Featured Author - Sandra Cox! - Part 4

Today we take a closer look at Moon Watchers!

BLURB: Some people think being a Were hunter is weird. For me it’s perfectly normal. What I see as odd is my attraction to the hunkalicious Braden Knight. Why? I think he’s a vampire.

EXCERPT: Braden had been attracted to the luscious Jolene since the first moment he’d set eyes on her. She reminded him of the old song by Dolly Parton, the one about a sensuous siren. That’s Jolene, in a very earthy kick-ass fashion.

He stared at said siren. He could smell her fear, sharp and tangy, and fought back the urge to taste that always lived with him. Like a recovering alcoholic he beat back the craving for hot sweet blood. He’d taken a vow. One he refused to break. If there were a Vampires Anonymous, I’d probably be president, he thought wryly.

And if the blood craving wasn’t bad enough, his nineteen year old body responded with a kick of desire just as acute as his lust for the warm red liquid that flowed through her. It would be so easy to give in and satisfy both.

He could do it in a heartbeat…her heartbeat. He could hear it thump, thump, thumping against her ribs. It stirred him unbelievably. She might fight him at first but it would be temporary. Women could never resist him.

He took a deep breath and thought of all the misery he’d caused in his long and checkered past. His desire cooled. And while her blood still smelled sweet, it no longer tempted him.


Not familiar with the Hunter series? Check out this trailer for Vampire Island:


To see what other books Sandra Cox has written, or to learn more about her Hunter series, check out:
her website: sandracox1.com
Class Act Books: www.classactbooks.com/Sandra-Cox

Featured Author - Sandra Cox! - Part 3

Hey there readers! Sorry I haven't posted sooner, but I've been out with migraines. Cupid would have posted himself, but I kind of wouldn't give him the map to the cove. Telling Cupid where everything in the blog is would be like letting the patients run the asylum. Hopefully you enjoy the interview!

My guests today are, Braden Knight and Jolene Sayer – Please, have a seat on our lovely couch! – from Moon Watchers, a small town in Minnesota. Their tale can be found in Moon Watchers, a novel creation by Sandra Cox.

Before we begin, I must remind everyone to please try and keep your responses to a PG13 atmosphere – the Moonlight Mistresses rules, not mine *eye roll*. Double entendres are acceptable and widely encouraged for events and phrases we don’t want our young readers to really know about. Oooh, it will be so much fun trying to guess what you’re really saying!

*Settling comfortably onto the sofa, draping his arm over the back and sipping his bubbly* That Miss Havana in Reaper’s Domain is one hot teacher and boy would I love to get into her…class! I might actually learn something…oh…did I say that out loud? *Clears throat* Sorry. Let’s get back to the interview.

You two make one fine pair! I did a wonderful job pairing you two up if I do say so myself! Then, I just love all of my matches!

Cupid: Please, Braden, tell our readers how you two first met. Was it by your design, or hers?

Braden: Mine of course. I first met her while she was visiting her cousin Zoe Tempest on Vampire Island.

Cupid: Oooh! Vampire Island. Sounds very interesting and spooky! Jolene, would you say it was love at first sight or did you find him repulsive?

Jolene: Cupid, I’m afraid you are laboring under a terrible misapprehension and possibly shot the wrong person in the bum. I’m a werewolf hunter and Braden is a…*She lowers her voice and whispers* vampire. We couldn’t possibly have a relationship.

Cupid: Eh, every relationship has its obstacles, just accept them and see where this plays out. FYI – I aim for the heart, and I never miss! You’re just trying to resist what you already know is in your heart. This one’s for both of you. Since chaotic happenstance tends to put characters like yourselves in situations where they must work together or live together for one reason or another, tell us what chaotic happenstance “forced” the two of you to work or live together. How did you feel about this?

Jolene: I’m still trying to figure out why Braden showed up in Moon Watchers.

Braden: This is the month of the crimson moon. I knew Jolene would be in trouble and would need all the help she could get.

Cupid: Think about this Jolene – Why would Braden show up on your doorstep if he didn't care about you? This one is also for both of you. How long did it take you to know your true feelings for the other? At what point did you know, “this is the one”?

Jolene: *Taps her fingers restlessly on her thighs.* I told you, there can never be a relationship between a werewolf hunter and a vampire. And can you imagine what my cousin and her uncle, who both hunt vampires would say. *She shudders.*

Braden: *Just gives her an enigmatic look.*

Cupid: Jolene, in matters of love, it only matters what's in your heart and no one else's opinion but yours should matter. Braden, what would you say was your biggest obstacle to overcome before you could settle into a relationship with Jolene?

Braden: Well now it seems to be the werewolf hunter, vampire thing doesn’t it?

Cupid: That's not as big an obstacle as she's making it out to be. The old saying, "making a mountain out of a mole hill" comes to mind. This is for either of you. Would you like to thank anyone – other than me, of course – for getting you two together?

Jolene: Oh for goodness sake. How many times do I have to tell you we’re not together.

Braden: Well, Zoe Tempest did introduce us.

Cupid: Jolene, anyone listening to you can tell that you’re in complete denial. I know our readers have enjoyed learning about you two so far, but I’m getting a little bored, so I’m going to heat things up. Jolene, how would you end this sentence, "I wish Braden would _____?" *leans forward to eagerly hear your response*

Jolene: Go away!

Cupid: Me thinks the lady doth protest too much. Braden, would you prefer to give Jolene a bubble bath or a back massage? Why?

Braden: Well Cupid, what I’d really like to do is run my teeth along her neck.

Cupid: Oooh! That's got oodles of fun possibilities. Are you sure it wouldn't be too tempting to take more than a tiny nibble?

Braden: I’m a vampire with super human, for lack of a better word, restraint. Would you like me to demonstrate on your neck, Cupid?

