Archive for Interviews

 

 

 

I recently finished reading LOVE IS DARKNESS by Caroline Hanson and really enjoyed the relationship between its heroine, the snarky Valerie Dearborn, and her dark and mysterious vampire…blackmailer?  It’s sexy and dysfunctional and intriguing all at the same time.  I jumped at the chance to ask Caroline some questions about the book and series as part of her Bewitching Book Tour.

 

  

 

Please welcome Caroline to the blog as she discusses the first book in her Valerie Dearborn series,

LOVE IS DARKNESS.

 

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1.  For those who haven’t yet read LOVE IS DARKNESS, can you tell us a bit about the story and the Valerie Dearborn series as a whole? 

I’d love to! My goal was for Valerie to be relatable. I had read a lot of urban fantasy where the heroines were always brave and willing to die and that didn’t seem to bother them. To me that didn’t make any sense because I wouldn’t react that way. If a vampire threatened me I’d be terrified and probably wet myself. I’d own stock in Depends if vamps were real.

Anyway,  Val is a normal girl who is expected to join the family business of hunting vampires. She has no desire to do that and leaves for graduate school which pisses off her father and the guy she’s been in love with for years. That’s when Lucas shows up. He’s hot, afraid of the sun and emotionally unavailable.

He also blackmails her and tells her he’ll kill her family if she doesn’t help him. She gets drawn into vampire politics and learns that she has a little bit of her own supernatural ability. She’s part empath which means that if a vampire drinks her blood he’ll feel emotions. Empaths scared the crap out of vampires and Lucas spent centuries killing them all. He’s drawn to her because he hasn’t felt anything in a very long time and yet he’s also enough of a realist to know that the best thing to do would be to kill her.

I wanted him to have a weakness because he is the King of all vamps and basically indestructible. She’s his weakness. There’s action, sex and swearing. It was the book I was waiting to read having exhausted all the vampire books.

 

2.  Do you already know the arc of the series?  How many books are planned or are you keeping it open?

Ugh. I had hoped I was done with the main series after completing the trilogy, but it’s no longer looking that way. There will be another book and from what little of it I have written, I think the fans are gonna be happy.

 

3.  What was your inspiration for the world and what came first – the world or the characters?

The initial idea was Lucas as the vampire villain and he had Valerie and Jack in a dungeon. The story that emerged had absolutely nothing to do with that scenario, but that was the image I saw first.

 

4.  I loved Lucas.  Hot, cold, mysterious, dangerous and hard to trust in a very real way.  What do you think are the ingredients for a strong vampire-hero-love interest and why does Lucas stand apart from the pack?

That’s a great question! I like my vampires Anne Rice style. Smart, ruthless, worldly, maybe even wise but amoral. They’re not heroes or good. Whenever someone has to die so that they can live, that has ethical murkiness. I love that. They’re monsters but deep and tortured. I love exploring that.  

 

5.  Roanoke.  This really intrigued me.  How did you come to the idea of including the lost colony in your storyline and will it play a larger role in the next books?

I’ve always been fascinated by the idea of the Lost Colony and it just made sense in my mind. It’s one of those weird things where my brain sorted it out and I was just kind of taken by surprise. Oh yes, we see more of Roanoke.

 

6.  Who would be in your dream cast for the Valerie Dearborn TV series or feature film?

The tricky character for me is Valerie. For Marion I’d love Florence Welch. Lucas would be Nikolaj Coster-Waldau from Game of Thrones (Jamie Lannister) That’s all I got. The fans keep suggesting Chris Hemsworth. Obviously, I wouldn’t kick him off the casting couch if you know what I mean

 

7.  LOVE IS DARKNESS is your first published full-length novel.  How long did it take to write from conception to publication and what did it feel like to finally let your baby out into the world?

That book took me about a year. I wasn’t working but my kids were in school and it became a full-time job. I gave up hobbies and anything else I could to work on it. When I finished Love is Darkness publishers were no longer buying vampire books. It sucked. So I self published it. I’ve sold about a hundred thousand copies now, so it’s been a great experience.

 

8.  How did a California girl find herself in London and what about the city made you want to set Valerie’s story in it?

This might be shallow but I loved English music and wanted to move there so I could dance and meet Englishmen. Valerie’s story is about figuring herself out and learning what’s important in life and to her. What, if anything, is actually worth dying for. I think I started to figure myself out when I was in London so it just made sense. I also love history and London has so much of it that it was a great setting.

 

9.  What’s the last book you read that you would recommend to a friend?

I’m a big fan of the cliffhanger. They make me miserable and angry but it also means that something super-exciting is happening. I just finished SE Pacat’s Captive Prince and was smiling when I read the last page. That was a hell of a cliffhanger.

 

10.  I’m a big fan of Game of Thrones where every family has a motto – the Starks have “Winter is coming” and the Lannisters have “Hear me roar!”  What is the Caroline Hanson motto?

I thought the Lannister’s was ‘Lannister’s always pay their debts.’ J I’m a huge GOT fan too! Can I steal  ‘the night is dark and full of terrors?’ If I have to come up with my own it’d probably be something like, ‘Never out of the woods.’  Neither characters nor authors should ever be complacent, there’s always something around the corner and the goal of every author has to be to put their soul on the page and just keep running.

 

GIVEAWAY 

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Book Information

 

AMAZON | B&N | BOOK DEPOSITORY 

 

 

GOODREADS SUMMARY:

Valerie Dearborn wants a cotton candy life, but it’s more like a puffer fish: pointy, unusual, and—if not prepared exactly right—deadly.

In London for graduate school, Val knows she’s finally free. Her father and ex-almost-boyfriend are back in California and she’s out of the Vampire hunting biz for good. Or is she?

She draws the attention of Lucas, a 1600 year old Vampire, and King to his kind. He’s also wicked hot. As golden as Lucifer, and just as tempting, he makes Valerie an offer she can’t refuse— help him find out if the Others (Empaths, Fey and Werewolves) still exist or he’ll stop protecting those she loves.

Lucas tells her that Empaths were a Vampire’s biggest weakness before going extinct hundreds of years ago. While the Fey or a Werewolf might kill a Vampire, an Empath could enslave them, seducing or harming with emotions at will. The one detail he leaves out? Valerie is an Empath.

And after 1600 years of an emotionless existence, Lucas wants Valerie like a recovering alcoholic wants a wine cooler.

