Loading ...Join Authors Erin Lynn and Rhonda Stapleton For A Release Party, Chat and Contest Today!
PLEASE NOTE: The contest portion of this event is now over. The winner will be contacted at a later date by email.
Welcome to Bitten by Books! Today we have authors Erin Lynn and Rhonda Stapleton joining us for an online release party for their books. They have put together a couple of guest posts to tell you more about themselves and what they do, and will be here all day to answer your questions and they have some questions for YOU too. This is a party folks so of course there is a present! One lucky commenter will be chosen to win a $75.00 Amazon gift card. You will find the usual ways to enter below, be sure to read carefully because some things have changed recently. Outside of that, just have fun and lets see if we can make these ladies fingers bleed from answering comments! 
First up, Erin Lynn, welcome to the site Erin!!
Hi! I am author Erin McCarthy
Some of you probably know me as Erin McCarthy, the romance author. Erin Lynn is my YA alter ego, and I’ve had so much fun writing my Demon series. I think it proved to me that essentially I’m still just a teenage girl. I started this series when I supposed to be taking a little R&R between books. I got bored with the whole relaxing thing, started picturing how a teenage girl would react to a demon appearing in her shower (answer: with a lot of screaming) and the next thing I knew I had a book. As a kid, I was always very into the supernatural, grabbing every book I could on witches and ghosts and all things spooky. At one point I think my mother was debating therapy, but now I channel that interest into Kenzie, the heroine of the Demon series. She’s an average girl, with average problems, who happens to open a demon portal. Whoops.
That never happened to me, but I did have a lot of bad dates. Does anyone have an awesome bad date story? Rhonda and I would love to hear it and commiserate.
I’m also curious if you like humorous paranormal, dark and angsty, or both? My YA series is similar in tone to my Vegas Vampires if you’ve read any of my romances and I enjoy that blend of serious concepts with humor.
I’m looking forward to chatting!
Cheers
Erin
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Learn more about Erin Lynn here:
Read Reviews of the authors work here.
To visit the author’s website go here.
www.vampireband.com
http://twitter.com/authorerin
myspace.com/booksbyerinlynn
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1081957436&ref=ts
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Readers please welcome the lovely Rhonda Stapleton!
Hi! I am author Rhonda Stapelton!
Before I start into my post, I wanted to quickly thank Bitten By Books for hosting our party! I’m thrilled to be here. Anyway, I’m celebrating the 3/9/10 release of Flirting with Disaster, the second book in my Stupid Cupid trilogy. The basic gist of the trilogy is about a teen matchmaker who uses PDA technology to send love emails to students in her school–she’s just one of many cupids out there workin’ the beat and making romance happen for others. Book two, Flirting with Disaster, holds a special place in my heart; it was actually the original manuscript.
You see, I’d only intended this to be one book when I’d originally written it. I’d gotten the concept for the story while brainstorming with Erin (she actually suggested I pull technology into it–THANK YOU for that idea, tootsie!). After we finished yammering about it, I wrote quickly, finishing the book in 3 months. Luckily, my agent loved it! We sent it off to a couple of editors, and I waited for the money to roll in. Hah, okay–not quite. But I did wait for editorial feedback. There were two different publishers who offered their thoughts after a couple of weeks. One publisher loved the book, but wanted to make it more “hardcover” appropriate, meaning that I change the tone to be more serious. The other publisher loved the concept, but felt it would be more suitable for a trilogy. My agent and I discussed the options and decided to go with the latter. So I turned in a new proposal to that editor at Simon Pulse: I wrote 50 pages of what would be book 1, as well as the outline of books 2 and 3. And I waited. And waited. And waited. And bit off all of my fingernails many times over.
The books finally went to acquisitions in earlier 2008–on Valentine’s day, no less…talk about fortuitous! And the day after, I got the call that they wanted to buy it. Talk about giddiness! So, my first question to you is, have you ever had to wait for what felt like forEVER on something you were anxious about? Dish up those details and tell me all about it! Second question: ever have something turn out to be different than what you’d originally intended, but end up being better? These questions can be about anything, not just writing, because I know we’ve all been there. 
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Learn more about Rhonda Stapelton here:
Blog: http://rhondastapleton.blogspot.com
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CONTEST: They will be giving away a $75.00 Amazon Gift Card! Open to readers worldwide as long as you can accept a gift card from the US amazon site.
