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Interview with Rose and Skriker

Hello! My name is Katelina, and welcome to Weekend Character Interviews. Using state of the art-mumbo-jumbo author magic, Jo has temporarily bent the laws of fictional space and time to allow various literary universes to converge long enough for me to ask different characters a few questions. Since I spend a lot of time in the Amaranthine series quizzing vampires on what they’re doing, where they’re going and why, Jo thought I would be the perfect interviewer. 

Today we have two characters – Skriker and Rose – from the novel Black Dog and Rebel Rose, and the novella Coyote Night by Danielle D. Smith.

Black Dog & Rebel Rose

Katelina: Thanks for coming guys! Wow, a two for one interview! Could you tell us a little about yourselves? Maybe describe what you look like for the readers?

SKRIKER: Thanks for askin’, baby. Pleasure to be here. What do I look like…heh-heh. 6′ 3″ tall, Billy Idol rock star platinum blond with carpet that matches the drapes, green eyes, lots of tattoos, beefcake body, devilishly handsome, hung like a horse…

K: Oh my….

ROSE: (rolling her eyes, chuckling): Modest, are we, Skrike?

SKRIKER: You know it’s true, baby. Anyway, I’m half-demon, half-human–my pops was a soul collector who fell in love with my mom when she was stripping at this joint called The Neon, and he chose to give up his infernal birthright to join her here on terra firma. I’m a hunter of all things that dwell in the dark–other demons, vamps, weres, shifters, angry ghosts– you name it, I hunt it. I also cage fight professionally underground, and do some mercenary work on the side. I live on the road most of the time, but when I’m back in my home city, I have a nice place of my own where I park my shit and keep my pet devil dog, Trash, happy and spoiled. You can find me in the pages of Black Dog and Rebel Rose and now, Coyote Night.

K: Uh.. vampire hunter.. uh.. yeah.. How about you, Rose?

ROSE: Thank you for having us. I’m 5′ 11″ tall, pin-up shapely, with long curly dark hair and parti-colored eyes (one blue, one brown). I have a trio of scars on each cheek, marking where a demon clawed me when I was five years old. I’m a Nephil, the last on Earth. My father is a warrior angel, a former megasoldier in the Holy Army. He helped cast Lucifer out when the Universe was new. My human mother, rest her soul, was an artist and the unexpected love of my father’s life. He was sent to kill her in order to earn back his place in Paradise (you can read about that in Psyche’s Gate), and ended up falling hard for her instead. As you can see, Skriker and I are total opposites, but we love each other like crazy. I live in the same city as Skrike, in a little studio in the rougher side of town. He keeps trying to get me to move in with him, but…not sure about that yet. You can find me in the same stories as Skriker here.

K: Wow. So how would you say that you evolve or change during the course of your storie(s)?

SKRIKER: Pretty profound question there. I’d have to say that I evolved the most when I met Rose while hunting vampyres in Black Dog and Rebel Rose–I used to be a crazy man-whore, see? I banged so many girls, I couldn’t count ‘em. Hump ‘em and leave ‘em, that was my style. I could meet a girl on a street corner and she’d be going home with me by the time we reached the other side of the street. When I met Rose and found my soulmate in her, I became less selfish and more faithful than this old boy ever thought he could be. I would die for her in half a second and do anything to keep her by my side.

ROSE: Personally, in meeting Skriker, I found myself able to actually love my enemy in the truest sense of the word. My father gave me a genetic inborn hatred of demons…it was only natural. When I met Skriker, I was so fragmented about how I felt about him. I felt myself plunging headlong into love, feeling like I had found the other half of my soul, like I had known him forever…and he was a Halfling. Completely, totally forbidden under Heaven’s rules. I struggled with that like you have no idea. And when I finally accepted my feelings for him, I realized that I had found my best friend. That evolution was huge for me…I had to deny my birthright in order to be with the man I loved.

K: Wow. That’s romantic, to say the least! What first attracted you guys to one another?

 SKRIKER (rolling his eyes back deliciously): Ohhh, mama…you’re looking at her sitting right here. What did I find appealing?…

ROSE: Oh, good God. Here it comes.

SKRIKER: Let’s see here…dynamite body that puts Bettie Page to shame. Tits that don’t quit. Hair, breath, and spit that smells like night blossoms. Eyes that would knock any man flat on his ass. Did I mention her tits? Oh, okay. Rosie’s my soulmate–truly. She is the best hunter I have ever met and blows my mind every time–her knowledge of weapons, techniques, and fighting skills are second to none– and at the same time she makes me want to bundle her into my arms and keep her safe. Sex with her is, well…when they say it’s best with your One and Only, they aren’t lying. Her toughness, her warmth (which she doesn’t show to everybody), her smile…all of it just turns me into mush.

ROSE (blushing a little): Oh, Skrike, you dog! Anyway, Skriker is gorgeous, as you can see, and that was the first thing that attracted me to him. He’s such a damned bad boy punk…rock hard body, all those hot tattoos, and, yes, hung like a horse. (She giggles.) But there’s more to him than that. His rugged looks belie the fact that he’s crazy smart–he could have beaten the chess club at their top game. He can track better than any hunter I have seen. He’s well-read, clever as shit, and has a sense of humor that can put me in stitches…and that’s rare. Oh, and he’s a god in bed. A lady has to put a big check mark by that, no doubt.

K: Well, sounds like your author certainly gave you a lot of romance, did she give you a lot of enemies, too?

SKRIKER: Heh, heh. Enemies? You got all day? I’m on Hell’s shit list, honey, just like my dad was when he took off on the bosses Downstairs. All nasty things hate me: vampyres, werewolves, all that junk. ‘Cos I kill ‘em, and kill ‘em nasty. I say bring it ON.

Coyote Night

K: Erm.. yeah. *cough*

ROSE: My enemy? Whoever sent a pack of demons to torture and murder my mother and maim me when I was a little girl. I don’t know who he is, and haven’t found him yet…but when I do, he will hate the day he was created.

 K: Wow. So I guess you’ve probably had a lot of soul changing moments. If you had to pick the one that really shaped you, what would it be?

SKRIKER: Meeting Harry, my savior. Believe it or not, he’s a werewolf…but the nicest one you’ll ever meet. He rescued me when I was living in a sewer tunnel at thirteen. My family was killed by demons when I was eleven, see, and I ended up on the streets, alone. Harry took me in and taught me everything I know. I fight in his underground fight club and make loads of cash doing it. I ride a Harley, just like him. He helped me become who I was meant to be, and helped me balance pride in my demonic gifts with my humaity. His daughter, Gretchen, is like a sister to me. You’ll get more of that story later on–those pages are still being written–but that’s definitely what helped to shape old Skrike.

ROSE: What shaped me? My mother being horribly slain and my face being maimed. I was so innocent and pure before that. After that happened, my father took me and hid me away in the magical house of a Mother Goddess for ten years. There, he taught me how to fight as the angels do, how to sharpen my angelic gifts like a well-honed blade. I became the warrior he always knew I could be, as much as I think it pained him. I ran away when I was sixteen–got sick and tired of being hovered over–and I spent the next year traveling the world, hunting the dark horrors out there, taking occasional lovers, becoming a woman and a true soldier. My mother’s death…it shaped me in ways that I think my father never even expected.

K: I can’t even imagine! My dad died when I was like a baby, so it wasn’t really the big emotional hole, you know? But, speaking of challenges, what’s the biggest challenge you face in your newest story?

SKRIKER: In Coyote Night, I face having Rose stolen away from me by a Navajo skinwalker who wants to possess my girl as his own. NOT something you do to old Skrike. It leaves me fighting the most desperate fight of my life…trying to keep my woman safe in my arms.