Can she keep those she loves alive, stop Lucas from munching on her, survive a fanged revolution and still find a way to have that boring, normal life she’s always wanted? Probably not, but boy is she gonna try! 

 

 

 

• Tags: Caroline Hanson, Giveaway, Love is Darkness, Valerie Dearborn•

 

 

The Artist’s Den is a new feature here at SWR where I showcase something I’m obsessed about – fantasy art.  Though I’m no expert, I truly appreciate the beauty, originality, and pure creativity of this genre of art. 

This feature is inspired by my previous posts under the SHELF CANDY meme which was hosted by the wonderful Maria at A Night’s Dream of Books.  I loved doing interviews with cover artists under that meme but found that I often wanted to feature the work of artists who had not done traditional covers but still did work related to fantasy and science fiction.  I plan to feature an artist at least twice a month and, while I realize this is not always going to be book related, I do hope you enjoy these posts as much as I do.

 

Please note that all images are subject to copyright protection and are property of today’s featured artist – Julie Dillon.

 

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To kick off this new feature, I’d like to welcome the Hugo nominated artist JULIE DILLON to the blog.  Julie has done incredible work for the Tor.com online series of shorts and for science fiction magazines such as Apex.  Recent projects include new covers for the reissue of the Darkness is Rising Sequence from Simon and Schuster and the 2014 Llewellyn Astrological Calendar.  Her work is full of energy, vibrant color, and interesting compositions; Dillon’s compelling images always make me want to know the narrative that inspired them.

Please welcome Julie to the blog as she discusses her process and her influences.  And stick around for the giveaway at the end of the interview!

 

 

1.  When did you know you wanted to be an artist?  Is there an experience that stands out as being a defining moment for you as an artist?

There wasn’t any one particular moment. I’ve always been drawing off and on for most of my life, but I had other interests as well, and it took me a lot time and a lot of soul searching to figure out what it was I wanted to do. For a while I thought I was going to be a computer science major, but that didn’t work out; I then tried technical theater, but that didn’t work either. Each time I kept coming back to art, because I could make a little side money doing private commissions for people. Eventually I decided I’d give art a real try, and I started training and working harder at it. But even after taking classes and eventually getting pro work, I still doubted myself and still wondered if I’d made the right choice. It’s hard to support yourself as a freelance artist, especially when starting out, and there were several times I almost gave up. Even after winning a few awards, I still have a lot of self doubt and have trouble calling myself an artist sometimes. I’m doing okay for the moment and starting to feel like I might have a chance at an okay career, but there definitely has not been any one defining moment that clarified things; just lots of hard work that hasn’t ended in complete failure (yet) X) 

 

 

 

 

GIVEAWAY

 

To purchase prints of Julie’s work, please check out her store here.  And now for the giveaway…one 8×10 print of one of my favorites – Planetary Alignment. 

Just fill out the Rafflecopter form below!

• Tags: Artist's Den, Fantasy Art, Julie Dillon•

 

 

 

 

As you all know, I’m a big fan of Mary Robinette Kowal and her series, The Glamourist Histories.  I love her captivating combination of fantasy and Regency England – a combination that a Jane Austen fan such as myself, who also happens to adore fantasy, can’t resist.  I recently read the third book in the series, Without a Summer, and found it to be my favorite to date.  Kowal doesn’t shy away from making her heroine, Jane, a flawed character, forcing her to face her own prejudices and biases.  It makes for a compelling story – one in which characters are seen in a different light and new layers uncovered, thereby making the reader clamor for the next chapter in the story of Jane and Vincent.  I’m excited to have Mary back on the blog (check out her 5 x 5 list of books that inspired her) so without further ado… 

 

Please welcome Mary to the blog as she discusses her new book,

WITHOUT A SUMMER.

 

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1.  What inspired you to combine the world of Regency England with the world of fantasy?

I’m a long time fantasy reader. I had just finished reading a giant epic fantasy, and moved on to a reread of Persuasion. When I got to the proposal scene, I wept, as I always do, and also wondered how Jane Austen could move me so deeply when the fate of the world wasn’t at stake. I wanted that level of emotion and an intimate story, but with magic. So I decided to see if I could take fantasy and fit it into a Jane Austen plot mold.

 

2.  What can fans of The Glamourist Histories series expect from Without a Summer?

You get to spend more time with Melody and learn a bit more about Vincent’s past. In fact, I’m hoping that people will reread Shades of Milk and Honey and spot some of the things that I planted there.

There are also Luddites, rioting, and of course Regency standards like visit to Almack’s Assembly, dinner parties, and pretty dresses.

 

3.  Your series has been inspired by the works of Jane Austen, which of her novels is your favorite and why?

Persuasion is hands-down my favorite. It’s a novel about second chances and I think so often we look at life as if we only get one chance to get it right. In this case, Anne Elliot gets her second shot at love by being true to herself and standing firm on her principles. Also, it’s the only one of Austen’s novels where the actual proposal is on the page, and it’s a beauty.

 

 

4.  There’s definitely a touch of Emma in the Jane we find in Without a Summer. She has her own prejudices that come to the surface and I loved that she was flawed but ultimately redeemed.  What was your inspiration for exploring issues of prejudice, with regards to race, class and religion, and placing Jane in the center of it?

In fact, Emma very much inspired the storyline. When I first read that book, I was not a fan. I disliked Emma’s prejudices and the way she meddled. When I reread it, I loved the book because I understood that Miss Austen was using it to talk about class in really interesting ways. She makes oblique references to all the servants required to live as a young lady of quality by having Emma be oblivious to the presence. I wanted to bring those servants on stage.

Structurally, this mirrors the novel Emma in terms of relationships. This meant that Jane had to be Emma, and that meant showing the flaws. What I loved when I reread Emma was the moment when she realizes that she is not the paragon of virtue that she thought she was. We all have prejudices and the moment when we recognize those in ourselves – it rocks our worldview because everyone thinks of themselves as a good person. If I was going to explore prejudices, then that moment of self-recognition seemed like a really important one to experience.

 

5.  The relationship between Jane and Vincent continues to grow from book to book and I love how real the marriage feels with both its ups and downs. They’ve gone through so much that has put their relationship to the test.  Any chance the next book will find them relaxing on vacation, sipping Madeira?

Actually… yes. For about five paragraphs and then pirates attack. It’s in the first chapter, so I don’t think it counts as a spoiler.

 

6.  Masterpiece Theatre or HBO calls and they want to adapt the series for television.  Who would you want to cast as Jane and Vincent?

Laura Carmichael would make a brilliant Jane.