Cupid: How many of you remember that old show, The Newlywed Game? Well, these next questions are going to help us play a similar game. Braden, what would Jolene say is your aphrodisiac? *waggles eyebrows*

Braden: I’m a vampire. There’s nothing about me she can resist, my breath, my scent, my voice.

Cupid: Jolene, is he right? How would you have answered that question?

Jolene: *Jolene crosses her arms and stares at Cupid in stony silence.*

Cupid: *grin*That sure indicates agreement in my book! *crosses ankles and rubs his chin* Braden, what would Jolene say is a spot guaranteed to drive you crazy with passion? Is she correct in that assumption?

Braden: Her mouthwatering neck pressed against my lips.

Jolene: In your dreams, Vamp.

Cupid: Tsk, tsk, Jolene, I thought you'd have figured out by now that Braden is a special breed. I wouldn't have matched him up with you if I thought it wouldn't work. Now, Jolene, as far as you know, what is Braden’s idea of a perfect date?

Jolene: If we were dating—which we aren’t—he’d no doubt drag me to see Twilight and then take me out to dinner and order a steak so rare blood pooled in the plate.

Cupid: Braden, is she correct? If not, what is your idea of a perfect date?

Braden: No, she’s not correct. *He turns toward Jolene and looks deep into her eyes.* On our first date, we’ll walk along the beach on a clear night and run barefoot through the sand. Then we’ll go to an outdoor café and slow dance while the local band plays in the background.

Cupid: Braden, your turn in the hot seat. What is Jolene’s idea of a perfect date?

Braden: No doubt hunting Weres. * He says dryly.*

Cupid: Jolene, is he correct? If not, what is your idea of a perfect date?

Jolene: Well it doesn’t involve werewolves or full moons. * She crosses her arms and taps her toes.*

Cupid:Oooh! She's a feisty one! The next two questions are for both of you. What's the most romantic thing your lover has ever done for you?

Jolene: Turned into a bat *Jolene says sarcastically.*

Braden: Jolene’s not much given to anything she considers romantic or sappy, but I caught her looking at me once, when she thought I wasn’t watching. It took my breath away.

Cupid: If you could change one thing about your relationship, what would it be?

Jolene: I keep telling you, Cupid, we don’t have a relationship.

Braden: I wouldn’t change a thing.

Cupid: Jolene may be rolling her eyes and denying the relationship, but the sparks coming off these two is...well...darn close to a fourth of July fireworks grand finale! So, have the two of you had time to settle into any Valentine's Day traditions?

Jolene: *Rolls eyes.* No.

Braden: I would say our first tradition will be avoiding full moons.

Cupid: That sounds like a good idea, Braden. On that note, I think will end our interview. Thanks to Braden and Jolene for joining us today. We hope you’ll check out their story, Moon Watchers. After reading it, I think you'll come to the same conclusion - the lady doth protest too much! :)

To learn more about their author, Sandra Cox, visit:
Her website: sandracox1.com
Her blog: downtownya.blogspot.com

Featured Author - Sandra Cox! - Part 2

Thanks to our readers for your patience. It took me a bit to post this as I've been dealing with a sinus infection induced migraine again this past week.

We hope you enjoy Part 2 of our Sandra Cox feature!

MLM: We'd like to start our interview with some questions about your life outside of writing.As February is Valentine season, we want to know - Who is that special someone you consider your valentine?

SANDRA: The happy hubby

MLM: Will you two be doing anything special for Valentine’s Day this year? Care to share the details?

SANDRA: Nothing huge. We’ll go out to eat and exchange valentines. One year we inadvertently gave each other the exact same cardJ

MLM: If you could choose your ultimate Valentine’s Day gift, what would it be? Have you ever received this as a gift?

SANDRA: A surprise get away weekend.
Uh, no.

MLM: One of the greatest things about the Internet is that we can connect with writers of all kinds from all over the globe so we want to know:

a.)What area of the country/world are you from?

SANDRA: I’m from North Carolina.

b.)What are the average temperatures of your area?

SANDRA: At this time of year, normally it would be 40s and 50s, though this year has been unusually cold.

c.)What type of clothing would most residents be wearing today?

SANDRA: A lot of people wear shorts this time of year, but again, not this yearJ

d.)What tips do you have for people to “survive” the weather where you are?

SANDRA: Buy a winter coat instead of wearing a jacket.

MLM: Say you’re at a cabin in the mountains, it’s not exactly warm out and you had the option of where you wanted your hot tub to be. Would you have the hot tub inside or outside the cabin? Why? What is it that you like specifically about it being inside or outside the best?

SANDRA: I’d want it inside near a fireplace and window where I could watch it snow. It’s nice to be cozy inside when it’s cold outside.

MLM: If you could go anywhere in the world for Valentine’s Day, where would you choose to go? Why this destination over others? What’s its connection to you?

SANDRA: Seattle. I’ve never been there and I’ve always wanted to go, plus maybe I’d run into Edward CullenJ

MLM: You've given us some great answers so far, but let's move on to your life inside of writing. Why did you choose the Paranormal Genre of YA Fiction? What was the draw for you?

SANDRA: I love paranormal in any genre. It just adds a kick. There’s something about mysticism and magical powers that’s a draw. Don’t you think?

MLM: Definitely! All of us are influenced and impacted by TV, movies, books and/or authors at different times in our lives. Who, what and which TV, movies, books and/or authors influenced you? When in your life did you discover them and why were they so influential for you? (Don’t be afraid to give us more than one of each kind!)

SANDRA: Twilight, of course, sucked me right in. Also Nora Robert’s Circle Trilogy. I followed Elizabeth Peter’s Amelia Peabody’s exploits for many years. Bottom line, I love a well-written book with characters that leap off the page and insist I accompany them to their world.

