Loading ...Guest Blog, Chat and Contest with Author Kim Harrison
PLEASE NOTE: This contest is now closed. The winner will be chosen at a later date and contacted via email. Thank you
When romance goes awry
I’d like to first say that I don’t write romance. I write urban fantasy, with a large portion of my attention devoted to relationships. Why? Because romance is a huge part of the human existence, and I don’t think I’ll ever figure it out.
One of the concepts that urban fantasy has helped give the romance genre is the increasing popularity of series romance, and it’s that that I’d like to talk about—a long running romance stretching over an entire series before we get to the HEA. (Happy ever after, or perhaps in my world, Happy in the Ever-After.) Not being a romance writer per say, I blithely took out my main love interest about halfway through the series. Oh, I heard about it, believe me, and it opened my eyes to how invested we become in the lives of characters that exist only on paper and in our minds.
Some might say that the romance went awry at this point. I don’t think so. Not with the death of Kisten. But things sort of fell apart for me later, when Rachel dried her tears and her mourning slowly began to ebb and she began to look at men romantically again. It was only then that I realized just how deep a blow Rachel had taken and how much she had loved Kisten. To my shock, I realized that even after three books, Rachel wasn’t ready to be over Kisten yet. Every man I wrote was coming up short through no fault of their own, and the romance with Ivy wasn’t working either. The chemistry wasn’t there, hampered by a deep-set hurt in Rachel.
Am I worried? Not really. If there is one thing I have learned while writing the Hollows is that romance can’t be forced. It can’t be corralled. And it can’t be planned or dictated. It has to flow naturally from a thousand moments of connection, kindled into existence from one pure moment of realization, one sentence where the character, and the writer, realizes that there is love now, where there was only attraction.
Rachel will get there. She’s still healing, and I feel good as I see her start to become comfortable again with herself. And when that happens, she will be able to share her life with another. I can’t wait to see who it’s with. Because romance isn’t romance if both people aren’t comfortable with themselves, first.
So to get things started, three questions:
1. How important is it to you, the reader, to allow a character to mourn in a series before another romance blossoms? And would you give up on a series if it takes too long?
2. Can you have a romance if the love interest is dead? As in out of the series, not just, you know, dead. (laugh) I think so, but I’d love to hear from those who feel otherwise.
3. Romance is a huge part of some urban fantasy. In 200 words or less, what is the difference between romance and lust, especially when vampire need enters the storyline?
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Learn more about Kim Harrison below:
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CONTEST:
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Kim is giving away the fabulous prize package pictured below. Open to readers worldwide.
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Books in the Hollows series in the order they should be read:
Dead Witch Walking
The Good, the Bad, and the Undead
Every Which Way But Dead
A Fistful of Charms
For a Few Demons More
The Outlaw Demon Wails
White Witch, Black Curse
Black Magic Sanction
While you are here today, please join us at today’s book chat here: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=19777, and check out these other fun events for the week! 
RSVP for tomorrow’s event here: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=19249, RSVP for Thursday’s event here: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=19250 enter to win a free sony eReader here: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=19609, enter to win free books here: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=19769
(3 votes, average: 5 out of 5)
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Question 1. Would I stop reading if the character took too long too long? Simple answer, no. I usually fall in love with the character and have to follow the story to the end. It’s lovely to see the character grow and evolve from his or her experiences.
I’ve followed book series through book 20 something. And, I’m enjoying reading about Rachel, Ivy and Jenks, to much to stop.
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Hi Kim! So glad you are here! I love your books!
I have to admit I was not all that into Kisten in the begining, but he grew on me and on Rachel. I was upset that he was killed off, however, it has not stopped me from devouring the rest of the series. I am hoping there will be someone for Rachel down the line.
You have created a great world that I like to visit with such great characters.
Can’t wait to read Black Magic Sanction!
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Hi Kim!!! Its me Indy. I’m using my other name, so I’m on the down-low.
I was sad at the loss of Kisten, but I have to say that I agree with the character mourning his/her loss. If Rachel had just jumped to the next relationship, then it would have seemed as if Kisten meant nothing. If life, the deeper the love and relationship, the more it hurts to move on. I think anything less would just not work.
Romance vs. Lust…hmmm…that has to be the feelings involved. Lust is just about sex, pure and simple. Its a physical bond. Its kind of disposible. Once you get your feel of the physical, you can move on with no real sense of loss. Romance involves the heart, and a genuine caring of the other person.
The real question is Ivy & Rachel getting together. I still vote for them as the best pair.
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1.Very important to me that they are allowed to mourn. I wouldn’t give it up if it took a long time because everyone is different, some take longer than others( Rachel needs time to get over Kisten)
2. I think you can but it would really depend on how it is done.
3. Lust is just sexual while romance to me says that they want something more like a real relationship.
Love your books and am eagerly awaiting my copy of Black Magic Sanction!
Breiab
bbricke AT yahoo DOT com
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First comment was Melissa C. Sorry, I forgot to put in my C before. Must be the excitment of chatting with your fav author:)
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Hi Kim,
I think it’s very important to have a character heal from a previous romance before they jump into a new one. Dating in the meantime is OK but I think that it’s normal to compare new men to the old one. And I don’t think you can say it will take a certain number of books to get over someone - just like you can’t say you’ll get over someone in real life in a set time period. I wouldn’t give up on a series just because of that.
And you can have a second love interest if the first one dies just like people do in real life. It just has to be the right time.
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Hi, Kim. All your NaSty fans want to send you their love today. In answer to your questions, I think your characters are so real for us that we/I would be shaking my head in a “what’s up with that” way if Rachel did not grieve over Kisten. I think it is important that she have time in the series to do so. Since this is in the realm of fantasy, I don’t see why you can’t bring Kisten’s soul back if he is her one and only as Pierce did. heck maybe this time he can even be a real blond : ) The love vs lust thing must be kind of tricky were the vamps are involved. I get the whole blood lust aspect, but to me the desire to protect a person, to feel a desperate need for acceptance and approval from that person shows love, not lust.(hint hint) Sorry if I’m rambling. If I can ask one question. I know that you mentioned 13 books in the series, if at the end of the 13th the charachers are still talking to you and you have more story arcs, can there be more?
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Hi, Melissa. yay! That’s what I was hoping I’d hear, that the reader will be patient. I’m so glad you’re enjoying the story. –Kim
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Hi, Sandy.
I just wish Rachel would get her act together soon. I’m anxious to write some heart-to-heart again. sigh. –Kim
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Kim-first thanks for coming! love the series! I can’t wait for Black Magic Sanction!
To your questions, I’m gonna hit on #2. I think you can definitely have a romance if the love interest is literally dead. In fact, this can really add intrigue to any future romantic relationships. Memories are so much harder to compete with. And, when you lose someone you’ve loved, your memories of that person tend to “glorify” or make that person more perfect that they necessarily were. But, those memories will dictate how you interact with other possible romances in the future. I was thrilled when Rachel got over Nick, but I can understand how Kisten has affected her on such a deeper level, that even though he is gone, part of him still remains.
I also think that because Kisten was a vampire, their relationship has truly affected how Rachel interacts and relates to Ivy.
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Thanks Kim:
For initiating the chat, though I wish it was live. Had a blast with the last BlogTalkRadio chat you did. Can’t wait to see you live in Portland next month. You have a favorite coffee drink? My treat.
Anyway, here are my answers to your questions above:
1. How important is it to you, the reader, to allow a character to mourn in a series before another romance blossoms? And would you give up on a series if it takes too long?
I would never give up one of your series! And that speaks to what you write about here, that you write from “relationships” first. I was hooked, the first book out because of the quirky, out-of-the-box relationships between the characters. As you allude to, relationships aren’t neat, and tidy. They’re ambivalent and messy and never perfect. I’m head-over-heels for Jenks (and love his relationship with Bis). And I keep coming back to see how/if Rachel and Ivy are ever going to find a longer term balance to their love. I adore the way you play with “love” in it’s many forms; that all the characters have love (and sometimes hate) relationships. It’s never clear-cut, just like in my own life. I was completely in denial when Kisten was killed. But hearing you talk about it on BlogTalkRadio helped. To be able to connect to the characters, that have become so real to all of us readers, and hear the connection you, as the author have to them too, was comforting for me.
The story feels all the more real for the different ways Kisten’s death has affected the various characters. That Ivy loved him too, and that’s another thing Rachel and Ivy shares, feels real to me.
It it had been business as usual, I would not be as much the loyal reader that I am. If people asked me what I found so intriguing about your books I would say the humor and the relationships. You’ve created characters that are very real for us. I love stepping inside Rachel’s world and living within her circle every year.
2. Can you have a romance if the love interest is dead? As in out of the series, not just, you know, dead. (laugh) I think so, but I’d love to hear from those who feel otherwise.
Can’t you have a romance in this world if your love interest dies? No one dies as long as I am carrying that person around. Even though Kisten is technically dead (twice), he is very much still a character in the following books. I don’t know how that works for a new reader who enters mid series but for us who have been with the series from the start, it’s a real honor. In this world, a lover’s death continues to have long term effects. In a relationship-driven series, it is right that it should be so as well. It’s Rachel’s “human-ness” (power and failings and all) that make her so beloved. Anyone who says otherwise, may be stuck in one of the grieving phases (denial) him/herself?
3. Romance is a huge part of some urban fantasy. In 200 words or less, what is the difference between romance and lust, especially when vampire need enters the storyline?
Wow, way to drop a bombshell of a question! Does the term, “can of worms” mean anything? I don’t want to be “held to” this answer, this is just my first thoughts…lust is something animal, physiological, physical, need-based, in the moment, here now and gone later, with no thought for consequences or consideration for the lusted after object after satisfaction. The thing/person lusted after is just an object.
Romance, on the other hand, comes from the mind, the mental, beliefs, dreams, and projections. The object of the romance is still objectified, but with forethought, intention, expectation, but most of all a hope for the actions in the present to create result in the future. Romance, implies to me “fleeting”, though I know that’s not the way it’s usually written in most romance novels (but hey, that’s why we read them as escapes, our current world isn’t wrapped up neat and “happy every after” in 500 pages).
Now we get to Love (which is what I think you are actually writing in your books, Kim). Love, to me, means forgiveness, compassion, acceptance of flaws, giving when the outcome is not guaranteed and may even be doomed. It encompasses more than just 2 beings, it overflows into other relationships. I’m thinking of book 2 or 3 when an “old, ill vampire” is lovingly and consciously set into a car accident. Love encompasses the tough decisions. Love is of the heart (and the mind and body). I know you didn’t ask about Love, just romance and lust, but I think it has to be mentioned. Your book one begins the intriguing, confusing, gender/species bending/questioning relationship between Rachel and Ivy. But, to my mind, what you are exploring through “paranormal” (as if we all weren’t as odd) characters, is the question what is love? What does love look like when it doesn’t fit our ideas (of species, age, appearance, sex, etc) but we feel and act on it none-the-less? This is powerful stuff you are flirting with, diving into.
I can’t really tell you how much I appreciate your sharing this world with all of us. You really don’t fit the mold, but you may very well be creating a new standard!
