Showing posts with label character interview. Show all posts
Showing posts with label character interview. Show all posts

Thursday, February 26, 2015

February is for Paranormal Romance: Q+A with Leigh Goff + Giveaway

February is for Paranormal Romance: Valentine's Q+A with Paranormal Romance Author Maggie Shayne

February is for Paranormal Romance...and we have an incredible month of special author features for you.  Today we have a Valentine's Day themed "this or that" Q+A with Leigh Goff. 

Keep reading for a chance to win a $10 Amazon Gift Card!

Q+A with Leigh Goff and Sophie Goodchild

Sixteen-year-old Sophie Goodchild, the half-witch main character from the YA fantasy romance Disenchanted by Leigh Goff answers the following February This or That questions.

EJ:  Chocolates or Flowers?

Sophie:
  My Aunt Janie, an herbalist witch who owns a shop called Scents and Scentsabilities, has infused a deep appreciation for plant magic into my head and heart, but she also makes a mean enchanted chocolate confection to help me keep secrets and it melts on my tongue in the most delicious way. I’m torn on this question, but if I have to choose, I choose flowers because they really communicate so much more sentiment than chocolate, and they come in handy when you want to concoct magical products like Tulips to Kiss Stick and Forever First Love Lip Balm.

EJ:  Going out or staying in?

Sophie:
  Staying in. Hands down. When you are dating a guy as hot as mine, you want to spend as much alone time together as possible. His name is Alexavier. He’s American, but went to school in London, so he has a dreamy British accent. He’s tall, dark-haired, and a bad boy at heart. Did I mention he’s forbidden? Oh yeah. *Swoon*

EJ:  Fancy restaurant or pizza/burger joint?

Sophie:
  I’m going with fancy restaurant on this one. Witches own most of the pizza/burger/sandwich shops in Wethersfield, and sometimes, they add enchanted ingredients like Parisian basil to their Witch Wraps to keep customers coming back. I’ll take mine without Parisian basil, thank you very much!

EJ:  Action flick or romantic comedy?

Sophie:
  Alexavier really prefers action flicks because he is all about action. He never shies away from a fight. He even goes out in thunderstorms looking for trouble. That’s how we met. Me, I prefer watching zombie flicks with my pal, Callum. My friend, Macey thinks there is a love triangle going on with Alexavier, Callum, and me, but as sweet as Callum is, my heart belongs to Alexavier.

EJ:  Nightclub or ballroom?

Sophie: 
Ballroom. And only because of the weird dreams I’ve been having lately where I find myself wearing seventeenth century gowns and dancing to harpsichord music with a well-dressed gentleman who looks a lot like Alexavier. I think my witch ancestor is trying to tell me something…

EJ:  Coffee or cocktails?

Sophie: 
Coffee. I’m too young to drink cocktails and with the sleepless nights I’ve been having thanks to a witchy ghost from the past, caffeine is exactly what I need to wake up and keep me out of trouble. Good thing I have my mom’s diamond bloodcharm to enhance my magic, just in case trouble finds me and I’m not caffeinated.

How do you celebrate Valentine's Day?

Thank you Leigh and Sophie for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

Leigh Goff is the author of Disenchanted.

Disenchanted paranormal romance by Leigh Goff

To learn more about paranormal romance author Leigh Goff, please visit her website.

February is for Paranormal Romance Giveaway

All month long we are posting special features from our favorite paranormal romance authors, and we are topping this off with a chance to win a $10 Amazon Gift Card!

February is for Paranormal Romance Giveaway Amazon Gift Card

To enter, please use the Rafflecopter form below.  This giveaway is INTERNATIONAL.  If you cannot accept an electronic Amazon Gift Card, you may choose one paranormal romance book from The Book Depository (value up to $10.00).  Giveaway ends February 28, 2015 midnight EST.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Good luck!

Wednesday, September 4, 2013

Q+A with Drusilla "DJ" Jaco (Elysian Fields: Sentinels of New Orleans)

Please welcome today's special guest, Drusilla Jaco from the Sentinels of New Orleans urban fantasy series by Suzanne Johnson!

Drusilla Jaco took a break from chasing down pretes (preternaturals) who’ve crossed the borders from the Beyond into modern New Orleans to chat about how her life has changed in the three years since she became a Sentinel.

What’s the hardest part of your job? Has it gotten any easier?

Well, since Hurricane Katrina tore down the borders between New Orleans and the Beyond, all the rules have changed. The physical part of the job has gotten easier…except, wait. Let me rethink that. I have been drowned, shot, burned, had my hair yanked out by the roots…Hell no, it hasn’t gotten easier.

Sounds kind of hazardous? You’re one of only a few female wizards to ever hold the job of sentinel.

Not really. I mean, most days I’m just trying to stay alive—or out of the wizards’ Elders’ doghouse. Although after recent events, I’m pretty far down on their list of priorities. I mean, do you know what the First Elder did?

Uh, I don’t think you can talk about that yet. It’s not until the next book.

Oh. Well, okay. Let’s just say the Elders have much bigger wizards to fry than me.

What are you most afraid of? It used to be zombies—is that still true?

I’m still most afraid of losing someone else I care about. But I’ve changed my mind about zombies. Not that I LIKE zombies, but you have to like a prete who can just be set on fire or blown up with a grenade. You know, they’re all mindless and shambling and stuff. Now elves. Elves, I fear. Maybe fear is the wrong word. Loathe. That’s the word. Fear and Loathing in New Orleans.

What about elves scares you? Aren’t they nice, peaceful, beautiful creatures?

*Stares at me in disgust.* Hey, I like Tolkien as well as the next wizard on the block, and Gandalf—the wizard, not the dog—was cool. But, seriously, he had elves wrong.

Would you say elves are evil?

No, it would be easier if they were evil. They just have their own ways, and happen to think their ways are the right ways. And the only ways. And that everyone else is stupid.

Sort of sounds like wizards?

I have the staff with me. I’m not above zapping someone with it. Ask my neighbor Quince Randolph.

What’s ahead for you and Quince Randolph? Admit it, you think he’s hot.

So is a coat made of leopard fur, but I can think of all kinds of reasons not to have one. But just in case those rumors are getting started: I do not like Quince Randolph. I do not trust Quince Randolph farther than I can throw him, and he’d be too heavy to try—and besides that throwing him would require touching him, and I don’t plan to do that either. Not happening. So just put that out of your mind.

What about Alex?

*Narrows eyes* What about him? What kind of question is that?

What about Jean Lafitte? The pirate has proven to be a valuable ally, wouldn’t you say?

(Sighs.) Yes, you just don’t even want to know how much I owe that man .. pirate .. privateer … whatever. God only knows what he’ll want in payback.

It’s been said you have too many men in your life, so what about Jake?

Jake and I tried but it wasn’t meant to happen, and it’s better for both of us that it didn’t. That’s over. I still care about him. I still feel responsible for what’s happened to him; well, Alex and me both. I’ll always help him if I can. But friends is it.

And Rene?

(Laughs.) I love that guy. He’s the only person I know who’s more impulsive than me. We’re too much alike to be more than friends. Besides, why in the world would I get mixed up with a guy who spends all his free time in the water? I can’t even swim.  He’s a good backup guy, though, and I think Alex is gonna offer him a job with the DDT prete squad. Don’t know if he’ll take it or not.

