The Midnight Brew Presents: Colleen Gleason

Our guest author today has been writing stories since she was in elementary school. All through high school and college Colleen Gleason kept writing (when she should have been studying) and finally finished her first novel after she finished college. Unfortunately, she didn't sell that one. Off and on over the years, during her career in health care and with small business start-ups, getting married, raising two dogs and three children, she followed her passion - writing. Recently she became addicted to Buffy the Vampire Slayer. Then an idea hit her - what would it be like if Buffy had been living during the Regency England - balls, chaperones, and the ton? And thus The Gardella Legacy was born. Her first book, The Rest Falls Away was released back in January 2007. Rises The Night, the second installment of the series, will be out June 5th. The Midnight Moon Cafe has the pleasure to welcome a new voice in paranormal romance, Colleen Gleason. MMC: Do you remember the first paranormal romance you ever read? Colleen: Wow... that’s a good question. I think it must have been a Barbara Michaels ghost story — which meant that the romance was not between a ghost and a woman, but that there was a ghost and there was a romance. I also remember reading Antoinette Stockinberg’s Emily’s Ghost and loving it, and also her follow up books, as well as Jill Jones’s paranormals. But I don’t know that I’ve read that many romances in which the hero or heroine are a ghost. Wait. I forgot about Jude Devereaux’s A Knight in Shining Armor. I probably read that one first. Loved it, too, by the way. MMC: When did you first become interested in writing paranormal romances? Colleen: When I was reading Barbara Michaels, Antoinette Stockinberg and Jill Jones, which must have been in the early ‘90s. Around that time, I actually wrote two paranormal romances—and by paranormal romances, I mean ones with paranormal elements; not ones with vampire heroes or werewolf heroines or angels or anything like that. Those two romances I absolutely love and hope that someone will want to publish them one day. One is about a haunted deck of Tarot cards, and the other is about a haunted antiques shop. MMC: Who influenced you the most in your writing? Colleen: I think some of my favorite authors have influenced me. For example, Elizabeth Peters (who also writes as Barbara Michaels) is one of my comfort reads/keeper-authors, and from her I learned the beauty of subtlety. How very subtle one can be and by doing so, make the sexual tension high and tight. I also learned from Roberta Gellis, who wrote the Roselynde Chronicles, how to infiltrate fiction with good historical fact and feeling. She does a great job of this. MMC: What is your writing schedule like? Colleen: I started off writing when I had a day job, and for me, that meant writing at night after the kids were in bed, instead of watching TV. So I’m a late in the day writer still, even though I write full-time and have all day. Usually, my day starts with catching up on email, writing a blog entry, visiting other blogs, doing the business end of writing. I might do research, read for a bit, send out a few email correspondences, etc. Then I have lunch and while I’m at lunch, depending how things are going with the book, I either read for pleasure or I read research books or I sit and stare into space while I’m eating while I try to figure out what I’m going to write about that day. The kids get home from school around four o’clock, but I keep working until 6:00 or so. Have dinner, do all the other things that I love to do with the family, get everyone to bed, and then get back to the computer by 9:00ish. MMC: How much time do you dedicate to research for your stories? Colleen: I usually research as I go, so it’d hard to say. It also depends on the book. Since I’m writing in the same time period right now, I have a lot of that kind of research either done, or resources at my fingertips...but when I move the story to a different geographic location, as I did in Rises the Night and The Bleeding Dusk, I have to do more research on place, of course. MMC: Let's talk a little about world-building. How did you come up with your backstory for the Gardella Vampire Chronicles series? And how does that setting affect your main characters? Colleen: Some of the backstory just kind of popped in my head as I was writing. It just kind of worked itself out—the idea of a family legacy of vampire hunters, and how they’re chosen, and what their skills are. How they get their strength, things like that. It just came to me when I needed to know. (I think they call it grace under pressure—when it was time to explain that stuff in the book, I had to have an answer, so an answer appeared!) But some of it is still being developed as the series develops. Like my protagonist Victoria, I don’t know all there is to know about the Gardellas and their legacy, as well as their history, quite yet. Some of the questions arise as I go along and I realize I have to have an answer for them, and so I do. As for the vampire mythology in the Gardella books...the idea that Judas Iscariot was the first vampire came, not from Dracula 2000 (starring the luscious Gerard Butler), but from a small two-line paragraph I found when I was researching vampire mythology. And I built on it from there. MMC: What attracts you about the paranormal characters you write about? Colleen: I love writing about a strong woman who is self-sufficient in some ways, and not so confident in others. It’s a fun mixture of things — and then I get to overlay on top of that the whole historical setting, the mores and culture of the time, and wow! It’s just a lot of fun to think of ways to juxtapose these different facets in the story. That’s the most fun of the story. I don’t have cell phones to rescue the heroine, I don’t have the Internet, and cars, and medical science, etc. I have to rely on the time period, the legends and beliefs of it, and impose a female superhero on top of it! MMC: Let's talk about The Rest Falls Away. Can you tell us a little about it? Where did you get the idea for this story? Colleen: The Rest Falls Away is the first in the Gardella Vampire Chronicles, and thus the first book about Victoria Gardella Grantworth, my protagonist who will appear in five books. It’s the story of a young woman, who on the eve of her debut into Regency-era Society, finds out that she is the next in her family’s long line of vampire hunters. She learns that she’s called to hunt the evil creatures, and that in order to do so, she’s armed with special powers that are enhanced and strengthened by a special holy amulet that she wears. So Victoria, who’s not a reluctant hero at all, is rather intrigued by the whole thing because she realizes what kind of freedom this is going to give her in a world where women are supposed to be little more than half of a corporate merger, and a womb for an heir. She embraces her new role and is determined to have a wonderful Season in London, snare a husband (preferably the handsome, rich, and eligible Marquess of Rockley), and kill a few vampires on the way. Unfortunately, she finds out it’s not as easy as she thinks. MMC: What do you enjoy most about writing this book? Colleen: It was a chance to write about a strong, unique female in a historical setting that allowed me to push the boundaries. I love the characters and how they interact — Victoria and her three men, and how they all move betwixt and between each other so interestingly — each of them having their own agendas, yet unwilling to reveal them. It’s a lot of fun to place that against the historical backdrop, and add in the paranormal aspect. MMC: What challenges have you faced in the process of writing this story? Colleen: The fact that I don’t know what’s going to happen until it does when I write a book makes it quite challenging sometimes! Now that I’m getting ready to work on the fourth Gardella book, one would think it would get a little easier — that I’d have to provide synopses to my editor and that I’d know where the series is going — and although I do know about some things on a big-picture scale, I still don’t know most of the events that will get me there. But then again... that makes it fun to write, even though I fear I’ll go bald some day! MMC: Let's say you've just landed a movie deal, and you get to pick the actor who'll play the hero from one of your books. Who would you pick and why? Colleen:: Ooooh....and I have three heroes to choose from in The Rest Falls Away. Let’s see... Lord Phillip de Lacey, Marquess of Rockley: would probably be Patrick Wilson (Raoul from The Phantom of the Opera) because of his classic good looks, and deep-set, hooded eyes. Or maybe Nicholas Cage or Sean Bean. I think if Matthew McConaughey would clean up a bit, he’d be a great Sebastian Vioget. He’s got that golden look, and oozes charm like you wouldn’t believe. And Clive Owen would be my pick for Max Pesaro, though he’d have to learn to be a bit more brooding than most of the movies I’ve seen him in. Maybe Gerard Butler would be a better pick, based on his portrayal of the Phantom. MMC: How about future releases, are there any other Gardella Vampire Chronicles books coming up? Can you give us a preview? Colleen: Sure... Rises the Night, the second installment, will be on shelves June 5th. In this second book, Victoria ends up in Venice and then Rome as she tries to stop a powerful vampire from hatching his plot. She’ll meet Lord Byron and John Polidori during her travels, and she’ll attend a very interesting opera. I just finished writing the third Gardella book, The Bleeding Dusk, which will be released in February 2008, and in this one, Victoria stays in Rome and works with some of the other Venators (vampire hunters) to find out how to open Rome’s Door of Alchemy. The fourth book will be released in late 2008, and that should take Victoria and Company back to London. MMC: Now for the fun questions. What's something that your readers may not know about you? Colleen: I went to an all-girls’ Catholic high school—uniforms, knee socks, nuns, and all! MMC: What’s your favorite vampire movie? Colleen: Dracula 2000 because Gerard Butler is hothothothothot in it. MMC: Do you have a favorite food/beverage/music do you always have on hand while you're writing? Colleen: I drink Faygo Sparkling Water (orange or grapefruit flavors) when I’m at home. When I’m at the café writing, I usually drink Tazo’s Mambo herbal tea, either cold or hot. Sometimes I spring for a chai latte, though. YUM. MMC: Can you give us an idea of what your writing/working area looks like? Colleen: A mess? Actually, I have a great office. It’s in a loft in my house, and my computer desk is right next to a huge plate glass window that overlooks my front yard and street (which is also east, which means that the morning brings a bright blast of sunlight through it!) I have lots of things around my desk to remind me of who/what’s important to me and my work, and behind me I have lots of bookshelves with my favorite books, as well as research. On the wall to the left of my desk I have my book collage hanging, along with pictures of and made by my kids, photos, knick-knacks, and a few shelves with other important things on them that people have given me. In short, it’s my space with all of my things around me that remind me of who I am and what’s important to me. MMC: Do you have any obsessions? Collections? Colleen: I collect antique Nancy Drew books, and also first edition Georgette Heyer books. I also have been eBaying—er, adding — to my collection of first edition childrens’ series books that I read when I was younger — besides Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden, I have The Three Investigators and the Willard Price Adventure books. MMC: Do you have a newsletter, blog, or website where fans can read about you and your books? Colleen: I do! Yes. I have a blog that I update nearly every day (and I have lots of contests too)...and my newsletter sign up is available through my blog or website. Web site: http://www.colleengleason.com Blog: http://www.colleengleason.com/wordpress/ Newsletter: http://www.colleengleason.com/contact.php Thank you so much for having me! These were great questions and I loved answering them. I’ll be happy to take questions in the comments section too. Contest Time! Ms. Gleason will be giving away a copy of her upcoming release, Rises the Night. Blurb: The glorious nineteenth-century city of Rome gives rise to a new threat from the Immortal Undead... Victoria Gardella has been a vampire slayer for just over a year, balancing her life as a peer of Society with the dangerous role that takes her out on moonlit streets, stake in hand. As Victoria races across Europe to stop what could be the most deadly army the Gardellas have ever faced, she is accompanied by the unlikely Sebastian Vioget, a man as tempting as he is untrustworthy. But when Victoria discovers that she has been betrayed by one of her most trusted allies, the truth will challenge all her powers as a Venator – and as a woman. Has this wet your appetite? *wg* Then all you have to do is post your comments and questions here. A winner will be chosen among those who post.