 

Vincent would probably be Michael Fassbender, but he’d need contacts to make his eyes brown.

 

 

 

7.  What was the last book you read that you would recommend to a friend?

Emilie and the Hollow World by Martha Wells is a YA Fantasy set in wonderful secondary world with strong steampunk elements. I adored this book and ate it in one sitting. Emilie is the sort of resourceful protagonist that you wish you had as a friend. She gets scared when it’s appropriate, then pulls herself together and does what needs doing anyway.  This is a swashbuckling tale that would sit nicely alongside Jules Verne, but with all the boring bits cut out. It’s so refreshing to see characters making intelligent choices in difficult situations.

 

8.  You’re both a professional puppeteer and a professional writer.  Does one inspire or influence the other?

I spent twenty years in puppet theater, so it absolutely influences everything. In puppetry there’s an emphasis on specificity. Because a puppet generally has no facial expression, every movement it makes carries the meaning. When I write, I find myself using the same sort of vocabulary of movement. For instance, in puppetry we say, “Focus indicates thought.” In other words, what your puppet is looking at is what it is thinking about.

This is also true for characters on the page. The thing that I have a character notice is what she is thinking about. Added to that is the fact that in fiction I can only show my reader one thing at a time and must rely on them to build a picture based on that. So the order in which I show things also has an impact. I’m essentially manipulating the focus of the character and the reader simultaneously. So, as with puppetry, there’s little ability for facial expression and every movement, thought and action becomes important.

I’m not sure how writing affects the puppetry to be honest. Largely I suspect that it’s because there’s 20 years of puppetry experience, which rather outweighs the eight or so years of writing.

 

9.  Tell us about your upcoming projects.

I’m working on a novella for Audible.com’s Metatropolis, which is a shared world SF anthology.

I’m also just got notes back from my editor for Valour and Vanity, which is book four in the Glamourist Histories. That one is set in 1817 in Venice. We’ve been describing it as “Jane Austen write Ocean’s Eleven,” so there’s a wee bit more swashbuckling. There’s a gondola chase.

 

10.  I’m a big fan of Game of Thrones and the Song of Ice and Fire series in which every family has a motto – the Starks have “Winter is coming” and the Lannisters have “Hear me roar!”  What is the Mary Robinette Kowal motto?

It’s for when things go terribly, terribly wrong and would not fit well on a shield but…. “Some day you’ll look back on this and laugh, so you may as well laugh now.”

Oh… and there’s a very small Game of Thrones easter egg in Without a Summer.

 

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I adore this series.  If you haven’t read it, please do.  It’s honestly one of my favorite series and I highly recommend it.  Besides, how can you resist these beautiful Larry Rostant covers? 

 

 

Book Information

 

AMAZON | B&N | BOOK DEPOSITORY 

 

 

GOODREADS SUMMARY:

Up-and-coming fantasist Mary Robinette Kowal enchanted fans with award-winning short stories and beloved novels featuring Regency pair Jane and Vincent Ellsworth. In Without a Summer the master glamourists return home, but in a world where magic is real, nothing—even the domestic sphere—is quite what it seems.

Jane and Vincent go to Long Parkmeade to spend time with Jane’s family, but quickly turn restless. The year is unseasonably cold. No one wants to be outside and Mr. Ellsworth is concerned by the harvest, since a bad one may imperil Melody’s dowry. And Melody has concerns of her own, given the inadequate selection of eligible bachelors. When Jane and Vincent receive a commission from a prominent family in London, they decide to take it, and take Melody with them. They hope the change of scenery will do her good and her marriage prospects—and mood—will be brighter in London.

Once there, talk is of nothing but the crop failures caused by the cold and increased unemployment of the coldmongers, which have provoked riots in several cities to the north. With each passing day, it’s more difficult to avoid getting embroiled in the intrigue, none of which really helps Melody’s chances for romance. It’s not long before Jane and Vincent realize that in addition to getting Melody to the church on time, they must take on one small task: solving a crisis of international proportions. 

 

 

 

• Tags: Glamourist Histories, Mary Robinette Kowal, Without a Summer•

 

 

 

Elizabeth Hunter, author of the Elemental Mystery series, has just released a new book and I, for one, cannot wait to read it.  Her new series, Cambio Springs, centers on a small town in the California desert populated by…shapeshifters.  After reading the prequel novella, Long Ride Home, I was immediately intrigued by the world and its heroine, Jena Crowe.  

 

Please welcome Elizabeth to the blog as she discusses her new book, SHIFTING DREAMS!

 

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SWR:  Can you tell us a bit about your new release, SHIFTING DREAMS, and the Cambio Springs series as a whole? 

SWR:  How many books are planned for the series or are you keeping it open?

SWR:  What came first – the world or the characters?

SWR:  I don’t think it’s a secret that SHIFTING DREAMS features a town chock full of different kinds of shifters. What attracted you to the mythos of the shape-shifter?

SWR:  Jena Crowe is a widowed mother of two, returning to her hometown of Cambio Springs to raise her sons after the death of her husband. I love the fact that Jena is a single mom. This is not something you often see in UF/PNR. What was your inspiration for this unique heroine?

SWR:  Who would be in your dream cast for the Cambio Springs TV series?

SWR:  How long did it take to write SHIFTING DREAMS, from conception to publication, and what does it feel like to finally let your new baby out into the world?

SWR:  In addition to being a successful writer, you’re also a photographer. How does your photography influence your writing?

SWR:  What’s the last book you read that you would recommend to a friend?

SWR:  I’m a big fan of Song of Ice and Fire/Game of Thrones series in which every family has a motto – the Starks have “Winter is coming” and the Lannisters have “Hear me roar!” What is the Elizabeth Hunter motto?

SWR:  Thanks so much for the interview, Elizabeth!

 

Book Information

AMAZON | SMASHWORDS 

 

 

GOODREADS SUMMARY:

Somedays, Jena Crowe just can’t get a break. Work at her diner never ends, her two boys are bundles of energy, and she’s pretty sure her oldest is about to shift into something furry or feathery. Added to that, changes seem to be coming to the tiny town of Cambio Springs—big changes that not everyone in the isolated town of shapeshifters is thrilled about.

Caleb Gilbert was looking for change, and the quiet desert town seemed just the ticket for a more peaceful life. He never counted on violence finding him, nor could he have predicted just how crazy his new life would become.