Last question: what’s your take on the vampires and the local vampire Regent, Etienne?

I think Etienne Boulard better watch his fangs. I know a certain French pirate who wants to have a few words with him. It won’t be pretty. … I hope I get to watch. But now, I gotta go and have a word with the Greater Mississippi River Nymphs. Their escort and massage service still has a few satyrs on staff, and I’m sorry, but those creepy little horns are freaking people out. And the cloven hooves (shakes head). You don’t even want to know.


Thank you DJ for joining us here today at From the Shadows!  Read on to learn more about Elysian Fields, the newest release in the Sentinels of New Orleans series.






















Elysian Fields (Sentinels of New Orleans #3) by Suzanne Johnson.

An undead serial killer comes for DJ in this thrilling third installment of Suzanne Johnson’s Sentinels of New Orleans series

The mer feud has been settled, but life in South Louisiana still has more twists and turns than the muddy Mississippi.


New Orleanians are under attack from a copycat killer mimicking the crimes of a 1918 serial murderer known as the Axeman of New Orleans. Thanks to a tip from the undead pirate Jean Lafitte, DJ Jaco knows the attacks aren’t random—an unknown necromancer has resurrected the original Axeman of New Orleans, and his ultimate target is a certain blonde wizard. Namely, DJ.


Combatting an undead serial killer as troubles pile up around her isn’t easy. Jake Warin’s loup-garou nature is spiraling downward, enigmatic neighbor Quince Randolph is acting weirder than ever, the Elders are insisting on lessons in elven magic from the world’s most annoying wizard, and former partner Alex Warin just turned up on DJ’s to-do list. Not to mention big maneuvers are afoot in the halls of preternatural power.


Suddenly, moving to the Beyond as Jean Lafitte’s pirate wench could be DJ’s best option.


Release Date:  August 13, 2013.

Genre:  Urban Fantasy

Add to Goodreads

Books in this series:  Royal Street, River Road, and Elysian Fields.

Book Review:  Don't miss our 5-Shadows review of Elysian Fields coming September 6, 2013.  I absolutely LOVED it.

To learn more about this series check out Suzanne Johnson's website and don't miss this fun interview with Suzanne from our archives.

Wednesday, January 9, 2013

Character Interview: The Blend Series

Please welcome today's paranormal guest author Lori Pescatore.  Lori is the author of Human Blend, Earth Blend, and Terminal Blend.

Lori: Hello, My name is Lori Pescatore. I am the Author of The Blend Series; Human Blend, Earth Blend and Terminal Blend. Today I have with me the main protagonist of the series, Julie. Welcome, Julie.

Julie:  Thank you.

Lori:  The books are about your life and struggles to live a normal life. Do you think you will be able to achieve that goal?

Julie:  Highly improbable given my circumstances, but can't blame a girl for trying.

Lori:  How has your character changed over the course of the trilogy?

Julie:  I grew up emotionally, I think. I had let my physical age rule my mental age when it should have been the other way around. I feel I've also defined the relationships in my life to a degree.

Lori:  Ah, yes, the love triangle seemed to grow a bit as the books continued.

Julie:  I think it was more me trying to sort out my true feelings and understand what I wanted or didn't want in my life.

Lori:  Have you come to control the abilities that made you stand out?

Julie:  That is still a work in progress. I have managed to come to an understanding about how they work. Some I enjoy like the healing, but others, I would rather they be locked away forever.

Lori:  Some characters do not survive in this series; how hard was that for you to deal with?

Julie:  Is there a way to deal with it? If you know of a way, please tell me. The hardest part is when you are responsible for that loss, whether directly or indirectly. I still have nightmares.

Lori:  Are you sad the series is over?

Julie:  The series in print may be over, but I will still continue on. My life doesn't stop just because we've ended the writing of it.

Lori:  Does that mean you might be open to another one at some point?

Julie:  I think I should be asking you that question.

Lori:  I think we are out of time, thank you for stopping by. Maybe we will run into each other again some day.

Julie:  You know where to find me.























Terminal Blend (Blend #3) by Lori Pescatore

An Epic battle is brewing. Can Julie's newly unleashed abilities help save her and her friends? Prepare for a war of otherworldly proportions where the unexpected becomes the norm and nothing is what it seems. Is Julie the key to saving the Earth and her people or will she once again need the help of her Earthling friends? Not everyone will survive as the playing field shifts and consequences will extend throughout the universe.
Terminal Blend is the final installment in The Blend Trilogy. In Human Blend we met a girl named Julie on the run from her past. Her unique abilities made her hunted prey. Along the way she encountered some amazing people like Eli, an Earthling who wanted nothing more than to protect her and Marcus, who was like her and explained the truth of their origins. Add into the mix a boy named Austin, who unearthed a few secrets of his own. In Earth Blend we heard the back story to the supernatural creatures introduced in book one. In the final installment, the lies mount and Julie must find a way to cope with the new threat that could destroy everything and everyone she holds dear. Come immerse yourself in the final chapter of this amazing trilogy.



Thank you Lori for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Lori Pescatore and her books, please visit her website.  Also, don't miss our author interview with Lori and our character interview with Percone here at From the Shadows.

Wednesday, September 26, 2012

A Dawn of Dragonfire Character Interview + Giveaway

Please welcome today's returning guest author Daniel Arenson.  Daniel is the author of Firefly Island, Flaming Dove, Eye of the Wizard, Blood of Requiem, Tears of Requiem, Light of Requiem, and A Dawn of Dragonfire.

Keep reading for a chance to win A Dawn of Dragonfire by Daniel Arenson.

Character interview: Lyana and Bayrin from A Dawn of Dragonfire

EJ:  Today we welcome Lyana and Bayrin, siblings from Requiem, a land of people who can become dragons.  Lyana, let's start with you.  Tell us about yourself.

Lyana:  First of all, you may call me Lady Lyana Eleison.  I am a knight of Requiem, a member of the ancient order of bellators.  I know many people these days no longer bother with titles – my oaf a brother, for example – but I still care about tradition.

Bayrin:  You care about your big head, more like.

Lyana:  Bayrin!  Be quiet!  You will have a turn to speak.  *sigh* Do you see what I must deal with?  Where was I?  Oh yes, as I said, I am Lady Lyana, a knight of Requiem, one of only fifty who guard the realm.  In human form, I have red hair and green eyes.  I turn into a blue dragon with golden horns.  In addition to being a knight, I am betrothed to Prince Orin Aeternum, and will soon be a princess, then a queen consort one day.

Bayrin:  Imagine the size of her head then!  No crown would fit her.

Lyana:  Bayrin!  I might have a big head, but yours is completely hollow!  Will you please be quiet?

Bayrin:  Me?  Be quiet?  How little you know me, dear sister.  In fact, I will now tell the readers a little about myself.  Well... I'm Bayrin.  And... hmmm...

Lyana:  Nothing much to speak of, is there?

Bayrin:  Lyana, quiet!  I didn't interrupt you, did I?