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen Vampire Movies I Can't Stop Watching 1. Interview with the Vampire 2. Blade 3. Dracula 4. Vampire in Brooklyn 5. Embrace of the Vampire 6. Dracula 2000 7. Vampires 8. Once Bitten 9. Dracula: Dead and Loving It 10. Buffy the Vampire Slayer 11. Bud Abbott Lou Costello Meet Frankenstein 12. Shadow of the Vampire 13. Queen of the Damned Links to other Thursday Thirteens! 1. Tilly Greene 2. Jennifer Shirk 3. Elle Fredix 4. Diana Castilleja 5. Heather 6. Christine D'Abo 7. Kissa Sterling 8. Gina Ardito 9. Jennifer McKenzie 10. Gwen Hayes 11. Joely Sue Burkhart 12. Daisy Dexter Dobbs 13. Rhian 14. Cora Zane 15. Rene Lyons 16. Rhonda Stapleton 17. RG Alexander Get the Thursday Thirteen code here! The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted! View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Hump Day Hunk

Today's hunk is latino singer named Sebastian Rulli. Looking all wet, he reminds me of one of those naughty water demons or a merman, doesn't he? Thanks Cassandra for bringing this wonderful specimen to our attention. *winks* Happy Hump Day!

We're having a Paranormal Regency Brew

This coming Thursday, May 31, the Midnight Moon Cafe has the pleasure to sit with a new voice in paranormal romance, Colleen Gleason, for fun tete-a-tete. Ms. Gleason is the author of the Gardella Vampire Chronicles. Vampires and hunters in Regency England.. oh my! Her first book, The Rest Falls Away, the story of Victoria Gardella Grantworth, came out back in January 2007. Rises The Night, the second installment of the series, will be out this June. Blurb for Rises The Night: The glorious nineteenth-century city of Rome gives rise to a new threat from the Immortal Undead... Victoria Gardella has been a vampire slayer for just over a year, balancing her life as a peer of Society with the dangerous role that takes her out on moonlit streets, stake in hand. As Victoria races across Europe to stop what could be the most deadly army the Gardellas have ever faced, she is accompanied by the unlikely Sebastian Vioget, a man as tempting as he is untrustworthy. But when Victoria discovers that she has been betrayed by one of her most trusted allies, the truth will challenge all her powers as a Venator – and as a woman. If this has wet your appetite for more, then come and join us! As always, we'll have a contest in which the winner will receive a copy of Ms. Gleason's Rises The Night. This is a Midnight Brew you don't want to miss! Mark your calendars for Thursday, May 31.

I've been "HEX"

Last night BBC America ran a marathon of the series HEX. Although I've heard it mentioned before, I'd not watched the series. Until last night. What can I say? Blood Ties season ended and I was bored. Anyway I'm glad I watched the whole thing! It got me hook, so now I'll be glued in front of the TV every supernatural Saturday to watch HEX. Although it has been compared to Buffy: The Vampire Slayer, I couldn't see the connection at all. The premise is that the Watchers are a troop of angels tasked with watching over and protecting Mankind, but they became infatuated with mortal women. So they descended to Earth and satisfied their lust with them, spawning a race of gigantic monsters, the Nephilim. For the sin of lust, the Watchers were banished from Heaven and were condemned to roam the Earth for eternity. Out of revenge, they taught Mankind the arts of magic and warfare. Their leader was called "Azaziel". So the story follows Cassandra Hughes, who attends a boarding school with her best friend Thelma, who is lesbian and infatuated with Cassie, and who becomes a ghost in the second show. Cassie's world is turned upside down when she discovers a canary. You see, what she doesn't know is that she's a descendant of witches, and Azaziel awakens her witch powers because he has wanted them. He especially wants Cassie to have his baby, whose birth could unleash 200 demons. So far nothing like Buffy, eh? *lol* As if the premise of the show wasn't enough to keep me watching 9 hours of HEX, the fallen angel Azaziel is played by none other than Michael Fassbender. Oooooh... what a gorgeous fallen angel he makes! (With an fallen angel like him, I'd sure sin until toes curl and my eyes get all crossed!) His eyes... oh my... they're so hypnotic. You only have to look at them and see what he's feeling. And we all caught a good luck at his fabulous body in 300, in which he played Stelios. *purrs*

Aphrodisiacs and sexy food

Sexy Foods: Your Edible Aphrodisiacs By Joy Davis Skip the love potions and toss the Viagra -- a simple trip to the grocery store may be all you need to make your sex life sizzle like never before. Just put some anchovies, oysters and licorice in the cart and you may be well on your way to a recipe for love. But is it really that simple, and does it work? The notion that certain foods are natural aphrodisiacs with libido-lifting qualities is almost as old as time itself. In fact, the ancient Greeks used aphrodisiacs for age-old problems like relieving sexual anxieties, increasing fertility and boosting sexual performance. In those times, Casanova had the skinny on erotic edibles. As legend has it, he seduced a virgin by sliding an oyster from his lips to hers, arousing her sexual appetite. But before you dismiss it as mere myth, there’s logic behind the folklore. Oysters are high in zinc, which boosts testosterone levels -- a hormone important for the sexual functioning of both men and women. While there is no sound scientific proof that aphrodisiacs exist, new studies are slowly backing up the love-food phenomena. Researchers are discovering some foods contain certain vitamins and minerals that can serve as sexual stimulants and are associated with a healthy libido. Translation: Eating the right food can turn up the heat in the bedroom. But of course, the proof is in the pudding. Check out these sexy foods and watch the sparks fly. Chili can literally heat things up fast because of something called capsaicin -- it’s the active ingredient that gives a spicy kick to peppers, curries and flavorfully hot foods. It’s said to work by increasing blood flow to certain areas of the body and facilitating sexual performance. The hot spices raise the heart rate and release the "feel-good" endorphins that give you the feeling of having a natural high. Chocolate, another popular aphrodisiac contains a substance called phenylalanine -- an amino acid known for raising the body's endorphins. Try a few pieces for a tantalizing boost before or during sex. The Chinese have used licorice for medicinal purposes in ancient times. Licorice is supposedly 50 times sweeter than sugar, which makes it particularly stimulating to the senses. Licorice is said to be especially erotic for women. Celery is not the first food that comes to mind when you think of sexy foods, but don’t underestimate its potential for passion. It can be a great sexual stimulator because it contains androsterone, a hormone released through male perspiration that supposedly turns us on. Ladies, need a little incentive with your partner? Serve him up a celery salad and slip into something comfortable… Nutmeg has been highly praised by Chinese women as an aphrodisiac. In large quantities nutmeg can produce a hallucinogenic effect. Try sprinkling a light touch of nutmeg in a warm pumpkin soup -- to help spice up your evening -- or carry some in your purse for a date gone wrong. Asparagus has been regarded as symbol of fertility throughout the ages because of its suggestive shape. It’s also high in vitamin E, which supplies oxygen to the sexual organs. Try feeding your lover steamed spears for a sensual experience. Bananas are an excellent source of potassium and B vitamins, which are known to help men and women reach orgasm and improve sexual stamina. Bananas also contain bromelain enzyme, which is believed to improve the male libido. Ladies, if he’s a little sluggish in the passion department, make him a delicious banana milkshake with each meal -- and drink some yourself. Unsexy foods, or foods that can affect the libido negatively, can wreak havoc in the bedroom. Just as certain foods can stimulate sexual desire, these foods deter from it. To make sure your engine’s always performing at peak level, avoid consuming too many carbohydrates, fats, alcohol and fried foods. Other no-no’s include overindulging in carbs and fats, which can lead to hardening of the arteries and decreased circulation to the genitals. In men, too much fried food can cause a buildup of trans fats, which can decrease testosterone and increase abnormal sperm. Also keep away from foods that are processed and high in sugar and salt. They can lead to difficulty in reaching orgasm and a lack of interest in sex. Ready to serve up some sexy food? Light the candles, put on some Barry White and start the romance in the kitchen -- good lovin' is on the menu tonight. http://www.ediets.com/news/article.cfm/2/cmi_2000487/code_30171

Weekend Flirt Alert!

You Are a Coy Flirt! You're not so much a flirt as the type of girl who draws flirts in While you look like you're just relaxing, secretly you've got your game on A little look here, a little wink there... you give men the encouragement they crave And in return, they flirt up a storm with you - while you just sit and smile What Kind of Flirt Are You? It's a holiday weekend, so what better time to flirt? Break out that megawatt smile and your silliest jokes, and get ready to dive into the scene while those Memorial Day picnics and group outings are going on. Need a little Flirting 101 to help get you started? Did you know there are things you can do, and places you can go to better your flirting chances? It's true! And the SIRC, (Social Issues Research Centre) has done all the hard work for you! According to the SIRC flirting is an important skill to know. They say "Flirting is a basic instinct, part of human nature." and that "According to some evolutionary psychologists, flirting may even be the foundation of civilisation as we know it." But that's just the sciency parts! The SIRC offers a FREE downloadable PDF Guide to Flirting. It offers plenty of practical flirting skills, such as where to go, and how to kickstart a flirty conversation. Did you know humor really does count? And it's not so much the ladies looking for that sense of humor... Read the website article to find out more about the importance of humor when flirting, then download the guide for free. It's worth a look! *bats eyelashes*

Winner of the Witch contest

Lady Luck has drawn the name of the winner of Shirley Damsgaard's contest. The winner is... Yolanda from Australia! Congratulations! *throws confetti* Enjoy reading Witch Way to Murder. *g*