I’m waiting for next Tuesday,
Deborah
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Comment by Heather C — February 16, 2010 @ 1:25 pm
Hi, Indy!!! Good to see you here! I think you hit it right on the head. If it happens to fast, it sounds false. You said, “The real question is Ivy & Rachel getting together. I still vote for them as the best pair.” I wish I knew how this was going to turn out, myself.
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It is live, Thanks! D.
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Hi, Breiab. -nods head- I like your thoughts. I just wish it wouldn’t take so long..;-)
I’m glad you’re enjoying the story. Thanks! –Kim
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Hi Kim! A BIG BBB Welcome from all of the staff here at the site. We are so glad you were able to take some time out of your busy schedule to chat with us today.
I think that the grieving period that Rachel M. has gone through has been a realistic time frame. If it ended any sooner, it wouldn’t be believable. I read about characters losing a huge love and getting back in the saddle in 6 months. Sorry, if I lost my partner, I don’t know that I would ever get over it. And it would certainly take more than 6 months.
When I love a series, (and I do love yours), I develop a respect for the process that the characters go through but also the process that you, the author goes through as well. For me to say, well gee Kim, you aren’t doing it the way *I* think you should is ridiculous. YOU are the artist, the storyteller the weaver of the web.
Losing somebody loves HURTS especially when they are murdered. Geez it isn’t easy when they pass peacefully, add violence and there is a whole other level of emotions and crap that you have to work through.
Anyways, I could go on and on, but I will spare ya’ll (I learned that word since moving here to KY from Seattle) the diatribe. LOL
Thanks again for being here.
The other Rachel
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Hey, here are my answers to question one and three:
1) I think have a character mourn is important, it makes him/her more real and believeable. I would not drop a series because a character takes a longer than expected time to mourn before moving on. Never.
3)Walking a thin line between romance (love) and lust.
Romance describes an emotional attraction, which for me makes romance insperable from love, while lust is a bodily, a physical attraction and because of this, lust can exsist even if there is no love. When we take into account a vampires need for blood (there is no doubt that blood lust is a bodily/physical attraction, I’d say), we have to walk a very thin line. Since blood can be seen as a symbol for love, passion and emotional energy, it immediately brings us back to romance (emotional attraction). For the vampire it means that telling his bloodlust apart from his/her love for someone turns into an impossibility (that kind of leads us right to Ivy’s conflict, doesn’t it?!)
I shared the event on:
facebook.com
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Buzzed it!
P.S. Rachel rules! Keep on kicking ass!!!
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Hi Kim!
My name is Giada and I come from Italy. I have read some of your books in Italian, but then I could not wait for the translation and I began to read the others in English. You are one of my favourite author and I’m so happy I can chat with you today!
1. How important is it to you, the reader, to allow a character to mourn in a series before another romance blossoms? And would you give up on a series if it takes too long?
In my opinion it is fundamental, because when I read that world becomes real to me, and so the characters who have to mourn as long as it takes.
I would never give up on a series if it takes too long, because there are many other reasons I read a book, and romance is only one element.
2. Can you have a romance if the love interest is dead? As in out of the series, not just, you know, dead.
I think so too. Love is a strange thing!:P
3. Romance is a huge part of some urban fantasy. In 200 words or less, what is the difference between romance and lust, especially when vampire need enters the storyline?
I think in both romance and lust there is passion, but only in romance love can be found. I would define lust as an animal instinct that has nothing to do with romance.
I have now a few questions for you.
1)I have read you love music. Who is your favourite singer?
2)And your favourite book?
3)Will you ever come to Italy for a book signing tour?
Thank you very much!
Giada M.
RSVP’d
Posted the link in Facebook!
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2 Comment by Keri K — February 16, 2010 @ 1:24 pm
Hi Keri. To tell you the truth, I wasn’t into Kisten in the beginning, either, but now I really miss him. I’m glad you’re enjoying the books. Thanks! –Kim
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Ok, see, thinking about it some more, thanks Kim…I’ll be waking up in the night!
Lust and Romance aren’t really of the spirit are they, whereas Love has deeper dance with Spirit/Source. Through Love with another, we connect to the BIG LOVE, eh?
Ok, take that back a bit. Romance can tap into Love through Creativity, Inspiration. But in terms of the deeper soul, “real-stuff”, ultimately it has to be Love.
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Hi Kim! I want to start off saying I love your books! As a girl who always has loved mostly historical romance, I was pleasantly surprised to find this series incredibly great. In my opinion Rachel is incredibly real because she has many faults and throughout the books has slowly learned from her mistakes. As many readers I was devastated when Kisten was killed and yes I was upset that his death was not really avenged but that just makes the story more interesting! Rachel was obviously devastated as well by Kisten’s death and it was right that she is still mourning this far into the series. I would not give up because there always should be a happy ending and I’m anxious to see what Rachel’s ending will be.
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7 Comment by Marsha A. — February 16, 2010 @ 1:30 pm
Hi, Marsha! A big “hey” to everyone at NaSty! Ahhh, bring Kisten back? Sorry, not going to happen, but if I did bring him back, it would be an entirely new ball game, wouldn’t it?
You asked, “I know that you mentioned 13 books in the series, if at the end of the 13th the charachers are still talking to you and you have more story arcs, can there be more?”
Mmmm, perhaps, but not with Rachel. She wants me to leave her alone.
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Love love love the books, I have spread the word (over the world) to my friends on The Hollows.
I just loved Kisten so much and I was so stressed (I am crazy) when she was trying to figure out what Ivy did and why she couldn’t remember anything the going through the grief over him, man I miss him so. I love how she still thinks of him and it holds a great part of her heart. Rachel is so crazy and nutty that I just adore her and I love how you let us see Kisten in her mind and yet see that she wants, or needs to, move on. I love the bond that Ivy and Rachel have with Kisten and how close they are with their fine line too!
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Kim- I have to ask, since the questions relate to romance. Are we going to see sadness and loss for Jenks? You have hinted that pixies have a short lifespan. I think that has changed for Jenks (don’t want to give anything away here to those who haven’t read the whole series) through some of Rachel’s magic. But I am worried for him if something happens to Matalina. They are sooo much in love- kind of the ideal love storyline with those two!
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Question 1: I think its key that a character has the opportunity to mourn. It keeps the characters realistic & adds depth. I would have been hugely disappointed if Rachel hadn’t grieved after Kisten’s death. I grieved for him! lol
And 2. Love doesn’t just end when someone dies. In fact, it might even take on more importance as a character starts to have feelings for someone else.
I’m anxiously counting down the days until Black Magic Sanction comes out!
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10 Comment by Denise Waszak — February 16, 2010 @ 1:33 pm
Hi, Denise. It was great to be asked to come chat. I’m glad you’re enjoying the books. Thanks!
I think you have a good point there that memories are often better than the real thing ever was, and therefore hard to compete with. Interesting. –Kim
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11 Comment by deborah — February 16, 2010 @ 1:33 pm
Hi, Deborah. Wow! You really put some thought into it! I’ll be chewing on that for a while. -grin- See you in Portland! –Kim
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So vampires then, are really a more exaggerated version of ourselves, yeah? I vampire experiences a more exaggerated version of lust, bordering on frenzy. So a vampire, showing restraint, compassion, consideration, forgiveness, can demonstate a more exaggerated version of what it takes to act in love.
But there is that deeper question of soul. And I see Ivy playing with those questions of soul and life ever after in the book. Could it be that Love (regardless of shape, age, species, gender or form) will be revealed as the “magic” that can “save the soul”?
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Hey, you started it! Thanks for the asking. D.
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I believe as in real life it takes a while to morn that one true love, I know I have been there. But things get easier. If you rush it too much it makes you feel like the feelings were not there to begin with. Rachel will find another, I think it just might be Trent.
Yes you can still have romance if that true love is dead. You will never be able to give your heart to the new person but they can find that special place just as well as the original love.
The biggest difference between love and lust in my opinion is lust just the physical gotta have where as love you are so emotionally involved you want to do what is best for the some one even if it means you are they get hurt. In so many series I feel authors just right about the lust but you get that special writer, like you, who knows the difference and captures the characters and you can’t help but fall in love with them too.
I really think once things settle down for Rachel she will find that her and Trent’s connection goes far beyond the lust of Pierce.
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15 Comment by Rachel from Bitten by Books — February 16, 2010 @ 1:36 pm
Hi Rachel! You’ve no idea how great it is to have been asked! And wow, what a response already.
I’m hoping that Rachel stops grieving in this next book. I’m ready to write some real stuff again. And I appreciate you trusting the story teller. You’ve no idea!
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Hi Kim! Thanks for stopping by today!
1. I’m sure most of us has experienced a loss of someone we have loved and to me, its important for a character to go through the normal stages of loss. I think it helps us (readers) to connect to the character more if we can relate to what he/she is going through. As far as moving on goes, you never know we you will be ready. For some it may be early but for others it may take years. I am fine with a character taking time to grieve and will stay with he/she through it all.
2. I think a character can have a romance as long as she/he is ready. Every relationship is different.
3. Of course romance and lust kind of go together but I think romance is the everyday stuff that brings two closer together. Examples would be giving a foot massage after a hard day of work, or fixing dinner, washing dishes and surprising you with flowers.
ok so that was probably more than 200 words (sorry, lol).
posted on facebook
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/profile.php?ref=profile&id=100000400298057
and twitter
http://twitter.com/katearoo79
also RSVP’d
Rebecca M.
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16 Comment by Sarah N. — February 16, 2010 @ 1:39 pm
Hi Sarah. Mmmm, I’m seeing a pattern here. -grin- And I appreciate you trusting the story teller, whether it be me or another.
It’s that blood thing that has me worried, too. That is really hard to write. –Kim
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17 Comment by Giada M — February 16, 2010 @ 1:39 pm
Hi, Giada. Oooooh, that is very cool! I’m honored that you are reading the books in their original language. Thank you. You asked. . .
1)I have read you love music. Who is your favourite singer? Right now it’s ColdPlay, but Sting was my original fav.
2)And your favourite book? Has to be Dandelion Wine by Ray Bradbury.
3)Will you ever come to Italy for a book signing tour? I’d love to! Maybe someday.
–Kim
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19 Comment by deborah — February 16, 2010 @ 1:41 pm
Well, these books keep me up all night, too, so fair play, right? -grin-
I like your thoughts on romance and lust. . . –Kim
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I think that we readers being willing to wait and see what happens has a lot to do with your success as a storyteller. The better the story the more leeway we’re willing to give it.
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20 Comment by Dawn L. — February 16, 2010 @ 1:41 pm
I’ve always felt uncomfortable that Ivy and Rachel weren’t able to seek revenge for Kisten, but that’s what I like about it. It keeps preying on my mind . . . It makes for a great sequel. –Kim
Hi Dawn. Thanks! I’m so pleased you are enjoying my work.
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Shared the link on my facebook page.
http://www.facebook.com/golden475
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22 Comment by Renee M — February 16, 2010 @ 1:42 pm
Thank you, Renee! I’m so glad you’re enjoying them. And thanks for the word of mouth.
I stil miss Kisten, too. Which might be why I set the graphic novels when he is still alive. And in a tub of bubbles. (spring 2011) –Kim
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It will be kind of sad to see Rachel move on from Kisten, but that is how life works- time heals! Will she be able to break away from Al?:), or is that asking for too much info :0
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23 Comment by Denise Waszak — February 16, 2010 @ 1:43 pm
Hi, Denise. sigh. You’re asking for a big spoiler. All I can say is that time is ticking, and thought there is a way to keep Jenks alive, it’s going to be up to him. Mattie is a big part of that decision. –Kim
[Reply]
1. Honestly, it depends on how the books are written. It could happen in the same book if I *believed* the character was ready.