ROSE: Saving a pack of children stolen by this skinwalker. These kids have endured so much spiritual and physical horror from being kidnapped and held captive by this monster…they become my ward, and I am determined to save them, no matter what the cost. I will face off with the skinwalker using the angelic powers my father gave me; whether or not my human side gets in the way will be the big question.

Japanese Tattoo

Photo by mytat_2s via flickr

SKRIKER: (wistfully): For Rosie to marry me. Hint, HINT.

ROSE: To find who killed my mother. Then we can talk marriage…if that’s possible for a Nephil and a Halfling.

K: oh, I don’t see why not. I mean, if you like marriage and all… the commitment, you know… erm, anyway, if you could say one thing to your readers, what would it be?

SKRIKER: Enjoy the ride! And many juicy kisses to the ladies…

ROSE: Write to Danielle D. Smith and tell her to stop being such a bitch…I mean, seriously. The brutality she puts us through…the heartache…

K: Aha! I know what you mean! My author is evil incarnate and yours sounds on par with her! If you could say one thing to your author what would it be?

SKRIKER: Thank you, Dani! You couldn’t have done a better job, mama! (Blows a noisy kiss)

ROSE (grumbling): You seem to enjoy torturing your characters a lot, don’t you?

K: And it looks like we’re about out of time-

SKRIKER: I think you missed some questions, baby.

K:Oh? Like what?

ROSE: No comment. No, don’t ask him…oh, Jesus…

SKRIKER: Oh, fun! Let’s see…Q1.) Skriker, have you ever seduced a nun in a church? A: Why, yes, I have. And she enjoyed that pipe I laid very much! Q2.) Skriker, if you could get Rose to do one thing in bed that she hasn’t done yet, what would that be? A: Why, I would–

ROSE (abruptly cutting in): Okay, this interview is over! Thank you for your hospitality.

K: *Blinking* Um.. yeah, and thank you. *shakes head*. Yeah, as I was saying, thanks to Skriker and Rose for stopping in. you can find them in Black Dog and Rebel Rose, and the novella Coyote Night by Danielle D. Smith.

 And a special thanks to Danielle D. Smith for playing along!

Bio: Danielle D. Smith is a traditionally published author of Paranormal, Horror, and Erotica tales for adult readers who like their stories “outside the mainstream”. Her fourth book, the novella Coyote Night, will be released this summer by Solstice Publishing. Purchase her book Black Dog and Rebel Rose HERE to read the story of Skriker and Rose’s chance meeting. Visit the author online at www.danielledsmith.com

 

If you’re an author and would like your character(s) to be interviewed by me, then check out this very cool page that has all the details:

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/character-interviews/


3 Comments
by Joleene Naylor on October 15, 2011  •  Permalink
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Posted by Joleene Naylor on October 15, 2011

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/2011/10/15/interview-with-kristen-flemings-2/

Interview with Angel Collins

Hello! My name is Katelina, and welcome to Weekend Character Interviews. Using state of the art-mumbo-jumbo author magic, Jo has temporarily bent the laws of fictional space and time to allow various literary universes to converge long enough for me to ask different characters a few questions. Since I spend a lot of time in the Amaranthine series quizzing vampires on what they’re doing, where they’re going and why, Jo thought I would be the perfect interviewer. 

Today we have Angela Collins – another character from Mark Mackey.

Maureen: A Vampire Tale

Katelina: hello Angela! Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Angela:  No problem. I’m Angela Collins, full blooded Vampire.

K: Aha! I thought I recognized those fangs! You’re not from Maine, by any chance, are you? Or Iowa?

A: I’m a resident of New York city.

K: Oh. We haven’t been there, yet. We always end up in out of the way places. So, which book are you in?

A: I grace the pages of Maureen: a vampire, and possibly my own future story/series.

K: That would be cool to get your own series! Especially if they named it after you!

*Verchiel enters*

Verchiel: Yes! Many of us side characters deserve our own series! I can think of one off the top of my head. Some of us need more page time, you know?

K: *to Verchiel* No, you don’t.

A: I do. Honestly, I don’t feel I’ve been given enough time in Maureen to evolve.

K: Well, I can see how that would be tough. But if you don’t have time to evolve then I guess you probably don’t have a host of enemies chasing you-

A: Enemies? Yeah, I do. Those pathetic Guzzers win that title, hands down.

K: Oh. Well, then do you get some romance?

A: I once was in a relationship, but he was killed on our very first date by a pack of Guzzers, who my sometime caretaker Miriam Kingston later mauled to death in her guise of a werewolf.

pooling blood

by Jo Naylor

V: So, you’re single? *Gives her a charming, fanged grin*

K: Oh for crying out loud! First Loren and now you! *to Maureen* Just ignore him. So… where were we? Oh, yeah. So what would you say is the biggest challenge you face in the story?

A: Oh, clearly being asked to turn my close friend Heather Rachel Tanners into a vampire.

K: Yeah, I could see that. It’s such a commitment, isn’t it? And being a vampire means a whole host of new problems – or wait. I guess in some universes it doesn’t. I mean, you drink blood, right?

A: Yes, of course.

K: Not human blood?

M: Yes, I do, actually.

V: It is tastier.

K: Um. *tugs at collar* What about sunlight? You don’t… sparkle, do you?

A: No, sunlight can kill me.

K: Oh, okay. Then you know what I mean about all the challenges! But I guess we’re running short on time so if you could say one thing to your author, what would it be?

A: Write that short story which has existed as an idea since May 2011 (the one about my date being killed).

New York by Night

by Marie P. via Flickr

A: Come pay me a visit in New York, and check out Maureen to read about what a fantastic creature of the night I am.

K: And since we’re almost out of time, last question; What is it that you want the most in the whole world?

A: To see what it’s like to live as a living, breathing human being.

K: And we’re outta time! I do want to say a big fat “SEE!” to Verchiel, here, who is of the opinion that vampires are superior.

V: They are.

Jorick *appears and glares at Verchile* What is HE doing?

K: Just leaving. A big thank you to Angela for stopping by. Remember you can find her in Maureen: A Vampire’s Tale by Mark Mackey.

And a special thanks to Mark Mackey for playing along!

  

If you’re an author and would like your character(s) to be interviewed by me, then check out this very cool page that has all the details:

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/character-interviews/


7 Comments
by Joleene Naylor on October 8, 2011  •  Permalink
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Posted by Joleene Naylor on October 8, 2011

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/2011/10/08/interview-with-angel-collins/

Interview with Kristen Flemings

Hello! My name is Katelina, and welcome to Weekend Character Interviews. Using state of the art-mumbo-jumbo author magic, Jo has temporarily bent the laws of fictional space and time to allow various literary universes to converge long enough for me to ask different characters a few questions. Since I spend a lot of time in the Amaranthine series quizzing vampires on what they’re doing, where they’re going and why, Jo thought I would be the perfect interviewer. 

Today we have Kristen Flemings from the mind of Mark Mackey.

genesis

Kristen Flemings: Sure! I’m the most fabulous 16 year old bar none, super-hot blond, formerly of Blue Winter, Connecticut, now Mason Nevada. Cheerleader, student newspaper editor-in-chief and writer.

KM: Wow, that’s a heck of a description! So which books are you from exactly?

KF: So far I inhabit Genesis, Zombies of the Desert, Swan Song, and the Comet: an Alison Duncan Tale and other stories.

KM: Holy cow, that’s a lot. I wish my author wrote that much! So what’s it like being a fabulous teenager?

KF:  At first, I simply wanted to live an ordinary life, but as the story progressed, I realized, hey, I’m supposed to be somewhat of a sidekick to Elizabeth Duncan.

KM: I bet you have some enemies, at school, at least.

KF: Actually, yes. My older sister Jennifer, even before she became a flesh loving zombie, she didn’t seem to like me very much, and I put the blame on her pathetic excuses for friends, Cassidy Edgemore and Sandra “Sandy” Cashers.

