for-now ending, because that’s what I like to read. I want characters to be happy at the end of the story, and the most surprising thing I’ve learned about creating books is how happy that process makes me. It relieves stress and helps me work through common, every day issues.

What are some challenges that have come up during your writing and publishing journey?

The publishing world is always undergoing changes, and many of those are out of an author’s control. I’ve had two literary agents, four publishers, and run my own business. There are definitely challenges, but I have the best job in the world. What I do have control over is putting my hands on the keyboard and continuing to write stories my readers love. That makes everything else worth it!

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

My latest release is Grave Girl, The Accidental Reaper Paranormal Urban Fantasy Series, Book 4. This series started out as a “fun” story—one I didn’t realize I would even publish. I saw a premade cover and my imagination went wild, coming up with an entire story line around a college-age gal who accidentally kills a Grim Reaper and then has to step into his robes for the next 365 days. Her boss is Death, and she’s partnered with a master vampire to solve supernatural mysteries along with her reaping job. I absolutely love writing the series, and hope to publish many more books in it.

What advice would you give to other authors?

Storytelling is both art and science. You have to enjoy what you write, in order for your readers to enjoy it as well, and there are endless resources to help you get better with your storytelling, as well as the publishing and marketing sides of things. It’s a great time to be an author.

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

My goal is to create stories that bring happiness and delight to all who read them.

Thank you Misty Evans for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out her newest release, Grave Girl today!

~Synopsis~

Rogue vampires steal Chloe’s scythe and Death demands she confront a ghost haunting SMG in this next installment of The Accidental Reaper Series.

★★★★★ “I absolutely love this series.” ~ Bookbub review

What’s a reaper without her scythe? An unrivaled gang of supervamps comes to town with a death-dealing agenda and steal my blade. My current investigation with Killion into the murders of three humans is put on hold until I can retrieve it.

The quest makes me a target, and Killion and I unravel a plot that involves an alliance between the Undead and the Fae. They don’t just want the scythe—but can they “collect” the one magical artifact they do want?

Meanwhile, Death insists I handle a vengeful ghost on a rampage in the hallowed halls of Soul Management Group. Unfortunately, this particular spirit will do everything he can to take out the reaper who caused his demise—me.

Ghosts and supernaturals aside, it’s Valentine’s Day. Kill me now. What do you get a master vampire who already has everything?

Read this humorous paranormal urban fantasy in the bestselling Accidental Reaper Series to find out how Chloe handles Death, the Undead, and her own inner demons!

USA TODAY Bestselling Author Misty Evans has published over eighty novels and writes romantic suspense and urban fantasy. Under her pen name, Nyx Halliwell, she also writes paranormal cozy mysteries.
She loves music, movies, and hanging out with her husband, twin sons, and three spoiled puppies.

Don’t want to miss a single adventure? Visit www.mistyevansbooks.com to become a VIP and find out ALL the news!

Author Spotlight · Interview with an Author

Interview with an Author featuring Kat McGee

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The Literary Vixen presents…

Joining us today is Kat McGee! Her cozy mystery, Cupcakes and Conjures: A Cozy Witch Mystery (Witches of Willow Hollow Book 1) released on July 22nd 2020.

Have you always wanted to be a writer?

Since childhood, I’ve wanted to write stories, and learned to type at an early age to do just that.

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

I intuitively create the particular book’s featured world as I write.

What time of the day do you usually write?

Early morning into mid-afternoon seems to be the sweet spot of writing focus for me.

What gave you that final push to press publish on your first book?

A deep need to write and share stories with amazing readers.

Which of your books were the most enjoyable to write?

Each book I write is enjoyable in different ways. Sometimes it’s the quirky characters, others it might be an unfolding story or a twisty plot.

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

Storytelling is the most satisfying aspect of all. Above all, I am proudly a storyteller.

What are some challenges that have come up during your writing and publishing journey?

Suffering a severe concussion and needing to learn how to do some things differently than before the injury so I’ve had the opportunity to learn what works and what doesn’t. 

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

A paranormal women’s fiction series featuring midlife ghost hunters. (So much fun to write!) and a return to Willow Hollow which features Harper Dade’s familiar, Bub, being accused of murder.

What advice would you give to other authors?

Experiment and learn what works best for you! (Writing fiction isn’t a one-size fits all proposition. Your technique may be different from most. If it is, welcome it! (Then maybe write a nonfiction book about your process.) But most of all, entertain yourself with your storytelling as you write. Have fun with it, embrace your imagination, and enjoy the ride.

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

You’ll find plenty of mystery, magic, and mayhem within the pages.

 

Thank you Kat McGee for chatting with me! I will include her information down below. Check out her book, Cupcakes and Conjures today!

~Synopsis~

There’s nothing worse than a witch who can’t magic, except for a bad case of wishcraft, a curse, and the body in the bakery.

Unable to bake any better than she can magic, Harper Dade, in the aftermath of a divorce and the theft of her inheritance, returns to Willow Hollow, Tennessee, where she joins her aunt at the Taste of Magic Bakery.

Suffering a sudden surge of wishcraft that encourages her to become an amateur sleuth, Harper and her newfound familiar search for evidence surrounding the cupcake creation class gone wrong. Together they delve into the murder of an obnoxious ghost tour guide not quite ready to move on.

When the investigation goes awry and the local mechanic—who’s not just a wizard with car engines but an actual wizard—seems interested in her, she struggles to squelch her overwhelming urge to look for clues.

Yet, there’s no turning back when the potential killer targets her and the local shifter newshound with the full moon on the horizon.

With the help of her black cat familiar, Bub, her newly surfacing witchiness, and the quirky citizens of the magically imbued tourist town, Harper’s return to Willow Hollow turns into a recipe for disaster.

Southerner Kat McGee writes cozy mysteries and paranormal women’s fiction set in the magical South, to include visits to the mystical shores of Maine and the haunting places of New Orleans, with a bit of mayhem woven in. Fast becoming a crazy cat lady, her favorite mystery is Where the Crawdads Sing.

Website: https://katmcgeecozies.com/

New Release & Author News: https://bit.ly/2XKNMRn

Amazon Author Page: https://www.amazon.com/stores/Kat-McGee/author/B083TL6QNL

BookBub Author Page: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/kat-mcgee