2. I’m not sure what you mean by out the series. As in, he/she never “shows up” but is only mentioned? If so, then yes, I think it can be done. I would want signs that the relationship was progression, though—phone calls, gifts, thoughts, etc.
3. Lust is selfish. A caress, kiss, whispered word, but it goes nowhere. Romance kicks you in the gut and possesses your mind.
Spreading the love…
3. Shared on Facebook (jackie.uhrmacher) and Twitter (JackieUhrmacher). Ooh! And RSVPd! I may have also called a few people and screamed, “Kim Harrison is coming!” but there’s no proof. ; )
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Kim,
Do you play on going into more with Rachel and Takata, will they find their relationship moving past what she has found out (didn’t want to spoil) or leaving it where it lays.
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i love your writting!!!!!!!!!!!!
how do you get your story ideas
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24 Comment by Karen F, — February 16, 2010 @ 1:44 pm
Hi, Karen. I’m glad to hear your opinion on mourning. Thank you. It’s hard sometimes when you only have your gut instinct to go on.
7 more days till release! Yay! –Kim
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In a tub of bubbles and Kisten…if only you could see the smile on my face! LMAO Come on spring 2011 baby!!! Thanks for doing this and talking to use Kim, your the best.
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Thank you so much Kim for this morning’s chat. Most fun I’ve had today. Thanks too for keeping us all up to date with your blog and FB. I love to check in a feel like I can pop my head in your office, hear how things are going and what’s coming up. D.
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27 Comment by deborah — February 16, 2010 @ 1:47 pm
Hi, Debora. Vampires are an exaggerated version of an aspect of ourself, not us entirely. And yes, Ivy is how I’m playing with ideas of souls, and life after death. There is no real answer of course, but I’m a romantic, so I believe that love can change all, do all. Whether this will come true in the books? I don’t know. –Kim
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I agree with Renee I want that tub of bubbles and Kisten for myself!
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P.S. I am SO pulling for Jenks (and Matalinda), talk about a potential heart breaker. I just can’t imagine the Hallows without his back talk. D.
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Hi Kim! Thank you so much for doing this.
How fun!!
I am very excited about the new book coming out. I really love this series and I’m so glad I found them. I loved the early urban fantasies couldn’t et enough of them. But I came to a point in my life where I stopped reading. There was grad school, then along came the tot, and trying to get my career going and use that fancy degree, and I sort of missed the whole urban fantasy rise. I actually found The Hollows by accident. I was looking for a book someone recommended to me but couldn’t remember the title and I came home with your book instead. I was on a business trip with my boss, so it took me several days to actually start reading it–I wasn’t sure what she’d think of me reading a book with such a cover! But I read it, bought the others, then started stalking the drama box, and, well, the rest is history, lol
1. I think the character should morn for as long as would be reasonable–and believable–for their personality and the loss. If they’re the type that holds on to things, it wouldn’t seem believable to be for them to get over a deep loss like that quickly. Now, if they’re the type that usually shrugs things off–that, to me, could go several ways. They could get over it quickly, because that’s just how they are. They could seem to get over it quickly, but be holding it in inside because they don’t want others to see, or it could have been such a dreadful blow that it causes an uncharacteristic shift. Nevertheless, I think as long as the morning period is believable given the character and circumstances I’d wait as long as needed. After all, it’s the real-ness of a character that draws me. I like my words fantastical, but filled with real, believable people who act in ways I can often relate to (even if the experiences themselves are fantastical).
The tot and I won’t give up on the Hollows.
(Okay, so she just likes the books for the pretty covers, lol)
2. Hey, it’s urban Fantasy *anything* can happen.
I have a question for you: What single book, author, or series really impacted you growning up (and not necessarily in regards to your writing career)
Oh, Inquiring tots want to know when the burning bunnies get their own story. She also wants to know if Rachel knows a spell that could give her real wings.
Have a great day!!
~Suzi and the tot
I rsvped and posted the link on facebook
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“There is no real answer of course, but I’m a romantic, so I believe that love can change all, do all.”
…me too, or couldn’t you tell? (smile) D.
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Hi Kim
I think that as long that it is obvious that the character is mourning the loss of a loved one it is up to him/her when they should become involved in a relationship again..But it is possible to mourn and find a new love at the same time..if the new person is told that he/she just lost someone and that they are interested but not sure its the right time…doors open let them stay that way until its time to close them permanately.
I love your Rachael Morgan series. Introduced it to my mother and she won’t give my books back..the old heifer. I will have to replace them again…Keep up the amazing writing
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29 Comment by Kelly Golden — February 16, 2010 @ 1:49 pm
Hi, Kelly. Wow, you really hit it on the nailhead, I think. Thank you for your words on me “getting it.” I put so much thought into these characters, I’d hate to fail them. I want Rachel to fall in love, not lust, too. –Kim
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I really like Al even though he’s tried to kill Rachel several times, though so has Trent! I’ve found myself liking them and hating them both several times throughout the books. And will we ever see Nick again? I’m curious to see what happened to him…
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34 Comment by Breiab — February 16, 2010 @ 1:55 pm
Thanks, Breiab. I appreciate that! –Kim
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Hi Kim! I remember hearing that ODW was originally going to be the final book in the series. I believe you’ve mentioned before that when you learned it was going to be extended, you created new story arcs to keep Rachel busy for another 6-7 books. I was wondering, however, has your main goal/objective for the series changed from the original ending? For instance, does the future HEA for your characters stand as it did initially or do you come up with it as you go along to see what feels most natural for them as a result of their experiences?
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38 Comment by Denise Waszak — February 16, 2010 @ 1:59 pm
Kim
Hi, Denise. I’m sort of sad seeing her break from Kisten, too. As for Al? -grin- That would be telling.
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Oh, Kim, I suspected such! It’s been easy to come to love Jenks and his family, but what is a story without tough choices and some heartache! Ughhhhh-I can’t bear to think of it! You have created such a wonderful world for us!
I also love to listen to the audio version of your books. Marguerite Gavin is a fantastic reader. Will she be reading the new book also?
Also, I love the characters in the Madison Avery series- am anxiously waiting for the next installment!
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40 Comment by Jackie U — February 16, 2010 @ 2:00 pm
Hi, Jackie. –nods head– I can see that. (in referance to 1)
Out of the series as in dead and gone.
3 I like your thoughts here.
I’m glad you’re enjoying the books. Thanks! –Kim
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41 Comment by Kelly Golden — February 16, 2010 @ 2:01 pm
Hi, Kelly. You asked, Do you play on going into more with Rachel and Takata, will they find their relationship moving past what she has found out (didn’t want to spoil) or leaving it where it lays.
I’d really like to, but I’ve written book ten, and Takata is staying out of the pages. Few more left to go . . . –Kim
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Can see that a lot of us agree - if the story is good - we’ll wait to see how the story unfolds. I know me and both of my girls have read all your books. As my oldest says, “Rachel rocks!” I was so sad when Kisten was killed, and who’s to say how long is too long. Everyone rebounds from mourning in different lengths of time. I’m so glad your character isn’t like a daytime soapstar who waits 30 seconds to mourn someone before moving on to the next. This, I believe makes Rachel seem far more realistic. I can’t speak for others, but I’ll wait however long it takes until Rachel is ready to move on!
As for the second question - WOW! To consider carrying on the love interest even after his physical form is gone - I guess all I can say is, “Bring it on, let’s see how this works!”
As for question 3. . .
Lust is easy. That’s the stirring of excitement brought on by attraction. It’s the quick fix to soothe animal passion. Lust is the first feeling brought on by vampire need, whether it’s the lust for blood, or sex, or just the claiming of something the vamp desires.
Romance is the continuation of the lust that grows into love with learning more about the other, a sidelong look, a caress to show compassion and tenderness.
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42 Comment by authra — February 16, 2010 @ 2:01 pm
Thanks, Authra. I’m so glad you are enjoying my work. You asked, “how do you get your story ideas”
They come from everywhere, but mostly from what’s come before in the books. If you steal a fish, then someone is going to be angry. And the next story is “born.” –Kim
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I just have to say thank you, Kim. I like many miss Kisten (and I didn’t really even like him much in teh beginning) but really appreciate the depth his death and the circumstances of it added to the series. We are all dying for a Kisten tidbit here or there knowing that there is no way for him to come back and the is an attestment to you and your fantastic writing. Again, thnk you! Also, the fact that she is still grieving makes it OK. If she had started lusting after other men it would have cheapened what they had. She didn’t appreciate some of what she had until it was gone is just like real life (hindsight 20/20). Real life is not perfect so why should books always have happy endings every time? Yes, it was heartreaking and I will always wish Rachael wound up with Kisten, but that is life, and more relatable. I still remember Kisten telling her how happy he was, so I’m OK. I can’t wait for the series to continue. You have me enthralled.
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44 Comment by Renee M — February 16, 2010 @ 2:02 pm
“In a tub of bubbles and Kisten…if only you could see the smile on my face! LMAO Come on spring 2011 baby!!! Thanks for doing this and talking to use Kim, your the best.”
Thanks, Renee. -grin- I’ve not yet seen Kisten in bubbles yet, but I’m due the last of the pages today or tomorrow. I can. not. wait. –Kim
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Kim, I just noticed that they are having the book March Madness again. We have to get you to first place this year.
Plus, will Nick ever re-appear? Not because I like him…more because I want to see Ivy & Rachel beat him up or make him work for Al or something.~Indy (Plus I think we’ll all be surprised by Rachel & Ivy in the end…call it my psychic powers. 
)
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45 Comment by deborah — February 16, 2010 @ 2:03 pm
It’s been my pleasure, Deborah!
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Hello Kim!
To answer to question #2, I realised that I don’t get into a story as much if there’s no kind of romance at least. May it be Lust, Love or even Rejection, I kinda need this kind of strong feeling to relate and appreciate the book. A book can be good without it, but it wouldn’t top my chart hehe
Thanks for stopping by and your generous giveaway =)
I RSVPed
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1. Mindy S
2. There is no one magic time that it takes for someone to mourn the loss of someone they truly loved. If a character didn’t have at least a short mourning period, they wouldn’t be believable. We, as readers, want characters with flaws that we can relate to. I wouldn’t give up on a series if a character was mourning for an extended period of time. The only way I’d give up on it was if the mourning became the central point and everything else that I loved about the character and series started to disappear.
3. Places I’ve shared the link for today:
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?ref=profile&id=1275523910
http://tribes.tribe.net/140356books/thread/b637ca66-2cb9-49ac-90f0-033fce5ae54b
I just have to say I had so much fun meeting you last summer in Seattle.
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47Comment by Kelly Golden — February 16, 2010 @ 2:03 pm
“I agree with Renee I want that tub of bubbles and Kisten for myself!”
That’s kind of what Ivy thinks . . . –Kim
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48 Comment by deborah — February 16, 2010 @ 2:04 pm
“P.S. I am SO pulling for Jenks (and Matalinda), talk about a potential heart breaker. I just can’t imagine the Hallows without his back talk. D.”