To Enter PLEASE
1. LEAVE YOUR FIRST NAME AND THE INITIAL OF YOUR LAST NAME in your comment/post so we can give you the proper credit for your entries. Mandatory, if you don’t leave this, none of your entries will count.
2. Answer Erin and Rhonda’s questions above and ask a question. Good for 10 entries. (Max 10)
3. Purchase copies of any of Erin or Rhonda’s books
Erin Lynn’s From Amazon by clicking here
Erin Lynn’s From Barnes & Noble by clicking here
Erin McCarthy’s From Amazon by clicking here
Erin McCarthy’s From Barnes & Noble by clicking here
Rhonda Stapleton’s From Amazon by clicking here
Rhonda Stapleton’s From Barnes & Noble by clicking here
Good for 300 entries per book you purchase by using the links above. Email your receipt to the prize Goddess here bittenbybooks.contests @ gmail.com (no spaces). Not valid on past purchases.
OR you can use the Barnes & Noble link HERE to make your purchase of ANY kind of merchandise during the contest. You can also use the Amazon link HERE to shop as well. Good for 100 entries to the contest for EACH item you purchase. Not valid on past purchases.
4. Spread the word about this event and invite everybody you know by using the new Share Buttons below at the bottom of the post to tell your friends about this contest and come back and tell us where you shared. This is the live link to the event: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=21178 if you don’t know how to use either of those functions. Good for 50 entries per place you post the event link.
While you are here today, please join us at today’s book chat here: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=21173, Enter to win FREE books here: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=20998, RSVP Friday’s event here: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=20437 Good for 25 entries per event you participate in or RSVP for.
Be sure to check out these other fun events for next week: http://bittenbybooks.com/?page_id=4.
That’s it!
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The contest ends on 3/19/10 at 11:59 pm Central and the winners will be contacted via email. You will receive your prize directly from the authors. PLEASE LEAVE YOUR FIRST AND THE INITIAL OF YOUR LAST NAME as well as a valid email where we can contact you. REMEMBER the more things you do, the more entries, the greater the chances of winning. PLEASE ALLOW THIRTY DAYS to receive your prize BEFORE EMAILING US.
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(1 votes, average: 5 out of 5)
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Hi Erin & Rhonda,
My bad date story is that in college I had a date to go ice skating with a guy I knew from High School. He showed up with his little sister in tow. On the way back he asked if we wanted to stop for pizza. After we ordered he tells me he doesn’t have enough money and I have to pay for my own pizza. Fortunately I had some money with me. needless to say it was the first and last date.
I like at least some humor in my paranormal fiction. Althoug I also like darker more edgy stories. It depends on my mood.
What are some of your favorite authors?
RSVP’d
Joined the chat
Entered for the free book
RSVP’d for Friday
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Hi Miss McCarthy, a lot of what I read depends on what I’m currently in the mood for. I really appreciate a good humorous paranormal but sometimes I just need something a little edgier an dmaybe a little dark. I’m quick broadening my literary horizons to include urban fantasy, which I never used to read but BBB has had so many decent guest authors in that genre, I figure why not go outside my comfort zone a little.
My question for you is this? Which do you find it easier to write about? Vampires or Demons? You’d think writing about demons would be a little more difficult since they don’t seem to be as prevelant as vamps or werewolves when it comes to novels.
Hello Ms. Stapleton, I think the only thing I’ve ever been real anxious about is seeing my dad, you see he lives in Kentucky and we don’t see him very often so when he’s finally able to come and visit it feels like I’ve been waiting forever even though it isn’t usually that long after he calls us before he’s home again!
I’m curious it doesn’t seem like gods and goddesses really get written about very often, that could just be me though. Have you ever thought about writing another story starring a mythilogical being?
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I forgot! i rsvped!
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Sorry, I unfortunately (but fortunately for me) don’t have any bad first date stories. Although on my first date with my now husband, I thought he had stood me up and went home. Turned out he got lost and was the last person on Earth without a cell phone. When we got everything straightened out and met the next night, he sat at the bar for 20 minutes when I was already there (the only female in a bar with three people.) Quick update: he’s still an idiot. But he’s my idiot.
I definitely like dark stories, but I think at least a little humor is important to paranormal stories to avoid taking itself too seriously. I mean, we’re talking about vampires and werewolves and fairies; come on.
The only thing I can think of that I had to anxiously await were my AP test scores- I came home crying that I had miserably failed the Spanish test, but found out months later I actually got the highest score!