MLM: Considering the TV, movies, books and/or authors mentioned, is there one TV, movie, book and/or author in particular that you try to emulate in your writing? Which one(s) and why? Please be as specific as you can! J

SANDRA: I really like the way Nora Roberts (JD Robb) and Stephanie Meyer create such enthralling stories. They build a world you can conceptualize without giving us more information than we want. And they give us such a strong connect with their characters. True art in my opinion.

MLM: If you could describe your writing with a word or phrase, what would it be? Please look beyond words like mysterious, suspenseful, creative, unique etc., and delve into the core of your writing to tell us what word or phrase you want readers to take with them when they've finished reading your story.

SANDRA: Ooh you’ve got some challenging questions. Since you won’t let me use the above words. Grin. I would like readers to think they’ve read ‘a well told tale.’

MLM: In Part 2 we asked you about your ultimate Valentine’s Day gift. Have you ever used that as a gift in one of your stories? If so, which one and what was the situation?

SANDRA: No, but now you’ve planted the seedJ

MLM: Also in Part 2 we asked you about where you’d put the hot tub and why. Does this show through in your writing? If so, give some examples how, please!

SANDRA: No, actually the opposite. A lot of my stories take place outside under a full moon……

MLM: Who decides what characters/creatures you write about, you or your muse? What kind of influence do you have over their actions and the plot, or is the muse always the one deciding who done it, where they done it and with what?

SANDRA: We have an understanding. I create the characters. My muse handles the storyline.

MLM: Of all the stories you’ve written please tell us:
a.)Which character/creature did you have the most fun creating and why? What about this character/creature makes it stand out above all the others?

SANDRA: You know every book I write, I connect with my characters so I can’t really put one above another. I will say I’ve had a lot of fun with cousins Jolene and Zoe. They are such opposites. Zoe is such a girlie-girl and Jo is in your face and doesn’t take anything from anybody.

b.)If you had the opportunity to meet just one of your characters/creatures in real life, who would it be and why?

SANDRA: Again, it would be hard to nail it down, but at this very moment. Braden Knight of Vampire Island and Moon Watchers. For a vamp, he’s pretty sexy.

c.)Which of your characters/creatures would you never want to meet under any circumstance and why

SANDRA: The werewolf queen or her pack in Moon Watchers. They’re pure evil.

d.)If you could choose to visit one setting/world you’ve created which one is it, where is it and why this destination over all the others? What makes it stand out over all the others?

SANDRA: Well, since the vamps have been cleared out, I’d like to go to Vampire Island. Warm sun, tropical breezes, and white sandy beaches sound pretty good about now.

MLM: Sandra, thanks so much for a wonderful interview!

I sure know that I want to return to Vampire Island! I've said it before, and I'll say it again - I need to see more of Zoe's Uncle Julian! He's a hottie that doesn't make me feel like a cougar, lol!

Featured Author - Sandra Cox! - Part 1

Whew! I managed to duck past Cupid. I sure hope he hasn't seen me or we're toast! It's bad enough he's taken over the main blog, but who knows what kind of havoc he'd create here!

I just had to bring Sandra Cox back here because Vampire Island was so good that I really had some trouble waiting to read the next installment to the story. I'll admit that I was hoping to read more about Uncle Julian - perhaps an adult romance book with him as the main character might happen? I hope so! :)

This week, Sandra tells us a little about what brought her to the world of writing:

Reading has always been an integral part of my life. Even from a young age, when my world was less than perfect, I would slip into the pages of a book and embark upon great adventures filled with animals, fairies and magical creatures. It was a natural progression, for me, to go from reading about other worlds to creating them. Worlds of the paranormal where anything is possible; where instead of punching a clock you hunt vampires or werewolves; where magical stones are given to the worthy by the gods; and where you can go back in time when you touch a sundial. Even though, I spend a great deal of my time writing, I still enjoy reading a well-told tale.

YA Author Spotlight Presents...

Sandra Cox!!!
Hi everyone! Sorry this post is a bit late in the day, but I honestly hadn't been feeling well earlier today and I had a massive headache, so I spent most of the day in bed. My head hurts no more, so I am able to bring to you our featured guest this week - Sandra Cox! Yeah, we've had her here before promoting Vampire Island, but that's not what brings her back here. She's here today to kick off her latest release, Grounded!

This is a very unique and interesting premise. Gillian Stone, is a well-off girl with not much holding her back, except for one flaw in her genetics - she's a marble statue from dawn to dusk! Yeah, she's not too happy about it either, and she's off to find someway to end this stony existence of hers. [Don't you just love the play on words here? Gillian Stone. -> Jill E. in Stone! HAHAHAHAHA!]

I haven't had a chance to read this one yet, but it sure sounds pretty good, and I'm darned excited about it, so let's get to the interview!

ME: March has a few popular dates to celebrate. Which one are you more apt to celebrate, St. Patrick’s Day, or the First Day of Spring, or both and why?

SANDRA: St. Patrick's is fun, but Spring is magic. It’s like coming out of hibernation after sleeping through the winter.

ME: I agree with you, but because of it’s Irish heritage, St. Patrick’s Day is a big party day in Wisconsin (and many other areas) in which everyone gets in on the action from free pub crawl buses to breweries making green beer/spirits and some stores selling green colored/decorated food and sweets. Does anything similar occur in your area? Even if you do not participate, please tell us what activities are going on around you. Anything you feel is unique or especially interesting?

SANDRA: We celebrate St. Patrick’s Day but not with as much enthusiasm as there is up north. Nothing can top WI for celebrating St. Pattie’s unless it’s Chicago, with its parades and green river. Though, we do wear green. And the stores and bakery sell green sweets and treats.