Me too, Deborah. Me too. -Kim
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“47Comment by Kelly Golden — February 16, 2010 @ 2:03 pm
“I agree with Renee I want that tub of bubbles and Kisten for myself!”
That’s kind of what Ivy thinks . . . –Kim”
OMG…KIM YOUR KILLING ME
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49 Comment by suzanne lazear — February 16, 2010 @ 2:04 pm
Hi, Suzanne! How great to see you here! You asked:
“I have a question for you: What single book, author, or series really impacted you growning up (and not necessarily in regards to your writing career)” I’d have to say Heinland as an author, The Well of Souls, as a series, and a book would be Dandelion Wine.
“Oh, Inquiring tots want to know when the burning bunnies get their own story. She also wants to know if Rachel knows a spell that could give her real wings.” I’d love to write a burning bunny story. Give me a few years. -grin- As for the wing spell? Mmmm, that might take more time. –Kim
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Romance is a huge part of some urban fantasy. In 200 words or less, what is the difference between romance and lust, especially when vampire need enters the storyline?
Lust is fast, hot, and burns out with consummation.
Romance is slower, not that lust can’t lead to romance, but it builds with with time, getting to learn one another in depth. It includes trust, and small touches. (Physically and mentally).
I loved Kisten. But NOT until he died. IMHO he was a shallow, weak character who pushed Rachel as a simple conquest. I don’t think he was good for her at the first.
His strength came at death, and in his last scene, the depth of his love and his strength, shone through.
Mud
Mindy M
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by the way love the keys for the Black Magic Sanction, can you give us any kind of hint as to what if any spoiler is attached. Read the first chapter on the website, will we get any good cliffhangers or new relationships???
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50
Comment by deborah — February 16, 2010 @ 2:05 pm
“There is no real answer of course, but I’m a romantic, so I believe that love can change all, do all.”
…me too, or couldn’t you tell? (smile) D.
–grin– Kim
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1. How important is it to you, the reader, to allow a character to mourn in a series before another romance blossoms? And would you give up on a series if it takes too long?
-It is very important to allow a character to mourn the loss of they’re love interest before a new one takes its place. That way not only do you get exposed to a deeper part of they’re psyche and soul, but the character can also have a better relationship with the next love interest.
2. Can you have a romance if the love interest is dead? As in out of the series, not just, you know, dead. (laugh) I think so, but I’d love to hear from those who feel otherwise.
-You can have a romance in some ways..but it would be fairly painful for the character. Because living in the past and dwelling on feelings over someone who is gone and not coming back usually only brings pain and more sadness, But pain brings depth to the character and helps you learn in a lot of ways. Also, if your romance is continuing on simple memories, it can be a good deal deeper in some ways, it helps you look back and really see the person, not just how they are when they were there, but how they were in they’re entirety. So yes, I do believe that romance can continue even after the love interest is gone.
3. Romance is a huge part of some urban fantasy. In 200 words or less, what is the difference between romance and lust, especially when vampire need enters the storyline?
-The differences between romance and lust are not very large as some might think, because Lust is sparked in most times by some form of romance and can be fueled by it, especially in the case where a vampire is involved. After all in the Hollows a vampire chooses who they wish to be with in nearly all situations, both in lust and in feeding. So a bite to them isn’t just a simple bite, the lust and blood sharing for them have to be sparked by some form of attraction if not pure romance.
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Hi Kim! I love love love your books!!!
I really need to answer all 3 questions~
1. I really do think there should be a mourning period; it would just be tacky if the main character moved on immediately and fell in “love.” I don’t think I would be able to believe it to be the real thing. Unless, of course, the point was that the main character was incapable of loving someone.
2. I think people are complicated…and fickle. With Rachel, while she was Kisten, may have believed they would have a HEA. But who knows, I had a feeling it wouldn’t have worked out (can you tell I am rooting for someone else? haha). Even with the love interest dead I think Rachel will find a new love.
3. Romance I see as a technique for roping someone in for the long term, with deeper feelings in play. Whereas I see lust as more of an animal, instinctual urge…no deep feelings needed. Vamp urges are definitely instinctual.
1-3 Done
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51 Comment by Kathy T — February 16, 2010 @ 2:05 pm
Hi Kathy. I like your thoughts in keeping doors open while mourning. Rachel should take a clue from that.
I’m so glad you and your mom are enjoying the books. –grin– she won’t give them back, eh? –Kim
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Yes Rachel should mourn Kisten just because a book/story is fiction does not mean that the characters should not be believed. If I lost someone I loved I would mourn so it fits with the series. The anticipation of who she will love that way is all part of the character.
Romance well I’d love some and my love interest is alive ha ha! not a romantic bone in his body, but hay that’s why I read all your books.
Well that last one is a loaded question. I fell in lust at first sight of my feller, then in love as I got to know him, romance was when he asked me if he could kiss me for the first time (never forgot that it has to still sustain my romantic side) and still love him 32yrs later.
As for vampires well with Kisten romance seemed to come first but with Ivy well it’s one sided lust which can be manipulated with her abilities so where is the romance in that. Ivy needs to find her own romance letting Rachel move on from Kisten but still stay very good friends with her.
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53 Comment by Dawn L. — February 16, 2010 @ 2:06 pm
Hi, Dawn. I’m liking Al a lot, too. I know I shouldn’t. As for Nick? Yep. We’ll see him again. Can’t wait. –Kim
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Question 1: I become so invested in characters that I read any book, short story, or mention of them! Sometimes when the series ends I’m sad because I know that those characters probably won’t be revisited
The only series I ever gave up on was Laurell K. Hamilton’s Anita Blake series. I stuck with it through book 14 (Danse Macabre) but became disgusted when the storyline was lost and became static around book 10 or 11. That was the only time I dropped a series! Keep up the books Kim, and I’ll keep reading.
I RSVP’d and I posted this over on Facebook!
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=logo#!/profile.php?id=673354071
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55 Comment by Jessica H. — February 16, 2010 @ 2:06 pm
Hi Jessica. Good question. “I remember hearing that ODW was originally going to be the final book in the series. I believe you’ve mentioned before that when you learned it was going to be extended, you created new story arcs to keep Rachel busy for another 6-7 books. I was wondering, however, has your main goal/objective for the series changed from the original ending? For instance, does the future HEA for your characters stand as it did initially or do you come up with it as you go along to see what feels most natural for them as a result of their experiences?”
My main goal of finding Rachel’s HEA hasn’t changed, but I didn’t know who she was going to end up with in the first place. (snerk) I’m still going by feel here, which is just how I like it. –Kim
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Not sure if we can comment twice, but oh well, just wanted to say that not only am I extremely excited about the book signing on the 23rd, ^.^ but I am also getting all of my friends into the series as well, I have a feeling that my new book already has a reading list for me to let them borrow it lol. By the way, where would I be able to get a t-shirt for the book signing, other than entering the contest for it because I have work and can’t rsvp to all of those things.
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57 Comment by Denise Waszak — February 16, 2010 @ 2:09 pm
Hi, Denise. As it happens, Marguerite Gavin has been contracted to finish out the series, yes. (Big whoo-hoo!!!!) I’m so pleased. And I’m really glad you gave Madison a shot! She’s got her own troubles, eh? Next one is due out last Tuesday of May. EARLY TO DEATH, EARLY TO RISE. –Kim
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In answer to Kim’s question on grief of the death of a main charectors love interest and how long it should last before they are able to move forward.
Kim - I would say that when you have a major charector die - just like when anyone dies - in reality - when you lose someone you love to the reaper - it doesn’t matter if they are natrual or supernatural -
you have the greif of the loss - it never leaves - it lessons, sometimes you can almost forget compleatly - then something - a place, a sound, a song on the radio, a scent on the breeze - something will remind you of the loss and the greif may or may not come flooding back in a rush of memories, good and bad, - but because of the nature of man - we tend to remember the good things more and stronger than the bad - unless of course - the person in question was a real (insert faveroite curse here).
How long should they greave? That depends on how strong the relationship was to begin with -
S
P
O
I
L
E
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When Rachel and Ivy lost Kristin - I was afraid that Ivy would loose it and compleatly vamp out - especally since things wern’t working out in the romance dept with Rach. - With Jenks nearing the end of his natrual life I see a near to compleate breakdown because of the grief that not only Rach and Ivy will be feeling, but from Jenks wife and the little ones as well.
I do hope that its a long way off - however I think Jenks as smart as he is will be training one of his kids to take his place in VC.
Lust vs. Romance -
Lust (IMHO) - is the mindless animal instint of mateing - hot, hard, fast, animilistic, frenzyed and often totally screwed up - there is a reason its one of the “Big 7″ - I often say that the proof of god’s sense of houmor is he give men a penis and a brain and only enough blood to run one at a time - dick gets hard and the brain stops working
Romance on the other hand is the result of a commitment however fleeting - it could last an hour or a lifetime depending on the people involved alive or otherwise - but it involves the entire persons being (in my case anyway) -
A vampiric love - now that brings into it the situations and problems of feeding and the lust involved with that - ever notice that the major targets of a vamps fangs are also the eroginous zones of the body?
from the books I’ve read of the modern vampire lore - the undead still have feelings - do they get jealous?, do they envy? we know they hunger and that some of the sheeple become addicted to the feedings - is the vampire salava a drug that induces euphoria? is it the vamps mental push? a combination? but there is something that causes the “meals” to keep comeing back for more - even to the point of self destruction
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60 Comment by ML Vande — February 16, 2010 @ 2:11 pm
Hi, ML. I’m seeing a lot of agreement, too. I don’t know if I can write that book where the love interest is dead and yet still a part of the main character’s psyche. Hard! –Kim
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63 Comment by uapeople — February 16, 2010 @ 2:13 pm
Hi, UA. I didn’t like Kisten much in the beginning, either, but I sure do miss him now! Thank you for being patient as a reader. Some things just need time, and this is one of them. –Kim
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Merry Meet Kim! Wonderful to see you thriving so well!
Q1: Death is something so complicated it takes someone experiencing it closely in their life to understand. I believe you have put the experience into words wonderfully, in a way that someone could understand and experience if they haven’t had a tragedy in their life. A place where sometimes even taking a breath is painful because you take that breath alone.
Healing takes time and, in a series like Hollows, you are experiencing these “real life” experiences with them. In time we know that Rachel will love again… and we’re on this ride together. We will always love Kisten, always have a place for him in our hearts. We also know that Rachel is a strong gal and she’s eventually going to fall in love again - and the experience will be uniquely beautiful again.
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1. I think in Rachel’s case after Nick the jerk, Kisten was such a breath of fresh air and she was able to be herself around him. The fact that his death was sudden and shocking was a huge blow. And the reader is kind of along for the ride. So when you’re in sync with the character it all kind of makes sense. If a relationship is trying to be forced the reader feels it too. SO no I definitely wouldn’t give up on the series.
2. I think so too, but I think the longer the love interest is out of the picture, I think the person has the potential to become a (for lack of a better term) romanticized version.
If the person is not in the story line, then I think we don’t get the chance to judge the person for ourselves. We don’t get ideas from anyone else what the person is like so it’s hard to form a complete idea of their personality. I don’t think it’s impossible but it’s harder. The reader could always be wrong about someone with full exposure, but sometimes Rachel’s instincts are a little off too. We all know what happened when Ivy tried to tell Rachel about Nick. (I really hope that all made sense!)