Lyana:  What?  You—

Bayrin:  AHEM!  As I was saying, dear readers, I am Bayrin Eleison.  I can turn into a green dragon (one much faster and stronger than Lyana).  I'm older than Lyana, and much better looking, and quite smarter too, and overall better liked and—

Lyana:  BAYRIN!  Don't lie to people.  I will tell them the truth.  Bayrin, my oaf of a brother, is the biggest blockhead in Requiem.   He is the son of great parents – our father is captain of the City Guard, and our mother is the High Priestess – but do you think he cares?  Do you think he ever tried to become a knight or priest?  No.  He spends his days singing in alehouses, or chasing girls, or sleeping past noon.  The only time he enters the armory is to draw rude drawings on shields.

Bayrin:  Not true!  I’ve entered the armory for more than that.  I once also placed a frog in your helmet.

Lyana:  Place some sense in your head instead!  Bayrin, you are five years older than me.  When will you grow up?  When will you make something of your life?  Come to court now and then!  Pick up a sword and join the army!  Pick up a book and learn to read and write!

Bayrin:  I know how to read and write!

Lyana:  Scribbling rude limericks on alehouse walls doesn't count, Bayrin.  Won't you ever do something with yourself?  At least get a haircut and a shave, you look like a sheepdog.  I swear, Bayrin, if you weren't my brother, I would punch some sense into your hollow skull.

Bayrin:  Ladies and gentlemen, this is the real Lyana.  Forget knighthood or betrothals to princes – it's mostly lectures.

Lyana:  That does it.  It's time for punching!

Bayrin:  Ouch!  Lyana, stop that!

EJ:  I think this interview is over...  We hope you enjoyed meeting Bayrin and Lyana.  You can read more about them in A Dawn of Dragonfire, the first volume of Dragonlore, a new epic fantasy series.






















A Dawn of Dragonfire (Dragonlore #1) by Daniel Arenson.

The people of Requiem, an ancient kingdom, can grow wings and scales, breathe fire, and take flight as dragons. Their hearts are noble, their wisdom great, their kingdom a land of beauty and peace.

This peace will soon burn. From the south, a fire rises. Birds of flame take flight. The phoenixes soar, beasts of heat and wrath, large as dragons and cruel as wildfire. Their purpose is one: destroy the land of dragons.


Requiem's dragons have defeated countless enemies. Their claws are sharp and their flames bright. But how can they fight the phoenixes, creatures woven of sunfire itself?


In 2011, the Song of Dragons trilogy introduced readers to mythical Requiem. Today, after 100,000 copies sold, a new dawn rises. Dragonlore returns to Requiem with an epic story—for both new readers and old fans—of blood, steel, and dragonfire.


Thank you Daniel, Lyana, and Bayrin for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Daniel Arenson and his books, please visit his website.  Check our sidebar for links to past interviews with Daniel and his characters.

**A Dawn of Dragonfire Giveaway**

We are giving away an ebook copy of A Dawn of Dragonfire by Daniel Arenson to one lucky winner.

To enter, please leave a comment on this post (include your email address so we may contact you if you win).  This giveaway is INTERNATIONAL.  Giveaway ends October 11, 2012 midnight EST.


Wednesday, September 5, 2012

Reich Character Interview With Donald Allen Kirch

Please welcome today's guest author Donald Allen Kirch.  Donald is the author of Manchester House, Still Waters, The Silent Pulpit, and Reich.

(From "STARS & BARS" Vol. 6, Issue 14 - March 8, 1949)
Editor's Note: With thanks due to the official News Agency of Norway and the British Broadcasting System for help in research.

LILYHAMMER, NORWAY - The nation and people of Norway, recovering from the invasion and takeover by the Axis Powers, has within its dark caverns serious rumors and secrets that have only recently come to light.  From the land of Norsemen, daring voyagers, and mythology, there are whispers of a more recent monster - Adolf Hitler.

The "Stars & Bars" is dedicated to the truth, but when it came to seeking the facts on this one, our reporters had a difficult time trying to accept what was being sold to them.

The town's name is not known.  If it were, the people would not relate it to this reporter.

All that is known, and had been felt, was an abject horror.  The kind of feeling one tries to ignore, telling them that it never happened, or worse, that it couldn't happen here.

The rumor?  That Adolf Hitler did not die within the depths of his bunker, as the Soviet Army has testified.  The leader of Germany's Third Reich perished within the cold waters of Norway.

On any other given week, this information would have been laughed out of an editor's office.  However, not too long ago, a wine bottle had washed up upon the Danish coast, containing inside of it, a torn-out page from a German u-boat's captain's log.  A fantastic tale had been written on this page - Hitler died within the hull of a submarine called "NAUCELIUS."

Facts...seemed to point to Berlin.

Testimony...pointed to six people killed in Norway, including the mysterious and bloodied death of that nation's greatest traitor - Quisling!

At first, no one would talk about the rumors.

Some pointed our attention to a retired priest named Father Francis Donavon.

Father Donavon looks, by all accounts, to be a passive follower of the Catholic Church.  He is a native of Ireland, and has seen his fair share of blood and death before being assigned by his faith to these foreign shores.  After careful diplomacy with the Holy See, in Rome, this paper was allowed a visit with the priest in question.

Note: Father Donavon did not agree to this interview, but was ordered by his offices to oblige.  We thank him for his efforts and wish him well in his retiring years.