ME: You know, green food sounds neat, but I just can't seem to bring myself to eat any, not even any noodles and don't get me started on green eggs (it may go with the ham Sam I am, but I would not eat it anywhere - we still miss you Dr. Seuss). Decorations, on the other hand, I like them green, especially because the Milwaukee Bucks are red and green and we have a few decorations up. What about you, do you like to decorate for spring/St. Pat’s Day or is this the time of the year where your house has a break from special décor?

SANDRA: I don't decorate for St Pat's, but when spring hits, I haul out the Easter Decorations, get ready for the Easter Bunny and seriously hope he brings me Fannie Mae chocolates. You know people in the South aren't familiar with Fannie Mae Chocolate? (Shaking head) I have the Fannie Mae catalog displayed in a prominent position to make sure the Easter Bunny doesn’t miss it. (g)

ME: We used to have a Fanny Mae shop (Chicago-based company) in West Allis, but it's since closed it's doors, but I don't think we noticed it too much because we still had The Chocolate House at the time, but whose product has disappeared from store shelves (very sad but I have called the number and it seems they are still in business, so I'll have to check that out!). As much I could sit here all day and talk about chocolate, I'd like to ask you about Ireland. Ireland is steeped in myth, legends and lore. Do you have any favorites? Please briefly share them with us (include links to other information for interested readers).

SANDRA: To me the best legend, especially around St. Patrick’s Day is the pot of gold at the end of the rainbow. Didn’t you just love that legend as a child and desperately want to find that pot of gold? It would still come in mighty handy (g).

Leprechauns - real or blarney? Click here for the answer!

ME: I never found gold, but gold coated chocolate coins, yes. Ah, to be a kid again! Speaking of renewal...spring is considered a time of renewal, a time of rebirth. Do you do anything “special” to commemorate this idea such as planting flowers or cleaning out your house? Please share with us your way of celebrating this time of rebirth.

SANDRA: I’m a flower girl. When spring comes, I have to be in the garden and I can’t pass a nursery without buying a new variety of daffodil or Iris to put in it.

I must admit, I also get this insane desire to clean, something that I manage to ignore the rest of the year. I wait patiently for the cleaning fairies that never show up.

ME: I know, I wish I had some cleaning fairies too! Speaking of magic, it is often tied into Celtic myths and legends, or at least we like to think it is. Why do you think that is? Why, in your opinion, does Ireland carry so much mystery and magic for the rest of us?

SANDRA: That is a tough question. But you are right. When mysticism and magic is mentioned, the first place most of us think of is Ireland. Maybe, it’s because the land seems so ancient and mystical or maybe because its people keep the legend alive, maybe both.

ME: I like that answer! People need to keep the magic alive, and if not Ireland, where? If you could be any mythical or legendary Celtic creature or character, what/who would it be and why?

SANDRA: I’ve always had a yen to be a fairy. To have wings and magic would be outstanding.

ME: Ooh, I like fairies, but they're always so small. I think I'd rather be a dragon. However, I don't see how it would be possible to be a dragon and still read. One good hiccup and poof, there goes your best book up in flames...hehehe. Speaking of books, please tell us some of the favorite/best books you’ve read with Celtic myths/legends or ties in them. (They can be fact or fiction, just be sure to indicate what type of books they are in case our readers might want to check them out.)

SANDRA: One of my favorites is THE CIRCLE Trilogy by Norma Roberts, one of her paranormal romances.

ME: Those are on my TBR list! Before we get to part two of today's interview, let's take a break and watch the trailer for Grounded. Be sure to come back as there are more questions and an excerpt to follow:

ME: Cool cover, isn't? Now, let’s get back to the interview. What genre is your writing considered to be? Why this genre? What was the draw for you?

SANDRA: Paranormal and fantasy.

I love fantasy. The idea that fairy tales can come true, that anything we believe is possible is a wonderful high. I think we all find the idea appealing of stepping out of our day to day, sometimes mundane, existence into a world of magic, adventure and happy ever after.

ME: "Fairy tales can come true, it can happen to you. If you're young at heart." Oh, sorry, got a little carried away there. Always seems to happen with a Bing Crosby song. All it takes is a little phrase and I'm singing away... Speaking of phrases, if you could describe your writing with a word or phrase, what would it be? Please be creative and delve into the core of your writing to tell us what word or phrase you want readers to take with them when they've finished reading your story.

SANDRA: That the improbable is possible.

ME: That's a great message, that no problem is unsolvable. This leads me to my next question, do you prefer magical or human ingenuity for problem solutions? Does that show through in your writing? If so, how?

SANDRA: I don’t think you can have one without the other. It takes human ingenuity to decide how best to use the magic. My heroines don’t randomly toss their magic around but use it judicially when they really need it to save themselves or someone else. Though, there is one exception to my rule, Bella Tremaine of Rose Quartz is always giving herself or someone close to her a beauty glam.

ME: Ooh, she sounds like quite the trouble maker and must have been very fun to write! With Rose Quartz as well your others, who decides what you write about, you or your muse? What kind of influence do you have over your story, or is the muse always the one strumming the harp?

SANDRA: Definitely, my muse. I try to outline, but the obstinate creature usually heads in a different direction entirely. I shrug my shoulders and follow her lead.

ME: Outlines, never work for me either because thins constantly change and you find yourself redoing everything you just did, lol! To coin an old phrase, "inquiring minds want to know," what was the character or creature that you had the most fun creating and why?

SANDRA: A lot of my characters have been fun to create, especially the aforementioned Bella Tremaine. But as far as creature/character, I’ve had a lot of fun with Merrick, Gillian Stone’s cat (Grounded). The first daughter of each generation has a wish-cat, a cat that is born when she is and will die when she does. Merrick is that cat, tough and surly, but would lay down his life for his mistress.