3. Romance by itself is a mix of emotions, words and actions done in order to give or do something for someone else. To be able to express to that person how you feel. To be able to let that person feel good simply because you want them to or think they deserve it. Lust by itself, can be one-sided. Someone sees something that they want or feel the need, and take it and use it for themselves. I think it can actually be a fine line with romance and lust. People will use romance in order to feed and achieve the object that they lust after, which is why I think it’s so hard with vampires.
By the way you do a wonderful job describing the setting. Living in the city that a book takes place makes things so much more vivid.
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65 Comment by Heather C — February 16, 2010 @ 2:14 pm
Hi, Heather. Oh, I’m not playing their game this year, but thank you for your vote.
Will NIck come back? Yep! He sure will! –grin– I got a few things to say to him. –Kim
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Thanks so much for a great chat with one of my favorite authors!
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67 Comment by tynga (Cindy B) — February 16, 2010 @ 2:15 pm
Hi Cindy. I have to have some romance in my reading, too. It was my pleasure to stop and chat today. Thank you! –Kim
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68 Comment by Mindy S — February 16, 2010 @ 2:15 pm
Hi, Mindy. I like your thoughts! I think I’d give up if the sole focus of the book was mourning, too. –Kim
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Hi Kim: I love this series. Fortunately, I never loved Kristen. Because, seriously, killing the hero and having the heroine find a new love will kill a series for me. As for the romance for Rachel, I definitely would love for her to have a hero. Too bad, Jenks is taken. Jenks is definitely hero material. But this series is fantastic, I will keep reading it to find out what happens next.
BTW, Decoy Princess is another favorite book of mine. It was fantastic.
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73 Comment by Mindy (mud) — February 16, 2010 @ 2:20 pm
Hi Mud! Great to see you here!
You didn’t like Kisten until he was dead? -grin- I didn’t realize how important he was until he was gone, so I guess we both got surprised. –Kim
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I believe that the timing was very well done in the book and i know we will keep waiting, i was very sad for the loss and i think the mourning has been greatly portrayed. Now… one thing i wanted to say is that I am bisexual and I was very happy to see alternate life stiles on your books since even in UF are still taboo
I would probably keep reading the series would depend not on the time but on how it is handled by the author.
About pursuing it after the main love is dead, well i believe is possible. We dont just stop loving someone because they die, i bet it takes long for them to stop being center in your head after they are gone.
Lust -mmmm hot smex? hahaha first thing that comes to my mind. I believe lust is totally physically/chemistry related while romance does not even require touching.
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Haven’t read the whole series yet, only one of them. The only scene I can think of at the moment is her shifted and riding on a motorcycle and enjoying it.
I think it’s very important to let the character mourn. And yes, it may take a while. But whenever I read about a character who has lost a loved one in the time before the book covers, it’s usually years after their lose before they find love again. If you had her get deeply involved with someone too soon that would either be unrealistic or make it seem like her feelings weren’t what everyone thought.
I RSVP’d
Difference between love and lust–Lust involves just the body. Love involves the heart, mind and body. I’ve lusted and I’ve loved. Believe me the love lasts longer.
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74 Comment by Kelly Golden — February 16, 2010 @ 2:20 pm
Hi, Kelly. Mmmm, the keys! Rachel finds herself in Alcatraz. That’s all the teaser you’re going to get! -laugh- Hey, come by the blog tomorrow and I’ll have a link to chapters 1-3.
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you never miss someone till they are gone
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76 Comment by Jennifer B — February 16, 2010 @ 2:20 pm
I like your thoughts, Jennifer. –Kim
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It’s very hard to know how much time is enough for someone to mourn the death of their love. I think that if you don’t allow a character to fully mourn in a book or series it’s hard to take them seriously in any future romances because I end up questioning their sincerity over all. It would feel like they were just lusting after the other characters rather than truly caring about anyone individually.
I think as a reader, I absorb so much of what I read emotionally that I have a hard time when any character that I’m connected with dies or leaves a series. It’s hard to stir up those emotions and still really enjoy what you’re reading as entertainment. Although, I think when I do care that much, then I know the author’s done a great job of creating that character that I’m so connected with. I really loved reading Kisten and Rachel together, but there’s so much other action in the books that I’ve still really enjoyed the series after his death.
As for the final question, I have no idea how you write love vs. lust - maybe it’s the emotions leading up to it, the things that the character’s admire in one another and the reasons they have for being together? That one’s a tough one.
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77 Comment by Marianna G. — February 16, 2010 @ 2:21 pm
Hi Kim! I love love love your books!!!
Thanks, Marianna! I’m really glad you do. I like your answers . . . –Kim
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Lol, forgot to leave the initial of my last name roflmao
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79 Comment by Lesley T — February 16, 2010 @ 2:23 pm
Hi, Lesley. Mmmmm, I like your thoughts. It seems to be in line with what I’ve been hearing. Thank you.– Kim
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Hi Kim,
I feel that Love knows no boundaries. I believe you can be in love with someone who is dead; the spirit/soul lives on. You can imagine the touch/feel of the someone who is not physically there. Our minds let us visualize the person; our hearts let us feel the person; our souls let us engage the other soul. So, yes, I believe you can love someone who is dead.
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81 Comment by Liz E — February 16, 2010 @ 2:24 pm
Hi, Liz. –nods– There comes a point where you just have to drop a series, I agree. I’ve done it myself. I’m just glad that mourning for a reasonable time doesn’t seem to be a reason to drop one, in this case. I’m glad you’re enjoying the books. Thanks! –Kim
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I haven’t gotten to read a lot of the books yet but I think it’s important that the character has the right to mourn before finding another romance, we do want some realism in the story. I think the author would have to be careful about making the series too long because otherwise it starts to get very repetitive and it destroys a lot of the story-building. With paranormal books, I think it’s ok to have romance if the love interest is dead as in the paranormal world, most traditional things like romance has to be seen from a different angle.
rsvp’d and told friends
Thanks!
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83 Comment by Jennifer B — February 16, 2010 @ 2:26 pm
Hi, Jennifer. Oooh, thank you for getting your friends hooked!
Unfortunately we have closed the orders for the tour shirts just this afternoon, and no more are being ordered. If you would like to be on a mailing list for future opportunities, drop over to the website and over on the left side in the old news column is the link to sign up for the Hollows Gazette. We always make an announcement when something cool comes up. Sorry you missed this one!
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hey kim
hope ive made it in time with the dam time difference
wow your not gonna make this easy are you,were ment to ask the questions lol
ok here goes
1)yep you gotta mourn at the end of the day there just like me and you with extra quirks but if it takes us years to still come to terms with it well a charachter from a human mind is gonna have the same prosess of mourning..and no i wouldnt get fed up wait for her to ‘get over it’ you can get better with time but it never truley ever goes away (3yrs today for my nan strange that u ask this today hey)
2)yep def can have a love intrest in a ‘dead’ person in your series,doesnt mean thats who she will end up with though,i like you know who your refuring to but deep down iam team trent
3)lust v romance… well you have to have lust as lust leads to romance right??you gotta find someone lickable before you get to know everything about them,lust is a gut instinked that there yummy and that makes you talk to them and so on,they go hand in hand,cant have one without the other!!
oh quick question how did the road trip with rachel and trent go??lol
hugs
becca
uk
xx
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85 Comment by Joe Blake — February 16, 2010 @ 2:28 pm
–Kim
Hi, Joe. I like your thoughts. . . I’ve got some major thinking of my own to do.
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Nick is the one I most identifyed with - mostly because I’m a treasure hunter myself - but his motivations are questionalble to me - he’s a thief yes, a scoundrel - yes, your atypical “bad boy” - but - I think if he was evil - Jenks would have tracked his son down and dragged him back by his wings or killed Nick outright for hurting Rachel
I wonder - when Jenks grew to human size - did that perhaps create a rejunivation from the never never? Could it be that the proximaty of the lay line running through the backyard effect Jenks and his family extending their lives?
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88Comment by M Gammons — February 16, 2010 @ 2:33 pm
Hi, M.
Ahhh, I like your thoughts, too. Thank you. I was hoping I did Kisten and Rachel justice. Now all I have to do is write the next romance as well as you think I can. -laugh- –Kim
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89 Comment by Rae M. — February 16, 2010 @ 2:33 pm
Hi, Rae. You made perfect sense, yes. And thank you for your thoughts.
I’m glad you’re liking my “Cincy” -grin- I really do love Cincinnati. –Kim
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Thanks for that, il have to try for next time then ^.^ at least I just got off the phone with the bookstore where you’l be signing so I can buy my copy of the book over the phone on the 22nd so Il definitely have a copy for the book signing ^.^ and yep il keep getting everyone hooked on the wonderful world of the Hollows, and on your other series.
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91 Comment by Breiab — February 16, 2010 @ 2:34 pm
Thanks so much for a great chat with one of my favorite authors!
It was my pleasure, Breiab! –Kim
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Hello Kim Thank You for spending time with us today.
Let the character morn; the character will let you know if they are ready to move on.
sharing here http://beetsbooks.blogspot.com/
Facebooked Ruth Thompson
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94 Comment by flip — February 16, 2010 @ 2:36 pm
Thanks, Flip! Hey, I’m glad to hear your thoughts on the matter. I think I lost a lot of readers when I killed Kisten, so you are not alone by any means. I’m glad you enjoyed Decoy Princess! Thanks! Personally, I thought that was one of my better magic systems. –Kim
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1.) I think that it is very important for the character to morn the loss of a love. Because if there is no real morning period needed, then I feel that maybe what the characters had was real or true. I may drop a series, if it takes to long to develop another love interest, but that would take several books. That may make me a bad reader/fan, but I just need to glimmer of light at the end of the tunnel. I’m not sure I could handle Rachel not having someone to love again. That would just make me sad to see someone with such a big heart, be left alone.
2.) I think that there can always be love, even if the love interest is ‘dead’. Love is just a big thing that it can be expressed in sooo many ways.
3.)Wow…Love and Lust….that’s a tough one. I believe that a relationship can have one or both things. You can lust after the one you love, you can also lust after someone you don’t love. You can love without lust, though that is very sad indeed. There can also be lust for just lusts sake. As far as vamps are concerned, love and lust are one in the same. For example, I believe that Ivy both love and lusts after Rachel. She loves Rachel for the person she is, but she also lusts after her blood and body.
Kim, thanks for coming by today. This is an amazing chance to fans to learn more about their favorite series. Love the series and all the characters. Keep up the amazing series!
P.S. A little part of me with always want Rachel and Ivy to be together finally. Now matter how the story ends.
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96 Comment by Adriana — February 16, 2010 @ 2:38 pm
I’m glad you’re enjoying it, though. I want to find out how this ends myself. –Kim
Hi, Adraina. If I wrote Ivy and Rachel together, my editor would publish it. It’s not the industry that is telling me no, it’s the story itself.
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97 Comment by Beth C. — February 16, 2010 @ 2:38 pm
Thanks Beth. I’m glad you enjoyed what you read –Kim.