The Midnight Moon Cafe presents Shirley Damsgaard

Our guest today, paranormal mystery author Shirley Damsgaard, who lives in the Midwest, comes from a literary family. Her aunt, Maggie Damsgaard, was the author of numerous short stories and children books in the 1970’s. Shirley is the author of the Ophelia and Abby Mystery series, which includes Witch Way to Murder, Charmed to Death, The Trouble with Witches, and her latest, Witch Hunt, will be released at the end of May. The Midnight Moon Cafe is honored to present Shirley Damsgaard! MMC: Do you remember the first paranormal romance you ever read? Shirley: To be honest, I really can’t remember! I’ve read “grown-up” novels ever since adolescence. I do remember the local librarian raising an eyebrow at some of my selections—I don’t think she thought the books I checked out were “age—appropriate!” And I’ve always read books, both fiction and non-fiction, dealing with the paranormal. MMC: Who influenced you the most in your writing? Shirley: The authors I’ve read over the years have had the most influence and there’s too many to list them all, but they’ve had an affect either directly or indirectly. Barbara Michaels/Elizabeth Peters is at the top of that list. I love her paranormal suspense. And Amelia Peabody? I think she’s one of the best women characters I’ve ever come across. MMC: Let's talk a little about world-building. How did you come up with your backstory for the Ophelia and Abby Mystery series? And how does that setting affect your main characters? Shirley: As a reader, I’ve grown tired of reading about young ingénues who get rescued at the eleventh hour by the hunky hero. At this stage of my life, I just can’t relate to that kind of a character anymore. Because of this attitude, when I was coming up with ideas for WITCH WAY TO MURDER, I knew I wanted a strong woman protagonist—a woman with a past, one who’s experienced life and is carrying around a few scars as a result. Also at my age, I appreciate the importance of knowing yourself and accepting who and what you are, far more so now than when I was younger. So those two things had a huge impact on the character of Ophelia. She begins the story wrapped up in bitterness over what life’s dealt her due to her talents, and through the course of the book, she learns that she can’t hide from who she is. MMC: I love Abby. She is such an adorable grandmother. Where did you get the idea for the characters of Ophelia and Abby and these stories? Shirley: Abby isn’t based on a specific person in my life, but after I’d completed Witch Way to Murder, it became apparent to me that I’d unconsciously based much of Ophelia and Abby’s relationship on the one that I’d shared with my mom when she was alive. I was amazed—I hadn’t set out to do that—it just kind of happened! But if I had to pinpoint whom Abby is most like, I suppose it would be a combination of my mother, Rosey Harrison Damsgaard, and my beloved Aunt Speck. They were both strong independent women before it was fashionable to be so and were always my role models. And Ophelia? Well, my oldest daughter says when Ophelia talks, she hears me! I really wouldn’t say Ophelia is base on me—I’m not psychic and I don’t practice folk magick—but I guess we do share a lot of the same values. MMC: The fourth book in the Ophelia and Abby Mystery series, Witch Hunt, will be released now in May from HarperCollins. Tell us a bit about it. How does this story continue your series? Shirley: In Witch Hunt, Ophelia is now experiencing the joys of parenting a teenage girl—and all the drama that relationship can entail! She’s on a big learning curve with that one! That situation adds another dimension to her relationship with Abby. Abby’s right there, to offer advice on raising Tink, whether Ophelia wants that advice or not! Also her friendship with Darci is expanding and growing deeper. At the beginning of WITCH HUNT, Ophelia is looking forward to a little peace and quiet as she concentrates on integrating Tink into her life and teaching her, with Abby’s help, how to use her talent as a medium. But when an outlaw biker gang takes up residence in Summerset, things begin to happen. Ophelia wants no part of it, but is forced to become involved when Darci’s cousin, Becca, is found with a dead biker in her bed and it’s her prints on the knife! MMC: What did you enjoy most about writing this story? Shirley: One of the things I love most about writing is when the unexpected happens, and it did in WITCH HUNT. As the story progressed, a theme developed about women—how we look at ourselves, how we allow relationships, especially those with men, to affect that perception, and how our friendships with other women color our world. As a result of this theme, I wound up learning more about myself and what some of my attitudes are in my personal life--always a good thing! This theme also gave me the chance to celebrate something that’s important to me—my friendships. I’ve always been blessed with terrific girlfriends, and they mean more to me than I can say, so it was great to use those feelings in the story to create more depth and meaning to Darci and Ophelia’s relationship. In fact, WITCH HUNT is dedicated to my, so to speak, partners in crime, Cheryl, June, and Cindy. MMC: I love the chemistry between Ophelia and Rick. Is there a possible romance between those two in the future? Shirley: Well, so far, Ophelia hasn’t been too lucky in love! What does the future hold for her? I really don’t know! Some of the readers like the fact that she’s unencumbered, and others would like to see her in love! I don’t know which path her life will take. I do know I don’t want to fall into “another book—another man” kind of scenario. Darci does con her into trying speed dating in The Witch Is Dead and with disastrous results, of course! MMC: Is there another Ophelia and Abby Mystery in the works? Shirley: The Witch Is Dead, the fifth book in the series, goes on sale August 28th. After that? In the future, I’d like to see Ophelia, Abby, and Tink visit Abby’s childhood home in Appalachia and let the reader finally meet the infamous Great-Aunt Mary whom Abby’s always mentioning. In fact, in October, I’ll be attending the Woman’s Expo in Kingsport, TN, and am planning on researching that story while I’m there. I’d also like to use the growing Iowa wine industry as a setting for a future book. Yes, I know, in most people’s minds “Iowa” and “wine” don’t go together, but all the more reason it would make a great backdrop for a story! However, I learned a long time ago that life’s an adventure and one never knows what twists and turns it might take. That applies to Ophelia and Abby, too! MMC: For those not familiar with your work, which book would you recommend to read first and why? Shirley: I always like to start at the beginning of a series myself, so I’d recommend the first book of the Ophelia and Abby Mysteries, Witch Way to Murder. Hopefully, that way the reader has a better understanding of who Ophelia is and what drives her. They also can see the character grow as the series progresses. MMC: What do you think is the key writing a truly memorable story? Shirley: The characters! One a reader can relate to and care about, then throw in some adventure and suspense, and you’ve got a winner!. MMC: What keeps you writing day after day? Shirley: Easy—the readers!!! I’ve been an avid reader all of my life, and there’s been many a time a good story helped get me through some rough spots. It would take my mind away from my problems and give me a much needed break. When I receive a message from a reader, or meet one, who tells me that’s what an Ophelia and Abby story did for them, or how much they enjoyed reading about Ophelia and Abby’s adventures—well, it’s just the best feeling in the world! MMC: Now for the fun questions! What's something that your readers may not know about you? Shirley: I get very cranky if I can’t have my morning coffee!!! And I love to talk! The later is the reason my oldest daughter thinks I love writing dialogue! I can control all sorts of conversations when I’m writing. MMC: What’s your favorite guilty pleasure? Shirley: Pizza! And I’m very picky—crispy crust, Italian sausage, mushrooms, and extra cheese, please!!! Goes straight to the hips, but oh well! MMC: Do you have any obsessions, collections? Shirley: I think my kids would probably say writing! I’ve always been the type of person that I’m either “in” or I’m “out.” I’ve never been able to do things half-way, so when I’m nearing a deadline, I’m like a race horse approaching the finish line! My total focus is getting to the point where I’m able to write “The End!” And collections? Since I started writing Ophelia and Abby, I’ve been given a lot of “witchy” things. One of my favorites was gift from an independent bookseller who is now a good friend. It’s a plaque that says “THE WITCH IS IN!” MMC: Do you have a newsletter, blog, or website where fans can read about you and your books? Readers can contact me via my website www.shirleydamsgaard.com. And yes, I do have a newsletter--well, sort of! Between writing the series and working full time, I do have a bit of a problem sending one out on a regular basis, but I'm working on improving that! I'd like to thank you, Tempest, for having me as a guest at Midnight Moon Café! It's been a pleasure! It's Contest Time! One lucky reader will win a copy of one of Ms. Damsgaard's books. All you have to do is send an email with your name, address, and the title of the book you wish to win to: midnightmooncafe@gmail. Write in the subject: Abbey and Ophelia Contest This contest will end tonight at the strike of midnight. So hurry and send those emails! *g*

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen of My Favorite Paranormal TV Shows 1. Blood Ties 2. Witchblade 3. Highlander 4. Dark Angel 5. Special Unit 2 6. Bewitched 7. Dead Zone 8. Hercules 9. Charmed 10. Dark Shadows 11. Angel 12. Buffy: The Vampire Slayer 13. Forever Knight Links to other Thursday Thirteens! 1. Tilly Greene 2. Jennifer Shirk 3. Elle Fredix 4. Diana Castilleja 5. Heather 6. Christine D'Abo 7. Kissa Sterling 8. Gina Ardito 9. Jennifer McKenzie 10. Gwen Hayes 11. Joely Sue Burkhart 12. Daisy Dexter Dobbs 13. Rhian 14. Cora Zane 15. Rene Lyons 16. Rhonda Stapleton Get the Thursday Thirteen code here! The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted! View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Hump Day Hunk

Another of our sexy werecats is here to make your day a brighter one. *winks* Happy Hump Day!

Murder, Mystery, and Witches at the next Midnight Brew...

...when paranormal mystery author, Shirley Damsgaard, drops by the Café for a little tete-a-tete. She is an American writer living in the Midwest. In addition to short stories, she comes from a literary family. Her aunt, Maggie Damsgaard, was the author of numerous short stories and children books in the 1970’s. Mrs. Damsgaard is the author of the Ophelia and Abby Mystery series, which includes Witch Way to Murder, Charmed to Death, and The Trouble with Witches. Her latest, Witch Hunt, will be released at the end of May. Blurb: Small-town librarian Ophelia Jensen is finally starting to embrace her lot as one of the "chosen"—a psychic and folk magick practitioner, a.k.a. a witch. Expert loving guidance from her magickally adept grandmother Abby helps—and adopting Tink, an exceptionally talented teenage medium, has given Ophelia's life new purpose . . . until a brutal murder clouds the sunshine of their days. Ophelia's co-worker and best friend, Darci, is distraught when her cousin is implicated in the small Iowa town of Summerset's most recent murder—the violent death of a biker. Unfortunately for Darci's cousin, it's her fingerprints all over the murder weapon. She claims she's innocent, but it'll take Ophelia and Abby more than a good incantation or two to get to the bottom of this crime—what with ghosts, crooked cops, secret identities, and a small army of outlaw bikers thrown into this devil's brew. One lucky reader will win a copy of one of Ms. Damsgaard's books. So bring your favorite beverage and join us this Thursday, May 24, at the Midnight Moon Cafe!