KM: Whoa! So there are real zombies? I thought that was just a metaphor or something!

KF: Nope! You can’t get any more real than having your sister a flesh eating zombie!

zombies of the desert

KF: Problems? Ha-ha, yeah, I can chalk mu biggest up to one word, surviving.

KM: Wow. So what’s the worst thing that happens to you?

KF: Simple, nearly getting devoured by my older sister Jennifer. It toughened me up a bit.

KM: Holy crap! Well, you’ve at least got a lot of boys, right?

KF: Ha-ha, I wish I was involved in a romance.

KM: Wow. I think your author is meaner than mine. Seriously! Do you ever wonder what your life would have been like if you hadn’t been dropped into all o fthis?

KF: You mean if I hadn’t ended up in Genesis? (That’s one of the books!) probably I’d have gotten cursed along with poor Amanda and Gillian, and there would have been three of use going to remove the curses instead.

KM: Who’s Amanda?

KF: Amanda Hansen, she’s my best friend, at my side. Sorry Elizabeth, Amanda’s always going to be my best friend.

KM: At least your author gave you a friend! Wow-

Loren, a teen vampire from the Amaranthine series, suddenly appears. (It is of note that though he’s a vampire and a teen he does not sparkle.)

Loren: Hey, what’s up? I see you’re doing your, erm, interviews?

KM: Hello, Loren. Do you want something?

L: I was just thinkin’, you know, Old J gets to help out all the time so maybe it was my turn. *Offers Kristen a grin that is meant to be friendly*.

KM: Yeah, I know what you’re doing. Out! This is not a dating service! Find girls elsewhere!

L: Oh come one! She’s a single cheerleader! I mean, uh, I never meant… erm… I mean, I have a question!

KM: Fine! What? And it better be a good one!

Books (118 / 365)

photo by Casey Fleser via flickr

KF: a tie between Hazelwood V. Kuhlmeier and the School Newspaper Censorship Debate by Tracy A. Philips, and School Newspaper Adviser’s Survival Guide by Patricia Osborn.

KM: See? She’s outta your league, Loren. Now scat.

L: But I have another question!

KM: “What are you doing next Tuesday?” is not an interview question! Besides, we’re running out of time. *turns back to Kristen* If you could say one thing to your author, what would it be?

KF: Hey Mark, make an entire series starring me.

KM: Fair enough. And if you could say one thing to your readers?

KF: Buy Genesis and Zombies of the Desert, read all about how much of a fantastic person I am.

KM: And with that it seems we’re out of time! A special thank you to Kristen Flemings for stopping by and – hey! Loren! What did I say? Leave the guests alone!

Remember you can find her in Genesis, Zombies of the Desert, Swan Song, and the Comet: an Alison Duncan Tale and other stories by Mark Mackey

(Loren! I said scram!)

And a special thanks to Mark Mackey for playing along!

 

If you’re an author and would like your character(s) to be interviewed by me, then check out this very cool page that has all the details:

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/character-interviews/


8 Comments
by Joleene Naylor on October 1, 2011  •  Permalink
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Posted by Joleene Naylor on October 1, 2011

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/2011/10/01/interview-with-kristen-flemings/

Interview with Selene Pierre

**A Special Apology – this should have posted over the weekend, alas I had it saved as a draft, not as a post.**

Hello! My name is Katelina, and welcome to Weekend Character Interviews. Using state of the art-mumbo-jumbo author magic, Jo has temporarily bent the laws of fictional space and time to allow various literary universes to converge long enough for me to ask different characters a few questions. Since I spend a lot of time in the Amaranthine series quizzing vampires on what they’re doing, where they’re going and why, Jo thought I would be the perfect interviewer. 

Today we have Selene Pierre from Luna Charles’ debut literary novel Men Are Not the Problem.

Men Are Not the Problem

Katelina: Welcome Selene and thanks for coming. Could you tell us a little about yourself?

Selene: I was born in Port Au Prince, Haiti. But now live in Sarasota, Fl. Unlike most of my Haitian compatriots that most people see on television, my complexion is of a honey hue, which has caused me some difficulties fitting in both there and here.

K: I think it’s lovely. I used to spend hours trying to get a nice color like that! Of course, not so much time in the sun anymore. *cough*. Anyway, so a literary novel? I expect that means you’re not really running around killing monsters or fighting enemies, right? No real nemesis?

S: Hmmm. I don’t know if I can call my ex a nemesis. I don’t really thing he has the intelligence for mastermind anything. But he really was a complete and total selfish, egotistical, butt-hole. Who used me to get what he wanted and dropped like with the empathy of someone throwing away a used piece of toilet paper.

K: Wow. Sounds like a jerk. No wonder he’s an ex. You’re better off with out him! Though it’s probably hard, I guess.

S: The hardest part is overcoming my own self deprecation. I have spent my whole life taking care of everyone else, from family to men and never took the time for myself. And although what happened was tragic, it really opened my eyes to what kind of people I was basically giving up my soul for.

K: So would you say that was the one event that really changed your life, or is there another one?

S: This one. Falling in love with Michael, leaving everything I knew behind to be with him. The callous way he assume that the decision he had made for what I should do with my body was the right one, without even asking. I was so taken back by his audaciousness. Just plain insensitive, it was like, he never really care for me only had been faking it all the time.

The beauty we see, is the magic we feel, the urban landmarks are all supported by urban nature in the world! Explore my friends!:)

photo by UggBoy/Ugg Girl via Flickr

S: It’s more like the death of a romance, lol. I think women will find it very revolutionary how I finally stand up for myself and tell the bastard to go sit on one and twirl.

K: It sounds like you evolve a lot during the course of this story.

S: My evolution, if you can call it that was part voluntary and part, no real other choice. I grow up, to put in lightly. I go from, why does every men I ever gave my heart always treat me like poop and I must not be worthy of the love that I have so dearly desired? To, I have been allowing men to treat me this way and that why they do.

I learned that I needed to move on, by myself to find myself, before I can ever attempt to find real love

K: Do you see yourself sharing more of your story in another novel?

S: Yes, Luna is currently working on another novel starring me. I will be facing different challenges, but I have actually found true love at last.

K: Yay! I know, I know, I’m a bit of a romantic. It’s my author’s fault. And speaking of authors, if you could say something to yours, what would it be?

Loving yourself

photo by Jeremy Atkinson via flickr

<strong>S: Thank you. So many women my age go through these situations in silence without a voice. Now they know they are not alone and hopefully this will give them the strength to do what I did.

K: That’s nice! It must be great to have a good author! Do you have a message for your readers?

S: If you’re with a person that is hurting you, either physically or emotionally or even just taking for granted, you need to seriously consider that it’s time to walk away. I promise you something better is waiting for you.

K: That is so very true! And it looks like we’re almost out fo time! But, before you go, what is it that you want the most in the whole world?

S: To never to go back to the person I used to be. Always remember self love is the most important thing.

K: and with those sage words we must close this interview. Thanks so much to Selene for stopping by! Remember you can find more of her in Author/ Men Are Not The Problem by Luna Charles Hardcastle – check out menarenottheproblem.comfor more details.

And a special thanks to Luna Charles Hardcastle for playing along!

If you’re an author and would like your character(s) to be interviewed by me, then check out this very cool page that has all the details:

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/character-interviews/

6 Comments
by Joleene Naylor on September 26, 2011  •  Permalink
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Posted by Joleene Naylor on September 26, 2011

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/2011/09/26/interview-with-selene-pierre/

Interview with Dakota

Hello! My name is Katelina, and welcome to Weekend Character Interviews. Using state of the art-mumbo-jumbo author magic, Jo has temporarily bent the laws of fictional space and time to allow various literary universes to converge long enough for me to ask different characters a few questions. Since I spend a lot of time in the Amaranthine series quizzing vampires on what they’re doing, where they’re going and why, Jo thought I would be the perfect interviewer. 