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Since I’ve read Black Magic Sanction, it is *so* hard not to ask you about certain events!! Let’s see if I can do this…did we see the “real” Al? I mean, his real form? I want to believe he looks like the gent from London.
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A last question for you Kim:
This doesn’t have to do with the questions or what most folks are discussing here today, but I’m wondering…
I think I first started connecting with you as an author back with the Hallows Gazette. Over the last few years I’ve seen you expand the way you connect with your readers as the technology for social media/interacting has been changing (wow, what a wild couple of years, right?)
How are you finding this as an author. I mean, no longer is it just writing and touring, is it? No, now there’s FB, Twitter, etc and blogs and radio…so may ways to stay connected.
Not to mention that publishing has changed and there is an expectation for a book a year (or less)!
Do you like this? Or do you find it a challenge to balance it with your personal appearances and periods of writing? I know you talk about it a bit on your blog but do you have anything you want to share about how the technology has changed a writer’s life?
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This feels like when we were kids and you’d run into your algebra teacher at a McDonalds…”Well nice running into you, see you in class tomorrow.”
Mourning. Hmmm…Since I’ve lost alot of people in the last few years, I’ve been told by people that “there is no set time period;it takes as long as it takes. But–if there are unresolved issues, it may take longer, if not forever…”
From the timeline of the books, we know that Rachel has been mourning Kisten much longer than she was with him. I think this has much to do with “who” these two people were when they got together and their respective sexual compulsions that each had. Rachel was sexually attracted to what frightened her, and risking what she feared to lose the most (her freedom) fueled much of her passion (in addition to Kisten being a great guy). Kisten very much wanted to be Piscarry’s scion, and enjoyed being a “submissive” partner in the dominant-less dominant roles vampires (and some people) play. As I understand it, the abilities Living Vamps possess are not only for catching prey, but are for enjoyment with a partner, a life partner. It seemed Kisten enjoyed having this important part of him denied to him by Rachel - could he hold out? Would Rachel have the strength to deny him?
Rachel and Kisten never got closure. My feeling is that Kisten would have never changed, so much tied up in his DNA. But–I think Rachel would have eventually and they would have broken up. So–when she can figure this “risk” thing she has about love and sex, she’ll end her mourning(I hope!)
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I see Al as being played by “Marcus” from Babylon 5
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Hellooooo Kim….Chris from snowy central PA checking in. So glad for this opporturnity to interact with my favorite author! I am so glad(well, story wise Rachel is still mourning Kisten. In my opinion it has really grounded her as a character and made her even more believable to me. I have always grieved over the loss of someone close to me, it doesn’t tidy up neatly like a one hour tv drama. Those feelings become part of us-part of our make-up and help define us moving forward. Thank you for the depth you have brought to all the characters and their world. I could continue to read this series for the rest of my life but understand Rachel needs her “happy ending”. I will mourn the ending of this series more than any other I have ever read.
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Thank You Kim! Good to know I actually made sense for once.
(Sharing with email.)
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I think there has to be the right balance between mourning and moving on. Too quick makes the character seem flaky, too long gets boring. - Julie S.
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First of all Ms. Harrison, THANK YOU VERY MUCH FOR THIS INTERVIEW!!!! I SO LOVE RACHEL AND THE HOLLOWS!!!! I only live a few miles from Cincy and it’s really neat to know the places that you write about. I have read you entire series and it just keeps getting BETTER AND BETTER!!!
Now, for the hard part:
1. How important is it to you, the reader, to allow a character to mourn in a series before another romance blossoms? And would you give up on a series if it takes too long?
It’s hard to put a time limit on love and loss…..however, it’s equally important to move on and enjoy life to its fullest.
2. Can you have a romance if the love interest is dead? As in out of the series, not just, you know, dead. (laugh) I think so, but I’d love to hear from those who feel otherwise.
Yes, memories do not die, just people.
3. Romance is a huge part of some urban fantasy. In 200 words or less, what is the difference between romance and lust, especially when vampire need enters the storyline?
Lust happens (it’s quick, hot and gone….) Romance is never ending.
Again, thank you for this opportunity!
Sue
I RSVP’d
I Pre-Posted and Re-Posted this event on:
http://www.myspace.com/witchysue4u
http://bittenbybooks.ning.com/profile/WitchySue (on my blog)
http://twitter.com/witchysue4u
http://facebook.com/witchysue
witchysue@live.com
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I cried like a baby with Kisten died. Even though he wasn’t my favorite love interest for Rachel, I couldn’t help but get sucked into Rachel’s grieve. Very well done!
I feel there is an acceptable grieving period for characters to have. I would not be happy with a story line if the grieving process was completely skipped. I think that it is a wonderful opportunity for character development. But there does come a point where the story and character needs to move forward or I would not be interested anymore. I don’t think I would give up on a series but I would not rush out to the bookstore on release day anymore.
I think that romance can happen anytime! Love can heal a broken heart and make you feel alive again.
Lust is when you see someone and all thoughts turn to mush and you have to have them. Romance is a deeper feeling. You still lust after that person but you have a more emotional attachment than physical. Lust doesn’t make you want to sacrifice your own needs for another,that is romance.
That is why I love the idea of Rachel and Ivy being together. They have their friendship going on but there is a romance happening too. Ivy, I believe would sacrifice herself for Rachel. Rachel has given blood to Ivy which is a huge risk to herself. You don’t do that for someone unless you have a strong bond.
On a side note, I think that Trent is one of the best characters ever. I have never had so many conflicting feelings towards a character before. I think he is bad, then good. I cheer for him, then I want him hurt and to go away. I love it, it makes for fun reading.
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I loved Kisten from the moment he walked into my mind and to be totally honest I was so sad, mad, hurt (all of the above) that I almost threw the whole series out the window. I really couldn’t imagine the Hallows without him. Then I got to thinking about what all I would miss if I did that and couldn’t bring myself to do it…lol!! Since then I have been mourning Kisten along with Rachel. I think it is very important to have time to mourn for loved ones because otherwise it is like they never really meant that much to them. But I do think Rachel should move on when it is time because Kisten would want that for her. I am personally pulling for Trent with his flaws and all. I think he is the one man (besides Kisten) that could handle Rachel and all her baggage..lol.
Kisten R.I.P. We Miss You!!!
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1. I think it is very important for a character in a book to have an adequite mourning time. Most stories should reflect real life, with real characters. No one can suffer a profuound loss and truly be able to move on without accepting. There are stages of death.
I am actually enjoying Rachel’s romantic brushes. I may like one of her boyfriends, but I am confident you will write her a perfect one or someone will have enough character growth to be an ideal match. I have to say I enjoyed the witch sex (that sounds bad). I like their interaction, it wasn’t about being all sweaty and naked, it was more magical.
Kim, I am planning on attending the festival of the book. I saw you have a signing on Saturday. I promise not to drool on you, lol just kidding. I am looking forward to having you sign my book.
tweeted http://twitter.com/EllzReadz/status/9199345997
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Thought of more while waiting for son at school:
1. I know you post a lot of songs on your website that gets you in the character vibe. What one song do you think will sum up BMS?
2. Why are the elves particulary not fond of the fairies?
3. Any hind for what Rachel will use Trent’s gift for from WWBC?
4. How was Pierce able to be “around” Rachel without her knowing?
5. Will Marshall make another appearance?
6. Has the University thought about having Al teach the ley line class so Rachel can finally attend?
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Oops!
Posted on twitter: http://twitter.com/urbanfangirl
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/tiahb
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Question 1 - As far as the length of time to mourn, I think it would depend on the character and their relationship with the deceased. I think I could be patient and wait on the author’s timing.
I’m one of the people who has never read any of the books. I recently bought a lot of e books and purchased quite a few of them to read.
RSVPed
Facebook - http://facebook.com/Andrea Infinger
Twitter - http://twitter.com/lillieblue613
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99Comment by Joe Blake — February 16, 2010 @ 2:39 pm
you never miss someone till they are gone
How right you are, Joe. –Kim
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101 Comment by Stephanie S — February 16, 2010 @ 2:40 pm
–Kim
I’m the same way, Stephanie. I really miss my characters when they are gone. Even Nick.
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105 Comment by Karen L. — February 16, 2010 @ 2:42 pm
Hi Karen. Mmmm, I like your thoughts. –Kim.
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107 Comment by Biki — February 16, 2010 @ 2:45 pm
Thanks, Biki. I’m glad you weighed in with your thoughts. There are a lot of series that have gone on too long, and I hope I end mind at the right point. Kim
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Yeah, Hi Kim! I’m sooo happy to be doing this. Thank you for dedicating your time to this q & a.
I, like so many people loved the character Kisten. I got very rapped up in the story line and cried my eyes out when he passed (twice). Even though I was extremely upset, I never wanted to stop reading, nor would I have ever left the series. Life sucks sometimes and you presented that very well and authentically, thank you.
I am so very excited about the new book, I read the first chapter and it sounds great. I do wonder about the new guy, Pierce, I’m not so sure his intentions are pure.
I would love to read a bit more about Rachel and Trent, will they have some good scenes together in this new book?
I really don’t have too many questions, I just wanted to say thank you for writing such a great story
-Tali
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109. Comment by becca r — February 16, 2010 @ 2:47 pm
Hi, Becca. Yay! You made it.
I like your thoughts on the questions . . . As for how the road trip with Trent went? My lips are sealed. I will say this (#9) is my FAVORITE book in the entire series. –Kim
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111Comment by Joe Blake — February 16, 2010 @ 2:50 pm
I’m not saying!!! –Kim
You have some good ideas there with Jenks. Time will tell if that’s the direction I went.
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1. As the author and the creator of a character I think only you know how long a character should mourn in a series before another romance blossoms. I might give up on a series not because it took too long, but because there wasn’t other things to keep me interested in the character’s ongoing story.
2. If the love interest is dead it can still be a romance if we have flashbacks to the courtship. But I’m not sure it would be a very satisfactory romance especially to those who need a HEA.
I RSVP’d
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114 Comment by Jennifer B — February 16, 2010 @ 2:52 pm
Hi, Jennifer. Oooh, very cool! I’m looking forward to signing your book! See you then! –Kim
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HI Kim!!!! SO excited to see you here. I have my copy of Black Magic Sanction on preorder and I can’t wait for the next book in the Dark Reaper series. as for your questons: I think it is very important for a character to mourn. I also believe there is no “perfect” amount of time to wait for a new romance. I think it should be just like real life -everyone has a different way of mourning the loss of a loved one and everyone needs their own time period to do so. Would I give up if a character took too long? NO! I wouldn’t give up on a friend who was mourning and these characters have sort of become like friends in a way. I have gotten to know them and their stories. I will read on aslong as you keep writing! Rachel will find someone else. She just needs the right amount of time. And your readers will wait for it.
I am already signed up for your newsletter, a fan on FB and posted a link on FB as well as rsvp’d. I am the Lisa that drives “Guy” nuts when ever I order stuff! Tell hi Lisa Mason says Hi!
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comment 135 by Kim
Kim - while I personally would hate to see the series end because I love it so much - I would hate more the redundicy that so often happens when an author gets caught in one story over and over
A perfect example is the “Ashes” series by W.W. Johnstone - while I loved and read nearly every one - about book 15 it started to be the same thing in every book - the places were different but the story remained the same - so at book 15 - sorry to say - but he jumped the shark - I would hate to see that happen in the Hollows
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116 Comment by Beet Troels — February 16, 2010 @ 2:53 pm
Hello Kim Thank You for spending time with us today.