It's the Gemini time again...

Yep. It's that time when Gemini is ready to rule its small part of the year. Why do I make a big deal of it? Nope, I'm not Gemini, but interestingly enough all my ex-boyfriends were born under the Twin sign. Heh! Gemini - 2007 Overview Gemini thrives on change, variety and mental stimulation. You will attract these in all areas of your life, making for a very exciting year. Use your talent of looking at your emotions objectively to come to terms with them when you don't understand logically what's going on in your life. Emotions are like events to you, and you have the ability to categorize them well. Your ability to feel connected with people will help keep strong relationships going this year. Treat life's challenges as projects and you will inevitably figure out what's going on. You will make long strides in your career this year -- as long as you keep faith in yourself. The energy you put into your work will allow you to experience many material blessings in your home environment. Pay close attention to your own creative ideas. Many new inspirational ideas are coming your way and you will benefit by putting your ideas into action in your career. It's important for you to be recognized and feel appreciated for your efforts. You attract a variety off people with your great charm, and you have a natural ability to gain admiration. You'll feel energized by the opposite sex. For most of the year, communication will be top priority, and you'll be asked to articulate your inspirational ideas in some kind of writing project. Friends and family are key in helping you manifest your desires, especially in the latter part of the year, and the chance to deepen your relationships with them makes you very happy!

Dominant Territory - Coming in June

SNEAK PEEK! My latest Werekind novella, Dominant Territory, has been contracted through Cobblestone Press, and is slated for June release! About the book: The moment Libby steps into the Moonlight Run with her girlfriends, she realizes they have made a serious mistake. One look at the clientele and she knows this is no place to have a ladies night out. The backwoods bar is isolated for a very good reason—they cater to local werewolves on the eve of the change. Drake never thought himself the type to consider a human for a mate. Then Libby shows up and crosses over into Werekind territory. One look at her and his heart is lost. After one dance, he'll stop at nothing to claim her for his own... Dominant Territory ties in with all my previous Werekind books, including the freebies: Heart on Fire, and Under A Midnight Moon. So, if you liked those, you're in for a treat. Keep checking back here at the MMC for more Dominant Territory info related to the release, excerpts, cover and more!

Winner of A Paranormal Tapas is...

...Erica! Congratulations Erica! You've won a gift certificate from Amber Heat/Amber Quill Press! I know you will enjoy your Kiss! Please email us at: midnightmooncafe@gmail.com so we can send your prize! Remember, you're always a winner at the Midnight Moon Cafe!

Welcome to A Paranormal Tapas!

Nibbles and bites and kisses...better than foreplay, these delightful and decadent paranormal short stories and novellas are tasty snacks perfect for readers who enjoy the unearthly delights of a wickedly hot kiss! The Midnight Brew Welcomes A Paranormal Tapas, a sampling of paranormal stories from erotic romance publisher Amber Heat! Witches, faery folk, vampires, shifters, werewolves, demons, dragons and ghosts walk the electronic halls of Amber Heat. Our first morsel is a sensual firestarter involving dragons. The Dragon's Choice by April Reid Since the day Shimmara d' Assana had been chosen to become the bride of the Dragon King, her only consolation was the bride price paid to her impoverished family, and her secret dreams of desire for her bodyguard. Now the wedding day had arrived. Tonight she would be chained to the sacred Bride's Pillar and wait for the dragon king to claim his bride. Tonight, she would die. Rion d' Vortimer knew he shouldn't be attracted to Shimmara. He'd been her bodyguard for a year and had done everything to avoid giving in to passion. But their sexual desire for each other was too great. And fully aware they both risked a horrific death, they made love. Rion was determined to fight to his death to keep Shimmara safe, even though doing so would reveal a secret that would tear them apart. Genres: Fantasy / Paranormal / Shapeshifter Heat Level: 1 Length: Extended Amber Kiss (12k words) http://amberquill.com/AmberHeat/DragonsChoice.html Excerpt from The Dragon's Choice by April Reid Shimmara d’Assana, soon to be bride of the Dragon King, woke as the last pale rays of light from the smaller moon, Zurir, washed across her face. Yawning, she stretched her arms wide in the predawn coolness, then snuggled back into the warmth of the cazwool covers. She’d dreamed of the warrior prince again—a guilty secret she hid from everyone, even her bodyguard, Rion. ::I shared your dreams,:: her female fairy-dragon, Cherry, said mentally from its place on a pillow beside Shimmara. ::You do well to hide your thoughts from all who live in this place.:: Shimmara stroked the iridescent red and silver scales on the dainty head and muzzle of her forever-friend. ::You taught me how to hide my thoughts, even from the great dragons of Cymbria who fly overhead on their way to other lands.:: Cherry spread her red wings with their delicate tracings of green and silver, then folded them neatly along her sides. ::Those beings are peaceful, not like the dragon king.:: ::He’s as evil as the one who used to raid Standing Stone meadow.:: Lost in memories of home, Shimmara rubbed the scar on the underside of her right wrist. ::Dearling::—the fairy-dragon spread her wings and gave a little hop—::speaking of a raid, the Shagar trees are loaded with ripe fruit, and I haven’t eaten in hours.:: Shimmara gave a soft laugh and sat up. ::We can’t let you waste away to a shadow. That handsome green male I saw you with two days ago would be disappointed.:: Thinking of another attractive male, she looked to the other side of the sleeping chamber where Rion d’Vortimer slept across the inner door, blocking it with his body. Just looking at him made her heart beat faster. She’d hidden her desire for him because of the vow she’d made at eleven and renewed a year ago to be the betrothed of the dragon king. Her family and all the villagers whose lands and homes had been ravaged by the rogue dragons depended on her to meet the price of peace. Closing her eyes as if to shut out the coming task, Shimmara took a deep breath, then slowly exhaled. She would keep her promise no matter how difficult. While these thoughts flashed across her mind, she gazed at Rion, taking advantage of the rare opportunity to see him asleep. His face was in shadows, but the curved blade of the lethal sword close to his hand glimmered in the faint light. For the last year, since the moment she’d been selected as this year’s bride for the dragon king, Rion had watched over her, keeping her safe from those who wanted to ravage the chosen bride... Ready for another tasty paranormal treat? Faery magick and fortunes collide in this spicy little kiss. Cup Of Fate by Cassandra Curtis Can one woman find true love in tea leaves? Or is it a tempest in a teacup? Bryn Tuttle lost everything due to her bad taste in men. Now she's starting over fresh. In the misty bluegrass hills of Kentucky, she finds a new job, apartment and friends. When a co-worker invites her yard-sale shopping one weekend, she decides to tag along, never realizing fate has something else in store. They discover a rare item—a mysterious, antique, fortune-telling teacup. Bryn never suspects that a single sip from the Cup of Fate will change her life, that her future is actually linked to the tea leaves that cling inside. But when she drinks from the cup and next awakens, she soon comprehends that nothing will ever be the same... Genres: Paranormal / Fantasy / Magic Heat Level: 2 Length: Extended Amber Kiss (12k words) http://www.amberquill.com/AmberHeat/CupFate.html Excerpt from Cup Of Fate by Cassandra Curtis “You’re dreaming again. All’s well. Breath slow and deep.” The voice was smooth as melted chocolate and reassuring. The farmhouse faded and a new dream took its place. The gentle scrape of an unshaven face on her shoulder finished the transition. But it was the warm male lips kissing the nape of her neck that made it seem all too real. A pair of strong arms snaked around her midriff and pulled her back against a taut, muscular chest. It seemed so long since anyone had held her close and offered comfort. Bryn gave herself up to this new dream and snuggled, loving the warmth of his body. That didn’t make sense. How could a dream lover give off heat? She decided not to examine it closer, just simply enjoy it while it lasted. The wet lap of a tongue licked her earlobe. She squirmed in his arms. “Does that tickle?” he asked, whispering against the curve of her jaw. “Yes…ahh,” she murmured as his lips kissed her throat and his hands began to wander. She gasped when his fingers tugged at her nipples, rolling them between thumb and forefinger. She closed her eyes, savoring all the sensations he was causing throughout her body. She felt his hand slide down her hip to her thigh. He grasped the hem of her silky nightgown and slowly pulled it up until it bunched above her waist. He placed hot kisses on her hipbone and all along her thigh, before moving her so she lay on her back… Or perhaps your hidden desires require the sensual services of a demon? Nana's Little Black Book by Shannon Leigh A firm believer in alternative medicine, Catrina’s recently deceased grandmother had a tincture or tea to cure everything from sore throats to insomnia. But when Catrina discovers a secret vault beneath the braided carpet in Nana’s room, one filled with various artifacts of magic, to say she was befuddled would be an understatement. What secrets had died with her mysterious Nana? And what ones would she discover within this strange treasure trove? One item in particular draws her attention, a little black book that seems widely out of place. As she investigates this strange tome, Catrina discovers that it’s a phone book for summoning a male demon who will carry out whatever duty the bookkeeper requires of him. Inadvertently, her fingers brush the calling pad within, bringing forth Malthus, the Earl of Hell. While his previous tasks for her Nana mainly included general carpentry, Malthus plans on fulfilling some of Catrina’s more carnal needs as well... Genres: Fantasy / Witchcraft / Magic / Shapeshifter Heat Level: 2 Length: Extended Amber Kiss (13k words) http://www.amberquill.com/AmberHeat/NanasBlackBook.html Excerpt from Nana's Little Black Book by Shannon Leigh …Catrina let out a long sigh, then stood. Until she could figure out the best way to contain Nana’s secrets, she supposed keeping them buried in the floor vault would have to suffice. She started toward the exposed chamber, intent on replacing all the items she’d removed. Scarcely three steps from the bed, she dropped the little black book. It landed on the floor with a firm smack! Of course, dropped was probably an understatement, the book practically leapt from her hand. “Well that’s strange,” she declared. It was almost as if the book didn’t want to go back in the vault. Normally, that would seem like a strange notion, but at this point she was willing to accept anything. Bending over, she reached for the book. Just as her fingers brushed the cover, it raced across the floor away from her. “Hey!” Catrina protested, running after the estranged volume. It sped toward the door, across the threshold, and into the living room. Catrina hurried after it, praying the darn thing didn’t slip through the gap under the front door and head down the street. While there were few neighbors in the cul-de-sac, she imagined the ones she did have would think she was nuts, running after a renegade black book. “Come back—oh!” Catrina stopped dead in her tracks. Standing within her living room, between the coffee table and sofa, and wearing nothing but a carpenter’s tool belt, was the most gorgeous man she’d ever laid eyes on. “Hello, Cat. You looking for this?” Not all demons are alike, some have wings, as in this wonderful gem of a novella. The Demon Of Pelican Bluff by Jennifer Colgan Something is on the prowl in Pelican Bluff, Minnesota. When the mayor of the small town calls in cryptozooloist Laurel Jensen to investigate strange sightings of a winged, demon-like beast roaming the forest, she can’t resist. It’s not her passion for the unknown that draws her, though, it’s her need to come face-to-face with the creature that’s been haunting her dreams. Laurel has seen the beast, too. He calls to her, eager to lure her into his clutches and claim her for his own. Certainly not a run-of-the-mill cryptid, more than a clever hoax, the beast is real, and it’s searching for the perfect mate. National Forest Service Ranger Cade Morrison draws the thankless task of escorting Laurel on her search for evidence of the beast’s existence. Cade knows the mayor is looking for publicity to attract tourists to the Bluff and he doesn’t want any part of it. But he does want part of Laurel Jensen. Or maybe all of her. Too bad he’s not willing to share her with The Demon of Pelican Bluff... Genres: Shapeshifter / Fantasy / Dark Fantasy / Paranormal / Psychic Phenomena Heat Level: 2 Length: Novella (29k words) http://www.amberquill.com/AmberHeat/DemonPelicanBluff.html Excerpt from The Demon Of Pelican Bluff by Jennifer Colgan ...Laurel laughed. Frank was sweet, overprotective, and too intuitive for his own good. She settled on the double bed and stretched out her legs before responding. “I know I’ve been a little scattered lately. Maybe the peace and quiet up here will help me sleep better. Listen, if I do turn up anything—which I doubt I will—I’ll call you and you can meet me up here. Otherwise just think of this as my pre-term vacation and don’t worry about me. I’ll find a way to have a good time.” Frank gave an indulgent sigh. Laurel wished she had the courage to tell him as much as she’d already told Cade Morrison, but the biochemist’s fraternal instincts would have gone into overdrive if he believed she had any more wrong with her than just insomnia caused by free-floating anxiety. “Next time you need a vacation, why don’t you go to the Bahamas like everybody else?” “I will. In fact, as soon as I get home, I’ll make reservations for spring break.” “That’s my girl. You need to take care of yourself. Listen, I’ve got a fax coming in from Nancy at NYU and I have to give her a call, but I’ll be up for a while. If you get lonely out there in the boonies, give me a call back, okay?” “I’m going to turn in early…but thanks. If I need to talk, I’ll call you. I promise.” They said their goodbyes and Laurel set her phone on the night stand next to the bed. She settled back against the thin pillows and covered her eyes with the heels of her hands. Why was she masquerading as normal for Frank? He of all people would understand that the pressures of academic life could become overwhelming at times. He’d realize that her schedule of classes, her personal research and publishing deadlines, as well as her mounting faculty responsibilities played a large part in driving up her stress levels. More stress meant less sleep and less ability to focus, which led to the daydreams and the disconnected feeling that had plagued her since that first, terrifying vision three months ago. Scary as it was, it all added up, really. Even her therapist had said strange dreams and loss of connection to the world around her were very common responses to an increased work load and the false perception that she somehow wasn’t measuring up to the expectations of her colleagues. Any girlfriend would tell her lack of sex was probably more to blame than anything else. When she’d signed on full time at the university after graduation, she’d stopped dating. There just wasn’t time for it, and she’d never been interested in casual sex, as if the alternative was formal sex of some kind. Laurel figured there’d be time for a relationship someday, time for long walks, candlelit dinners, and bouquets of flowers delivered to her tiny office on her birthday. One day she’d set up house with someone who shared her tastes and her work schedule. They’d buy a puppy to take the place of the children she knew she’d never be able to handle. That had been her dream. Now when she closed her eyes, instead of a trendy off-campus apartment with a queen-sized feather bed and walls covered with book shelves, she saw something raw and erotic. The visions came with the scent of sex and the sharp intake of breath that accompanied the feral thrust of a cock between her legs. Instead of lounging on a Sunday morning reading the latest journals with a man she’d playfully call “professor,” she saw herself clutched in the dark- skinned arms of a winged beast. She saw golden eyes and upswept brows and long fingered hands that delved between her ass cheeks and pinched her nipples. She felt his tongue, hot and wet on the skin beneath her ear, felt massive thighs part hers and heard her own voice plead with him for release. What frightened her most about the visions and the dreams was that she wasn’t fighting to get away from the monster. Do the mesmerizing eyes of a vampire stir your blood? Then perhaps this Amber kiss from national bestselling author Sylvia Day will too! Catching Caroline by Sylvia Day Jack Shaw's reputation as a wicked libertine is well deserved. He lives for the moment, indulging in temporary pleasures. Until Lady Caroline Seton sets her eyes on him and the heat of her gaze lures him in. Now he wants more than one stolen kiss, he wants forever. But Caroline hides a dangerous secret, one that could cost him his life. Will his love be enough to save them both…? Genres: Dark Fantasy / Vampire / Historical / Regency Heat Level: 2 Length: Amber Kiss (9k words) http://www.amberquill.com/AmberHeat/CatchingCaroline.html Excerpt from Catching Caroline by Sylvia Day …Jack’s entire body hardened. Caroline’s gaze was ravenous, filled with a hunger that ignited a similar need within himself. No woman in his life had ever looked at him as she did. “Mr. Shaw, it’s best that you stay away from me.” His mouth curved. “You could ask anything of me, sweet, and I would do my best to grant your desire. To stay away, however, is not something I’m capable of doing.” “You don’t understand—” “Are you still unwell?” he asked gruffly, frowning with concern. “No.” The low tone of her voice made his blood heat in his veins. Eyes wide, Caroline took another backward step only to be brought up short by the hedge. Jack tugged off his glove and reached out to her, brushing a finger along the edge of her bodice. His breathing deepened at the feel of her satiny skin. “Your heart races as fast as mine.” “Please…” He stared into her eyes and saw the longing there, a longing he reciprocated. “If you have a care for me at all, love, you would ease my torment.” “Jack…you must go. Forget I exist.” “Tell me I’m not what you want, Caroline, and I will walk away. Otherwise, I’m going to kiss you.” More delectable tapas snacks can be found at Amber Heat! Friday, May 18 – Every Friday is Gimme Fever Friday at the Amber Heat Readers Yahoo Group, and this Friday the theme is paranormal. You just gotta love that! :) To join the group, go to: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/amberheatreaders/ and click Join This Group. Contest Time! Would you like a chance to win a $5 gift certificate good for an Amber Kiss? One lucky reader will win. All you have to do is post a comment here at the Midnight Moon Cafe. Winner will be chosen at random and will be announced Friday morning, May 18. Once announced, the winner must contact us at midnightmooncafe@gmail.com so we can send you the electronic gift certificate. :) Good Luck!