ME: That would be cool, but not if you were allergic to it! But I digress yet again. As readers, many of the characters can feel real to us. If you had the opportunity to meet just one of your character/creature creations in real life, who would it be and why?

SANDRA: That changes for me from book to book (grin). But at this moment, I’d like to meet Merrick. He fascinates me. He’s a testy creature and smarter than a lot of people I know.

ME: A good way not to offend any previous characters! Tell us, which of your character/creature creations would you never want to meet under any circumstance and why?

SANDRA: I’m conflicted over this question. I wouldn’t want to meet the Prices (father and daughter) from The Amulet series. These two are insanely evil. Just the thought of meeting up with them sends chills down my spine.

Conversely, I wouldn’t want to meet the villain from Grounded but I don’t want to say too much and give the plot away. Let me just say, this person is someone to avoid at all costs.

ME: Oooh, you've got me intrigued! Where's my copy? Oops, did I just write that? Sorry, let's continue with the interview. Of all the stories you wrote, which was the storyline that you had the most fun fleshing out? Why?

SANDRA: That’s another tough one. You have a gift for asking the tough questions! I usually enjoy whatever story I’m working on. Grounded was fun, because the storyline challenged me. Would it be possible to break Gillian free of her wish-spell? If so, how?

ME: That does sound like a challenge! As writers, inspiration comes from everywhere. What, specifically, inspired your latest story, Grounded the one we’re promoting here today?

SANDRA: Funny you should ask. I usually find that a hard question to answer but for this story I know exactly what nudged the muse. I was out walking and spied a gazing ball with a ceramic fairy on top. I stopped and stared at it thinking wouldn't it be amazing if a person was trapped in that ceramic figure and could only come out at night. And from that seed Grounded germinated!

ME: Oh that sounds very cool and I can't wait to read it because I want to know how this is possible! I hope we find this out in the book! Intrigued yet? I know I am! Let's go to the excerpt now and see what you think:

BLURB:

On the surface, Gillian Stone has it all: wealth, beauty, and the freedom to come and go as she pleases…at least from sunset to dawn. Unfortunately, from dawn to dusk, she’s grounded in several hundred pounds of marble. And if that’s not bad enough, her life expectancy is preordained to be short…unless, she can find a certain genie and reverse the wish-spell.

EXCERPT:

Be careful what you wish for.

While I’m dropping pearls of wisdom let me add, read the fine print.

Why am I wasting my time offering warnings that no one is going to listen to?

Because as humans we have this unconquerable urge to try to help others learn from our mistakes. Or in this case my great, great, great, great grandmother’s mistakes.

She came from a very poor background and consequently wanted it all, riches beyond measure, beauty. Need I say more?

Great-great-plus Grams stumbled onto a genie’s lamp and made her wish.

You don’t believe in genies?

Trust me. They’re real all right. Unfortunately, when my ancient relative made her wish she didn’t bother to listen to the genie’s warning of strings attached. This lack of foresight has a direct bearing on the first born daughter of each generation, i.e. me.

To put it mildly, my life is complicated. I am literally grounded forever.

I live on a lavish estate in the mountains of North Carolina. Between sunset and dawn, my life is my own. But during the day I’m grounded in several hundred pounds of marble. If you happen to wander by the Stone estate and peep through the fence, you’ll hear the rippling sounds of water from a lovely manmade pool surrounded by lush fragrant flowers. Beside it stands a life size statue of a young woman, with long flowing hair and classic bone structure, draped in a Greek toga, a cat at her feet.

The cat is Merrick.

The young woman is me.

ME: Oh, that does sound intriguing, and I got my question answered! This sounds really cool to me, so I hope you'll check it out!

For more info on Sandra and her books, visit her website: sandracox1.com. Don't forget to leave a comment or ask our author questions! We'd love to hear from you!

YA Author Spotlight Presents...

Sandra Cox!!!

We're bringing Sandra back into the moonlight this week as she debuts her newest release, Vampire Island! This is the first book in her Hunters series.

What's this book about?

So glad that you asked! Let's start with the trailer, it's got some cool spooky music in it and gives you a little bit of info and I'll fill in some info after you're done watching it:

Okay, now that you've seen the trailer, you know that Zoe's parents are murdered, causing her whole life to change, and not necessarily for the better. She ends up being uprooted to live with her estranged Uncle Julian on an island off the coast of Nassau in the Bahamas.

Whoa! Nassau! In the Bahamas! I know what you're thinking, sounds pretty good, right? Yeah, but would you want to live on Vampire Island?

Yep, that's it's name alright. No one, but Uncle Julian as far as Zoe can tell, lives there and all the shop keepers and workers go home before dark.

Why is that you might ask?

Well...the bats aren't your normal everyday bats. Sure, they're of the vampire species, only these tend to turn into nasty, fanged humans if not surrounded by garlic!

If you think you're having trouble believing it, you're not alone! Zoe doesn't believe it either and does her best to remain in denial. That is until she sees something so horrific she can no longer deny the truth of what's going on around her. Once she begins to accept things, her uncle reveals the truth about her, that there's something very special about her.

I won't go into any details, because that would ruin the fun of reading the book now wouldn't it? I've had a chance to read the book this weekend and here's what I found within its pages:

1. complex characters and plot

2. very believable character dynamics, interactions and reactions

3. reminder of what it's like to be a teenager (even though it was brief)

4. a few hotties (Uncle Julian being the best in my opinion)

5. the protections and companionship of an Ocelot named Oz (he has really cool silver claws!)

6. a too short vacation in a warm exotic place

7. lots of fun and mayhem! 