When murder rocks their small community, Caleb and Jena will have to work together. And when the new Chief of Police isn’t put off by any of her usual defenses, Jena may be faced with the most frightening change of all: lowering the defenses around her carefully guarded heart.

Shifting Dreams is the first novel in Cambio Springs, the new paranormal romance series from Elizabeth Hunter, author of the best-selling Elemental Mysteries series. 

 

 SHIFTING DREAMS just released on March 3rd!

 

 

• Tags: Cambio Springs, Elizabeth Hunter, Long Ride Home, Shifting Dreams•

 

 

I’m beyond excited to welcome Bec McMaster to the blog today!  Bec is the author of KISS OF STEEL, a steampunk PNR that blew my mind with its dark, original world, incredible romance, and compelling characters.   To say I loved this book would be an understatement (read my review here).  

Now, please welcome Bec to the blog!

 

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SWR:  For those who haven’t yet read KISS OF STEEL, can you tell us a bit about the story and the series as a whole? 

Kiss of Steel is set in an alternative version of Victorian London, where the city is ruled by the aristocratic elite who are infected by a virus that makes them crave blood. Humans are considered second-class citizens and the mechs, those forced by circumstance to take a metal limb or organ, are considered less than human.

In Kiss of Steel, my hero Blade is a rogue blue blood (one of those stricken by the craving virus), though he’s definitely not an aristocrat. When a young woman with a price on her head comes into his world, he sees a way to get back at an old enemy of his, the Duke of Vickers. However, Honoria soon becomes more than just a means to an end… she could be the very salvation he’s been looking for.

I like to write about heroes and heroines that weren’t born on silk sheets, those that have to fight their way against the system, or to find a place in the world. All of my heroes and heroines will be fighting for something, whether they’re a duke’s heir or a lowly verwulfen slave.

 

 

 

SWR:  Do you already know the arc of the series?  How many books are planned or are you keeping it open?

Yes, I know the main arc. At this stage the series will be five books, which will finish this particular arc. There’s always a possibility of more, but that would mean a different storyline.

 

SWR:  I loved the world you created – the Echelon, the blue bloods, the Fade, the virus, vampires – so dark and original.  What was your inspiration for the world and what came first – the world or the characters?

It’s hard to say. I had pieces of the world floating around in my head for years, but nothing solid. It wasn’t until I had this image of a desperate woman hurrying home through the squalor of Whitechapel, and a dangerous man watching over her, that it all began to piece together. So I would have to say that the characters definitely gave it a shove in the right direction.

 

SWR:  Honoria and Blade…the chemistry was incredible.  What are your plans for these two over the course of the series?  Will we see more of them?

Blade and Honoria have had their happy ending, but it definitely isn’t the end of their story. However, I’m a firm believer in having past couples come back into the storyline only as it suits the story – not just as a cameo to see how they’re going. But of course, Honoria’s research is a catalyst for… things to come.

 

SWR:  We already know the next book will feature Lena and Will.  I’m dying to know more about Barrons and Aramina.  That look at the end of KISS OF STEEL hinted at something beneath the surface.  Can we expect more of their story in the next few books?  I’d also like to put in a plug for Jasper Lynch.  There was something intriguing about him…

This is the part where I have to say “No comment.” (: All I can say is keep an eye out for book three, My Lady Quicksilver, which may just fulfill part of your hopes.

 

 

SWR:  Who would be in your dream cast for London Steampunk the TV series or feature film?

I’ll admit it, I use actors or images to cast my books before I begin so I have a definite idea of what they look like before I start. I could so see Rose Byrne or Lady Mary from Downton Abbey doing an excellent job with Honoria. Beautiful women that have that inner strength shining through. As for Blade, well, I always had Cam Gigandet in mind when I wrote him. He just has that wicked, diabolical look about him. And he’s blonde, which is important.

 

SWR:  KISS OF STEEL is your first published full-length novel.  How long did it take to write from conception to publication and what did it feel like to finally let your baby out into the world?

Kiss of Steel was just the perfect book, in that it practically wrote itself. The idea jumped me in October 2010 and I had to write it.  It was finished in January 2011, just in time for a full manuscript contest it was entered into.

It’s certainly not the first book I’ve written, but it was definitely the easiest. I think these characters and the world were just waiting for my writing skills to get to the point where I was ready to tell the story. As for seeing it out in the world, I have to admit it’s the best feeling ever, especially when I hear from readers who’ve loved the story.

 

SWR:  I know you love to travel.  What’s a favorite place to visit and what’s on your bucket list as a must see?

Russia is my favorite place in the world, with its wooden churches, fascinating history, museums full of czarist treasures and palaces dripping in gold. I desperately want to go back there and take my boyfriend with me. As for a bucket list, do you have all day? I’d have to say Egypt is top of the list. I have an obsession with history and I can’t wait to go.

 

SWR:  What’s the last book you read that you would recommend to a friend?

Considering I finished this two days ago, I’d have to say God Save The Queen by Kate Locke. Steampunky UF fun, with goblins, vampires and werewolves.

 

SWR:  I’m a big fan of Game of Thrones where every family has a motto – the Starks have “Winter is coming” and the Lannisters have “Hear me roar!”  What is the Bec McMaster motto?

I’m stealing this one I saw somewhere online, as I have it taped to my wall in front of my computer. ‘Dreamers who only dream, never have their dreams come true.’

 

SWR:  Thanks so much for the interview, Bec!

Thanks for having me Lee!

 

LONDON STEAMPUNK NEW COVER!

 

 

This third book in the London Steampunk series releases in October 2013 but don’t forget to pick up book two, Heart of Iron in May!

 

 

 

• Tags: Bec McMaster, Heart of Iron, Kiss of Steel, London Steampunk Series, My Lady Quicksilver•

SWR:  You became a professional artist at a young age, 19.  When did you know you wanted to be an artist?  Was there a particular moment that you remember in which you had that realization?

Honestly, I don’t remember the day I decided to be a professional artist; I actually think we can’t decide things like that, it’s not a one-day decision but a lifetime wish. I’m somehow involved with art since in my childhood as a born traditional drawer (for fun), I really didn’t intend to take art that serious…It’s strange because nobody really supports a child when she says “I want to be an artist”, you know, people react like you wanted to be the president or an astronaut. However now I know, both are not impossible at all. The day people started to support my art was the day I knew I could be an artist.

 

 

SWR:  Who are some of the artists who’ve influenced or inspired you?