Today we have Dakota from the Emily Dahill, CID Part by Lindsay Downs! You might remember that we had Gerri and her cat recently? Well, I did say we should have a dog to make things even and guess what?

We do!

Even cooler, the laws of literary universes have been further bent so we can have a conversation with Dakota! Let’s give a big welcome to our furry visitor!

Emily Dahill, CID Part 1

Katelina: Welcome Dakota! Could you tell us a little about yourself?

Dakota: It is just so cool being here and away, even for a little while, from work and mom. There’s really not all that much to tell. You know, everyone thinks us collies all look alike. In other words those silly humans think of me as that one from TV and the movies…oh what’s her name. (deep in thought he scratches his muzzle with a hind paw) Oh yeah, Lassie. Well, let me tell you we’re as different as you people. I’m what’s called a tri-color, meaning I have black, tan, or as I like to call it sable. Sounds classier, don’t you think and white. All three are distinctive, as you can see. (Dakota chuckles as he pirouettes to show off his coloration). Mom, that’s Emily, says I have the most expressive deep brown eyes she’s ever seen.

K: You do have very pretty eyes. –

Jorick (appears) Now who has pretty eyes? If it’s another one of those fantasy heroes-

K: *sarcastically* It’s a dog, Jorick. A dog. See?

Jorick: Oh, right. Is it house trained?

*Dakota and Katelina give him a disdainful look*

K: Moving on. I’m guessing you live with Emily?

D: She and I share a really nice log house sort of buried in the woods. We even have a family of wolves that live nearby. Sometimes I’ll sneak some table scraps to take them so their mother, when she has trouble getting out to hunt, can feed the kits.

K: That sounds nice! I wouldn’t mind a trip out to the woods for a few weeks – provided there’s a TV. Though I guess TV probably isn’t a priority for you, huh?

D: Don’t forget, I’m a collie and to me the important things in life are food, sleep, play, food, play, oh did I mention sleep and food and helping to catch bad guys.

K: You mention bad guys. Do you have any enemies?

D: Not so much me but mom have a nemesis. From what I’ve been able to understand mom doesn’t know the guy’s name. Only that he has brown hair, so that’s how we refer to him as ‘the brown-haired man’. The best way to find out about this person and there’s no guarantee the name used is even his real one is to read the first story Final Mission. This happened before Emily and I hooked up. But I did have a chance meeting with the bum in the story A Body in the Snow. That’s where I first caught his scent. And let me tell you, he had a stink that could raise the dead. I knew he to be a danger mostly to mom so I quickly developed a special deep throat growl when I get a whiff of him. It’s happened since that story was first told. You can learn more about him and me in A Body in the Attic where he reappears.

As far as the how’s and why’s he became the enemy, I don’t think even mom knows.

K: Is he going to be back for future stories?

D: I don’t know. I’ve heard that Emily is talking to someone about other stories but don’t really know anything about that.

a collie in profile.jpg

photo by Joleene Naylor

D: Right! I’m sweet, adorable, loveable, and a good partner, always looking after her back. Oh, did I mention sexy as hell. All the girls just love me. Must be my killer smile. (He smiled at me to show off that smile). Seen better.

K: Ha ha! So if all the girls love you, does that mean you have a little Collie sweetheart somewhere?

D: Not. I got snipped as a puppy.

K: Ouch! You’re author sounds like a killer – well, a snipper. *heh-heh* If you could say one thing to her, what would it be?

D: Lindsay, “Stop giving mom all the good scenes.”

K: Sounds like a fair enough request. And if you could say something to your readers?

D: Woof, woof. If you want to laugh and cry tears of joy then Emily Dahill, CID Part 1 is the book for you. And you’ll love what I did to that poor soldier’s rifle.

K: Now I’m curious! Though I think my worthless author knows… not that she’ll make an appearance.

Jorick: She never bothers.

shot_1303113690669

not quite a t-bone....

D: You mean beside getting a one inch thick t-bones steak medium-rare every night for supper. I guess keeping mom safe really would be at the top of the list. Okay, equal to the steak.

Before I go, I have a question for your friend *eyes Jorick*. Well, you see mom wants me to be a werecollie for Halloween. Now, how anemic is that. What I’d love to know is where did you get those fantastic fangs? Boy, with a set of chompers like those hanging out of my mouth I’d make a super vampire collie. See, I could walk around on my hind legs (he hops up and walks around the room). Now that would really scare the people. So, my question, is where did you buy them and do you think they’d have a pair in my size?

K: You know, this brings up an interesting question-

J: Try Fangs R Us. I hear they have quite a collection.

K: Fangs R Us? You just made that up!

J: And with that we’re out of time!

K: Hey! That’s my line! A big thank you to Dakota for giving us all a dog’s eye view of his world. (heh-heh) You can find more of him in the Emily Dahill, CID Part by Lindsay Downs.

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Emily-Dahill-CID-Part-ebook/dp/B005F5D2JG/

Astraea Press: http://www.astraeapress.com/#ecwid:category=662245&mode=product&product=5192868

Barnes & Noble- http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/emily-dahill-cid-part-one-lindsay-downs/1104547210

Bookstrand- http://www.bookstrand.com/emily-dahill-cid-part-one

And to request an autograph on your Kindle: http://kindlegraph.com/authors/ldowns2966

 

And a special thanks to Lindsay Downs for playing along!


If you’re an author and would like your character(s) to be interviewed by me, then check out this very cool page that has all the details:

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/character-interviews/

15 Comments
by Joleene Naylor on September 10, 2011  •  Permalink
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Posted by Joleene Naylor on September 10, 2011

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/2011/09/10/interview-with-dakota/

Interview with Gillian Jones

Hello! My name is Katelina, and welcome to Weekend Character Interviews. Using state of the art-mumbo-jumbo author magic, Jo has temporarily bent the laws of fictional space and time to allow various literary universes to converge long enough for me to ask different characters a few questions. Since I spend a lot of time in the Amaranthine series quizzing vampires on what they’re doing, where they’re going and why, Jo thought I would be the perfect interviewer. 

Today we have Gillian Jones from the Gillian jones Mystery series (wow! To have a series named after yourself, how cool is that?). The series is written by Lois Lewandowski.

The Fatal Heir

Katelina: Welcome Gillian! Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Gillian: I’m probation officer Gillian Jones and I have my own mystery series. My books are contemporary cozies. The books are set in Bend Brook, Nebraska, but I haven’t always lived there. My maternal grandmother raised me in Chicago until I was twelve and she died of cancer. After that, there was a bitter custody battle between my mother and father – at least bitter for me since neither of my parents really wanted me. My mother won, and I went to live with her and my step-father in Des Moines. We later moved to Omaha and I graduated from Westside High. My mother and I have an awkward relationship and although I resemble her in looks – we’re both tall and slender with dark brown wavy hair, we are nothing alike otherwise.

K: My author has family in Omaha. I think she used to live over there somewhere.

*waits for Jo to appear.*

*Nothing happens*

K: Well, that was informative. Thanks, oh mighty author. (sarcasm). Since this si a mystery series, I’d bet there’s some action, and action usually means enemies, right?

G: Dot Derfenmeyer is my courthouse nemesis. She considers herself the matriarch of the county offices and she is a micro-manager who likes to be in control of everything – including my office space. I have an area in my office which can be seen by the public when my door is open. She’d like holiday displays there and I’d like, well, maybe some more chairs. We’ve been sparring over my office space since the first book.

K: Nice! I know people like that! Dealing with them is sure challenging! Is that the biggest challenge you face in the series, or are there others?

