Good morning, everyone! Please welcome Laura Hawks to the blog today! She's going to tell us about her new book, Demon Kiss -- which I thought sounded really intriguing! And she sat down for an interview as well, to give us some more insight to her characters, the novel, and herself as well.
Grab your morning coffee and enjoy!
Paranormal Romance
When her family was murdered, Clarissa found her life altered. As the new guardian for a very powerful gem that could change the very fate of the Earth and its inhabitants should it be lost, she willingly accepted the responsibilities to keep it safe.
A demon named Xon was after the abilities the gem would afford him should he get his hands on it.
Azamel protected the world from demon kind. A demon himself, he was appointed judge and if need be, executioner to protect the various races that roamed the Earth. Now he had to hunt Xon and prevent him from obtaining a stone that could give him the edge he would need to rule, but to do this Azamel would have to work with a young wolf who had a chip on her shoulder. Could he succeed in time to save both of them... before it was too late? Or would Clarissa's mistrust doom them all?
So, Laura, briefly take us on the journey with you – when did you start writing, did you start in the genre you’re published in now, what hurdles did you have to overcome, etc.
L.H. I actually went to college to get a master’s degree in US History, Ancient Civilizations and Native American History. I achieved these in 2007. I had planned on writing Native American history books and had even started some research. During this time, I also was starting up a role playing game on Facebook based off of a series of books. This outlet really gave me a chance to expand my imagination as well as practice my writing skills. While working out of town, I was on a train to Agawa Canyon in Ontario, Canada. It was a rainy day and few people left the train, but I have been there so often and enjoy the lush forestry as well as the peacefulness of the area, I headed out to hike the trails.
Something clicked while on that walk. I had started thinking of a story for my role playing group, and realized it would make a better novel. I think I wrote the first three chapters in my head just walking on those trails. When I returned to the train, I sat down and wrote them out. I guess you could say, I have been really writing since. I realized during that walk, I could do Native American History, Mythology and add a good dose of fiction to it as a whole. This is the realm of where I would like to see my future books go.
My biggest hurdle, I feel is this whole industry. I sometimes feel like I am blind walking around feeling my way with everything since there is so much about this business I do not know or understand. I am still learning and am thankful to my publisher for her immense understanding and guidance in this new venture. I know in time, it will be old hat and I can just focus on my stories, but in the meantime having that guiding hand is always a great assistance.
Obviously you write in the paranormal romance genre. Is that your favorite genre to read? Do you write in any other genres, or under any other pen names you’d like to share?
L.H. I really like Paranormal Romance, both to read and obviously to write. As I am a new author, I have not had a chance to explore other genre’s but will consider it at a future time. Therefore, I have no other pen names to share.
However, as to what I love to read, it really depends on my current mood. I still enjoy history books, horror, science fiction, mysteries, true crime and short stories by O’Henry; but I admit, paranormal romance, of late, has captured my foremost attention.
Of the books you have published, do you have a favorite? If so, which one and why?
L.H. (I laugh) Yeah.. Demon’s Kiss.. cause it is the only one I have published as a novel thus far. I do have a story published in the anthology, Fairly Freaky Fairytales... my contribution is Snow White and the Seven Cannibals. I admit I am partial to that one as well, since the Prince is based off of a real life friend.
What are your published titles and please tell us about anything coming down the pipe next.
L.H. Published, I have Demon’s Kiss and a story in the anthology Fairly Freaky Fairytales, the specific story is Snow White and the Seven Cannibals.
I am currently working on a sequel to Demon’s Kiss called Demon’s Dream and the story that I wrote as a result of the walk in Agawa Canyon will be completed shortly. Working title for that is Hope Eternal.
Available At: Amazon | Barnes and Noble
~~~~~
So, Laura, briefly take us on the journey with you – when did you start writing, did you start in the genre you’re published in now, what hurdles did you have to overcome, etc.
L.H. I actually went to college to get a master’s degree in US History, Ancient Civilizations and Native American History. I achieved these in 2007. I had planned on writing Native American history books and had even started some research. During this time, I also was starting up a role playing game on Facebook based off of a series of books. This outlet really gave me a chance to expand my imagination as well as practice my writing skills. While working out of town, I was on a train to Agawa Canyon in Ontario, Canada. It was a rainy day and few people left the train, but I have been there so often and enjoy the lush forestry as well as the peacefulness of the area, I headed out to hike the trails.
Something clicked while on that walk. I had started thinking of a story for my role playing group, and realized it would make a better novel. I think I wrote the first three chapters in my head just walking on those trails. When I returned to the train, I sat down and wrote them out. I guess you could say, I have been really writing since. I realized during that walk, I could do Native American History, Mythology and add a good dose of fiction to it as a whole. This is the realm of where I would like to see my future books go.
My biggest hurdle, I feel is this whole industry. I sometimes feel like I am blind walking around feeling my way with everything since there is so much about this business I do not know or understand. I am still learning and am thankful to my publisher for her immense understanding and guidance in this new venture. I know in time, it will be old hat and I can just focus on my stories, but in the meantime having that guiding hand is always a great assistance.