Victoria Frances, Tom Bagshaw, Ray Caesar, Eugenio Recuenco, Tim Walker and of course, Tim Burton…

 

SWR:  What is your creative process and are there any rituals or routines you have prior to starting a project?  

The very first thing I do is to organize my ideas and to collect resources to start imagining how the final art will look like. I do few sketches with different colors ‘till find the right thing. Most of the times, before starting any work, I have the scene haunting my head for weeks, so when I start, all I need to do is to follow the hints my mind give me. And sure, music always present. 

 

 

SWR:  What is your favorite medium to work in?

Collage

 

SWR:  How would you describe your style?

Macabre, sad, dramatic, cinematic.

 

SWR:  If your art had a soundtrack, what or who would be on it?

Danny Elfman

 

 

 

 

SWR:  The cover for THE GARDEN OF PERPETUAL SLUMBER was art you had already made and then adapted for the book.  What was the inspiration for it?

It’s a 2009 art and I remember of listening to Rammstein songs at this time.  So, that’s why the title was in German “Das Alte Leid” that means “The Old Grief”.  

 

SWR:  How did you adapt it for the book?  What was the direction you got from the art director?

Actually, I was the art director, we only had to do some adptations like the statues and flowers to make it look like a cemetery.  It was a big coincidence because the story was so similar with the art itself, they were made for each other.

 

SWR:  How did you create the cover?  What was your process before finally getting to the final image?

I had to totally redo my old artwork but few things were changed, like the background, and the quality as well. I also did the back cover and all the book design.  The process was really simple because that was exactly the way the author wanted it.

 

 

SWR:  If you were given the opportunity to create the cover for any one book, what would that book be and why?

I really don’t know, I don’t have anything special in mind. But I think I would really enjoy creating new versions of old stories like Beauty and the Beast and Charlie and the Chocolate Factory or anything horror/gothic related, would be cool. I like fantasy art and books…but you know, wish the authors could explore more of the gothic/surreal side too as happened with The Garden of Perpetual Slumber.  I don’t like to be labeled as “specialist in this theme” because I do any style and like to mix them all.

 

 

SWR:  What side projects, passion projects, or upcoming cover art would you like to share with us?

Thanks God, cover art is always coming!

Im going to make the second book of “Splintered” by A.G.Howard together with Abrams Books Publishing for the next 2 or 3 months. On the other hand, I’m with a personal project since the beginning of this year called MORBID DREAM, hopefully so it’s going to be lauch next year. Can’t say much of both but it’s worth waiting for! (And just remembering you all I’m not only a book cover artist, as many of you think, I do cd album art as well).                 

 

And for fun, the Pivot Quiz! 

 

What is your favorite word?

Nightmare

 

What is your least favorite word?

Tushie

 

What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally?

Music

 

What turns you off?

Noise, hot days, phone and obligations.

 

What is your favorite curse word?

Shit

 

What sound or noise do you love?

Clock

 

What sound or noise do you hate?  

Saxophone

 

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?

Opera singer

 

What profession would you not like to do?

Anything related to Math or long hours talking.

 

If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates?

Welcome!

 

All images are courtesy of Nathalia Suellen and are not to be copied without express permission from the artist.

***

What’s your favorite Nathália Suellen cover?

 

 

• Tags: Cover Art, Nathália Suellen, The Garden of Perpetual Slumber•

 

 

 

 

 (Please click the button to see what other blogs are participating in the tour!)

 

As part of the Bewitching Book Tour, I’m excited to welcome author Carol Van Atta to SWR!  Carol is the author of I KISSED A DOG, the first book in her new UF series, Werewolves of the West.  The book features a heroine with unique powers and a sexy love interest who happens to be a werewolf.  Please welcome Carol to the blog as she discusses werewolves, writing, and good books! 

Don’t forget to enter the giveaway below!

 

SHE-WOLF INTERVIEW

 

SWR:  For those who haven’t yet read I KISSED A DOG, can you tell us a bit about the story and the series as a whole? 

The story/series features an array of paranormal characters (some very different from the norm) and the humans with whom their crazy lives are intertwined. The first book features Chloe Carpenter, a twenty-four year old woman, who after a horrific, near death experience can now communicate with animals. So when a werewolf, in the human form of hottie, Zane Marshall, strolls into her life as a coworker at the local animal park, she can read his thoughts. Yep … because he’s part animal! They fall for each other hard and fast and are launched into an adventure of supernatural proportions. Murder, mystery, and a whole lot of mayhem ensue. Secrets, lies, and a ton of twists and turns take the reader on an often unexpected journey of surprising, even shocking, revelations. And, yes, book one ends with a major cliffhanger. Book two starts with a bang right where our characters left off, and adds a whole new dimension to the tale.

 

SWR:  Do you already know the arc of the series?  How many books are planned or are you keeping it open?

I know the general arc, and expect at least a trilogy. I’m under contract for two books, with the understanding there are more to come.

 

SWR:  One thing I appreciated was that Chloe Carpenter, the heroine of the series, is Christian, biracial, and a virgin.  This is not a combination you see very often in paranormal romance and urban fantasy!  I appreciate the diversity it adds to the field.  What was your inspiration for such a unique heroine?

Well, I wanted someone who wasn’t the typical heroine. Granted, her faith was a bit rusty, and she was just barely holding onto her virginity. Sadly, in the editing cuts that take place, some of Chloe’s background story was lost, background that would have helped readers who seem to dislike Chloe understand her better, but that’s the nature of the editing beast. She’s a love her or hate her kind of gal. As for her being a biracial woman, our world is filled with multiracial individuals. It’s about time we feature real-to-life characters in our books. On a personal note, my children are biracial. It just made sense!

 

SWR:  Chloe’s special abilities were very original.  Where did the idea come from to give her the ability to communicate with animals?

It’s something I’ve always wanted to do. I look at my puppylicious sweetie, Stryder, and wonder what in the world is he thinking. Those big doggy eyes are so expressive. What if we knew what our pets were thinking? Thus the idea for the book.

 

SWR:  What is your favorite scene in the book and why?

Oh goodness! Not that question … no! Hum … I like the parts where they’re investigating the murder scenes, the final battle, and I love it when the wig comes off. You have to read the book to understand the whole wig thing. That darn wig wreaks havoc in Chloe’s life.

 

SWR:  Who would be in your dream cast for Werewolves of the West the TV series or feature film?