G: Besides solving a mystery, my biggest challenge is whether to have children. I can’t seem to get pregnant on my own and fertility treatments are expensive. I’m very hesitant to adopt since most babies hate me. Plus, I don’t know if I’d love any child who appeared on my doorstep. This is a subject very close to my heart since I was the child that appeared on my mother’s doorstep when I was twelve and I certainly wouldn’t describe our relationship as loving.

The Burden of Truth

K: Aw. I can see how that could be a tough decision, especially if you really want children of your own. I usually ask my guests what it is they want most in the whole world. What would your answer to that be?

G: That’s easy, what I want most is a perfect life and a perfect family. It seems like everyone else’s life just goes naturally from point A to point B. Mine, on the other hand, zigzags all over the place.

K: I think the zig-zag is in the eye of the beholder, if you know what I mean. I know my life is a mess! But I guess if there’s no conflict we never evolve, do we? How do you evolve over the course of the series?

G: I have to resolve issues about my own past before I can decide on the future. Every book brings me a little closer to having closure in my life – and I find myself a bit stronger both physically and mentally.

K: Stronger is good. What’s one of the conflicts you’ve faced that really stand out as life changing?

G: One of the most horrific events of my life was an accident on Highway 6 between Lincoln and Omaha. The accident put me in the hospital for six weeks and in a rehabilitation center for six months. My then-husband Vincent, who was in medical school, served me with divorce papers. While I was in the rehabilitation hospital. I wallowed in self-pity. Not that I didn’t have a reason—my leg and pelvis had been broken, and my left ankle had been shattered and had to be rebuilt. I did recover from the accident and am walking again, albeit without high heels. I’ve gone on with life and am trying to decide what I want, and not just what my mother and other people have wanted for me.

K: Bravo! My mother is always after me to get married. It’s not that I’m against marriage or anything, of course. It’s just… you know. Um, so, are you married?

G: I’m glad you asked that! Yes, I am married. My husband, Clint, doesn’t have a lot to say in the books, but he is a great guy. I met him in the rehab hospital when I was roommates with his aunt Rosalee (she was a double knee replacement). One of the things I find so appealing about him is that he always agrees with me. Even though I may have married Clint on the rebound, I’ve really come to love him and I think my readers love him, too. I think we all would hate to see anything bad happen to him.

K: That sounds ominous. You don’t tink your author is planning something do you?

G: Let’s just say that I have a few words for her: Stop Thinking About Killing Clint!

K: Oh. Oh my! That was rather strong. Do you think she’ll listen?

G: I hope so. She can be very stubborn

A Public service message paid for by the Don't Kill Clint Foundation ;)

K: She can’t just randomly kill him, can she? Wait, does Clint help you solve the mysteries? Assistants often get whacked!

G: He hasn’t yet – but I’m sure he could! If anybody helps me solve the mysteries, it would be my mother-in-law, Marlene. Actually, she’s both a hindrance and a help. As a probation officer I have access to the National Crime Information Center and other databases, but if I want to know everything about someone in Bend Brook, I go to Marlene.

K: Oh. Whew! He might be safe then. And if Marlene is half hindrance she should be too, Authors love that. For some reason, they think readers do too. Speaking of readers, if you could say one thing to them, what would it be?

G: Well, a couple of readers (two, to be exact) have been offended that infertility is one of the plot threads and that it is sometimes introduced in a humorous vein. I’d like to say that the books are not meant to offend. My author even moved the fertility issue to the first chapter of the first book so if it’s a subject that is too close to the reader’s heart, they would know from the start and could choose whether or not to read the series.

K: She sounds pretty smart. You said first chapter of the first book. How many books are there in the series?

G: There are two, The Fatal Heir and The Burden of Truth. They recently became available as ebooks on Amazon and Smashwords. My author is working on a third, The State of Grace, and that book should be available in 2012.

K: I don’t want to upset you, but do you know if Clint survives the third book?

G:  (Sighs.) Yes, he’s fine in the third book. It’s the fourth book I’m worried about.

K: Well that’s something, at least. And, it looks like we’re out of time! Thanks for being interviewed today, Gillian.

G: Thanks for having me.

K: You can find more of Gillian (and the perhaps ill-fated Clint? Man, I am worried for the guy, now!) in the Gillian Jones Mystery Series.

The Fatal Heir:

 

 

The Burden of Truth

 

 

And a special thanks to Lois Lewandowski for playing along!


If you’re an author and would like your character(s) to be interviewed by me, then check out this very cool page that has all the details:

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/character-interviews/

4 Comments
by Joleene Naylor on September 3, 2011  •  Permalink
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Posted by Joleene Naylor on September 3, 2011

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/2011/09/03/interview-with-g-jones/

Interview with Geraldina Pottwatts

Hello! My name is Katelina, and welcome to Weekend Character Interviews. Using state of the art-mumbo-jumbo author magic, Jo has temporarily bent the laws of fictional space and time to allow various literary universes to converge long enough for me to ask different characters a few questions. Since I spend a lot of time in the Amaranthine series quizzing vampires on what they’re doing, where they’re going and why, Jo thought I would be the perfect interviewer. 

Today we have Geraldina Pottwatts from a collection of short stories by D M Yates – and it looks like she’s brought her cat. I think this is our first pet! Now we’ll have to have a dog later to even things out.

Sunset silhouette

By Geoff Wong via Flickr

Geraldina: Well, hon, I’m 65 years old.  I hate glasses, but I do use these here pince nez.  As you can see, I’m properly groomed with short styled hair.  I’ll admit I’m rather tall, but my late husband, Wally, didn’t mind.  God rest his sweet soul.  He was an archeologist.  That’s someone who digs up old stuff.  Now, I devote my time to the Lard (at this, she throws up her arms, looks to the ceiling and yells ‘Hallelujah, Lard’) and to my precious widdle Snookums-Doodles.  (She looks fondly at an excessively overweight cat, wearing a knit sweater, laying on his back in a pet stroller eating a cat treat.  As if in answer to her, he stops eating for a second and produces a rather loud belch, then continues eating).  I live somewhere in the Midwest, but I ain’t gonna tell you where.  You can see how attractive I am, and I don’t want a lot of male visitors coming by.  (She leans forward and with her hand to her mouth, she whispers, ‘you know what I mean’)  Now, the Midwest is in the United States, Sweetie, in case you didn’t know.

K: Actually, I was just there recently. There’s not much in the Midwest, is there? Or at least not in my literary universe. So you’re not actually in a novel yet?

G: I think we established that, dear. That’s ok.  Don’t feel bad.  You’ll smarten up with age.  I’m a character in a collection of short stories, named after me (My idea to name ‘em after me.  One thing my author did listen to.)  You can see a couple of ‘em on her blog-thingey at http://dmyates.blogspot.com, including the one with the young boy who thought he was a vampire.  (Gerri laughs and slaps the table again).  I straightened him out, right proper, I did.  I’ll tell ya, I don’t know what’s wrong with a good sturdy typewriter and paper.  This world, mm, mm, mm.

K: You’re sure he wasn’t a vampire? I mean, I do know a few… *stops at look from Geraldina* Um, anyway, over the course of the short stories how do you change or evolve or-

G:Mm, mm, mm.  Such difficult questions from someone so young.  Are you married?  Marriage is holy in the sight of the Lard.  (She repeats the gesture of throwing her arms up and looking at the ceiling.  She yells ‘Hallelujah’)  Now, Shirley – she’s my friend- (someone has to be her friend, you know) – she has this lazy son, Buddy, whose not married.  He ain’t much of a catch, but at your age, well, take what you can get, I say. What’s that?  I’m a tch deaf.  Oh yes, your fancy question.  I’m simply a character composite of older women barn in an earlier time.  (She leans forward with her hand to her mouth and whispers ‘that’d be last century, but we don’t have to tell the world that, since I’m so young looking’).

K: What’s the biggest challenge you face in the stories?