Thursday Thirteen

My Thirteen Favorite Paranormal Romance Novels 1. Midnight Kiss by Nancy Gideon 2. Forever and the Night by Linda Lael Miller 3. A Darker Dream by Amanda Ashley 4. My Lord Vampire by Debbie Raleigh 5. Daughter of Fire by Quinn Taylor Evans 6. Midnight Surrender by Nancy Gideon 7. At Twilight by Maggie Shayne 8. Mine to Take by Dara Joy 9. Beneath a Blood Red Moon by Shannon Drake 10. Midnight Enchantment by Nancy Gideon 11. To Tame a Highland Warrior by Karen Marie Moning 12. Dawn of Camelot by Quinn Taylor Evans 13. Vampire Lover by Charlotte Lamb Links to other Thursday Thirteens! 1. Tilly Greene 2. Jennifer Shirk 3. Elle Fredix 4. Diana Castilleja 5. Heather 6. Christine D'Abo 7. Kissa Sterling 8. Gina Ardito 9. Jennifer McKenzie 10. Gwen Hayes 11. Joely Sue Burkhart 12. Daisy Dexter Dobbs 13. Rhian 14. Cora Zane 15. Rene Lyons 16. Rhonda Stapleton Get the Thursday Thirteen code here! The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted! View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Hump Day Hunk

Our wereanimal expert, Cora, found this very exotic and wild specimen lazily laying on...her bed. *wg* Now, he may look all innocent but don't let those dark eyes fool you. He's just watching you every move you make, ready to pounce on you. Can you guess what kind of wereanimal is he? Post your answers and... Happy Hump Day!

Paranormal Tapas

I love paranormal novellas and shorts. I liken it to tapas, that Spanish culinary custom that seems to have taken the U.S. by storm. Tapas are "little dishes," that is, snack-size foods meant to be eaten between meals. Tapas are still extremely popular in Spain and there are tapas bars in the U.S., as well. The history of tapas is an old one. It probably dates from the Middle Ages, when field workers would take a small meal with them into the fields, meant to be eaten as they worked, or on a short break. Olives, bread and cheese, perhaps with a small slice of ham or other meat, often comprised this small meal. So you have a snack of several little dishes, sometimes nothing more than a bite or two–like the delicious little Amber kisses or Amber novellas from my own publisher Amber Heat/Amber Quill Press. Most of the epublishers out there have revived the short story form, in tasty little snacks for readers. I encourage you to try a little literary tapas, my friends. It'll do you good! :) This Thursday, I will be offering up a tasty treat of my own, a $5 gift certificate good for Amber Heat, so that one lucky reader can try an Amber Quill Kiss or Extended Kiss. Check back Thursday for our very first tapas party and find out how you can enter to win. See you then!