One Valentine’s Day many years ago when I was working at a restaurant, I bought a bunch of Winnie the Pooh valentines and made them out to everyone from other people. The content was pretty ridiculous. I slipped them into everyone’s pockets, and some people actually thought they were from the people I had written. That made it ten times more hilarious for me.
Are any of the situations or people that you write about taken from or modified from your real lives?
I posted a link on fb-http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/profile.php?v=feed&story_fbid=377909497055&id=1625972197&ref=mf
and RSVP’d
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Hi, Sandy! Good question–I tend to read a lot of YA, and a couple of of my fav authors are Sarah Dessen and Elizabeth Scott (they write wonderful contemp characters who are very realistic), Suzanne Collins (dystopic future–awesome writer), and Maggie Stiefvater (paranormal romance). Of course, I read a ton, so there are LOTS more I’m leaving off.
Gabrielle–I’m actually working on an updating of a Greek mythological story (this one is serious in tone though). I love them too! I see them being a trend very soon, actually…which is great, because I would totally gobble up more.
Bethany–absolutely. Well, I totally tweaked it to make it fit my story, but in my trilogy, my heroine’s brother Rob does some actions based off my mom’s friend’s brother. The real guy is a cop who likes to pull his sister over to ask her to babysit his kids. LOL. I thought that was AWESOME.
Thanks for coming by, guys!!
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Hello Erin and Rhonda,
Thank you so much for sharing with us today! And thanks to Bitten by Books for a great website!
As far as a bad date story, I’ve got one. I made the mistake of telling a friend of mine that I really wanted to go to a Valentine’s day dance at our school. She automatically offered up her older brother who didn’t have a date either. There was a reason for this I discovered later. The date started out just fine. But gradually I kept noticing this weird stinky odor coming from him. It got worse and worse as the night went on. I think he had bought the cheapest, worst cologne on earth! To make matters worse, I started to have some kind of allergic reaction to this stuff. I was coughing my head off throughout the dance! Fun stuff huh? Finally it was time to go and I was so glad this date had come to an end!
When it comes to my paranormal reading, I like some dark with humor thrown in occasionally.
I’ve had to wait for a prize before. I enter sweepstakes as a hobby. And let me tell you, the anticipation of getting a really good prize you’ve won is something else! But when it comes, it’s so worth it! To answer the question about something turning out better than you thought it would-that would have to be my husband! We started out as friends and ended up married!
Now, I have a question for both of you:
I’ve heard some authors say they’ve gotten ideals from dreams they’ve had. Has this ever happened to either of you? Just curious, I know sometimes I have had some wild dreams that would make a great book!
Thanks again,
Darlene W.
I rsvp’d
I shared on twitter:
http://twitter.com/lefty22/statuses/2147483647
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Welcome to BBB!
Erin:
Bad date? Hmm…my first real boyfriend lived out in the country. One night, after dropping him off at his house, I did the unthinkable—I ran into a barbed wire fence. Not only did I run into it, but I stopped at the T-intersection, looked both ways, and went FORWARD into the fence. Yup. Blondeness, thy name is Jackie.
I like both, really. Just depends on my mood. I’ve devoured all of your books *except* for the Vegas Vampire series. Weird, huh? Lol
Rhonda:
It seemed like it took forever to have my son. Seriously. I had to have been pregnant for five years. By month five, I asked if we could just get him out of there so we could play. The doctor didn’t find that humorous. Silly doctors.
Again, my son would be the answer to question #2. I thought I’d be a horrible mom and it would be work work work trying to take care of him. I’m kind of good at being a mom, though, and my son is the best. He’s fun, loves to read, and lets me paint his toenails. : )
Questions:
Erin – You left the ending of Demon Envy wiiiiiide open. I didn’t know there was a sequel until this event was announced. Had you planned on a series for these characters, or was it initially a stand alone book?
Rhonda – Did you ever watch the TV show Cupid? It seemed like no matter how hard he tried to help, he always ended up making things worse before they’re better, indicating maybe he shouldn’t be meddling in love. Do your books touch on that theme? I love matchmaking stories, by the way. Does my cynical heart good. : )
Spread the word on Facebook (JackieUhrmacher) and Twitter (Jackie.Uhrmacher)
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Hi Erin and Rhonda!
I’ve never really had a bad date, didn’t date much, got married early.
I love humorous paranormal and dark paranormal, but I need both to be action-packed
The thing that I felt like I waited forever on was waiting for my son to finally be born while I was pregnant, and he was also what turned out much better than expected (pregnant at 17 is scary!!)