G:What’s that?  Biggest challenge?  My, my.  That’s easy.  Why, it’s getting people to listen to my advice, my words of wisdom.  (She repeats her gesture but this time cups her hand to her mouth and whispers, ‘Thank you, Lard that I’m not as dumb as this girl here’.  She looks back kindly at Katelina and smiles politely).

K: Uh-huh. I suppose you probably don’t have any enemies then?

G: Enemies?  Don’t be silly, Missy.  Everyone who meets me stands in awe of me.  Why, most people barely talk when I’m around.  (Repeating her favorite gesture, she yells, ‘Thank you Lard for making me so perfect).  Mm, mm.

she was a round little kitty

by Joleene Naylor

G: Well, that’s a no-brainer.  One night, a starving young actor just pops up in my bedroom.  Mm, mm, mm.  Poor lost soul.  Thought he could act and that he was a vampire.  (She laughs and slaps her hand on a nearby table).  Lost little young ‘un, wasn’t he, Snookums?  (She looks lovingly at her cat who had just grabbed another cat treat from a large pile next to him and munches away unconcernedly).  Poor boy.  No decent coat, just some old cloak.  Thought he was from Transylvania – as if such a place exits.  (She slaps the nearby table again).  See what can happen when you don’t eat right or get enough sleep?  Now, the way your eyes keep getting bigger and your mouth gets prunier while we talk, why I’d say, you need a good dose of Prune Juice daily and start eating prunes for snacks, you poor girl.  Take my advice.  I know what I’m saying, and I’ve seen that look many a time before when talking to people.  Mm, mm, mm.  The foods people eat today.  All plugged up, like you.

K: *swallows* I have a bad feeling about what happened to that vampire-

G: Poor Lost Soul, you mean. Confused-

K: Right. Next question. You mentioned marriage earlier. Are you in a relationship or-

G: Now, you shouldn’t ask such personal things, young lady.  What kind of mother did you have?  My sweet Wally has been dead this many a year.  There was one man once I thought would do alright, but he must have been intimidated by my smarts.  Never did see him again.  What about you?  Buddy is still single and with that scrunched up look on your face, well, you know.  I bet you don’t get asked out much.  Think about it, Sweety.  And don’t forget to drink Prune Juice.  Might make Buddy like you more if your face wasn’t like that.  My, my, and it’s getting worse as we talk.

K: Um, yeah. Thanks, anyway. I think Jorick might get a little upset about that. *looks towards the door he usually appears through, but he fails to show up*.  Okay, then. Thanks, Jorick!

G: MM? What? Who are you talking to? Are you alright?

K: Yeah, yeah. Peachy. Oh, it looks  like we’re running low on time. What’s the one thing you want in the whole world?

G: Why, I just want the whole world to love the Lard as I do.  (Again, she does her favorite gesture.  ‘Hallelujah, Lard, hallelujah!).  Then everyone would be as near perfect as me, and my work here on this tainted earth would be done.  Mm, mm, mm.

Open Bible

by Ryk Neethling via Flickr

G: Why, I’d tell them to carry the Good Book where-ever they go.  Makes for good reading.  AND, it’s useful if you have to smack a stranger to get your point across.  Listen here, little girl.  You ain’t one of those who talk about them vampires, are you?  Silly young ‘uns today.  My, my, my.  What’s the next question?  I haven’t got all day, you know.  You just talk too much.  No wonder young men don’t come around you much.  You’re not too bright, are ya?  And that face, and my, my, my, do you ever stop talking for one minute?  Mm, mm, mm.  You need a lot of work.  (She repeats the gesture of throwing her hands up and looking at the ceiling.  ‘Thank ya, Lard, for bringing me to this needy child).  An adult, you say?  (Gerri laughs).  You young people all think you’re adults.  Silly young ‘uns today.  Why, when I was your age, not that long ago, we young people were much smarter.  Probably ’cause we ate right.

K: *scowling* Uh-huh. You know, Jorick thinks I’m just fine! *again he does not appear* Fine! Just stay hidden!

G: There you go again. It’s things like that that are causing your trouble!

K: *through gritted teeth*I don’t have any trouble. If you could say one thing to your author, what would it be?

G: Her writing needs work.  Now, I write a weekly newsletter for my church.  I’m willing to show her how to write a story properly, but she pretends she can’t hear me.  Thinks she’s Miss Perfect Writer.  Well, she’ll see.  Someday, she’ll come begging me to help her.  And she has that same pruney face, like yours.  I told her what to eat.  Stubborn as a mule, that one. You know, you didn’t ask where I’m going from here.  This writer – and I use the word lightly, if you know what I mean (Gerri winks at Katelina) – tch, tch, has some more ideas she’s working on.  She’s slow and a bit lazy, if you ask me.  I’d have all these stories done by now.  What am I supposed to do while waiting.  I’ve already read my Good Book cover to cover many times.  How thoughtless can you get, but then, she fancies herself a writer?  Mm, mm, mm.  Dreamer, more likely.

K: *softens a little& I can sympathize with lazy authors-

G: Now, Snookums Doodles and I have typed up a few more suggestions on how to improve our church.  I’m meeting with our Pastor and so I best be on my way.  I’ll leave you my phone number.  You give me a call.  You and Buddy are aging quickly, you know.  (As she strolls Snookums out, she stops and using her favorite gesture, she yells, ‘Hallelujah, Lard, I just saved ya another soul.’  Meanwhile Snookums Doodles releases gas so vile smelling that Katelina really puckers up, holding her breath).  I’ll be sending along some prunes.  Mm, mm, mm.  So young to have a face like that.  (Gerri and Snookums Doodles leaves).

K: *stares after them* Well, that was – erm-

Jorick: *appears through doorway* Interesting?

K: Where the hell have you been?! Oh never mind! Thanks to Geraldina and, um, her foul smelling cat for stopping by today. You can find her on DM Yates’ blog at http://dmyates.blogspot.com/p/geraldina-pottwatts-short-stories.html

And a special thanks to DM Yates for playing along!

If you’re an author and would like your character(s) to be interviewed by me, then check out this very cool page that has all the details:

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/character-interviews/

17 Comments
by Joleene Naylor on August 28, 2011  •  Permalink
Posted in Weekend Interview
Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Posted by Joleene Naylor on August 28, 2011

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/2011/08/28/interview-with-geraldina-pottwatts/

Interview with Starblazer

Hello! My name is Katelina, and welcome to Weekend Character Interviews. Using state of the art-mumbo-jumbo author magic, Jo has temporarily bent the laws of fictional space and time to allow various literary universes to converge long enough for me to ask different characters a few questions. Since I spend a lot of time in the Amaranthine series quizzing vampires on what they’re doing, where they’re going and why, Jo thought I would be the perfect interviewer. 

Today we have Starblazer who is from a variety of places – you know what? I’ll let her tell you!

Air

S: I’m a second generation female Fajrulo, which means I’m the second to bear this name. I’m a member of one of the Magical Races of Silvery Earth and I can shift shape as I please, which means I spend most of my very long life in Human form, usually as a witch, shaman, fortune teller or seeress. I’m the thread that links the Books of the Immortals and also some related short stories. At the moment you can find me as a secondary character in Air, its short sequel The Dancer and my namesake short story Starblazer, prequel to Fire where I’ll play a bigger part as Fire is my Immortal, so my people will be more prominent in that novel (it will be out in June)

K: You said you have a long life span? How long is it?

S: Around 900 years

K: Oh, wow! Don’t things get boring?

S:  No, my own evolution is really very slow, almost imperceptible! But, my lifespan is so long, I can’t remember single events, and I sometimes confuse them with my visions.

K: Oh, well I guess that would help. I wonder if that happens to Jorick, too? *ponders* Sorry, back on topic, I bet you have time to accumulate a lot of enemies!