Origin of the Werecats

Werecats (also written in a hyphenated form as were-cats) are creatures of folklore, fantasy fiction, horror fiction and occultism that are generally described as shapeshifters who are similar to werewolves, except that they turn into creatures that are based on some species of feline instead of being based on a wolf. The species involved can be a domestic cat, a tiger, a lion, a leopard, a lynx, or any other type, including some that are purely fantastical felines. Typically, an individual werecat can only transform to one unique feline, not to a number of different species, and each individual type of werecat may be known by a more species-specific term such as "weretiger". The word "werecat" was not coined until the late 19th century, so it was not directly used in legends from earlier eras, only by later folklorists' commentary. Folklore Werecat folklore is found on all continents except Antarctica and Australia and is generally based on wild felines native to the area. Europe European folklore usually depicts werecats who transform into domestic cats. Some European werecats became giant domestic cats[10] or black panthers. They are generally labeled witches, even though they may have just the one magical ability, of self-transformation. During the witch trials, this was official Church doctrine: all shapeshifters, including werewolves, were just specialized witches. Africa African legends describe people who turn into lions or leopards. In the case of leopards, this is often because the creature is really a leopard god or goddess masquerading as human. When these gods mate with humans, offspring can be produced, and these children sometimes grow up to be shapeshifters; Those who do not transform may instead have other powers. With werecats who turn into lions, the ability is often associated with royalty. Such a being may have been a king or queen in a former life, or may be destined for leadership in this life. This quality of heroic warriorship can be seen in the lions of Tsavo, which were reputed to be kings in lion shape, attempting to repel the invading Europeans by stopping their railroad. Asia Mainland Asian werecats usually become tigers. In India, the weretiger is often a dangerous sorcerer, portrayed as a menace to livestock who might at any time turn to man-eating. Chinese legends often describe weretigers as the victims of either heredity or a vindictive ghost. Ancient teachings held that every race except the Han Chinese were really animals in disguise, so there was nothing extraordinary about some of these false humans reverting to their true natures. Alternately, the ghosts of people who had been killed by tigers could become malevolent supernatural beings, devoting all their energy to making sure that tigers killed more humans. Some of these ghosts were responsible for transforming ordinary humans into man-eating weretigers. Also, in Japanese folklore there are creatures called bakeneko that are similar to kitsune (fox spirits) and tanuki (raccoon dogs). In Central Java we meet with another kind of were-tiger. The power of transformation is regarded as due to inheritance, to the use of spells, to fasting and will-power, to the use of charms, etc. Save when it is hungry or has just cause for revenge it is not hostile to man; in fact, it is said to take its animal form only at night and to guard the plantations from wild pigs. exactly as the balams (magicians) of Yucatán were said to guard the maize fields in animal form. Variants of this belief assert that the shapeshifter does not recognize his friends unless they call him by name, or that he goes out as a mendicant and transforms himself to take vengeance on those who refuse him alms. Somewhat similar is the belief of the Khonds; for them the tiger is friendly, and he reserves his wrath for their enemies, and a man is said to take the form of a tiger in order to wreak a just vengeance. South America South American werecats usually became jaguars. In some tribes, all shamans were thought to have the ability to become jaguars. There are also urban legends about jaguar shapeshifters lurking along highways in tales similar to the modern vanishing hitchhiker, and of them being assassins secretly employed by the government or organized crime. North America Present-day North American werecat legends are usually based on the European model, with domestic cats, either normal-sized or giant, being the favored shape. Cougars appear rarely, and jaguars only appear south of the American border. In what is now Mexico, Aztec folklore described jaguar people as being specially blessed by one of the gods, but modern Mexican folklore is more likely to attribute such transformation powers to the devil. American urban legends tell of encounters with feline bipeds, beings like Bigfoot except with cat heads, tails and paws. Feline bipeds are sometimes classified as part of cryptozoology, but more often they are interpreted as werecats. (Note: The pic of the guy has nothing to do with werecats. I just put it there for eye candy. He just looks hot! *wg*)

Happy Mother's Day!

Tempest, Cora, Brandi, myself and the MMC Staff here at the Midnight Moon Cafe want to wish all you mothers out there a wonderful Mother's Day! Enjoy!

Summer Sizzlers

Ooh can you feel the heat? This summer is shaping up to be one hot read after another and my friend the Popcorn Diva says the movies this summer are both quirky and blockbuster awesome. Here are just a few of her flash reviews. Starting with Spiderman 3, which is in theaters now. If you haven't seen it, you don't want to miss it. Still has all the special effects and acrobatics, but this installment of the web-slinger saga has an angsty edge that sets it apart from the other two movies in the series. Serious kudos to Tobey MacGuire, he's cute as a button and sexy even with bangs or a cowlick. ;) 28 Days Later is one freaky trip of a sequel. While fans of the original may get a chuckle out of some of the more supposed serious scenes, there's enough gorefest to keep the hubby or boy-toy happy in their he-man moment, allowing us gals to pretend to be scared and giving us a fine excuse to close our eyes and cuddle. ;) Fracture features the ever creepy Anthony Hopkins as a man accused of murdering his wife in this crime drama set in a courtroom. The ever goosable Ryan Gosling co-stars as the hunky prosecutor on his last case for the DA, his sights set on a future L.A. Law-style corporate job.

The Winner of Marta Acosta's Midnight Brunch Contest is...

Danette! Congratulations, Danette. You've won a copy of both of Ms. Acosta's books, Happy Hour at Casa Dracula and her latest release, Midnight Brunch! I know you'll enjoy! :) Cass

The Midnight Brew Presents: Marta Acosta

Born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area, Marta Acosta received a degree in English Literature and Creative Writing from Stanford University and is a frequent contributor of humor, gardening and design columns to The San Francisco Chronicle and The Contra Costa Newspapers. She's had too many jobs to recall, none of which she enjoyed as much as writing at home. Marta lives with her husband, son, and ancient dog. An avid gardener, she likes independent films, funny novels, loud music and lively conversation. She is highly skeptical about the paranormal, even though she can tell when her mother is calling by the way the phone rings. The Midnight Moon Café is proud to present author, Marta Acosta! Cass: What made you decide to write paranormal romance? Do you recall the first paranormal romance you read? Marta: Happy Hour at Casa Dracula is a comic novel, and I wanted to write something fun because I get so much pleasure out of comedies. It’s a real thrill for me when something that I write makes others laugh. I threw in the paranormal theme because I thought it would be amusing to watch someone who already felt like an outsider have to deal with being excluded by snobby vampires. The first vampire story I read with a romance was Christopher Moore's Bloodsucking Fiends, a Love Story. It’s a delightful read, terrifically funny, about a young woman who's trying to cope with being turned into a vampire, and her romantic relationship with an energetic teenage grocery clerk. I was also a real fan of “Buffy, the Vampire Slayer” and “The X-Files.” Cass: Who influenced you the most in your writing? Marta: Mark Twain and Kurt Vonnegut probably influenced me the most in developing a humorous, colloquial, first-person narrative. For all his brilliance, Twain never tried to intimidate or impress his readers; he always lets them in on the joke. There is a warmth, an approachability to their work. For the Casa Dracula characters, I'm taking cues from Jane Austen, Charlotte Bronte, and other women writers of the 19th century. I created Milagro after thinking about the heroines I admire in their novels. I wanted Milagro to be clever, but ethical. Whenever she falls down, she picks herself up again. She makes mistakes, but tries to correct them. Like all young people, she misunderstands people and situations, but she learns and grows. I love P.G. Wodehouse novels and his eccentric, clueless characters. I’ve got eccentrics, and Milagro is occasionally a little clueless, such as in her dedication to writing political horror stories that no one wants to read. Wodehouse brought silliness to a whole new level, and I definitely give silliness a place in my novels. Cass: As a fellow gardener, I wondered if you ever write in your garden? What's your favorite flower? Herb? Marta: When I visit the ranch that inspired the setting for Casa Dracula, I take my laptop out to the garden and write until the day gets too hot. At home, I can't write in the garden, because I'll ignore my work to start weeding or planting. I have a little office with a window looking out onto my back garden, and I enjoy watching the birds and the squirrels. They frequently perch on the grapevines growing on the pergola and watch me, too. My favorite plants change according to the season. Right now, my heirloom roses are beginning to bloom, and I find their beauty captivating. I've got one called 'Thisbe,' a hybrid musk that's supposed to top out at six feet. It's now at about 25' clambering into a tree, with hundreds of small, lemon-tinted blooms. My favorite herb is rosemary. It’s a nice shrub, the bees love it, and I use it frequently in cooking. Cass: Have you always been funny? Do you find it hard to write humor? Marta: Everyone in my family is funny. I thought it was a normal thing for families to tell absurd stories, to exaggerate for effect, and to try to one-up one another. If I'm in a good mood, writing humor comes easily. Generally, I’m just trying to amuse myself. When I’m feeling particularly silly, my husband will tell me, “You think you’re so funny.” There are a lot of wonderful people who are very serious all the time. When I hang out with them, I feel the humor leaking out of me like oil out of a Ford Fiesta. Sincerity, really, is the Kryptonite of laughter. Cass: How much time do you dedicate to research for your stories? Or do you research along the way? Marta: I dedicate at least five minutes to research a novel. Sometimes, I'll even Google for ten minutes straight. I always contact my smarter pals and ask them to do the hard thinking for me. One physician friend had to figure out exactly how someone can have vampiric symptoms without being a mythical vampire. He also figured out why someone might behave like an incubus. Cass: Let's talk a little about world-building. How did you come up with your backstory? And how did that setting affect your main characters? Marta: My backstory is a typical premise of 19th century novels. A young woman of little means goes to a large house in the country where there is at least one very attractive man of good fortune. In a gothic, like Jane Eyre, there's a dark secret, heartbreak, and eventually a happy resolution. In a romantic comedy, there are gratuitous misunderstandings, heartbreak, and eventually a happy resolution. The isolation of the country house allows the characters to be a little more ignorant about the overall situation and more dependent upon one another for information and amusement. I slapped the vampire theme on top of that for fun. Instead of being sophisticated guys with capes, they’re snobs who find your outfits tacky and your behavior gauche. Yes, they’re wealthy, but they’ll bore you with discussions about real estate investment. Cass: Do you and your heroine, Milagro do los Santos, have a lot in common? Marta: Like many Latinas, including me, Milagro has a college degree and career goals. We share a love of books and writing. Milagro’s an experienced gardener, and I’m an amateur. Milagro is, however, based more on the characters I admire than myself. She’s quite alone in the world and desperately longs for a loving family. I have a large, close family, and I couldn't get away from them if I tried. Milagro is sunny and optimistic, but I'm cynical and have a dark sense of humor. Cass: Let's say you've just landed a movie deal, and you get to pick the actor who'll play Oswald Grant, your hero. Who would you pick? And why? Marta: Well, Oswald is a delightful fellow, but he is not the hero. There is no hero, because Milagro must resolve her own situations. Oswald’s good-looking, of medium height, with brown hair, and a crooked smile. I think someone like Jason Lee (cleaned up from his shaggy "My Name Is Earl" look) would be good because he's charming, smart, funny, and quirky. Can Jude Law do an American accent? Cass: Is there any one thing you absolutely have to have by your computer in order to write? Marta: Yes, I have to have my Slinky. I like to play with it while I think, and especially when I'm on the phone. I lost it for a few days and was disconsolate. I kept looking for it while I was talking on the phone, leading to some very disjointed conversations. It was hiding behind some magazines. Cass: Is a man sexier with or without his clothes? ;) Marta: A sexy man is sexy either way. I happen to think real sexiness comes from inside, which is why some gorgeous men who aren't sexy at all, and some guys who look like the troll under the bridge attract women by the dozen. Cass: What do you know now you wished you'd known "then"? Marta: I wish I’d known that freelancing for newspapers was a good way to establish myself as a writer. If you don’t know the right people, you have to find another way to get inside. I kept banging on the front door for too long when I should have been climbing in through a back window. Cass: Have you ever had a paranormal experience you'd like to relate to our readers? Any weird bites? LOL Marta: Yes, I've had a premonition that you're going to send me a large quantity of money. You’re not? Okay, then, no. I don't believe in the supernatural. I scarcely believe in the natural. I do believe in unnatural because I saw a miniature poodle wearing tiny yellow shoes the other day, and there’s nothing more unnatural than that. Cass: Can you tell us a little about what you're working on now? Marta: I am supposed to be working on the third novel in the Casa Dracula series. I do this by playing with my Slinky, and going outside to weed and plant. Cass: Do you have a newsletter, blog, or website where fans can read about you and your books? Marta: Yes, my website is www.martaacosta.com, and my blog is at: www.martaacosta.blogspot.com. No one reads this blog, so it’s just getting loonier and more pathetic. I’m also at MySpace, www.myspace.com/martaacosta. If you sign up as a MySpace friend, I can send you bulletins. Want a little Midnight Brunch? Then enter the contest. One lucky reader will win both of Ms. Acosta's books, Happy Hour At Casa Dracula and Midnight Brunch! Simply email us at: midnightmooncafe@gmail.com with the subject line: Midnight Brunch, and include your name and snail mail address. Winner will be picked at random from among all completed entries, and will be posted Thursday night just before the witching hour. ;)