I’ve read both of the Erin Lynn books, and I’m reading Stupid Cupid right now
My question is, when is the next demon book going to be expected out Erin? I’ve searched the internet over, and still haven’t found any info…
I’ve shared on facebook and myspace.
Just bought Rhonda’s new book from your link, will email the receipt to you now.
Angela M. dukesangel002 (at) yahoo (dot) com
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oh yeah, I rsvp’d! lol
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Hi Erin
I’ve really only had one horrible date that I can remember. It was a blind date I was set up on when I was 17 by a friend, when the guy picked me up he said barely anything to me and seemed really angry he was even having to go on the date in the first place - then within 1/2 hr his mom calls screaming into the phone cause she found some heavy drugs in his room (something I’ve never been into or ok with) so he ditches me at a gas station on the outside of town where I have to wait for someone to come pick me up. Needless to say I wasn’t happy with the friend that set me up.
As for paranormal, I like anything and everything, humorous, dark, whatever….
Hi Rhonda,
With the horrible economy the way it is, I feel like I’ve had to wait forever for a job in my field. It’s a pretty dire market out there for anyone in building/architecture fields and it’s getting to the point where you start getting despondent about it… so I’d say that that’s what I’m currently eagerly awaiting, cause I know a job’s hopefully just around the corner (fingers crossed)
My question for the both of you is where do you do the majority of your writing - or at least where is your favorite place to write/brainstorm?
Thanks!
I RSVP’d for this event
I shared the event through your links with Google bookmarks, Google reader, and myspace
I also posted on daily book chat, rsvp’d, and entered free book giveaway
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Erin’s question: I prefer dark paranormal with a touch of humor.
Rhonda’s question: Just about everything that I thought was going to be one way turned out to be another way.
I RSVP’d
Entered for free book
RSVP’d for Friday chat
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Darlene–I’ve not had a dream pan out as a book yet…but I’m still waiting for the opportunity! I tend to have really wonky weird dreams though (like moving into a trailer with my boss so my manpanion can do a tattoo for her). LOLOL
Jackie–OMG that is exactly how it is…she ends up making everything worse because she’s just not a good matchmaker. Poor thing–it’s not for lack of trying!
Angela–thanks for checking my book out!! I appreciate it.
Stephanie–OMG I love to write and brainstorm everywhere. I dig going to Panera, plugging in the laptop at an outside table, and sipping on a sweet coffee drink while doing my writing. On cold days, I like cuddling up on the couch in a blanket and tucking all the pillows around me and writing.
Leni–I hear ya! LOL
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Hi, everyone! Thanks for hanging out with us.
Sandy, yikes! But at least you didn’t pay for the whole pizza.
Some of my favorite authors are Jane Austen (for the classics), Teresa Mederois, Anne Stuart, and PC Cast’s House of Night series.
Gabrielle, hmmm, I don’t know if demons or vampires are harder or easier, just different. I actually think I prefer writing about demons because I find the mythology behind them really fascinating.
Bethany, I love the image of your husband driving around in circles frantic that he’s late… there something about befuddled men that is appealing. lol. I don’t usually write real people or scenarios into my books, but the fat cat in Mouth To Mouth (one of my romances) was totally my chubster cat.
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Rhonda: LOL! If she’s not that good at being a cupid, I’m sure she gets into some crazy situations. : )
Erin: OMG Mouth to Mouth is one of my favorites! Loved the candy store. : ) And Russ…::happy sigh::…that first scene when he approaches her had me snorting.
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Oopssy, forgot to say that I RSVPd
Angela M
Erin, when can we expect another Erin Lynn demon book??
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Darlene, bad cologne is the worst! Though I guess better than body odor.
I always think I’m going to remember my dreams and incorporate them, but I never do. I should put a notebook by my bed. I tend to be more spontaneously inspired by random words I see in books, magazines, TV.
Jackie, holy cow! I had to say it. lol. Hope you weren’t hurt! Demon Envy was intended to be the first in a series… which is why the ending was so broad. I hope you get a chance to read the second one, Speed Demon.
Angela, lucky you not having any bad dates! And wow, yes I imagine pregnant at 17 was scary. I was 20 and that was scary enough… I was a walking bundle of nerves for 9 months.
As for the Demon series, my publisher has it ‘on hold’. If I don’t get a release schedule soon, I’m toying with putting them on kindle myself. I’m getting impatient.
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Hi Erin and Rhonda!