Obviously you write in the paranormal romance genre. Is that your favorite genre to read? Do you write in any other genres, or under any other pen names you’d like to share?
L.H. I really like Paranormal Romance, both to read and obviously to write. As I am a new author, I have not had a chance to explore other genre’s but will consider it at a future time. Therefore, I have no other pen names to share.
However, as to what I love to read, it really depends on my current mood. I still enjoy history books, horror, science fiction, mysteries, true crime and short stories by O’Henry; but I admit, paranormal romance, of late, has captured my foremost attention.
Of the books you have published, do you have a favorite? If so, which one and why?
L.H. (I laugh) Yeah.. Demon’s Kiss.. cause it is the only one I have published as a novel thus far. I do have a story published in the anthology, Fairly Freaky Fairytales... my contribution is Snow White and the Seven Cannibals. I admit I am partial to that one as well, since the Prince is based off of a real life friend.
What are your published titles and please tell us about anything coming down the pipe next.
L.H. Published, I have Demon’s Kiss and a story in the anthology Fairly Freaky Fairytales, the specific story is Snow White and the Seven Cannibals.
I am currently working on a sequel to Demon’s Kiss called Demon’s Dream and the story that I wrote as a result of the walk in Agawa Canyon will be completed shortly. Working title for that is Hope Eternal.
Let's talk a bit about Demon Kiss. Tell me
about your plot development? How did the
idea spur, did you have to do much research, any interesting tidbits that we
should know?
L.H. My plot
revolves around the Gem of Avarice... a stone that has been protected for eons
by one family. Its an idea I have been playing with for a couple of years and in
truth, no longer remember where the idea stemmed from. When I had the
opportunity to write a story, the Gem was what sprung to mind. I did not do
much research for this book, other than in looking at the Native American Myth
of Wendigos. I do readily admit that this story was a result of consulting with
a very dear friend about some of the logistics of the male psyche. He was very
willing to help give me the male perspective on occasion and we had a great
time discussing ideas. I am forever grateful for his assistance.
Every romance has a swoon-worthy hero. Let’s talk about yours. What’s one
thing about your hero that we wouldn’t necessarily learn in the book? A secret dream, an embarrassing habit, an
episode from childhood.
L.H. Realized
from the book, one will discover that he has kept himself isolated from any
personal connection. In the sequel, you will find out why... but I will say he
was really hurt and betrayed by those he thought he loved and trusted. His
secret dream to find someone who can love his demon half that he could really,
truly trust.
All heroes
are unforgettable in one way or another.
What’s one thing about your hero that makes your heart go pitter-pat?
L.H. For me, it
is that he is finding his heart opening up again after eons of being alone and
the innocence he portrays as realization dawns on him that he is caring for
another. Physically, its those cold blue eyes that peer into one’s very soul.
If your hero
doesn’t have a pet in your novel, what kind of pet would best suit his
personality.
L.H. Hmmm, that
is a tough question. Do Dragon’s count?
On this blog -- ABSOLUTELY!
Changing gears a bit, how about your heroine? Everybody
has flaws. Sometimes they are endearing,
other times they are annoying. What is
your heroine’s greatest fault?
L.H. She blames herself
for words that can never be retracted. How many times have we heard the saying,
don’t say anything you might regret because you might never have the chance to
take it back or make things right. You will learn in the sequel that she made
this mistake and will carry that burden with her forever
Without
giving away details that might spoil the story for those who have not read it,
could you tell us the one strength your heroine provides to your hero?
L.H. Her
compassion.
If your
heroine was your daughter – what advice would you give her upon meeting your
hero?
L.H. She has a
hard time trusting... and for good reason. My advice would be to go with your
heart and gut not your mind.
If we peek
in on your hero and heroine’s lives ten years from now, can you give us a
glimpse of what we’d see?
L.H. Yes. Read
the sequel to find out *Smiles*
Nice answer! Very well done -- grin.
Let's go back to you, the mind behind everything for a little bit. As a writer,
what is your greatest strength?
L.H. Coming up
with ideas for stories
What do you
find most difficult about your job as an author?
L.H. Finding the time to really sit
down and write.
What has
surprised you the most about being a published author?
L.H. Everything. Its really a whole new world, but I am still surprised
people like to read and LIKE my book. It is validating.
In your
opinion, what is the hardest part of writing a novel? Why?
L.H. The
original thought and coming up with a title. I am horrible at naming things.
Okie dokie, Laura. Thank you so much for stopping in today. Readers -- check out Demon Kiss, I'm really liking the sound of this one.
About The Author:
I have always been interested in writing in some form or other. A few years back, I was involved with and then ran a Star Trek Interactive Writing Group which was successful for a number of years. Yes, I am a trekker and proud of it.
Then a few years back, I got my Master's Degree in Ancient Civilizations, Native American History and United States History.
It was at this time I got involved in role playing on FaceBook, which gave me ample opportunities to grow and hone my writing ability.
A published friend encouraged me to write my own book, and the rest, as they say, is history.
Stay in touch with Laura via: Facebook | Laura's Website
~Claire
www.claireashgrove.com
www.toristclaire.com
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