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen Actors That Would Make the Sexiest Wereanimals 1. Gerard Butler 2. Brad Pitt 3. Vin Diesel 4. Christian Bale 5. Jonathan Rhys-Meyers 6. Oded Fehr 7. Matthew Fox 8. Tyson Beckford 9. Karl Urban 10. Matthew McConaughey 11. Kevin Sorbo 12. Joseph Fiennes 13. Lorenzo Lamas Links to other Thursday Thirteens! 1. Tilly Greene 2. Jennifer Shirk 3. Elle Fredix 4. Diana Castilleja 5. Heather 6. Christine D'Abo 7. Kissa Sterling 8. Gina Ardito 9. Jennifer McKenzie 10. Gwen Hayes 11. Joely Sue Burkhart 12. Daisy Dexter Dobbs 13. Rhian 14. Cora Zane 15. Rene Lyons 16. Rhonda Stapleton 17. Dara Edmondson Get the Thursday Thirteen code here! The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted! View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Hump Day Hunk

Happy Hump Day!

Tagged!

Yikes! I've been tagged by Yolanda! Here are the rules: - Each player starts with eight random facts/habits about themselves. - People who are tagged need to write their own blog about their eight things and post these rules. - At the end of your blog, you need to choose eight people to get tagged and list their names. - Don't forget to leave them a comment telling them they're tagged, and to read your blog. 8 random facts/habits about me ... 1. I played electric guitar in all-girl heavy metal band. 2. My first rock concert was KISS back in 1975. 3. I dyed my hair turquoise back in the 80's. 4. I wanted to be like Stevie Nicks when I grew up. 5. My first pen name was Adriana Bradford. I was 15 at the time. *lol* 6. Relaxing consists on laying on hammock under palm trees drinking piña coladas while listening to some 70's rock music. 7. I had a crush on David Cassidy when I was a kid. 8. I enjoy reading encyclopedias. (Does this scream "DORK!" or what? *rofl*) Now I tag: Cassandra, Isabelle Santiago, Ellen, L. Rosario, Ericka Scott, and Paige Tyler! You're on, girls!

Midnight Brew Serves Up Some Midnight Brunch!

We'll be serving up a tasty treat at the next Midnight Brew. Author Marta Acosta will be here with her latest release, and sequel to Happy Hour At Casa Dracula, entitled Midnight Brunch! If you like funny, witty, laugh out loud romances, you'll want to read Ms. Acosta's books. Marta Acosta was born and raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. At six, she learned to read and she liked it so much that she still reads today. She remembers her excitement when she was seven and her father brought home a box of used books. Growing up with three brothers, Marta learned how to throw a ball, how to express an opinion, and how to tell a joke. She received a degree in English Literature and Creative Writing from Stanford University and is a frequent contributor of humor, gardening and design columns to The San Francisco Chronicle and The Contra Costa Newspapers. She's had too many jobs to recall, none of which she enjoyed as much as writing at home. Marta lives with her husband, son, and ancient dog. An avid gardener, she likes independent films, funny novels, loud music and lively conversation. Marta Acosta's books: Happy Hour At Casa Dracula Vampires, Margaritas, Mahem What's a a girl to do when she's hidden away at the home of snobby vampires and her ex-boyfriend wants to drive a stake through her heart? Milagro do los Santos can't find her place in the world or a man to go with it. All the men she meets are like beach reads--fun, but superficial--and she worries that she is only a beach read, too. Then one night, at a book party for her pretentious ex-boyfriend, she meets an oddly attractive man. After she is bitten while kissing him, she falls ill and is squirreled away to his family's estate to recover. Vampires don't exist in this day and age, or do they? As Milagro falls in love with a fabulously inappropriate man, she finds herself caught between a family who has accepted her as one of their own and a shady organization that refuses to let the undead live and love in peace. Midnight Brunch Flying Demons, Tequila Sunrises, Tabloid Scandals What's a girl to do when she discovers she's the main course on the menu? Hip, funny Milagro do los Santos thinks she's finally found love and a home at the California ranch of fabulous Oswald Grant and his urbane relatives, who have a rare genetic disorder that some call vampirism. But Milagro is bewildered when she's excluded from an ancient and mysterious midnight ceremony whose participants include Oswald's unfriendly parents, a creepy family elder, and Milagro's ex-lover, the powerful and decadent Ian Ducharme. What skeletons are the vampires hiding in their designer closets? When Milagro's life is threatened by a rogue family member, she flees to the desert to hide. Instead of solitude, she encounters an egomaniacal actor, a partying heiress, a sly tabloid reporter, and a lavish spa full of dark secrets--all of which might help her find a way home. What reviewers are saying about Marta's fabulous book, Midnight Brunch! "In her second in a series featuring Milagro de Los Santos, an intrepid Latina heroine involved with a family of vampires, Acosta shines...This sexy, sardonic siren is unlike the usual romantic-suspense heroine, and unique and alluring Milagro will continue to amaze readers in Acosta's terrific new adventure." BOOKLIST "Marta Acosta's new book MIDNIGHT BRUNCH (Pocket) is out and it's a stitch. Acosta's feisty heroine Milagro De Los Santos is fabulous, sharp and independent...Definitely a great-by-the-pool pick." ORLANDO SENTINEL "For a book that's ultra-hip and very now, look no further than Marta Acosta's MIDNIGHT BRUNCH, the sequel to HAPPY HOUR AT CASA DRACULA....Here's a book that belongs on nightstands in hip downtown apartments everywhere. The delight is in Acosta's clever, fresh voice, which moves the narrative at a rollicking pace." BOOKPAGE One lucky reader will win a copy of both of Ms. Acosta's books. So stop by the Midnight Moon Cafe, Thursday, May 10, 2007 for a tasty treat–a Midnight Brunch with the snarkily delicious vamp author Marta Acosta!

A review for Unforgiven Pleasure!

I was googling myself when I was totally surprised to find out that the story I put out as a freebie back in October as part of the Lynn Viehl's Halloween Writing Challenge, Unforgiven Pleasure, had been reviewed! *wg* Check it out: "Unforgiven Pleasure is an erotic reading delight! It has all the markers which make it a truly exceptional read; shapeshifters, a tortured alpha hero, and hot steamy sex! The world buildling is original and interesting to read, the characters realistic and easy to relate to. I recommend this story to any and all who enjoy their erotic romance mixed in with the paranormal. I look forward to reading more by this author." - 4 Worlds, Regina Paul - EzineArticles Lara is a young werewolf betrayed by her boyfriend Johnny, and Susie her best friend. Challenged to a mating duel for the right to mate with Johnny, Lara has no option but to fight her best friend and the crowd she brought with her. Draken is a Sentinel, one who watches over shifters and other twilight creatures. His job is to kill those creatures of the twilight who prey and murder innocents disrupting the balance between the worlds. When Draken finds an unconscious Lara beaten and bloody he takes her into his home and tends her wounds. Lara wakes up and has no idea where she is, nor she does not realize immediately what Draken is. However, when she does, she is afraid because werewolf children are raised believing that if a Sentinel catches them they will be killed on the spot. When these two discover they are highly attracted to each other, and decide to act on it, things really get interesting. But will Lara be able to reconcile what she was raised to believe with what she is actually experiencing at the hands of a Sentinel? Get this ebook FREE! Go by Midnight Moon Cafe's website and click where it says "Free Stories." Read also the short prequel, Sentinels Arise.

Weekend Flirt Alert!