Erin-I love humor in my stories-I’m a chick lit addict! So the more humor, the better. I actually like humor in paranormal over angst-I’ve been feeling burnt out on paranormal lately, but then I read some good books that injected humor along with the paranormal (Hearts at Stake by Alyxandra Harvey was one) and it made me want to read the genre again. Even if it’s a serious topic, having moments of humor can go a long way.
Rhonda-I had to wait FOREVER for my boyfriend (now husband) to propose! We dated four years before we got married, so it sure felt like I was waiting forever!:) But I guess it turned out for the best since he’s done with school and we’re now (hopefully) buying a house-I just hate waiting!
As for bad dates-I had a guy once tell me he cried every time he watched Save the Last Dance with Julia Stiles. That kind of creeped me out (every time? How many times was he watching it??) And I had a guy who ended our date by “lizard kissing” me-he stuck his tounge in and out repeatedly-gross!! (And no, these are not dates with my husband!)
Two questions for you: (since I’m a librarian) is what would you like to see YA librarians do to help promote your books?
What book have you read recently that you are raving about and everyone needs to pick up?
(And I RSVP’d yesterday!)
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I was fine, but my car didn’t fare as well. I knocked the front end out of alignment and paid hell trying to convince my parents I hadn’t been drinking. My brain just took a vacation.
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Sarah–Oooooh good questions! I think #1 is have us do visits and stuff…I love those! I work closely with a local librarian–she gets me into schools, has me do visits at her library, etc. I love it! Also, please buy our books. haha
Other question about recent read: I just finished Some Girls Are by Courtney Summers. WOW, that is a powerful book.
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I also tweeted about this event: http://twitter.com/greenbeanblog
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Rhonda-I’m so glad you work with your local librarian! I work so hard to promote YA books and I love when authors use their library!:)
And I bought Some Girls Are after reading so many great reviews-I need to find some free time to read it now!
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Oh and you’ll be happy to know my library system has multiple copies of both Erin and Rhonda’s books!
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Erin’s questions answered–Don’t have any bad date stories. Don’t have many date stories period.
I do like humor in my books. Mixed with the more serious plot elements it’s a nice change of pace. Books that are all angst with no humorous moments at all are sorta okay but I rarely reread them.
Rhonda’s questions answered–The only things I can think of that the wait felt like forever were my pregnancies. Got two daughters out of the pregnancies so the wait was worth it. But still felt like forever. Now I’m waiting on the first grandchild, which is due in July.
Never had anything not turn out the way I expected that didn’t end up worse, instead of better.
I RSVP’d for this event
did the daily chat
rsvp’d for Friday
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Great questions!
Bad date– Never. Not one. Isn’t that odd? I guess guys in the South are just awesome like that
humorous paranormal, dark and angsty, or both?– Both, definitely.
have you ever had to wait for what felt like forEVER on something you were anxious about?– Oh, ALL THE TIME!! Books to come out, movies, a vacation we have planned in the summer but its only winter….
ever have something turn out to be different than what you’d originally intended, but end up being better?– Yep. Usually when I’m writing. I want the story to go one why, but the characters have another way in mind. And they usually end up being right
I RSVP’d
Am going to the book chat
And RSVP’s for Friday’s event.
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Stephanie, that’s horrible…sounds like a date with a future felon. I do most of my writing in my office either at the desk or on the daybed.
Brainstorming is everywhere, as I work out, as I do housework, on the phone with my friends (like rockin’ Rhonda!).
Thanks, Jackie! I have a soft spot for Russ and Laurel and the candy scenes were fun.
If I was your mom, I would have thought you’d been drinking too. lol.
Sarah, ROFL! Love the crier story. My friend’s ex-husband turned to her once and said, “God, I just really love Hugh Grant.” She said that was fairly alarming. lol.
As for what I’m reading, I absolutely loved The Summoning by Kelly Armstrong. The heroine is appealing and I’m totally falling for the gruff and unattractive boy in the story. The action moves quickly and the emotion is right on the surface.
Librarians… hmm. I wish I knew! I would say finding a way to expose teen readers to more than just a handful of books. Maybe a “if you like Twilight (or whatever) try this book” approach.
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I have no idea why that smiley is just floating in the middle of my post! lol.
Beth, congrats on the grandbaby!
Chelsea, Southern guys are awesome. My new romance series, which launched with Flat Out Sexy, is chock full of great Southern guys.