Want to experience it for yourself? Stick around because after the interview, there's an excerpt to Vampire Island! Now, let's get to the good stuff!

ME: Do you have any Valentine’s Day traditions like watching a Lifetime Channel movie marathon, spending the day with your significant other, writing, etc.? Do you have a favorite movie that you love to watch or a book you like to read on Valentine’s Day? Is there any movie or book that you’ve saved for this time of year? If so, what’s the title?

SANDRA: You mean besides eating lots and lots of chocolate? (G)

I like to dig out the old seasonal Regencies. I think Marian Devon was the queen of the Regency genre. Her writing embodied Regency: funny, innocent and romantic. On Valentine’s I like to read, ‘A Heart on His Sleeve.’

ME: Many of us feel that Valentine’s Day is just one more day that has been overly commercialized and isn’t something that should only be celebrated once a year, but at least once a day. What was the most romantic gift you’ve ever received, when did you receive it and who was it from?

SANDRA: My most romantic gift, hmm…..

My husband surprised me with an anniversary ring when we went on a cruise to celebrate our anniversary.

I really like the idea of making every day, Valentine’s Day. Now that’s romantic.

ME: Since this is the time of year when many people (teens included) feel the need to find a significant other, what suggestion(s) do you have for our readers as to what trait(s) should be added to their list?

SANDRA: Look for someone who’s sincerely interested in you as a person. Who listens to you and really hears what you have to say. And of course return the favor, listen to them. With some people, ‘it’s all about me’. That doesn’t really make for a satisfying relationship. Find someone who makes you feel like the most special person in the world.

ME: There are many relationship superstitions out there such as, “rain on your wedding day is bad luck,” are you superstitious when it comes to love or relationships? Why or why not? If so, what superstitions do you believe have merit?

SANDRA: I’m not really superstitious, maybe a bit of a fatalist. If it’s meant to be, it’s meant to be.

ME: Do you believe in ghosts? Do you believe in the power of love? If so, do you think that love can exist beyond this life and carry over into the next or has the power to keep a soul attached to the mortal coil never to cross over? Do you believe that ghosts have the ability to effect humans in a sexual manner?

SANDRA: Yes I believe in…

Ghosts

Most definitely the power of love and that love can carry over and has the power to keep a soul attached to earth.

As far as the sexual effect, let me just say, I’ve never had any such experiences, but it sounds intriguing!

ME: Please tell us, if you have any, 3 funny, strange or silly things that happened to you, or someone you know, on past Valentine’s Days. Any rendezvous fiascos that you now find humorous to tell? Have they ever been inspiration for some hi-jinks in your stories? Which ones? (Sharing may help others not feel so bad if it happened to them, as the saying goes, “misery loves company”)

SANDRA: Wore jeans on a first date to what I thought was a casual concert. Everyone else had dressed up. Mortifying.

My date and I were to hook up with another couple to see a movie. Unfortunately, I didn’t realize two different theatres were showing the same movie. They went to one theatre and we went to another.

One year, my husband and I--with no prior knowledge—got each other the same valentine card. My kids thought it was a hoot.

ME: Now, let’s get to your writing:

ME: What genre is your work considered to be (besides YA Fiction)? Why this genre? What was the draw for you?

SANDRA: Paranormal and fantasy.

I love fantasy. The idea that fairytales can come true, that anything we believe is possible is a wonderful high, even the darker side of fantasy, like vampires. Because if vampires are real, then we have real heroes and heroines to fight them, people that are larger than life, with courage to stand up and do the right thing regardless of the odds.

ME: If you could describe your writing with a word or phrase, what would it be? Please be creative and delve into the core of your writing to tell us what word or phrase you want readers to take with them when they've finished reading your story.

SANDRA: That the improbable is possible.

ME: Do you prefer romantic gifts (flowers, chocolate, jewelry, etc.) or romantic acts (massages, dinners, fun night out, etc.)? Does that show through in your writing? If so, how?

SANDRA: I want it all. (G) Both work just fine for me.

Yes, I think it does. I like my heroes to be strong, manly men, with a deep romantic streak. No sacrifice is too great for the women they love. (G)

ME: What school of thought are you when it comes to romance, love at first sight or that love takes time? Does this show through in your writing? If so, how?

SANDRA: I’m definitely a believer in love at first sight. But my characters are never allowed to acknowledge those feelings, or even realize them, at the beginning of the book. The most they can admit to is an intense attraction.

ME: When reading stories, many of us find secondary characters to be as interesting as or more interesting than the main characters. Are there any secondary characters that you plan on giving their own story? Or any that readers have requested have their own story? Are any of them your favorites? Why?

SANDRA: Bella Tremaine and Hank McHenry were secondary characters in Boji Stones and became the central figures in Rose Quartz. They are two of my all time favorites. Bella is just such a girlie girl and Hank is the strong silent type.

And for those who are reading Vampire Island, look for another appearance of Braden Knight in the Hunter Series.

ME: Of all of your heroes, who would you say is the most romantic and why?

SANDRA: Hank got Bella a pink diamond engagement ring, because it reminded him of her. It was an unexpected gesture from a strong, silent, cowboy type.

ME: Of all of your heroes, who would you say is the least romantic and why?

SANDRA: I can’t really dis any of my heroes. In their own way, they’re all romantics. Some of them just hide it better than others.

BLURB:

My name is Zoe Tempest. Just let me say, I had no intention of becoming a vampire hunter. My world revolved around the trendiest clothes, the boy of the week, shopping, and texting.

My life was as close to perfect as a seventeen year old’s can get. I had everything. Then my parents were murdered and my world came crashing down. After their funeral, I went to live with my uncle Julian Kilmer. That is when everything changed. In a manner more terrifying than anything I could have imagined.

EXCERPT:

“Don’t go out after dark.”