It’s been my pleasure, Beet!
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118 comment by Heidi — February 16, 2010 @ 2:54 pm
Hi, Heidi. It’s been my pleasure to stop by and jaw for a while. A part of me would like to see Rachel and Ivy together, too. They do so well. I don’t think it’s going to happen, though. –Kim
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HI Kim Love your books!!!
I am answering question 1.
I would probably stop reading a series if the main heroin was so shallow to move on without enough mourning. I cried when Kisten died and held out hope that when Rachel remembered she would find out he was alive… In my opinion the mark of a great book is how connected the reader becomes.. I fell just a little in love with Kisten and if I mourned him so should she…
Great Job.. You bring just a little magic into my everyday life:-)
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Kim what was your favorite part of the series to write so far?
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121Comment by Jackie U — February 16, 2010 @ 2:57 pm
Hi Jackie. Yay! You got a sneak peek, huh? I honestly don’t know if that was Al’s true form or not. He doesn’t think it is, and I have to go on that. We’re getting close, though. –Kim
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is it true the conclusions I’ve come to that the Hollows is going to be a graphic novel?
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1.-How important is it to you, the reader, to allow a character to mourn in a series before another romance blossoms? And would you give up on a series if it takes too long?
For me it is important for the character to mourn before another romance blossoms, it is necessary because it gives us time to mourn too, it would not be so real if the character did not mourn, mourning makes the character more realistic and more human (witch), I am not saying that the character has to mourn for a long time (two or three books), but the dead even if they are gone, are always on our mind.
What would be too long? I do not like waiting over a year to find out what happened to my favorite characters, but I usually do not give up on them.
Crystal Garcia
PS I shared this with John.
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Hi Kim,
;)…just kidding, he is alive & doing very well thank you (in my dreams where Rachel can’t get her hands on him)
I’m at the moment rereading the series since time till Black Magic Sanction is dragingggg by, but hey I enjoy spending time in the Hollows so all is good
I have always wanted to ask how much of the Hollows story is finished in your head…but after reading what you have said I see that these are characters that live, learn, and change on a regular basis…cool.
You know if you were a soap writer it would be possible to bring Kist back
Thanks for talking the time to chat.
Staci M
I e-mailed everyone about the event. http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=19815, but I can’t get on facebook or anything of the sort…they want me teaching the kids, not playing on the computer go figure. *note* to all mothers out there I am not neglecting your child’s education. I do not have a class at this time & how ever many seconds I am spending doing this I will triple it tonight grading papers.
1. How important is it to you, the reader, to allow a character to mourn in a series before another romance blossoms? And would you give up on a series if it takes too long?
For me this ties into question 3, if the character is already “hot n heavy” in the first chapter of the next book then it’s lust not romance. I am not a real fan of “romance” I like urban fantasy, action, horror, & YA books. Though I will say it seems like more of what I am reading has romance in it…just not the central plot…so no I would never give up on a series because the romance did not move fast enough…I’m not reading for the romance. I’m reading for the *whole* story.
2. Can you have a romance if the love interest is dead? As in out of the series, not just, you know, dead. (laugh) I think so, but I’d love to hear from those who feel otherwise.
Why couldn’t you? I have loved more than one person in my life…I have not loved them the same, or all equally, but I have loved them. I have loved each for different reasons. I have been a diffrent person in a different stage of life with each love. I have 3 children and they are proof that one can never have a limited supply of love, my heart grew for each of them, I love each as an individual. I can’t imagine life without my husband…but if something changed…that does not mean I am doomed to never love again…thats silly…maybe I will never love anyone the way I loved…but yea I could love again, just different than when I was 16, 21, 30….
3. Romance is a huge part of some urban fantasy. In 200 words or less, what is the difference between romance and lust, especially when vampire need enters the storyline?
Lust is the dog going at your leg…romance is when he brings you flowers first
I agree with past posters….BUT… this is where I get fuzzy…Lust = physical / Romance = mind We gush over the *romance* with Kist…while we are (be honest ladies) *Lusting* over Kist. We are reading the *Romance* part with warm & fuzzy feelings…while we are putting ourselves in Rachels shoes & placing our caps on & getting busy *lust*…I just don’t know…we (myself included, I did say I agreed)say body vs mind…but honestly…while I love my hubby…Kist has my lust. Hope that made since…& not just a ramble.
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A reviewer’s copy. ; ) Finished it just in time for the event, too! Is it bad that Al’s my favorite character? LOL
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Comment 79 and reply 104. Shared this blog to my facebook profile. Love your books but have to wait a bit longer for UK releases :))
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122 Comment by deborah — February 16, 2010 @ 2:58 pm
Hi, Deborah. Wow, that’s a big question. You asked, “Do you like this? Or do you find it a challenge to balance it with your personal appearances and periods of writing? I know you talk about it a bit on your blog but do you have anything you want to share about how the technology has changed a writer’s life?”
It is a definite challenge to keep up with the readers, yes, but it is something I enjoy. There are lots of ways for author and reader to connect electronically, and not all ways work for all authors, which is why some of the ways I used to connect are gone, and new ones have taken their place. I don’t think I’ll ever twitter, but other authors use it to great success.
I feel it’s more important than ever right now for an author in today’s market to find a way to connect. The competition is so very fierce, and the ability to reach so many so easily is tremendous. But it takes away from what brought us here–the writing itself. Best of times, worst of times, yes?
I spend two hours a day between FB, my blog, and tweaking my website (which I decided long ago to build and maintain myself so I could use it more effectively) It’s time I could be writing, but I enjoy you guys. I’ve discovered that I am a story teller, and half of the magic of telling a story is the audience. Without you, I’m just talking to a wall. And I respect that.
–Kim
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Kim,
I just want to add Jenk’s is one of my all time FAV. characters! I can’t wait to see what he says or does next, he always has me cracking up…it will be intresting to see how, why, where, what…happens to/with him.
Staci M
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123 Comment by Antonio Rich — February 16, 2010 @ 3:00 pm
Hi, Antonio! Good to see you here!
I like your thoughts. . .I just hope Rachel hurries up about it. I think you’re right that it’s taking so long because they never had closure.
–Kim
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124 Comment by Joe Blake — February 16, 2010 @ 3:02 pm
I see Al as being played by “Marcus” from Babylon 5
Ooooh there’s a thought! –Kim
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I believe that in a series of books, the mourning period for a love interest should last at least one book. I believe it’s all relative. If the character was married for years and years, they should probably have a lot of trouble getting over them. But in the case of a love interest lost, I feel like a book is an accurate mourning period, unless the mourning is something that is specifically made to give the character new personality and send the character toward a darker development.
I wouldn’t give up on a series if it took a while for the character to get over the death. Character loyalty is pretty important to me in a series, so it’s understanding that they would be unhappy with another.
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125 Comment by Chris — February 16, 2010 @ 3:05 pm
Hi, Chris. I think it’s grounded her, too. And I’ll be right there with you crying when it ends, but it will end. Sigh –Kim.
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Oh, I want to answer #2.
I know I’m a little silly. 
I’m not so sure you can have a romance novel with the mate dead, as in not in the book anymore. I can’t imagine how it would happen. I think it would be a sad story line where the main character can’t move on. I understand that there needs to be morning, and it could take a while, but having a romance with a character that is no longer being written about sounds very difficult, but I am willing to read it.
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127 Comment by Julie S — February 16, 2010 @ 3:10 pm
I think there has to be the right balance between mourning and moving on. Too quick makes the character seem flaky, too long gets boring. - Julie S.
How right you are, Julie.
–Kim
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1. How important is it to you, the reader, to allow a character to mourn in a series before another romance blossoms? And would you give up on a series if it takes too long?
I wouldn’t give up on the series while a character mourn her lost love. Who could? Yes, I want to see that character move on and love again, but if she doesn’t resolve her issues and loss, she’ll struggle to have another successful relationship. I was happy when Rachel was able to resolve herself to Kisten death and I hoping to see more of Pierce.
2. Can you have a romance if the love interest is dead? As in out of the series, not just, you know, dead. (laugh) I think so, but I’d love to hear from those who feel otherwise.
Why the heck not? I’m still hoping to see Kisten come back as a ghost, corporeal or not!! LOL Dead…Undead…Ghost…all fun!!
3. Romance is a huge part of some urban fantasy. In 200 words or less, what is the difference between romance and lust, especially when vampire need enters the storyline?
When I first stared reading Urban Fantasy, I thought, wow, vampires don’t really experience love just lust, they’re supposed to be portrayed as unfeeling. Boy was I wrong!! I think vampires experience their emotions deeper and stronger, maybe it’s part of the prey/predator thing or the heady pheromones they exude but they’re also susceptible to the forbidden love, a love that can’t be, but wants to be. They try to deny themselves because their love interest in likely to perish long before they do. You can only have your heart broken so many times before you start refusing to be lead down that rosy path. Lust is a physical need/want without emotional involvement that is never fulfilling, but a strong romantic tie between the characters brings them to life, makes the three dimensional. I loved the dynamics between Kisten/Rachel/Ivy, the pulling between these characters was and still is amazing.
Thanks Kim!
Dottie
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(grins) and Dakota Fanning as Ceri
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128 Comment by Tiah — February 16, 2010 @ 3:10 pm
Hi, Tiah. I cried, too. Every single time I worked on those parts. sigh. still miss him.
Trent? Yeah. I’m liking Trent. –Kim
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Hi Kim,
First, I love the Hollows series. It is one of my favorite series. I always look forward to what trouble Rachel and Jenks will get in to.
I think even character’s need a time to mourn and to come out of mourning on their own time frame. If they don’t have that time to mourn then they look shallow and unfeeling. Characters have to go through the same emotions we do on the outside the book. If they don’t we can’t connect to them.
Thanks again for mbeing here.
rsvp
spread the word:
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HeidiS.
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129 Comment by Jamie B — February 16, 2010 @ 3:11 pm
Hi, Jamie. I hadn’t thought about giving the reader time to mourn. That’s a very good point. Thank you, Jamie! I’m glad you stuck with the books. –Kim
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130Comment by Elie N — February 16, 2010 @ 3:13 pm
Hi, Elie. To tell you the truth, I’m enjoying Rachel’s brushes, too, but I wish she’d pick someone and stick with him/her. See you at the festival! -Kim
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Jenks needs a stash of “sleepy time” splatballs in resurve - just in case Rachel gets in trouble the kids can attack with the paintballs - or am I being silly?
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Hi Kim. Hope you have a big cuppa at your elbow and Guy handy to bring you snacks… Have fun here!
Faith
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131 Comment by Kelly Golden — February 16, 2010 @ 3:14 pm
Hi Kelly. You asked:
1. What one song do you think will sum up BMS? Sorry, I don’t know.
2. Why are the elves particulary not fond of the fairies? I think because they destroy gardens, not build them like pixies.
3. Any hind for what Rachel will use Trent’s gift for from WWBC? No hint. None at all.
4. How was Pierce able to be “around” Rachel without her knowing? He was a ghost. That’s all there was to it.
5. Will Marshall make another appearance? I’d like to see him again, yes.
6. Has the University thought about having Al teach the ley line class so Rachel can finally attend? Ha! wouldn’t that be a switch.