STARS & BARS: Father Donavon...I understand that you had taken part in a fantastic adventure during the closing days of the last war.
DONAVON: I agreed to this interview, Mister Reporter, to put aside all this nonsense I have been hearing since last week.  If that is what you want to know.
STARS & BARS: Father, is there any facts to the rumor that the Nazis had secretly sent Adolf Hitler to this nation before his final demise, and that he truly died within a u-boat off Norway's coast?
The priest sat silent, almost in shock.  It was this reporter's opinion that Father Donavon was taken by surprise.
DONAVON: I have no idea what you are talking about, son.  As far as I know, he was killed by the Russians in his bunker, in Berlin.
STARS & BARS: He committed suicide, sir.
DONAVON: What was that?
STARS & BARS: According to the Russians, Hitler committed suicide before he could be taken prisoner.
DONAVON: Well, couldn't have happened to a nicer man!
Looking around the priest's humble quarters, one got the impression that he lived alone. Books lined his walls of ancient texts on religion, and family pictures of his niece, Kate, standing next to a young man the priest claimed to be her husband.  He would not give the man's name, nor would he say anything about them, except that they had both "moved to the States."
STARS & BARS: Father Donavon, have you ever heard of a German u-boat called the "Nauecilus?"
DONAVON: Never.
STARS & BARS: Never?  There are records from the military bases, that a priest named Donavon had been questioned by the Norwegian Home Guard, after both he and two men had been discovered coming ashore right after the alleged theft of such a submarine.
DONAVON: I was out fishing with a few lads, and we tipped over.  If it had not been for the fast thinking of my friend, we would have all drowned.  Now, if you knew about that, you certainly read our statements from the event.  The government believed the story.
STARS & BARS: Was it that, father?  A story?
DONAVON: I am not in the habit of being called a liar in my home, son.  One more remark such as that and Christian or no, I'll show you both the door and the back of me hand!
STARS & BARS: I am just looking for the facts here, sir.
DONAVON: Oh, sir, is it, now?
A child roared down the hallway of the housing complex we were in, flapping a homemade kite behind her.  This reporter had noticed a certain amount of fear raise within the old priest's eyes upon hearing the noise.  This was not the look of a common man's fear, but that of a man who had seen and survived pure evil.  A certain "distance" was observed within his stare, only associated with those in combat.
STARS & BARS: Father, there were listed, within the official records of the Norwegian Gestapo, six associated deaths, connected with the rumor of Hitler's visit.
DONAVON: The man never came here!  Have you not been listening to me?
STARS & BARS: (We produced a copy of a secret order, signed by Himmler) I have an executive order, here, signed by Himmler, ordering a submarine, named "Nauecilus" to Norway, carrying within "an important diplomat."  Or course, this u-boat is registered as destroyed in the North Atlantic, but others claim it did arrive, and it carried Adolf Hitler.  Question: did you make contact with this crew?
Donavon refused to answer.  However, he remained remarkably calm, considering his actions from before.  This reporter was well prepared for the "back of his hand," upon asking such an inquiry.
Nothing.
DONAVON: Why are you here?
STARS & BARS: To seek the truth on our story, sir.
DONAVON: No. WHY are YOU here?  I have done my duty for both king and church.  I need not listen to silly stories about monsters.
STARS & BARS: Monsters, Father?  We claimed nothing about monsters.  Since you brought it up, we have heard stories from the locals about...vampires.  Are there such things as vampires, Father Donavon?
At this time, the priest shouted and threw this reporter out of the small apartment.  A week later, while preparing to fly back to London, and then to Europe, Father Donavon called to apologize.  This reporter was sent back to the old warrior's home.
Father Donavon should not be looked upon as an Old Catholic Priest who has gone mad, but as a hero.  He worked closely with the Norwegian underground, and played a part in the general freedom of her people.  One of his closest friends, a fisherman by the name of "John" called him "a guiding influence in his life."
And, so, the interview concluded with these exchanges...
DONAVON: I would like to begin by apologizing for my behavior last.  The war was hard on most of us here, in Norway.  The Nazis were a cruel landlord.
STARS & BARS: Think nothing of it.  Perhaps it was an awkward moment best left alone.
DONAVON: You made reference to the claim of vampires.
STARS & BARS: Yes.
DONAVON: Well, they do exist.  There is evil in this world.
STARS & BARS: And...Hitler?  Was he ever here in Norway?
DONAVON: As I have stated from before, I have never met, seen, nor heard from Adolf Hitler.  I am just thankful that he is gone.  Hidden in the deep and cold where all good secrets should be.
STARS & BARS: Hidden?
DONAVON: Hidden.  And that's the end of the questioning.  God be with you, my son.
One curious note: About a week after this interview, both Father Donavon and his fisherman friend "John" left for London.  It was explained by the offices of the Holy See, that Donavon had been asked to return home to Ireland.  As a matter of record "John" took up the job of assistant, helping the priest with his next mission.
We wish him the best in his future endeavors.
The rumors of a visit by Adolf Hitler still persists.  Records show medical doctors trying to save several attacked German soldiers, who all suffered from a massive loss of blood; some had broken necks, and even evidence of having been eaten upon.  There were stories of young couples being killed in barns and of family dogs lost - never to be seen again.
Is there evil left in this "atomic" world we have inherited after the Japanese surrender?
Yes...there is.
Could Hitler have been this "monster?"  This "vampire?"
Highly unlikely.
Adolf Hitler killed himself in the dark confines of his bunker in Berlin.  The Soviets took over the remnants of his broken empire shortly after the coward pulled the trigger.
End of story.

For more, read the horror novel "REICH" by Donald Allen Kirch.























Reich by Donald Allen Kirch

“Once he stretched out his hand and Europe trembled.”

Adolf Hitler, the “Supreme Warlord” of Germany’s Third Reich ruled Europe with an iron fist. With his political promises to a desperate people, he spoke of a reign that would last a thousand years. Under his command humanity had entered a new dark age. Tales were told of horrors taking place in the East – of railroad cars, of ovens, and death. Still, there was one little secret he had kept to himself.


When Hitler survived an assassination attempt upon his life his secret was discovered by those in command. Something had to be done!


A German U-boat Captain is ordered to transport Adolf Hitler to a secret military base in Norway, during the closing days of the Second World War. While on this mission, he discovers that there is more to Germany’s “Supreme Warlord” than meets the eye. To his horror, the Captain discovers the Third Reich’s darkest secret: Hitler was a vampire! 



Thank you Donald for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Donald Allen Kirch and his books, please visit his website.  Also, don't miss our author interview with Donald here at From the Shadows.

Wednesday, July 18, 2012

The Progeny Series Character Interview + Giveaway

Please welcome today's paranormal guest author Ashlynne Laynne.  Ashlynne is the author of The Progeny and Blood Bonds.

Keep reading for a chance to win ebook copies of The Progeny (2nd Edition) and Blood Bonds by Ashlynne Laynne.

Ashlynne Laynne’s Interview with Ascher and Shauna Rousseau

Ascher and Shauna both appear through the bi-fold patio doors that lead to a cozy lanai, overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

Ashlynne: (stands and hugs Ascher) “Ash, it’s so good to see you.” (hugs Shauna) “Shauna you look fabulous. You’ve been working out?”

Shauna: (sits in a wicker chair opposite Ashlynne) “I’m facing the trials soon, so I have to focus on my conditioning.”

Ashlynne: “So, what are you doing to prepare?”

Shauna: “Ash and I run a lap around the island every morning and he’s teaching me to use a javelin and daggers.”

Ashlynne: "Is Ascher fair or does he run laps around you while using his vampire speed?”

Shauna: “You know Ash; he’s such a practical joker sometimes. He’s always jeering me and telling me to move my butt.”

Ashlynne: “You look great, Shauna. I’m sure you’ll pass with flying colors.”

Ascher: (disappears for a second, then reappears with tea and sandwiches) “I hope you like tea, Ashlynne,” Ascher speaks in his sexy French accented English.

Ashlynne: (smiles) “Tea’s fine, Ash.” (turns to Shauna) “Have you gotten used to his vampire speed yet?”

Shauna: (giggles) “He’s showing off, he hardly ever does that anymore.”

Ascher: (settles down in the chair next to Shauna, his hand lovingly placed over hers) “It’s nice to have you here on Tranquility, Ashlynne.”

Ashlynne: “It’s so beautiful here, and I have to admit, I’ve always wanted to come to Hawaii.”

Ascher: “Shauna and I love it here. I think we’ll be sad to go back to Langley.”

Ashlynne: “So, married life seems to be agreeing with the both of you. Has it changed your relationship?”

Shauna: “Not really...we were committed to one another before the ceremonies, so a certificate and wedding band don’t mean a whole lot.”

Ashlynne: “Speaking of wedding bands...can I just say, wow! Those rings are gorgeous. Who picked them out?”

Ascher: “Gabe helped me to pick them out.”

Ashlynne: “How are Gabe and Katy?”