I’ve pondered this question on occasion. I thought maybe the lovely girl, Kat Graham, who plays Bonnie (a witch) on Vampire Diaries would make a good Chloe. Or maybe even Beyonce’. As for Zane, speaking of Game of Thrones (I peeked at your next question) Jason Momoa/Khal Drogo ‒ yummy. Valamir (vampire) would be played by a young Gary Oldman as he looked in Bram Stoker’s Dracula (you said “dream” cast). Alcuin (vampire) by Alexander Skarsgard.  As for the werewolf father son duo … I honestly don’t know. Any ideas? For Jazmine (evil “b”word) Claire Holt (with dark hair) who plays the wicked Rebekah on Vampire Diaries. As for Luke Snider, I can totally see bar owner, Sam Trammell, with a tan. Though, on the other hand, finding a cast of semi-unknowns would be a blast.

 

SWR:  You started your career writing Christian fiction.  How did you move into the paranormal romance/urban fantasy genres and did you find it an easy transition in terms of writing style?

Odd transition, huh? And I still write both. I’ve always read paranormal romances and urban fantasy. I guess it has been my guilty pleasure. I wanted to write a story that wasn’t all sex and swearing, but still provided plenty of thrills, chills, and romance. It is fairly easy to go back and forth between genres. Some Christians would find what I’m doing appalling, while others would have no issue with it. I honor and understand both viewpoints. We all have the right to pick and choose what we read and why we read it. So far, my Christian novels have been in third person, with multiple POV’s, where my Werewolves of the West series is in first person. In book two, there will be two first person narrators. Very interesting.

 

SWR:  What are some of your favorite werewolf novels and films?

For books, I’ve enjoyed Molly Harper’s series, I love Charlaine Harris, and the older werewolf books by Robert R. McCammon. I loved his book, The Wolf’s Hour. I’m looking forward to reading Anne Rice’s new werewolf book as well. 

 

SWR:  What’s the last book you read that you would recommend to a friend?

I’m pretty easy to please. I can find redeeming stuff in most of the books I read. I just finished an awesome book, The Devil’s Metal, by Karina Halle. Loved it! Read it! I’m an ex-80’s groupie chick so it was right up my alley. Rock n’ Roll with a supernatural twist. Tasty! I’m also enjoying a Christian vampire series by Ellen C. Maze. Her “Rabbit Series” is so original. VERY edgy for a Christian series on vampires.

 

SWR:  I’m a big fan of Game of Thrones where every family has a motto – the Starks have “Winter is coming” and the Lannisters have “Hear me roar!”  What is the Carol Van Atta motto?

I love Game of Thrones too, both the books and the series. Amazing! Every time I hear “Winter is coming,” I get a chill. So creepy. As for my motto. Wow. That’s tough.  The first thing that popped into my head: “Howling for Heaven.” Corny, maybe? Deep and profound … possibly.

 

SWR:  Thanks so much for the interview, Carol!

Thank you! This was one of the best interviews I’ve had. Great questions!

 

 

 

ABOUT THE BOOK 

 

 

AMAZON | BARNES AND NOBLE | BOOK DEPOSITORY 

 

BOOK DESCRIPTION:

Chloe Carpenter isn’t like other women. She can communicate with animals. A gift she unwrapped following one of her frequent dances with death.

In her otherwise wacky life, she’s finally found a semblance of sanity working at the Plum Beach Wildlife Park, where her unique talents can make life or death differences for the animals in her care. That semblance is shattered when a new veterinarian roars into the park in his spiffed up sports car and sets his golden gaze on her. If she had her way, he’d roar right back out.

Problem: He’s her new coworker and he’s saved her life twice – in the past twenty-four hours.

Zane Marshall, Enforcer for the Pacific Pack of purebred werewolves, has a job to do – figure out who or what is mutilating the young men of Plum Beach.

With orders to find the woman who talks to animals, he accepts a position working alongside the fiery Chloe Carpenter, a female who ignites his interest far more than he ever expected. Remarkably, she’s the one elusive female with potential to bring meaning and passion to his empty existence.

Problem: She despises him.

Together, they’re forced to unravel a mystery of supernatural proportions, a murderous mystery with eternal implications for everyone. In the process, they discover opposites really do attract.

Major Problem: Zane is pledged to another woman, and she’ll do anything to keep him from Chloe.

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• Tags: Bewitching Book Tour, Carol Van Atta, Chloe Carpenter, Giveaway, I Kissed a Dog, The Wolves of the West•

 

 

 

 (Please click the button to see what other blogs are participating in the tour!)

 

As part of the Edge of Oblivion Blog Tour, I’m excited to welcome JT Geissinger to SWR!  JT is the author of the Night Prowler series – one that’s been on my TBR list for a while.  A shifter series based on Egyptian mythology?  Very interested.  Please welcome JT to the blog and don’t forget to enter the giveaway below!  

 

SHE-WOLF INTERVIEW

 

SWR:  For those readers who haven’t yet read the Night Prowler books, can you briefly describe the series and what they can expect?

The series centers around the Ikati, an ancient race of shape-shifters who originated in the darkest heart of Africa and spawned the cat worship culture in Egypt centuries ago. They’ve been hunted by humans—at one point they were driven out of Egypt when their leader, Cleopatra, died—and have survived by hiding in small colonies around the world.

 

SWR:  What can longtime fans of the first book look forward to in Edge of Oblivion, the latest installment in the series?

Edge of Oblivion is Morgan’s story, and it was so much fun to write. Morgan is a fiery, outspoken rebel who makes a terrible mistake in book one, Shadow’s Edge. In book two, she’s given a chance to redeem herself…but not without a price. She has two weeks to find the Ikati’s ancient enemy, or she’ll forfeit her life. In charge of carrying out her sentence is Xander, sexy, hardened assassin, but he finds her a little more than he bargained for.

 

SWR:  The dreaded question:  can you tell us a little bit about what inspired you to write this series?

A stray cat, believe it or not! One day this beautiful, slinky black cat wandered into my life and she has this ability to appear and disappear at will. It’s a little unnerving. She was the impetus for the idea of shape-shifting panthers, then I got hooked when I began research into the cat worship cultures of ancient Egypt.

 

SWR:  The shifter world in your series is based on Egyptian mythology.  What specifically drew you to that world and what kind of research did you do for your world-building?

For one thing, ancient Egyptians believed in monogamy and female rulers were quite common. For that time and place, both those things were very rare. I’ve always been fascinated with mummies and pyramids and that particular time in history, so it was easy for me to get sucked into the research. There is a wealth of information available online, but I also visited the Vatican museums on a recent trip to Rome and was amazed at the amount of Egyptian art and mythology the church—and the city—has  absorbed.