CULTIVATE LOVE Your Ecstatic Flirting Assignment For PLAY! There is only one thing, and we are all part of it. I am you and you are me - no one thing is different than any other thing. We are all contained in the All That Is. There is no edge we can go to and no deep we can fall that It is not there. Nothing exist outside of everything. Pretty simple, yeah? The fact that we are all connected is the basis of many spiritual traditions, and is also a basic element of quantum physics. No matter what level you choose to look at inter-relation from, choose to hold it in your consciousness throughout your day. Consciously treat others from the space of awareness that they are part of you. Cultivate love and compassion, and you will be giving this gift not only to those you encounter, but perhaps more importantly, to yourself through those you encounter. Namaste. We are one. We are none. Consider yourself activated! ** "Flirt Goddess" LaSara FireFox, MPNLP, is an author, coach, and master trainer. She's founder of THE ECSTATIC PRESENCE PROJECT and the boundary/PLAY collective. LaSara's book /Sexy Witch/ (Llewellyn, 2005) was a bestseller in Germany, and has been on the company bestseller list at Llewellyn for over a year and half. Her second book, /Ecstatic Flirting: Playing at the Edge of Self/, is slated for publication in 2007. LaSara believes that the most r/evolutionary act we can engage in is to become healthy, strong and AWAKE! Visit her website for more info: www.lasara.us You may contact her at firefox@lasara.us.

How to celebrate Cinco de Mayo in Style!

Tomorrow is Cinco de Mayo, a time when everybody can enjoy and celebrate with a latin flair. Since it also falls on Derby Day this year, ya'll now have even more reason to party and have fun! And what could be more fun that listening to some hot latin vibes, sipping a margarita and dancing with your friends...or that cute latino guy smiling at you from across the room! Ooh, I bet we could show him some moves, right ladies? So we have music – check. We have the margaritas, lime salted – check. Hot latino men – ch–wait a minute! Where are the hot latino guys? Here there are! Ooh...umm, excuse me while I show off a few of my better dance moves...

OtherWorld at the Cafe! And the Winner is...

Maureen Emmons! Congratulations, Maureen! Your choice was Ms. Armstrong's book, Broken. You're a winner at the Midnight Moon Cafe!

The Midnight Brew Presents: Kelley Armstrong

Full time writer and mother of three, our guest won readers with her debut novel Bitten. Seven books later, her crisp dialogue and richly textured prose have made her one of the world's best-loved paranormal authors. The Midnight Moon Café is honored to welcome Otherworld series creator, Ms. Kelley Armstrong! MMC: Do you remember the first paranormal-themed book you ever read? Kelley: If you mean any book with supernatural elements, then all I know is that I was very, very young! I've been fascinated by the paranormal since childhood. MMC: Who influenced you the most in your writing? Kelley: The biggest influences for my Otherworld series were Stephen King and Anne Rice (yes, not terribly original, I know). From Stephen King I learned how to make the supernatural seem natural--placing paranormal elements in an otherwise normal world. Anne Rice was the first author I read who made the "monster" the protagonist, which fascinated me. MMC: When and where do you get your best writing done? Kelley: I'm not sure where I do my "best" writing, but I'm most comfortable writing curled up in a chair with a notebook. I write faster on a computer, but it always has that element of the industrial and the unnatural--I feel like I'm writing an essay, not something creative. MMC: Let's talk a little about world-building. How did you come up with your backstory? And how does that setting affect your main characters? Kelley: There were two main phases to my world-building. The first came with Bitten, and it was strictly werewolf. I created my werewolf species and the individual characters in tandem, working on the idea "if real werewolves existed, what would they be like." The second phase came after Bitten, when the possibility of a series was broached. I absolutely did not want to write a lengthy series about only werewolves, so I had to rebuild my world to include other races (and add a rather awkward backstory to explain why my main character, Elena, didn't realize other supernaturals existed!) In that phase, the world-building came first, and the characters second--what did I imagine real witches/vampires/demons would be like, then what characters would fit them. MMC: Do you find it easier to write stories within an established world, or do you find yourself wanting to break your own set of rules? Kelley: A little of both. Having an established world makes it easier, but it can also be confining, so it's not a static world--my characters discover new elements to it with every book, as I push my world a little wider. MMC: Otherworld is populated with so many different races and halfling characters, will any more new races be introduced? Kelley: I've opened the door for the possibility of both "new" races and races that already exist, but that my characters haven't encountered yet. Way back in book 2 (Stolen), a character mentioned the evolutionary theory of supernaturals--that new races are always developing. Book 7 explores that further, and book 8 will go another step. With that evolutionary theory, there are also races that have "died out" (or it's presumed they have, which may be wrong!). That was explored a bit in Haunted. As for exactly what races are coming...I can't say because it'd be a major spoiler for an upcoming book! MMC: For those not familiar with your work, which book would you recommend to read first and why? Kelley: It depends on the reader. If someone is okay with werewolves, then I'd say to start at the beginning with Bitten. If werewolves are more "fantastical" than a reader is comfortable with, then I say start with book 3, Dime Store Magic, which features a witch protagonist. Many readers, especially those new to paranormals, are more comfortable with witches, so that's a popular starting point. MMC: No Humans Involved is book seven in the Otherworld series, am I correct? Can you tell us a little bit about it, and if your narrator is a returning character from an earlier story? Kelley: Yep, book 7 is No Humans Involved. It's narrated by Jaime Vegas, my "celebrity spiritualist" necromancer. She's been in every book since #4 (Industrial Magic) but this is her first turn at narration. She's doing pre-show work for a "Raising Marilyn Monroe" TV special when she discovers the house where they're taping is haunted by ghosts even she can't contact. MMC: Can you tell us about your free online graphic novella project? Kelley: The young woman who has done cover art for all my online novellas and stories suggested a free graphic novella--I'd do the script and she'd do the art. I decided it was the perfect way to handle a section of backstory that readers have been asking for...and I've been refusing the write (the period after my werewolf narrator, Elena, was bitten.) As a prose novella, it'd be unrelentingly grim. While it won't be any less grim as a graphic story, at least readers will be spared pages of internal anguish and angst! We've got 7 pages posted so far. The remainder of the 48 page novella will be up by the end of 2007. MMC: What do you know now you wished you'd known "then?" Kelley: There are a lot of things, and I suspect that in ten years, there will be things I wish I'd known now. I wish I'd had more faith in the type of stories I was writing. I started in horror as a teen, then moved to fantasy, then a combination with the paranormals, but I was always being told to write something more serious or more mainstream. I spent a lot of time writing stories that weren't really "me" in hopes of breaking in that way. What I learned was to follow my passion and write the stories I want to tell. MMC: Where do you see the evolution of the paranormal sub-genre going? Kelley: Sub-genres tend to rise and fall. Paranormals are still rising...but that can't last forever. Maybe readers will hit their saturation point and lose interest or maybe that interest will shift to a new, similar subgenre--an offshoot of this one. Those of us who love writing paranormals will continue...just for a smaller audience! MMC: What's next for you after you complete the Otherworld series? Kelley: All I know is that I plan to continue writing. I have a non-paranormal crime novel coming out this summer and plenty of ideas for new projects. For now, though, my priority is this series. MMC: Do you have a newsletter, blog, or website where fans can read about you and your books? Kelley: No blog for me, but I have a huge site (www.kelleyarmstrong.com) with a discussion board (www.kelleyarmstrong.com/cgi-bin/ikonboard.cgi) and a quarterly newsletter (signup URL: www.kelleyarmstrong.com/eMailList.htm) Would you like to win a copy of one of Ms. Armstrong's books? Simply send an email to: midnightmooncafe@gmail.com, with the subject line: Otherworld Winner's Choice. Remember to include your snail mail address and which one of Ms. Armstrong's books you'd want if you're our lucky winner! Drawing held Thursday, May 3, just before the stroke of midnight. Winner chosen randomly from all completed entries received before the deadline.

Thursday Thirteen

Thirteen Actors That Would Make HOT Vampires 1. Eric Dane 2. Josh Holloway 3. Rodrigo Santoro 4. Hugh Jackman 5. Viggo Mortensen 6. Will Kemp 7. Goran Visnjic 8. Guy Pearce 9. Paul Walker 10. Jared Leto 11. Eric Bana 12. Johnny Depp 13. Heath Ledger Links to other Thursday Thirteens! 1. Tilly Greene 2. Jennifer Shirk 3. Elle Fredix 4. Diana Castilleja 5. Heather 6. Christine D'Abo 7. Rhonda Stapleton 8. Gina 9. Amy Ruttan 10. Emma Sinclair Get the Thursday Thirteen code here! The purpose of the meme is to get to know everyone who participates a little bit better every Thursday. Visiting fellow Thirteeners is encouraged! If you participate, leave the link to your Thirteen in others comments. It’s easy, and fun! Be sure to update your Thirteen with links that are left for you, as well! I will link to everyone who participates and leaves a link to their 13 things. Trackbacks, pings, comment links accepted! View More Thursday Thirteen Participants

Hump Day Hunk

He's a certified hunk alright! Look at his sinew arms, those broad shoulders, well-muscled chest... oh, he has nipples pierced. Yummy! But he makes you wonder what kind of paranormal creature he is, no? *wg* Post your guess here! Happy Hump Day!

At the Next Midnight Brew...

Visit the Otherworld with it's creator, paranormal fantasy author Kelley Armstrong. After graduating with a degree in psychology, Kelley switched gears and studied computer programming. Happily for readers, she now is a full-time writer. Married with three kids, she lives in rural Ontario, Canada. Her latest release is No Humans Involved. Jaime, who knows a thing or two about showbiz, is on a television shoot in Los Angeles when weird things start to happen. As a woman whose special talent is raising the dead, her threshold for weirdness is pretty high: she’s used to not only seeing dead people but hearing them speak to her in very emphatic terms. But for the first time in her life – as invisible hands brush her skin, unintelligible fragments of words are whispered into her ears, and beings move just at the corner of her eye – she knows what humans mean when they talk about being haunted. She is determined to get to the bottom of these manifestations, but as she sets out to solve the mystery she has no idea how scary her investigation will get. As she digs into the dark underside of Los Angeles, she’ll need as much Otherworld help as she can get in order to survive, calling on her personal angel, Eve, and Hope, the well-meaning chaos demon. Jeremy, the alpha werewolf, is also by her side offering protection. And, Jaime hopes, maybe a little more than that. Bantam • Hardcover • May 2007 • ISBN: 0553805088 One lucky reader will be chosen at random to get a Winner's Pick from Ms. Armstrong's Otherworld backlist! So stop by Thursday, May 3, 2007, as we dish up a supernatural stew with author Kelley Armstrong. It's a 'Brew you won't want to miss!