S: Well, there is a stupid Human tainted by a Pond of Dark Magic who kept me stuck in a single Human form for sixteen years when I was still young and rash… I wiped out a kingdom when I was freed! (that’s Air story in case you’re wondering…)

K: Since you’re basically superhuman, does that mean you have superhuman powers, too?

Fire

S: Yes, I’m very powerful, challenging me might be not good for you, especially if you’re only Human…

K: Does that make it hard to have a romantic relationship? I mean, since you’re so powerful? I know vampires seem to have bizarre issues….

S: Unfortunately Fajrulo are not equipped with a heart. We do grow fond of some people, but we’re cold even among ourselves or with our offsprings… We have mating flights or one-night stands with other races, but we don’t form lifelong couples – ask that to my half-blood son Kyler Darklight, whom you shall meet in Fire and Ether…

K: Yeah. I think that’s a symptom of the long lifespans. I guess it would get boring being with one person for 900 years-

Jorick: *pokes head in* Would it?

K: Erm, I mean, depending on the person, of course. Heh-heh.

S: Who’s that? He’s cute!

J: *looks smug*

K: *blushes* That’s Jorick. He’s my live in boyfriend, I guess you’d call him. Though boyfriend seems sort of weird… He’s a vampire.

S: Oh, really? How old is he?

K: He doesn’t like to talk about it, for some reason. But, I have managed to get out of him that he was born in the 1500′s in The Netherlands and-  

Jo: (finally makes an appearance) Would you be quiet? You’re giving things away! Yeesh!

K: Oh my God! It’s my author! She took five seconds to grace us with her presence! We should mark this day on a calendar! You know, I wouldn’t be giving anything away if you’d get that next book finished! We’re all tired of waiting! And… there she goes. She’s gone, again! Starblazer, I hope your author is better than mine! 

Starblazer

S: Yes, well, I bet mine had fun in exploring the alternative to one of my visions in Fire! I’m glad she also told the real story in Ether…

K: Yeah, she sounds better. After all, you don;t see her appearing and being all crabby. Hrmph! Luckily I have some great readers. I bet you do , too. If you could say one thing to your readers, what would it be? 

S: Remember I’m not Human… and my true form might scare you out of your socks, so bear with me!

K: And it looks like we’re almost out of time! So one last question! What is it that you want the most?

S: Freedom to roam the world – take it from me and you’re as good as dead!

K: Yikes! She’s one serious lady! Thanks to Starblazer for coming in today. You can find her in.. well, here’s the list!

 

Links to the whole stuff…

Books of the Immortals – Air: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/50628

The Dancer: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/60236

Starblazer: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/45494

Books of the Immortals - Fire:  http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/66393

Books of the Immortals - Air:  http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/78062

And a special thanks to Barbara G. Tarn for playing along!


If you’re an author and would like your character(s) to be interviewed by me, then check out this very cool page that has all the details:

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/character-interviews/

8 Comments
by Joleene Naylor on August 20, 2011  •  Permalink
Posted in Weekend Interview
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Posted by Joleene Naylor on August 20, 2011

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/2011/08/20/interview-with-starblazer/

Interview with Dreibrand Veta

Hello! My name is Katelina, and welcome to Weekend Character Interviews. Using state of the art-mumbo-jumbo author magic, Jo has temporarily bent the laws of fictional space and time to allow various literary universes to converge long enough for me to ask different characters a few questions. Since I spend a lot of time in the Amaranthine series quizzing vampires on what they’re doing, where they’re going and why, Jo thought I would be the perfect interviewer. 

Union of Renegades: The Rys Chronicles Book I

Union of Renegades: The Rys Chronicles Book I

Katelina: Hello Dreibrand, can you tell us a little about yourself?

Dreibrand: I am the second son of the House of Veta, one of the original noble families in my homeland of Atrophane. Although I have a serious face, I have a sense of humor and a sincere smile. I’m trained in the martial arts. I graduated from the Darmar’s military academy with top honors. I am skilled with weapons and can fight on foot or from horseback. I grew up in Atrophane, but since becoming a commissioned officer with the Atrophane Horde I have been traveling west and exploring new lands.

I am one of the main characters in Union of Renegades, The Goddess Queen, Judgment Rising, and The Borderlands of Power by Tracy Falbe. These novels are The Rys Chronicles.

K: Wow, that’s a lot of books! I bet your character changes a lot through the series (though hopefully not the hair…)

D: At first I am solely focused on my own ambitions, and I’ll do whatever its takes to achieve my ends. Killing people and making war were my main means of advancing myself. Then I fell in love with Miranda and that begins to change things for me. Going into battle knowing that she is relying on me made things harder. I had to start taking her needs into account and fighting for them too. Eventually we start a family and my thoughts turned to building a legacy for my descendants. This affects me powerfully as I try to transition away from the bloody destruction of war and find new and peaceful ways to maintain my hard-earned wealth and power.

K: That’s sweet. So Miranda sort of helps you change for the better? I assume she’s your girlfriend? Wife?

D: As I said, I’m in love with Miranda. Of course I enjoy her physical attributes, but I love most how I can trust her. She is entirely on my side and I know that she would never betray me. I’m the first person in her life that ever helped her or protected her. She had only known slavery and abuse, but this history has given her great strength. She knows what it means to be powerless and that makes her understand the true value of being powerful. I know that she would never let my enemies succeed against our family, even if I died. She’s filled with love and compassion but I also see how she could be totally ruthless if she needed to be.

K: Wow. That is sweet! *swoon*

Jorick: *interrupts* Perhaps you’d like some help with this interview?

The Goddess Queen: The Rys Chronicles Book II

K: What? Oh. Um, no, no, everything’s fine. *cough*. Um, right. So, Dreibrand, we were talking about, uh, character shaping. What’s something that you think helped shape who you are? Other than Miranda.

D: When Lord Kwan told me I would not be part of his historic expedition into the Wilderness after I had served him so well and faithfully for years. This drove me to realize that I was never going to achieve my ambitions by serving the powerful among my countrymen. I had to make myself powerful, no matter the risks.

K:  You say risks. Do you have a lot of enemies?

D: Yes. Right from the beginning my main rival among the Atrophane was Sandin Promentro. He had wealth and influence that I did not have, but he still felt threatened by my ambitions and tried to keep me back. But then I found worse problems than him for a while. I sided with Shan, the rival of the rys Queen Onja, and served in that terrible war. Then when I thought that I had finally won a peaceful future, ancient magical beings called tabre rise from hibernation and try to take it all away.

K: Holy cats! Your author sounds as bad as mine!

D: Yes. I have a couple things I’d like to complain to her about but doing it in public would give out spoilers for the series. But for the sake of answering, I’ll say that some more sex scenes would have been nice.

K: Oh man, I am in the wrong series-

Jorick: *ahem* I believe we’re running out of time. Since you’re discussing characters and challenges, what’s the biggest challenge you face, Dreibrand?

D: Apart from staying alive and not being betrayed by my allies, I have to say the worst challenge was when Shan became corrupted by his power. His killing rampage that seized the souls of the dead was pure horror, and I was disgraced to be called his friend. After that he abandoned me and I had to face my enemies without his magic.

K: What? Oh, yes. Running out of time. *ahem* What’s the one thing you want the most in the whole world?

Judgment Rising: The Rys Chronicles Book III

D: I want to establish a legacy of wealth and power to pass on to my children and allow them to live without fear of war.

K: And if you could say one thing to your readers, what would it be?

D: I’m a great guy and my men love serving me.

K: Oh yes, I can certainly see why the… erm… men… would.. *looks at Jorick*. Never mind.

J: Thank you, Dreibrand for consenting to be interviewed by someone who can’t manage to focus.