 

SWR:  Who would be in your dream cast for Night Prowler the movie or HBO series?

I’d want all gorgeous, compelling nobodies. I picture Morgan as an Angelina Jolie type, but younger, and Xander as a blend of The Rock and this beautiful, random male model I found online, all tan skin and flexing muscles and fierce glowering. (Sigh.)

 

SWR:  What’s your favorite line/quote from Edge of Oblivion?

She had let a monster into the most precious part of her, had reminded him what it was to feel passion and pleasure and tenderness, had given him a glimpse of things he didn’t deserve: Happiness. Hope.

 

SWR:  What’s the last book you read that you would recommend?

I loved The Dogstars by Peter Heller. It’s a post-apocalyptic story in the vein of Cormac McCarthy’s The Road, but it’s much more hopeful. It’s beautifully written and the characters are so well drawn they’re real. For romance, I can recommend On Dublin Street by Samantha Young. Hot and beautiful.

 

SWR:  I read on your site something about a Scottish werewolf and a vampire that works at a blood bank.  That sounds promising.  Can you tell us about some of your upcoming projects?

Well, I just signed a contract to continue the Night Prowler series with Montlake Romance for another four books, so that’s coming! But yes, I’ve always been drawn to vamps and werewolves, and I have an angel/demon book already written that I’m editing. I’d also love to write contemporary romance; there’s so many stories to tell!

 

SWR:  I’m a big fan of Game of Thrones where every family has a motto – the Starks have “Winter is coming” and the Lannisters have “Hear me roar!”  What is the J.T. Geissinger motto?

Snarky motto: “It’s better to ask forgiveness than permission.”

Heartfelt motto: “Love is the only religion.”

 

SWR:  And, finally, since this will post on Halloween can you tell us:

1. Favorite scary film? Blair Witch Project. I’ve NEVER watched another scary movie after I saw that.
2. Favorite horror story? Amytiville Horror.
3. Best Halloween moment? I won a costume contest when I went dressed as Princess Di after the crash. (It wasn’t my idea.)
4. Trick or treat? Treat. Chocolate, please!

 

Thanks so much for the interview, J.T.!

 

GIVEAWAY 

 

 

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• Tags: Bewitching Book Tour, Edge of Oblivion, Giveaway, Ikati, J.T. Geissinger, Night Prowler•

 

 

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As part of the A Trace of Moonlight Blog Tour, I’m excited to welcome Allison Pang to SWR!  Allison is the author of the Abby Sinclair series, a wonderful world of magic, dreams, romance, bacon, and a horny unicorn.  Please welcome Allison to the blog and don’t forget to enter the giveaway below!  

 

SHE-WOLF INTERVIEW

 

SWR:  For those readers who haven’t yet read the Abby Sinclair books, can you briefly describe the series and what they can expect? 

Sure! Abby is basically a “normal” girl, thrust into a series of events that are anything but. After a car accident robs her of dream of becoming a ballerina, Abby ends up working at a used bookstore…for a Faery princess.  Before long, she’s swept away into a world of magic, sexy daemons, angels, fae and one tiny perverted unicorn.

 

SWR:  What can longtime fans look forward to in A Trace of Moonlight, the latest book in the series?

Well, this book closes the overall story arc that ran in the last two books. We’ll see Abby get a chance to confront Maurice once and for all…and we’ll get the answers to some rather pressing questions, including who Abby ends up with.

 

SWR:  The world-building is incredible.  How did you go about creating this world in terms of research and do you have any secrets to keeping the rules straight over the course of three books?

I pretty much just made it up as I went. The mythology is loosely based off the True Thomas poem Thomas the Rhymer, so the basis is Celtic, but otherwise, there isn’t really any secret. I don’t even keep a binder or anything. (Though I might have to start if I write any more. LOL)

 

SWR:  The series was initially meant to be a trilogy.  Are there any plans to continue past this latest release?

There’s a short story prequel of sorts involving Melanie and how she got her violin coming out in the Carniepunk anthology next August. Otherwise, I’d very much like to continue writing in this world, but we’ll have to wait and see.

 

SWR:  Who would be in your dream cast for Abby Sinclair the HBO series or feature film?

Gah – I have no idea. I’ve gotten asked that a lot over the last few years and my answers change every time. I have a hard time with this question because no one ever really looks like how I picture them in my head. That’s probably a really lame answer. Sorry. >_<  (I’ve had a number of people suggest Tyler Hoechlin as Brystion though – and I can dig that rather nicely.)

 

SWR:  What’s the last book you read that you would recommend?

I’m reading The Palace Job by Patrick Weekes right now – it’s a lot of fun.

 

 

SWR:  What are some of your upcoming projects?

Well, I have an online graphic novel called Fox & Willow (you can find it at http://www.sadsausagedogs.com) that is updated every Monday and Wednesday. It’s free – and a fun story about a girl and her fox, with each chapter loosely based on a fairy tale. I’ve also got a story coming out in an upcoming issue of Womanthology: Space comic.

Otherwise, I am writing something new – more of a straight fantasy book, with a twist of Steampunk.

 

SWR:  I’m a big fan of Game of Thrones where every family has a motto – the Starks have “Winter is coming” and the Lannisters have “Hear me roar!”  What is the Allison Pang motto?

LOL. Eat all the bacon?

 

 

SWR:  And, finally, I’ve heard you’re a gamer.  I’m a reformed Bethesda Softworks groupie but I still can’t wait until I can get my hands on Dishonored.  What is your latest gaming obsession?

I’m actually playing Dishonored right now! It’s a great game – very smooth gameplay and just a lot of fun overall. I love the atmosphere.

 

 

 

SWR:  Thanks so much for the interview Allison!

Thanks for having me!

 

GIVEAWAY

 

Here’s your chance to win a print copy of the latest Abby Sinclair release, the conclusion to what is a fantastic series! 

 

 

 

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• Tags: A Brush of Darkness, A Sliver of Shadow, A Trace of Moonlight, Abby Sinclair, Allison Pang, Bewitching Book Tour, Giveaway•

 

Shelf Candy is a meme hosted by Maria @anightsdreamofbooks.  Click the button above to see what other covers are being featured this week.