“You’re joking right?” I said the first thing that came into my head then heaved a sigh from deep in my flat, toned belly. In the short twenty-some odd hours I’d known him, the dark brooding man standing in front of me had never cracked a smile let alone joked. Too bad, for an older man—he’s thirty-seven if he’s a day—Uncle Julian is a bit of a hottie…in an intense sort of way. His olive-colored skin stretches tight across high cheekbones. His thin nose reminds me of a predatory hawk.

I really couldn’t say a thing about his eyes. I’d never seen them. He invariably wore dark glasses.

“I never joke.”

There’s a news flash.

We stood in the dark gloomy hall of his mansion. As thunder boomed, the lights flickered. Moments later a streak of white lightning, visible through the long narrow window, hit nearby. The floor shook. Outside something screamed in the night. Though the room felt hot and stuffy, goose bumps roughened my skin. I rubbed my arms.

He leaned toward me. His shadow loomed menacingly across the floor engulfing me in black.

Before I could stop myself, I took a hasty step back and bumped against the door. The cool knob pressed into my back. He might be my uncle, but he was a stranger and a scary one at that.

With his index finger, he pulled down the sunglasses and looked over them. I gasped. His eyes were the same distinctive cobalt as my own. But where my eyes only added to my Barbie doll appearance, his sucked you in like a vortex. As if he could suction every thought right out of your head just by looking at you.

Get a grip, Zoe.

A trace of unease flickered across his face. “You aren’t sick are you?”

“No. What makes you think that?”

“You’re white as a sheet. Goose bumps are standing up on your arms like a plucked turkey.”

Being a vegetarian, the mental image wasn’t exactly a pleasant one. I gathered my courage and asked “Why can’t I go out?”

“Because I said so.”

I barely refrained from rolling my eyes.

He shifted his weight, his expression impatient.

The silence stretched between us.

Cold clammy beads of sweat trickled between my shoulder blades. I twitched my shoulders.

“Well?” I demanded fisting my hands on my hips.

“Because it’s dangerous,” he said curtly.

“What do you mean?”

He raised a black slashed eyebrow. “What about dangerous don’t you understand?”

I watched his gaze travel over my hot pink top and short white skirt. When his glance came to rest on my manicured toenails visible in my pink polka dot sandals with rhinestone bows, he shook his head his expression dismissive.

I shouldn’t have let it bother me. I was used to being looked at like an empty-headed blonde who’s only thought was her wardrobe. I even encouraged it. But it hurt coming from family. If he’d been around while I was growing up, he’d know better.

“This is the Bahamas. How dangerous can it be?” I challenged, straightening my shoulders and lifting my chin. Why should I care what this man thinks of me?

“This is a remote, unknown island in the Bahamas.” He flicked an imaginary piece of lint off his black silk shirt.

“Does this remote island have a name?”

His cobalt gaze locked with mine. The deep black flecks in them flickered like crashing tidal waves. “Vampire Island.”

Vampire Island goes on sale February 15th!

For more information check out:

Sandra's website: www.sandracox.com

Sandra's blog: downtownya.blogspot.com

Please check out my review of Vampire Island that goes live February 20th on our main blog!

YA Author Spotlight Presents...

Sandra Cox!!!

The online writing community is a wonderful thing because not only does it give you the opportunity to chat with your favorite authors, but it gives the opportunity to learn about new authors, and I do on regular basis. For example, I found out about Sandra Cox from Molly Daniels, and that's just for starters. I keep discovering new authors of all genres everyday, which is why online writing communities are so important.

Why are we featuring Sandra here?

Because she has a line of YA Fiction. But it isn't your run of the mill YA Fiction, oh no, and not just because it's paranormal. Her works are special because they focus on the world of cats, but not in the way that you'd think, like those recent CGI movies, but a bit more along the lines of The Secret of NIMH or Watership Down.

Odin Cats is even more interesting than that because it offers a post apocalyptic scenario where a race of Odin Cats vie for control of the earth against man, the reason the earth is in its current state to begin with. My husband likes big fat cats, I wonder what he would do if he saw an Odin Cat which happens to be 100 pounds?

Have I intrigued you so far? I hope so because Odin Cats offers a wonderful feline adventure for all of you adventure seekers out there, young and old!

Want to know more? Stick around because there is a trailer for Odin Cats after the first half of the interview and an excerpt after the second half!

ME: Do you make resolutions for the New Year? Why or why not? If so, please share one or more of them with us!

SANDRA: Yes, I do. The New Year is a time for new beginnings, a chance to start over, redoes. I take full advantage of redoesJ

My one and only resolution this year is to strive for serenity and let the stress, that always tries to jump out and grab me, go.J

ME: Now that the busy holiday time is over, what do you do to recharge?

SANDRA: Nature has the best batteries of any charging system I know. But if weather doesn’t permit, I like to stimulate the synapses with a good movie or book.

ME: Do you have any holiday memories from 2009 that you would like to share with us?

SANDRA: Our house was hectic but fun. We had two-legged guests in and out for about ten days, plus their pets which meant, in addition to the family, we had eight cats and two dogs running around the house during the holidays. We also had to get my son to the airport after the snowstorm hit and get to my brother’s graduation, both out of town. Yikes!

ME: What area of the country/world are you from? What are the average temperatures where you are? What type of clothing would most residents be wearing today? What tips do you have for people to “survive” the weather where you are?

SANDRA: I live in North Carolina. Normally it’s wonderful. I came from the Midwest where winters were frigid. In North Carolina the temps are usually high forties and fifties in the wintertime, oftentimes higher. Normally light clothing works just fine. Not this year. BRRRR.

ME: Do you have any favorite outside hobbies? Can you perform any of these hobbies right now? If not, why not, and is weather a factor?