Shauna: “They’re down in Miami taking a breather for the summer. Kat’s really happy.”

Ashlynne: “I heard that they got engaged. Tell her congratulations for me.”

Shauna: “I will.”

Ashlynne: “We’re on a private island, swarming with security, so I’m assuming that Ursula is at it again.”

Ascher: (a swirl of Crimson flashes in his eyes as his jaw tightens) “They are the reason that we had to come here, in the first place.” (his eyes soften) “We’re grateful to Tris and Kara for allowing us to use their home. We’ve have had a lot of fun.”

Shauna: (blushes as she meets Ascher’s gaze) “We sure have.”

Ashlynne: “Excuse me if I’m being nosey, but does that fun happen to include trying to conceive a baby?”

Shauna: (glances at Ascher and they both smile at one another) “Yes, we’re trying, but we haven’t had any luck yet.”

Ascher: (chuckles deviously) “I’ve rather enjoyed the practicing.”

Ashlynne: “Well, you know what they say, practice makes perfect.”

Both Ascher and Shauna grin.

Ascher: “Trust me, Ashlynne, you’ll be the first to know.”

Ashlynne: “How is the conversion to animal blood going?”

Ascher: (frowns) “I’m better but it’s still tough. I’m determined to succeed and Shauna is very supportive.”

Ashlynne: “I have one more question and I’ll have everything that I need for the interview. Ash, you’re wearing a flowered shirt. Does that mean that you’re conforming?”

Ascher: (chuckles) “Hell no. Shauna got this hideous thing for me to wear for the interview, so that I didn’t scare the crap out of you.”

Ashlynne: “I’m not afraid of you, Ascher, but Shauna did a great job. It’s an unexpected change from your usual attire. You should wear non-black clothing more often.”

Ascher: (tugs at his shirt collar) “I don’t know about that, Ashlynne.”

Shauna stifles a laugh.

Ashlynne: “I know you guys have a ton of things to do and I think I have what I need for my blog. Is there anything you’d like to say in conclusion?”

Shauna: “It was fun having you here and there’s an open invitation for you to visit Bonheur anytime.”

Ascher: “Yes, let’s do it again really soon.”

Ashlynne: “That’s awful sweet of the both of you. Thanks for the interview and have fun working on the little Rousseau.” (hugs Shauna) “Take care doll and say hello to the others for me.”

Shauna: “I will and you take care, too, Ashlynne.”

Ascher: “I’ll show you out.”
























Blood Bonds (The Progeny #2) by Ashlynne Laynne.

“Forever. For always. For eternity.”

The ties that bind two hearts are powerful. For Ascher Rousseau and Shauna McCutchin, it’s more than just a blood bond. Their union is that of vampire legend. Their love is a predestined prophecy foretold centuries ago.


It’s a week before Ascher and Shauna's sealing and the couple is making final preparations for their eternity. But Ascher's ex has other plans. Ursula is hell-bent on revenge—revenge fueled by lover's scorn and her father's death—and she begins breeding a fresh army of newborn darklings to do her bidding.

When Ursula finds a new weapon—an ally with the capability to dismantle the Rousseau clan— Ascher and Shauna's bond is tested and they must stand together against Ursula or lose each other for eternity.



Thank you Ashlynne for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Ashlynne Laynne and her books, please visit her website and don't miss her interview here at From the Shadows.






















**The Progeny Giveaway**

We are giving away ebook copies of The Progeny (2nd Edition) and Blood Bonds by Ashlynne Laynne to one lucky winner.

To enter, please leave a comment on this post and include your email address so we may contact you if you win.  This giveaway is international.  Giveaway ends August 2, 2012 midnight EST.

Monday, February 13, 2012

In the Service of the King: Character Interview + Giveaway

Please welcome our special guests Kael and Shayla from Laura Kaye's new release, In the Service of the King!

Laura:  So, er, I guess I should’ve asked this in advance, but, uh, Kael, how should I address you? Your Highness, Sire, My Lord—

Kael:  My name will do fine. I get enough of the “my lord” crap from my warriors.

Laura:  Okay, Kael it is. So, how have things been since the consummation ceremony?

Kael:  *grasps Shayla’s hand* Best days and weeks of my life.

Shayla:  *nods* Things have been wonderful and crazy.

Laura:  Has it been a lot to adjust to, Shayla, living in a castle full of vampires?

Shayla:  Yes and no. I truly feel that I’m where I’m meant to be. *smiles up at Kael* And Dunluce is absolutely fascinating. I mean, I literally get lost wandering from one amazing artifact to another. And, the library…

Kael:  She really has gotten lost. It’s a good thing I can sense her blood.

Shayla:  That’s true. I just slip into history geek mode and half a night disappears before I know it.

Laura:  Half a night?

Shayla:  Well, I guess that’s one of the things that’s been more of an adjustment. The rest of the household is up at night and sleeps during the day. So I’m making that transition. Plus, thankfully there are a couple other women there, because otherwise living with these guys is a bit like living in a fraternity.

Kael:  *arches an eyebrow* It is not.

Shayla:  It totally is.

Kael:  *narrows eyes* But you love it.

Shayla:  *grins* I do.

Laura:  Kael, is Liam finally happy that you’ve found a mate? Has he found one yet?
Kael:  Liam is my oldest friend and my brother in arms, but he is also a pain in the ass.

Shayla:  He is not.

Kael:  You say that because you two are thick as thieves.

Shayla:  That’s because he’s great.

Kael:  They gang up on me.

Shayla:  *laughs and shrugs* Don’t listen to him, Liam is hilarious. Besides, the Night of the Proffering might’ve gone a lot differently if it wasn’t for Liam.

Kael:  *adoring look at Shayla* That’s the damn truth. Okay, Liam is only a pain in the ass sometimes. *winks* And he’s still unmated, for now.

Laura:  So, Shayla, I have to ask: what does blood taste like? Was it hard to adjust to drinking it?

Shayla:  *blushes*

Kael:  *strokes knuckles over her cheek*

Laura:  [erm, are they communicating without talking? I’m feeling a bit like a third wheel all of a sudden…] *clears throat*

Shayla:  I’m sorry. Um. *releases deep breath* It’s just all very hard to describe. It hasn’t been a hard adjustment because my body needs it now. After I got the mating mark - *holds up her left hand, covered in a beautiful and intricate series of unending Celtic knots* - I started feeling very different, craving new things. The mark is just the most obvious sign of the changes I’ve experienced. I can’t explain it any better than that.

Laura:  And, um, how does it taste?

Shayla:  *licks lips* Imagine the most rich, decadent, and delicious taste you can, and then lace it with an inebriant. That’s what drinking Kael’s blood is like.

Kael:  *shifts in his seat* Are we almost done?

Shayla:  Kael!

Kael:  I cannot help it, dear heart. I find myself in need of you.

Shayla:  *face goes bright red*

Kael:  *kisses her cheek, his lips lingering* So lovely.

Shayla:  Um. *chuckles* I think we should probably wrap this up.

Laura:  Uh, sure. Of course. So, what’s next?