 

This week’s Shelf Candy features the damn cool cover for Chuck Wendig’s Blackbirds. I honestly can’t think of a cover this year that has been more discussed, more highlighted, more praised than this one.  What I love about it is that you really can’t take the cover all in at one glance.  It forces you to lean in for a closer look.   The layers are almost a scavenger hunt of clues to the story.  We have Cape Town based designer/illustrator/artist Joey Hi-Fi to thank for this awesomeballs cover art.  Please welcome Joey to SWR as he discusses his creative process, his influences, and the significance of the name, Joey Hi Fi. 

 

 

 

She-Wolf Interview

I started drawing when I was very young – and never stopped!

 

 

Chris Ware, Hieronymus Bosch, Jonathan Lethem, Alan Fletcher, Charles Burns, Basil Wolverton, Daniel Clowes, Chip Kidd, Katsuhiro Otomo, Edward Gorey…. to name just a few.

 

SWR:  Who are some of your favorite cover artists?

Chip Kidd and Grey 318.

 

 

SWR:  What was your first book cover?

‘MAVERICK, Extraordinary Women From South Africa’s Past’ by Lauren Beukes (Author of Zoo City).

 

 

SWR:  What is your creative process and are there any rituals or routines you have prior to starting a project?

I work in a range of styles and on diverse projects – so each project requires a slightly different approach. For book covers I start with reading the book – followed by information gathering. I try to get as much information from the author and publisher as I can. Any small detail could spark and idea. I then do some conceptualizing and rough sketches, after which I move onto my computer, where I work over them or draw using a Wacom tablet. I often work in multiple layers, so working in Illustrator or Photoshop streamlines the whole process. 

 

 

SWR:  How did you get involved with the cover art for Chuck Wendig’s Blackbirds and Mockingbird?

I’d worked with Angry Robot before doing an illustration for the Moxyland UK cover (Written by Lauren Beukes). 

 

 

But it was my cover for Zoo City (Also by Lauren Beukes) that convinced them I was the right cover artist for Blackbirds and Mockingbird. 

 

  

 

SWR:  Can you briefly walk us through your process for creating the covers?

I compiled a list of elements / scenes from the book I wanted to weave into the portrait of Miriam Black. I then started with rough sketches on paper of Miriam Black. Once i felt i had the pose and tone right – I worked out the interplay between the negative and positive spaces – and how the illustration would work with the title typography. I then moved onto the computer. For the cover, which has a distressed ink, brush & pen style, i drew some elements, then scanned them in and worked over them in photoshop. Other elements for the cover I illustrated completely in Illustrator & photoshop. The entire process was akin to assembling a rather complex and macabre jigsaw puzzle.

 

SWR:  These covers caused a stir in the blogosphere – everyone loved them, they were featured everywhere for favorite new cover lists.  What did you think of all the buzz they created?

The positive reaction to both covers filled me with both elation… and relief.

Often when you try something a little different for a Book Cover, as I try to do, you’re never quite sure what outcome and response will be. 

I tend to isolate myself when working on a cover. Imagine a mad scientist working manically in his lab wondering whether his race of atomic robot creations will indeed conquer the world –  and you have a pretty accurate image! So when your creation is at last loosed upon the world, and achieves it’s desired goal – it inspires you to further feats of creativity!

 

SWR:  Did you read the manuscripts prior to creating the artwork, and, if not, what direction did you get from the art director?

I make a point of reading all the books I design/illustrate covers for. Although in the case of Blackbirds and Mockingbird  - Chuck Wendig was still busy writing the book. 

So i was unable to read a manuscript. Thankfully though, he & Angry Robot provided a thorough brief with enough information & inspiration for me to work with. They provided me with an initial concept (A woman merging with a flock of birds), a description of Miriam Black from the book as well some jumping-off points for me to explore. Something I could really sink my fangs into.

 

SWR:  What was the most important thing you wanted to convey in the cover?

Introducing the character of the main protagonist Miriam Black in an interesting way – while also capturing the macabre tone of book.

I wanted the covers to work on two levels – what you see initially – and then what you see on closer inspection.

I like illustrations with a fair amount of detail that warrants repeat viewings. 

Almost like a macabre Where’s Wally.

 

SWR:  If you were given the opportunity to create the cover for any one book, past or present, what would that book be and why?

Tough one. There are so many! I always wanted to do a cover for the cult classic ‘House of Leaves’ by Mark Z. Danielewski.

It’s a book I really love. Dark & somber in tone (which i like) and unlike any Mystery / horror story you will ever read.

It’s full on evocative and unsettling imagery.

In addition to that - the page layouts in the book are unusual and innovative. It makes for an immersive reading experience.

 

SWR:  Favorite book, favorite movie, favorite band?

I’ve never been one who is able to decide on a favourite anything.

But amongst my favourite books lurks A Scanner Darkly by Philip K Dick.

John Carpenter’s The Thing holds a special place in my heart.

And I’ve spent many an hour drawing to the post-rock majesty of Explosions In The Sky.

 

 

Currently I’m wrapping up a cover design/illustration for a limited edition re-release of Simon Morden’s Thy Kingdom Come ( a prequel to his award-winning Metrozone series). I’m also working on a graphic novel – which i am writing and illustrating between paying commissions. The effort of which is killing me slowly between the hours of 10pm till midnight. This is the only time I seem to get to work on it! I usually reply with ‘Coming Winter 2040′ when asked when it will be done.

 

 

SWR:  Finally, what is the significance of the name Joey Hi-Fi?

My alter-ego was born partly out of necessity  and partly out of my love of comic books (and an episode of the Simpsons). I was working full-time at a design studio, but wanted to work on illustration & book cover commissions after hours. Knowing my boss would not completely approve - i decided to hide my identity and started taking on additional work under the guise of my alter-ego Joey Hi-Fi. A mild mannered designer by day – a half crazed illustrator by night! The name was born while watching an episode of the Simpsons (where homer adopts the power name of ‘Max Power’) with a friend.

 

      Mouthwatering

 

3.  What turns you on creatively, spiritually or emotionally?

       Mystery

 

4.  What turns you off?

     Design by committee

 

      Any word followed by ….’Balls’ ie: Fuckballs

 

6.  What sound or noise do you love?

       The sound of someone playing a piano

 

      Writer

 

9.  What profession would you not like to do?

     Politician

 

10.  If Heaven exists, what would you like to hear God say when you arrive at the Pearly Gates?

      It would no doubt be a very long and awkward silence

 

Thanks for stopping by the blog, Joey!

 

***

• Tags: Angry Robot, Blackbirds, Chuck Wendig, Joey Hi Fi, Mockingbird•

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