SANDRA: I like to walk, hike and garden. I can get out and walk, but you’re correct about weather precluding the others.J

ME: Do you prefer your hot tub inside the house or outside the house? Why?

SANDRA: I’ve never been in an outdoor hot tub, but it sounds intriguing.

ME: If you could be any character/creature, who/what would it be and why?

SANDRA: Definitely a cat. We have an affinityJ

Before we get to the second part of the interview, I'd like to give you the chance to watch the trailer for Odin Cats


Now that we've had that fun little break, let's continue with the second half of the interview.

ME: Why YA Fiction? What was the draw for you?

SANDRA: I started out writing romance but romance writing has taken a more erotic turn and I haven’t. I have no problems with erotica it’s just not something that I choose to write. YA is the same as any other genre. You can write: mystery, romance, fantasy, paranormal and sci fi. It just isn’t taken to the extreme. To me its sharper, more vivid and clear yet leaves more to the imagination.

ME: If you could describe your writing with a word or phrase, what would it be? Please delve into the core of your writing to tell us what word or phrase you want readers to take with them when they've finished reading your story.

SANDRA: The improbable is possible.

I love fantasy. I love making worlds where cats rule, where magic amulets, genies, and crystal balls exist. I want the reader to walk away with a feeling that maybe, just maybe, it’s possible.

ME: Do the holidays disrupt your writing schedule? If so, how tough is it to get yourself back in writing mode and what have you found that seems to help?

SANDRA: Yes, the holidays are a disruption but since they are, it’s easy to go back to writing because its chafes me when I’m away from it for too long.

ME: Do you prefer hot chocolate with marshmallows or whipped cream? Does that show through in your writing? If so, how?

SANDRA: You are really making me think hereJ I’d have to say whipped cream. And I believe it does. My heroes and heroines tend to be smooth instead of sticky and clingy.

ME: Who decides what characters/creatures you write about, you or your muse? What kind of influence do you have over your story, or is the muse always the one pouring the soap in the Jacuzzi?

SANDRA: Definitely my muse. I try to outline, but the obstinate creature usually heads in a different direction entirely. I shrug my shoulders and follow where she leads.

ME: What creature/character did you have the most fun creating and why?

SANDRA: Each time I write a new novel that character is the one I enjoyed the most. So, I’ll have to say Grounded, a paranormal YA coming out in February. Gillian Stone is unique. From sunset to sunrise, she’s just a typical girl…well a typical rich girl. But from sunrise to sunset, she’s grounded in stone, in a statute that sits in the middle of her estate.

ME: If you had the opportunity to meet just one of your characters in real life, who would it be and why? Which of your characters would you never want to meet under any circumstance and why?

SANDRA: Probably Bella Tremaine from Rose Quartz, The Amulet Series. She’s a modern day Southern Belle who carries herself with panache. Her motto: ‘Just because the bad guys are after you is no excuse for not looking your best.’ Bella would be a riot to hang out with. Plus there’d never be a dull moment since men and mayhem follow her wherever she goes.

The characters I never want to meet are Victor and Victoria Price (father and daughter) also from The Amulet series. These two are insanely evil. Just the thought of meeting up with them sends chills down my spine.

BLURB: Odin Cats
Man with his constant desire to enslave and assert his will has destroyed the earth. From this destruction the earth has been rebuilt similar yet different. Guns in a primitive form exist but no cars or planes. There are no resources to fuel them.

Now two factions vie for power. Man who did not learn from his mistakes and Odin Cats.

There is a legend among the Odin Cats. An Odin will come with the pure blood of royalty flowing through his veins. This cat will lift the ferals out of their oppression and unite the kingdoms of Odin and man.

EXCERPT: Odin Cats
“I want to go!” Sittchuk-Seth’s silver plumy tail lashed back and forth. His jaw tightened, his expression grew obstinate.

His father Thut sat upon his throne. His beautiful russet paws rested on the burnished gold arms of the regal chair, his expression both indulgent and annoyed. “What say you, Furrlin, shall we take this whelp of mine?” he asked the soothsayer.

Furrlin padded over to the blue crystal ball that stood in the corner near the throne. Standing on his hind legs, he rested his front paws on the crystal. The interior of the globe began to stir, to roll and flash in a prism of color. Furrlin stared unblinking into the ball as the blinding colors flashed. After a long moment, the storm of lights receded and once more lay dormant.

“Well,” demanded Thut.

Furrlin turned and shrugged. “His destiny is already written. Do what you will.” He dropped to his four paws and padded back to the king.

Odin Cats, whiskeycreekpress.com

BLURB: Shardai, The Cats of Catarau:
Shardai is a large sleek cat with attitude. He has the courage of a tiger and the disdain of a king. The fearless feline has only one weakness... his guardian. When the white cat dies, he finds Catarau, where cats go when they pass on, much to his liking. It is an idyllic setting where the sun always shines and there is never any sickness or pain. But how can he be happy when his guardian still grieves so over his death? So asking permission of the Council of Nine, he returns to earth.

Wings-press.com

BLURB: Akasha, The Cats of Catarau
Mother’s love takes a little calico cat on a perilous journey as she frantically searches for her missing kitten.

Wings-press.com



BLURB: Makita, The Cats of Catarau
When Makita meets with a violent death, her best pal Bennie the Boxer is left frightened and alone…until Makita comes back to earth to find him.

Wings-press.com

Thanks for having me, Carrie. I’ve enjoyed it.
[We've enjoyed having you and hope that you'll come back and share new releases with us!]

I’d like to invite your guests to my new YA Blog: downtownya. The week of January 10th we’ll be running ‘Sunday at the Movies’ with YA Book Trailers.

[There are some very cool ones here, so be sure to check this out!]