Kael:  *drags his attention away from Shayla* The war with the Soul Eaters is a constant in our lives. While our region has been quiet lately, things are reaching a critical state in one of my brethren’s kingdoms. Nikolai’s reports out of Moscow are quite dire. I think he’ll be telling you more about that soon.

Laura:  Anything you'd like to say to the readers before you have to go?

Shayla:  Just a very big thank you for giving our book a try and bringing our story to life!

Laura:  Thanks so much for being here today! It was wonderful to meet you!

*They speed through good-byes and are out of there so fast it makes my head spin!* Wow. I seriously need a vampire warrior king of my own. Did you see the way he was looking at her? Like he wanted to eat her. *snort* I guess he actually does. *sigh*

Thank you Laura, Shayla, and Kael for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

Laura Kaye is the author of Forever Freed, North of Need, Hearts in Darkness, and In the Service of the King.  To learn more about Laura and her books, please visit her website or check out her From the Shadows author interview.






















In the Service of the King (Vampire Warrior Kings #1) by Laura Kaye

Kael, Warrior King of the Vampires, loathes the Night of the Proffering. He needs the blood of either his mate or a human virgin to maintain his strength, but hasn't enjoyed the ritual since he lost his mate centuries ago. Kael doesn't want a new companion, yet his resolve is tested when he lays eyes on his new offering, Shayla McKinnon. He is drawn to Shayla's beauty and poise...and the submission she offers. She is eager to give him anything he wishes, including her innocence, to please him. Will Kael give in to their overwhelming desire--even if it means risking Shayla's life?























**In the Service of the King Giveaway**

To celebrate her new release, Laura is giving away one e-copy of In the Service of the King at each stop on her New Release Tour, 1/30 – 2/15! In addition, all commenters from across the tour will be entered to win a prize bag filled with swag and various vampire items, perfect for the vampire lover!

To enter, please leave a comment on this post including your e-mail address and if from US.  You do not have to be a follower or subscriber to enter.  Ebook prizes open to international; prize bag to US only.  Giveaway ends February 17th midnight EST.

Tuesday, September 13, 2011

Character Interview: Rylie Gresham (All Hallows' Moon)












Please welcome our very special guest Rylie Gresham from the pages of Six Moon Summer and All Hallows' Moon by S.M. Reine.

SM:  Thanks for joining us today, Rylie! Would you like to tell us a little bit about yourself?

Rylie:  Okay. Yeah. Hi, my name is Rylie Gresham. I'm about to turn sixteen years old. I hang out in coffee shops and sometimes drink coffee even though my mom said that's why I'm all skinny and short. I like art and movies and hanging out with guys, since girls are catty and weird. I also had a really bizarre summer.

SM:  What made your summer bizarre?

Rylie:  Well, my parents divorced, and they sent me to summer camp so their lawyers could fight in peace. I guess summer camp isn't that strange for most people, but I used to hate the outdoors, so it was really new and unusual for me. Until... things changed.

SM:  That sounds menacing.

Rylie:  If you think werewolf bites are menacing.

SM:  Whoa! So what you're saying is that you're a werewolf.

Rylie:  Yeah, I guess, something like that.

SM:  How can you be "something like that"?

Rylie:  I'm not like most werewolves. It took, like, three months for me to change after I got bitten. And I don't just change on the full moon. I change on the new moon too. But once I wake up human again the next morning, I can never remember what I did all night. I'm not dangerous or anything, I promise. I did eat a deer once, but that was an accident.

SM:  What are you going to do now that you're a werewolf?

Rylie:  I'm going to go live on my aunt's ranch. She's out in the country, so it should be safe for me to turn into a wolf twice a month out there. Way safer than in my mom's condo. Plus I'm really strong now that I got bitten, so I bet I'm awesome at ranch type chores.

SM:  Does your aunt know?

Rylie:  No! Nobody can find out that I've changed. I mean, who would believe me? The only guy who knew was Seth, but I don't know what happened to him.

SM:  Who is Seth?

Rylie:  Seth is really mysterious, so he's hard to describe. He's got dark hair and broad shoulders and miles and miles of muscly arms. And he's got that smile... Wait, what was I talking about?

SM:  How does Seth know about werewolves?

Rylie:  He's got a huge secret of his own. I don't think I'm supposed to tell anyone.

SM:  What's going to happen now?

Rylie:  I don't know. I guess I have to try to finish high school, although that means a whole new set of people to get used to, and a whole bunch of new problems to face. But whatever it is, I can take it on. I mean, I'm a werewolf now. I can just eat anything that gives me trouble.























All Hallows' Moon (Seasons of the Moon #2) by S.M. Reine

Rylie survived becoming a werewolf at great cost. She moves to her aunt’s ranch in the hopes she can enroll in a new high school and quietly continue her life... with a few distinct changes. She transforms into a beast every new and full moon and struggles to control her murderous urges.

Without many werewolves left, it’s hard to stay in hiding. A family of hunters -- Eleanor, Abel, and Seth -- recognize the signs and follow Rylie to her new home. They want to stop her before she murders someone, and the only way to do it is with a silver bullet. Seth soon realizes the werewolf is Rylie, the one monster he failed to kill. Worse yet, he’s still in love with her.

Torn between family and love, Rylie struggles to reconcile her feelings and control the wolf within while Seth fights to do what’s right. But what is right-- obeying desire or duty?



Thank you Rylie and S.M. for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about S.M. Reine and her books, please visit her website or check out E.J.'s interview of S.M. here at From the Shadows.

Don't miss E.J.'s review of Six Moon Summer, the first book in the Seasons of the Moon series by S.M. Reine.

Thursday, September 1, 2011

Character Interview: Percone + Blend Series Giveaway

Please welcome today's special guests Percone of Earth Blend and paranormal author Lori Pescatore!

Lori: Hello and welcome. My name is Lori Pescatore and I am the Author of Human Blend and the newly released Earth Blend. I have with me today one of my characters from the books. He has graciously offered to sit down with me for an interview and talk about the new book. Percone, welcome, thanks for coming.

Percone: You make it sound like I actually wanted to do this.

Lori: Don't you?

Percone: Why would I want to spend time talking to you? You're a human. The people reading this are human. I hate humans.

Lori: Why do you hate us so much?

Percone: Isn't it obvious? You and your kind have polluted this Earth for far too long. You, as an Author, have killed trees to publish your work. The only good thing that has happened is with this e-book thing.

Lori: For those of you who do not know it, Percone is an Earthling. A creature created by the Earth to protect itself from the damage we humans have caused. Percone, I understand why you are upset, but I think the humans have taken quite a stand recently in trying to be more green. Does that not count for something?

Percone: Too little, too late. You are trying to put a band-aid on a wound that is seeping life from the abrasions caused by man.

Lori: Okay, I think we are getting off topic here. We can debate this another time. Let's talk about the book. You were first introduced at the end of Human Blend. Do we get to know you more in Earth Blend?

Percone: At least this time I get a whole chapter devoted to me.

Lori: And you are also in the book in a lot of other chapters as well.

Percone: Not enough.

Lori: Tell us about your Earthling abilities.

Percone: I'm Mother Nature. I can control the elements, although I'm not supposed to unless I am helping save the Earth.

Lori: Something tells me you do not always follow those rules.

Percone: Rules are meant to be broken.