–Kim
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Romance and lust… how difficult with a vampire… especially if the vampire is hot and seductive… it all starts with lust in my mind. you don’t have to take off your clothes for lust, but can be lusting after someone from across the room. If you get lucky, you talk to him/her… then if you get really lucky, some romance starts.
If you are the powerful, seductive vampire (unless the person is immune to the charms some how), you get to set the pace I would think.
Ultimately, it depends on the motivations of the characters. What do they want? A lustful roll in the sack? An interesting development of a relationship (romance)?
Sheesh its as complicated as actual dating.
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134 Comment by Andrea I — February 16, 2010 @ 3:15 pm
–Kim
Hi, Andrea I hope you give the Hollows a try.
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Hi, Kim.
1) I guess I’m old-fashioned. I feel that, if the romantic interest in a series dies, then that should be it as far as romance goes. If it really was true love, then there shouldn’t be other romances blossoming. How do you replace your heart?
2) I don’t think you can have a romance if the love interest is dead.
RSVPd.
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Leaving another comment cuz I forgot to say I posted on my facebook page! http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100000674907585
Romance is looking at someone and thinking I want to make love with them forever..lust is saying I want to have sex with this person tonight…
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139 Comment by Tali W. — February 16, 2010 @ 3:21 pm
Hi, Tali. It’s my pleasure.
I cried, too, when Kisten died. Every time I worked on those pages . . . You asked about Trent? They are together in this one, yes, but more so in the next couple.
Hey, stop by at the blog tomorrow, and I’ll have a link to the first three chapters. (Yay!) –Kim
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BTW -
Hi Kim! Huge fan… LOVE Jenks! well… and Rachel and Ivy… I love your sensibility with your characters. The best sense of humor of most of the series I read.
I think I devoured all your books up to White Witch, Black Curse in about a two month period, then got real mad I had to wait for the new ones. lol.
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I forgot to ask my questions.
Kim, Do you know how long you will continue with this series? I’m going to be very sad when it ends but everything has to come to a close.
Also, I have one of your keys, I have it on my keychain and I’m always showing everyone. Why the bunny on it? Or do I have to wait for the book?
Thanks again Kim.
HeidiS
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142 Comment by Sue A. — February 16, 2010 @ 3:23 pm
Hi Sue. Mmm, you have some good points there. It’s a delicate balance, that’s for sure. –Kim
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144 Comment by Lisa M. — February 16, 2010 @ 3:24 pm
HI Lisa. Guy says hi back. -grin- (He really does. He’s sitting six feet from me.
I like your thoughts on mourning. I just wish Rachel would hurry up. I’m ready to write some serious romance here. –Kim
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145 Comment by Joe Blake — February 16, 2010 @ 3:24 pm
comment 135 by Kim
That’s exactly what I DONT want to happen. So I’m going to end it when the story is over. sigh. I miss them already. –Kim
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148 Comment by Brandi C — February 16, 2010 @ 3:25 pm
HI Brandi. Thank you. I’m glad you’re enjoying the books.
I had forgotten that the reader needed to mourn, too, so I guess a book or two allows that. –Kim
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Oh,how could I forget…Al…AL…ALLLLLL…yeah baby AL!(is it possible he has a lot of respect, admiration and something for Rachel?)
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Hey Kim!
First I wanted to say thank you for answering all of my random writing questions over on Facebook. It really means a lot to me to have a little bit of help from people who really know. That being said I’ll jump right in and answer Your questions.
1. I think it is very important to make time for mourning in books. I’ve read some where the boyfriend dies or something horrible happens to the MC and they just keep going like nothing happened. My heart broke right along with Rachel’s and I’m glad she got the time to work on getting over him. If she’d jumped right in with marshall or something I probably would have put the book down and walked away (which would have broke my heart all over again). But I do think that if it takes too long for the character to heal then it becomes all about them being depressed and I’m bored with the constant drama. I might work through it, I’ll stick with a lot, but it wouldn’t be as good.
2.I think it’d be difficult to do. In romance, both parties have to be real and if we only hear about them but never see them we don’t know what is perception of the person and what about the person is real. I think a talented writer could manage this well but it’d take some doing.
3. Romance is a huge part of some urban fantasy. In 200 words or less, what is the difference between romance and lust, especially when vampire need enters the storyline?
I think of lust as hunger for the body. Romance is engaging the body and the mind/emotions. Sure, sex is invovled in both but with lust it’s more rutting than making love. Romance does’t have to be hearts and flowers and chocolate wooing but it should engage the heart rather than some…southern places.
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149 Comment by Dawn L. — February 16, 2010 @ 3:26 pm
Kim what was your favorite part of the series to write so far?
Hi, Dawn. I’m going to say that it’s something that hasn’t made it to the shelf yet, but if you look only at what’s been published, I really like Trent’s wedding. –Kim
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Hey,
I’m just rejoining the conversation after I having to leave for an appointment, believe me, it was hard get away from the computer. I have already posted my answers to the questions and now I want to say thank you for all the laughs, and cries and exciting I-wanna-bubble-over-with-giddiness-moments your books have given me! I am from Germany but spent a year in Gainesville, Florida as an exchange student and that was when I discovered your books and Rachel. I bought the anthology “Holidays are Hell” and after having read “Two Ghosts for Sister Rachel” I was hooked. I started reading The Hollows series and stuck with the English originals even after returning back home. I’ve gotten so used to things like “tinks titties”, I can’t imagine them all speaking German, that would just be kinda weird for me…
To wrap it up: Thanks for your great books, they had made my year in the U.S. even better then it already had been and left me with a permanent impression, lasting longer than the time I was actually there. One day I’ll make it to one of you signings - at least I am working on it ;P
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151.Comment by Joe Blake — February 16, 2010 @ 3:27 pm
is it true the conclusions I’ve come to that the Hollows is going to be a graphic novel?
Hi, Joe. Yep! You can even get some sneak peeks at the artwork. I’ve got a page up at my blog today. http://kimharrison.wordpress.com/ Look for it summer 2011. –Kim
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Comment 175 by Jennifer L.
I disagree - a person (if they are lucky) will have one true love above all others - yes. However - when that person dies, as people are apt to do. Life itself doesn’t end - the “river of time” continues to flow and the survivors along with it.
As time moves on, grief lessons, memories fade, and the events of the day force us to move or perish.
Rachel is no fool - nor is Ivy. They know about grief and although they are to close to see what is happeneing to them, Jenks and Matilda arn’t. Jenks will put up with it for a time then he;s going to do something to wake them up from the fog of kistens passing. Or Al will show up with some impossable task for Rachel to compleate forceing her to focus in another direction.
But sooner or later - the grief will pass the point where she can move on. I’m still not sure how I feel about Trent. First I hate him, then I think maybe he’s not so bad. then he does something totally creepy and I hate him again. I think the thing about trent for me is he’s an enigma. A poker player with his cards close and few visable tells. But I think that Rachel is learning how to read trents tells.
I’d hate to play poker with them
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152 Comment by Crystal G. — February 16, 2010 @ 3:30 pm
Hi, Crystal. I’ve been finding out a lot of readers need to mourn, just like Rachel.
I don’t like waiting more than a year between books, either. Truly, it takes me that long. Sorry.
–Kim
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Comment 188 by Kim
WHOO HOO!!!
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153 Comment by Staci M — February 16, 2010 @ 3:31 pm
Hi, Staci. You are making perfect sense to me! And hey, just seven more days!!!!
You have no idea how many times I’ve thought about bringing Kisten back, but don’t because I want it to stay real. And soaps aren’t real. sigh –Kim
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154Comment by Jackie U — February 16, 2010 @ 3:35 pm
A reviewer’s copy. ; ) Finished it just in time for the event, too! Is it bad that Al’s my favorite character? LOL
Hi, Jackie, he’s one of my faves, too. We’ll see more of him as the books progress. –Kim
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155
Comment by Lesley T — February 16, 2010 @ 3:35 pm
Comment 79 and reply 104. Shared this blog to my facebook profile. Love your books but have to wait a bit longer for UK releases :))
I hear you, Lesley. And ordering the US copies will kill you on shipping. –Kim
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I can wait to see what type of bond Trent and Rachel have to come; she had me rolling when she tried to break into his home. I loved the wall that you created in his room and what Rachel did to it by just touching was very interesting. Trent would be a very good one night stand for Rachel to help her off the Kisten loss (I’m just saying). Pierce makes me worried for some reason, I just don’t trust him. I see Al having Rachel’s back when she needs it for some crazy reason. Nick just made me so mad I could beat him, using Rach and Jenks. Jenks has my heart most of all with his wife, I know if anything happens to her and they can’t find a spell or something Trent may know to help keep her around I am going to cry so hard.
Does it make it hard hearing (or reading I should say here) what people think about what you are writing to stick to what you want to have happen and not letting readers comments make you lean a way they think it should?
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157.Comment by Staci M — February 16, 2010 @ 3:43 pm
Hi, Staci. I can’t imagine a book without Jenks. sigh. –Kim
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160
Comment by Elizabeth Robbins — February 16, 2010 @ 3:46 pm
Hi, Elizabeth. I like your thoughts. Mourning is important. I just wish Rachel would hurry up about it.
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162Comment by Tali W. — February 16, 2010 @ 3:47 pm
I don’t think you’re silly at all, Tali. It would be a very hard book to write, and even harder to read, maybe.
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Hey Kim!
1. I think it is very important for me as the reader to see the character mourn. One of the main things I appreciate in a book, is that the characters have that life, that realism in them, so that even when they are fighting demons and dating vampires, I can believe that they might be real. In real life, the tragic death of a boyfriend/lover would take a long time, if ever, for the feelings to go away. In a series, you can make months pass between the books, but it would still feel abrupt to me, as a reader, for Rachel to just up and find a new boyfriend right away, so I appreciate the wait. Hah, but I would never give up a series because the character is mourning. Once I read the beginning of a series, I have trouble stopping, because I want to find out what happens to the characters.
As for question number three, well, there it gets complicated. If by romance you mean love, it is the difference of what you feel when looking into the eyes of the one that means the most in the world to you, the person that if they left, you would be unable to continue on in the same way, or the lust you feel for a stranger, which can be satisfied in an evening, or a moment of bodies pressed together between the sheets, or other things…One can spur up between anyone for any reason, the other is built upon many shared conversations, meals, laughs, and stories together.
ok also, is there ANY way that Rachel can save Jenks? I mean, she can turn into a wolf for a little smut on her soul, but she can’t save a tiny pixie? Or Trent??? For enough money, power, maybe rachel working for him…he could do something with genetics right RIGHT??? I just don’t think I could handle reading about him dying
well, thanks for this! I love the books and keep them up!
Kate H
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Oddly enough I agree. Al is probably the most interesting character you have. Especially lately he’s been more and more fun.
I’m also oddly facinated by Trent. For some reason it’s your questionable males that have my curiousity. not Nick though. I think you did too good a job making him sketchy because I can’t stand him.
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Hi Kim,
I worked in a bookstore and got the 3rd book in the series in the BookSense “White Box” of ARCs delivered each month–Every Which Way But Dead got me hooked not just on your series, but on urban fantasy in general. You introduced me to an entire ge