K: I’m focusing (I just don’t think we’re focusing on the same thing…)

J: *AHEM*

K: You can find Dreibrand Veta, inThe Rys Chronicles fantasy series by Tracy Falbe

To begin reading The Rys Chronicles download Union of Renegades for free at http://www.braveluck.com  

 The Rys Chronicles by Tracy Falbe can also be found at:

 Smashwords http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/939  

Amazon Kindle http://www.amazon.com/Union-Renegades-Chronicles-Book-ebook/dp/B003UES7U8/

Barnes & Noble Nook http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Union-of-Renegades/Tracy-Falbe/e/2940000720509/  

Apple iBooks http://itunes.apple.com/us/book/union-renegades-the-rys-chronicles/id365801314?mt=11

Sony Ebook Store http://ebookstore.sony.com/ebook/tracy-falbe/union-of-renegades/_/R-400000000000000254026

Kobo http://kobobooks.com/ebook/Union-Of-Renegades-The-Rys/book-Oq_yfVWKW06imjnEqncr1Q/page1.html

 And a special thank you to Tracy Falbe for playing along! 

If you’re an author and would like your character(s) to be interviewed by me, then check out this very cool page that has all the details:

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/character-interviews/

5 Comments
by Joleene Naylor on August 13, 2011  •  Permalink
Posted in Weekend Interview
Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Posted by Joleene Naylor on August 13, 2011

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/2011/08/13/interview-with-dreibrand-veta/

Interview with Verchiel

Hello! My name is Katelina, and welcome to Weekend Character Interviews. Using state of the art-mumbo-jumbo author magic, Jo has temporarily bent the laws of fictional space and time to allow various literary universes to converge long enough for me to ask different characters a few questions. Since I spend a lot of time in the Amaranthine series quizzing vampires on what they’re doing, where they’re going and why, Jo thought I would be the perfect interviewer. 

Or maybe not. You see, today it isn’t a character from another literary universe, instead it’s-

Jorick: is this absolutely necessary?

Katelina: Yes, it is. And it’s not your turn. We already did your interview, remember?

The cover in question…

J: How could I forget? I don’t understand why he needs one.

K: If you didn’t notice, he is on the cover.

J: I noticed. Trust me. I noticed.

K: Without further interruption, today we have Verchiel – um, well, I don’t know his last name. But, anyway, he’s from the third book in the Amaranthine series, Ties of Blood.  Before he shows up I do have to ask that you not stare at his hair. I don’t know why it’s bright red or why he insists on wearing it like that.

Verchiel: Well, hello, Kately! Thanks for having me!

K: It’s Katelina, not Kately.

V: And I see our friendly neighborhood Jorick is here, looking as cheerful as ever. How have you been?

K: I’ll ask the questions here. So, Verchiel, you randomly appear in Ties of Blood. Is there-

J: Any particular reason your character exists at all?

V: To annoy you, probably. Oh, come on. I’m fun. There can’t be book after book after book of you glooming around being all macho-emo and Kately whining and Oren moaning and being depressed. It’s boring. People like humor, and I am humor.

J: you’re something all right. What makes you think anyone wants humor? These are vampire books.

V: So? People still like humor. There have been a lot of compliments about the humor in the first book. Then the second book was so emo-mushy-squishy with you two trying to get your boring relationship cemented away. The whole series could use an injection of funny.

K:  *to Jorick* I can handle this, thanks. *to Verchiel* Surely your character is more than just humor?

V: Of course. Though you may not realize it, I happen to be a driving force behind a lot of the events in the third book.  Let’s just say that without me, it would be a very different story.

J: You could say that again!

K: Why is it that you and Jorick seem to hate one another so much?

V: Oh, I don’t hate him at all! *Smiles innocently* The problem is we’re polar opposites. For his every gloomy, forethought plan I have one cheerful, seemingly slapdash spur of the moment idea. He doesn’t like that.

K: How do you and Jorick know one another?

splatter

By Joleene Naylor

V: I know Jorick by reputation, which I have to say is pretty accurate, by the way. I also know that we will be spending more time together in book four and, if that lovely author of ours really gets cracking, I believe we’ll see an especially large amount of one another in book 5.

K: There is a school of thought that feels not a lot happens in this particular book. What’s your take on that?

V: I admit, there’s a lot of setting up for the next book, but things happen. You meet a lot of new characters. There’s some fights. A few vampires get killed. You guys have sex a time or two. *heh-heh* Look, how many battles do you think one author can cram into one book before it gets ridiculous? Surely there’s a point in your lives when someone is not trying to kill you? Besides, I get introduced. What more do you need?

*crickets chirp*

J: Which we could do without.

K: I could have done without Malick.

V: What? No, no. That’s a good scene! In fact, after the meeting with Malick is one of my best scenes! Sure, it’s subtle, but you get to see that I’m not really a heartless bit of fluff. I mean, I do my best, you know. What you could have done without is Oren.

K: I get the impression you don’t like him very much.

V: I wouldn’t say “don’t like” exactly… He’s just so gloomy. Yeah, I know, I know, his wife and children and all of that, but come on. How many books can he be a ticking time bomb for? It has to end eventually, doesn’t it?

K: I dunno. You’d have to ask our author. Not that I think she’ll make an appearance.

*nothing happens*

so many beautiful crosses.jpg

By Joleene Naylor

J: I imagine he’ll have his war in book 4 and get killed.

K: You don’t know that he’ll get killed! Don’t say that! People take that stuff seriously.

V: Nah, the author won’t kill him off. She’s gotten too soft for something like that. We could place bets though. It could be fun. Will Oren die in book four? Yes? No?

J: I wouldn’t be so flippant if I were you. You’re not exactly a necessary character, after all.

V: Yes I am. You note *I’m* getting the interview and not Oren, even after three books. So which of us is more important?

K: It just means you suck up more.

V: Okay, there is that.

K: Can we get back to the real questions? Geeze! Anyway, are you romantically involved with anyone?

V: *winks* Are you asking because you want to know?

J: *growls*

V: Ah, relax Mr. Crabby Boots. No, not with any one girl in particular, if you get my drift. *winks meaningfully*. Eternity is too long of a time to settle down in.

K: Alright. What’s one event that changed your life?

V: Besides being turned into a vampire? I think that was the big one. I could be wrong, but I’m going to go with it, anyway.

K: Okay. What is the biggest challenge you face in-

V: These are pretty boring questions, you know. Just saying.  You do a better job with the other people.

K: They’re less annoying. Now, what is the biggest challenge -

V: Can anything really be challenging when you’re as awesome as I am?

J: That’s it. Right there. That’s why I don’t like him. He’s a clown headed ego on feet.

K: I know. I’m amazed his ego fits through the door. Moving on. If you could say one thing to our author, what would it be?

V: You’re a dear, lovely little writer. Don’t listen to all the other complaining characters. Hey! You know what would make you even cooler? If you dropped the rest of the group and did a series about me.

J: Ha! Only if she wanted to give up any hope of making a name for herself! People thought the last book was “ridiculous”. I can just imagine what they’ll say about you! I foresee a lot of one star ratings.

V: You’ll be sorry if it turns out people love me.

K: *clears throat loudly* Anything to say to your readers?

V: *waves* Hello!

K: Well, if that’s it, I think we’re out of time. A special, if reluctant, thank you to Verchiel for sort of being interviewed today.

You can find more of him in Ties of Blood, which is slated for a September 2011 release. Look for sneak peeks coming soon. And please don’t hold him against all of us. He wasn’t our idea.

If you’re an author and would like your character(s) to be interviewed by me, then check out this very cool page that has all the details:

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/character-interviews/

17 Comments
by Joleene Naylor on August 6, 2011  •  Permalink
Posted in Amaranthine Interviews, Ties of Blood, Weekend Interview
Tagged , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , , ,

Posted by Joleene Naylor on August 6, 2011

http://joleenenaylor.wordpress.com/2011/08/06/interview-with-verchiel/

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