Lori: How do you think people will react to Earth Blend?

Percone: I don't really care.

Lori: Percone, we agreed you would be nice and do this.

Percone: You threatened to kill me off if I didn't do it. I'm preserving face time.

Lori: Should I get someone else to do it? Maybe Eli?

Percone: You would, wouldn't you? You favor him just like Suron.

Lori: Suron is the leader of the Earthlings, correct?

Percone: More like a spokesperson. He is the voice of our Mother Tree.

Lori: I know the first six chapters are actually a prequel to Human Blend. The history of your people is explained.

Percone: Yes, I did like that part. We get to hear how those Blends came to be as well.

Lori: The Blends being part human, part something else.

Percone: I tolerate them more because they are not fully human. We have enough of those. Can we be done?

Lori: One last question... Why don't you wear clothes?

Percone: Why anyone wears those itchy, scratchy things is beyond me. Mother made us this way.

Lori: Some of the Earthlings wear clothes.

Percone: Only the stupid ones.

Lori: I've seen you interact with humans.

Percone: For purely nefarious reasons, I assure you. I thought you said one more question.

Lori: I did not ask any. I only made statements and you responded.

Percone: (mumbling something)

Lori: What was that?

Percone: You can't print what I said and that was another question, I'm done.

Lori: Okay, fine. Is there anything else you want to say before you go?

Percone: Save a tree, buy an e-book.

Lori: Thanks Percone.























Earth Blend (Blend Series, #2) by Lori Pescatore

Earth Blend is the second book in the Blend trilogy and the sequel to Human Blend. In this installment, the mysteries of the Blends and Earthlings are revealed. How can Julie live a normal life when she is anything but normal? Her relationship with Austin is complicated by emerging abilities in them both. Trust is hard to come by as lies and secrets hinder them at every turn. Is the past destined to repeat itself as the Earthlings once again rush to save them? Ensuing chaos breeds fatal consequences.


Thank you Lori and Percone for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

Don't miss Lori's author interview here at From the Shadows discussing her first book in the Blend Series, Human Blend.






















**Blend Series International Giveaway**

We are giving away ebook copies and paperback copies of the Blend Series by Lori Pescatore!  One winner will win ebook copies of Human Blend and Earth Blend and a second winner will win paperback copies of Human Blend and Earth Blend signed by the author.

To enter, please leave a comment on this post with your email address (so we may contact you if you win).  You do not have to be a follower to enter (though I always appreciate a follow!).  This giveaway is INTERNATIONAL.  Giveaway ends September 16th midnight EST.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Cross-Novel Character Interview: Silas A Supernatural Thriller Meets Blood of Requiem












And now for something completely different...

Today we are trying something new.  We have two fabulous authors, Daniel Arenson and Robert J. Duperre, participating in a cross-novel character interview where worlds, and personalities, collide!

There has been a temporal rift in imagination’s space-time continuum.  This causes Ken Lowery and his dog, Silas, from Robert J. Duperre’s novel Silas: A Supernatural Thriller, to have a chance encounter with Gloriae, ill-tempered daughter of Dies Irae, the evil villain from Blood of Requiem, the first book of Daniel Arenson’s Song of Dragons series.  See what happens when three characters from two completely different universes meet…

Gloriae:  So... Ken.  That is what the commoners call you, yes?  Let me understand this.  You are not a warrior.  Not a king nor conqueror nor hero.  Your companion is no griffin, no dragon, not even a mighty steed.  It is but a lowly dog, a creature that begs under tables for scraps.  Why has anyone written a book about you and this flea-infested creature?  Who would want to read about two miserable, lowly beings?

Ken: Um...huh?  Someone wrote a book about me and Silas?  I thought this was an interview about me commissioning a screenplay for Dan Arenson's Blood of Requiem.  And why the hell are you talking to me like that?  Lowly, miserable?  I'm a freaking screenwriter, I'm not some "lowly being."  And why the hell are you wearing armor in the middle of summer?  Aren't you a little, er, hot?  Doesn't she look hot, Si?

Silas: Woof!

Gloriae:  Get that CREATURE off me.  Down, vermin, down!  Now. Ken Lowly, that was your name, correct?  Listen, Lowly.  I wear armor because I fight Requiem's weredragons, an ancient, shape-shifting evil.  A "screen play" for the blood of Requiem?  I do not "play" with weredragons.  Shedding the blood of Requiem is no game, Lowly.  It is a war.  A war that I and my father lead.  That is why I wear armor. This armor of steel, gold, and jewels costs more than anything you'll ever own, so tell this Silas of yours to stop drooling on it, lest I "pat" him with my sword.

Ken: Hey, enough with the attitude, huh?  Let's try to be civil here. And it's Lowery, Ken Lowery, not Lowly.  Oh, and please get that thing away from my dog.  I'm a little wary when he's around sharp objects, what with him only having one eye left and all.

So listen, if we're being civil now, what's up with this "weredragon" stuff?  Sounds pretty interesting if you ask me, even if it's a little out of this world - but believe you me, I GET out of this world. Also, I'm curious why someone as young as you would be so...mean-spirited.  Heck, you can't be more than sixteen years old! My daughter's that age, and all she can think about is texting the cute guy who sits next to her in class.  What the hell happened to you to make you so damn contemptuous?

Gloriae:  I'm eighteen.  And I envy your daughter.  I wish I could think about cute guys and be a normal girl.  But I was raised in war. The weredragons killed my mother, and many of my people, and I've been fighting them since.  They are creatures from a land called Requiem, shape shifters.  They can become dragons at will.  In the old days, they'd burn crops, and topple towers, and terrorize the empire of Osanna.  I was only a little girl in those days.  My father hunted them to near extinction, and I'm determined to find the last survivors, and to bring them to justice.  If I'm mean, and contemptuous, and cold, it is because the weredragons put hatred in my heart.  What happened to your dog's eye, Ken?  Did he lose it in battle?

Ken: Did he lose it in battle?  Well, sort of.  He was actually protecting me from a...ah, hell, it's a long story.  Let's just say that when you say "were"-something or other, I completely get what you mean.

In that vain, damn, those dragons sound like bastards.  Which is weird, because in most of the fiction I've read, dragons are honorable beings, and you calling them weredragons implies they're part human, too.  And your dad...well, let's just say that hunting ANYONE to near-extinction doesn't sound all that kosher, even if they've done some bad stuff.  You sure your daddy doesn't just have some sort of Napoleon complex?  Do you even know who Napoleon is?

Gloriae: Oh, the weredragons claim to be noble.  They call themselves Vir Requis, a horrible name that makes me shudder.  They sometimes walk around in human forms, and sometimes grow wings and scales and fly as dragons.  How can such freaks be noble?  I mean, what would you do, if you learned your dog could also take human form?  The weredragons call me a villain.  They say I'm evil for killing them off.  But I know that I'm a warrior of light, fighting to rid the world of their darkness.

Ken: If Silas could be human?  When that hap...I mean, if that happened, I'd probably love him just as much.  He's my bud, no matter what he looks like.  I'm surprised you wouldn't get something like that.  Kinda narrow minded, if you ask me.  Oh wait, that's right...you're some crazy chick wearing armor in ninety degree weather who's evading questions about her father.  Like I should expect anything more.  Right, Si?

Silas: Woof woof!

Gloriae: My father?  My father is a great emperor.  A lord of light. He taught me everything I know -- how to hate dragons, how to fight, how to kill.  Everything that I am, he made me.  I-- Oh!  Silas!  Stop licking my face.  Down, boy!  Oh dear.  His fur is soft, isn't it? All right, I'll just pat you a little... there.  You like that, mutt? I think you do.

Ken: Oh, wow.  Look at your face!  I didn't know your features could soften so much.  You almost look...feminine.  You know, you look a little like my old neighbor, Jacqueline...only if she was tall and blonde and a little scary.  I guess Silas just has that effect on people.

You know what?  Forget about the questions.  I'm not even gonna reply to your stuff about your father.  Hell, we all got Daddy issues.  I know I sure as hell do.  But I like you.  You're interesting.  Frightening...but interesting.  You'd make a fantastic character study.  Maybe, if you met the right guy, you'd even open up to the softer side of Sears, you know?  Looks like Silas sure thinks so.  I mean, my wife's the only person he nuzzles into like that...

Gloriae:  Ken, would you mind if... I took Silas for a walk?  I think he'd like to go to the park.  Ready, boy?  Come on, let's go!

Ken:  I'm not sure if that's such a great...wait a minute, where you going!  Silas, come!  Glor, where the hell you going?  Why're you walking toward that swirling blue portal?  Oh no, not again.  Silas, listen to me!

Silas: Woof!


Thank you Daniel, Robert, Gloriae, Ken, and Silas for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

To learn more about Daniel Arenson and his books, please visit his website and don't miss our past interviews with Daniel and his amazing characters:
Author interview with Daniel Arenson.
Character interview with Eliven (The Gods of Dream).
Character interview with Neev and Romy (Eye of the Wizard).
Character interview with Kyrie (Blood of Requiem).
E.J.'s review of Flaming Dove.

To learn more about Robert J. Duperre and his books, please visit his website and don't miss his fabulous past author interview.
Author interview with Robert J. Duperre.
E.J.'s review of The Fall.

Monday, May 30, 2011

Character Interview: Kyrie (Blood of Requiem by Daniel Arenson)














Please welcome today's special guest Kyrie of Blood of Requiem by Daniel Arenson!  Daniel is author of Firefly Island, Flaming Dove, The Gods of Dream, Eye of the Wizard, and Blood of Requiem.

Daniel:  What is your favorite word?

Kyrie: 
"Requiem." It's the home of my forefathers. The place I'm from, where people can shape shift into dragons.  A mythical land now in ruin. Someday I'll kill the man who destroyed our home.  Someday I'll rededicate Requiem's temples and rebuild her courts.

Daniel:  What is your least favorite word?

Kyrie:
  "Irae."  It's the name of the man who burned Requiem, who killed my family, who drove me into exile.  I hate everything about him; his name, his beak nose, and his freakish metal arm.  I've fought him before.  Next time we meet, I won't let him get away.

Daniel:  What turns you on?

Kyrie: 
Don't tell her I said this, but... Agnus Dei.  She's another survivor from Requiem.  She's eighteen—two years older than me—and she thinks I'm just a little boy.  But I can't help loving her.  She's so strong, beautiful, fiery.  She annoys me a lot, and she's endless trouble, but there's something about her I can't resist.

Daniel:  What turns you off?

Kyrie: 
Her twin sister, Gloriae.  Now there's a girl I could do without.  If Agnus Dei is fire, Gloriae is ice.  If Agnus Dei is passion, Gloriae is hatred.   The girl is like a statue, so cold and hard and unyielding.  I hate everything about her.  I hate those green eyes of hers, which she thinks are so pretty. I hate her golden locks, which she's so vain of.  I hate those perfect lips of hers, which never seem to smile.  In short, Gloriae is horrible.

Daniel:  What sound or noise do you love?

Kyrie:
  The waves outside Fort  Sanctus by the sea.  I spent ten years there. After Requiem fell, and we were hunted across the world, I hid in Fort Sanctus.  It's only a mossy tower rising over the sea, old and crumbly, but it was a home to me.

Daniel:  What sound or noise do you hate?

Kyrie:
  Griffin shrieks.  The griffins toppled Requiem's courts, killed so many dragons, killed my family and friends.  They make horrible sounds, like eagles but louder, crueler.  I hope I never hear them again.

Daniel:  What is your favorite curse word?

Kyrie: 
So many to choose from....  If pressed to choose, I'd have to say: griffinballs.  Can I say that here?

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

Kyrie:
  I'm not sure I currently have a profession.  I run a lot, and fight, and get hurt.  I suppose that makes me a warrior.  But that's not something I want.  I never wanted to fight. I've never harmed Irae and his griffins.  I'd love to just live simply, maybe be a farmer.  Maybe that sounds dumb.  Farming isn't very glamorous.  But I'd be happy living simply on a farm with Agnus Dei, raising some animals, raising some crops....  At nights, we'd sit by the fireplace, or watch the stars, and just talk for hours.  We wouldn't have to hide from griffins, or be ashamed that we can turn into dragons.

Daniel:  What profession would you not like to do?

Kyrie:
  Anything indoors.  I wouldn't want to be a scribe, or priest, or cook, or clerk.  I like nature.  I like the sky.  I like shape shifting into a dragon and flying.  That's when I'm happiest; when I'm flapping my wings, tasting the clouds, and gliding high over the world.  Indoors too long, I wither.

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

Kyrie:
  We in Requiem believe that when we die, we travel to the constellation Draco, and dine there in starlight halls with our ancestors.  The Draco stars are our gods.  The souls of our forefathers, who joined those stars, guide and comfort us. When I die, my soul will go there too; I'll turn into starlight, and forever dine and drink among Requiem's fallen.  If the stars could talk, I'd like them to tell me:  Requiem will not be forgotten.  Her light will forever shine here, and it will shine again someday over the world below.























Blood of Requiem (Requiem Fire, #1) by Daniel Arenson

A new epic fantasy series begins. Requiem Fire tells a story of blood, steel, and dragonfire.

BOOK ONE: BLOOD OF REQUIEM

Long ago stood the kingdom of Requiem, a land of men who could grow wings and scales, breathe fire, and take flight as dragons. Requiem ruled the sky.

But Dies Irae, a tyrant leading an army of griffins, hunted Requiem's people, burned their forests, and shattered their temples. Requiem fell. This ancient land now lies in ruin, its halls crumbled, its cries silenced, its skeletons littering the burned earth.

In the wilderness, a scattering of survivors lives in hiding. The griffins still hunt them, and every day promises death. Will Requiem's last children perish in exile... or once more become dragons and fly to war?



Thank you Daniel and Kyrie for joining us here today at From the Shadows!

Don't miss our past interviews with Daniel and his amazing characters:

Author interview with Daniel Arenson.
Character interview with Eliven (The Gods of Dream).
Character interview with Neev and Romy (Eye of the Wizard).
E.J.'s review of Flaming Dove.

To learn more about Daniel Arenson and his books, please visit his website.