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I really enjoyed your posts, Erin and Rhonda. I like finding out about different authors(how they are as people). I like humorous paranormal. Patsy H.
I RSVP’d
mom1248(at)att(dot)net
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Sarah–thanks for supporting our books! XOXO
YAY, I’m so happy to see everyone pop by!
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Hi Erin and Rhonda, I hold my hands up and say i’ve never read your books, but from what i’ve heard here i’m definitely going to pick them up!
Not had any terrible first dates, going by some of the stories here i’m very glad about that!
As for humour in paranormal books, i love it when you get something funny thrown in to break up the tension, especially if it’s unexpected from an unexpected source!
I’m no good with waiting, whether it’s waiting for a book or a film to come out, or waiting for results from university (that nearly killed me!)
My question for you is, was there any particular book that made you decide to write in the paranormal genre? (or got you interested in the genre as a reader?)
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Erin, I love me some country boys too
Erin, if you do get impatient and put them on kindle yourself I would be soooo excited…lol. My kindle would be glad to store it for you….
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Hi! Always fun to be introduced to new authors!
To answer YOUR questions.
My worst date was with a guy that I actually kept dating another 8 months after that. Shows how smart I am. He took me to some sort of racing event. I’m not sure if you’d call it stock cars, drag cars, or what. I called it rednecked hell personally. There were regular cars that went around this small track racing then they had a race with old beat up school buses. The track was dirt so every time the vehicles went by the stands dust was kicked up in our faces and there he sat drinking his beer oblivious to my discomfort. Might have been better if I liked racing, beer or dust in my face. LMAO
As for Humor/Angst, I’m a huge paranormal fan (romance and urban fantasy) and I prefer having some grit/dark edges to the story with humor interspersed to occasionally relieve the tension. TO me that’s the best humor because it jumps out at you when you weren’t expecting it.
As to anxiousness waiting for something, waiting to find out if I had won the full tuition scholarship to the university I eventually went to. First was weeks waiting to hear and wondering if I should look at other schools or hold out hope. Then the results came back and there was a 3 way tie for 2 scholarships so we had to do a retest (it was a Biology scholarship so bio test). Spent the next week jumping every time I saw the mailman. I think he became afraid of me that week. Eventually found out I lost on the retest by one question but my course was already set.
As for what turned out better than I intended, almost 4 years ago I was forced to move from my apt complex due to asbestos. I had planned on living there until I left this city but the health department had other plans for all of us. I didn’t intend so much as except the move to be a horrible experience for me and in the short term it was difficult as I lost so many tangible things (confiscated due to contamination) and had to find new lodgings on the fly. But in the long run I’m in a much nicer, safer community now without as much clutter as I used to have. It turned out to be a freeing experience. It taught me that sometimes if we don’t want to let go of the old, fate will come in and force our hand so we can move on and grow.
Now my questions for both of you: Did you always know you wanted to be a writer or did you have other dreams growing up? When did you each write your first story you shared with others outside of immediate family? What sort of story was it?
I RSVP’d both for Today and Tomorrow.
I participated in the chat.
I signed up for the free book drawing.
[Reply]
Hi Erin and Rhonda,
I am looking forward to reading both of your books! I have been pretty fortunate I don’t have any bad date stories yet. I have always leaned towards the dark paranormal series, but Erin’s Vegas Vampires introduced me to the humorous side of things and I really like it! I love that series!
I wanted a photographer’s job with the university’s newspaper and I had to submit my portfolio to the editor. Waiting for her to get back to me was painful; it was the first time that I had put myself out there for someone to critique so I turned myself inside out for a week! I got it though, and if I never go to another Basketball game it will be too soon! A couple of years ago my parents went bankrupt and lost the family business, which was horrible but I believe they are much less stressed and overall happier people now.
rsvp’d
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Bad dates? Oh my god. There was this one year in band camp…..
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Wait, wrong movie, wrong story. LOL
HI Rhonda! HI Erin!
Welcome to BBB, sorry I am late to your party. I had to have my bionic parts checked out today. he he he
I have had some bizare dates. One nigtmare date, I was supposed to meet this guy, and my friend was with me along with her family. Safe dating on the internet back in the 90’s. lol I coulndn’t find him ALL day. Finally, I met up with him. He was nothing like he said he was supposed to look like. But I wasn’t going to be rude. We all went to this big commercial spagetti place. It was crazy and crowded. I am all dolled up, and all of the sudden. TIDAL WAVE. A server drops an entire tray of drinks on my head. In front of this guy on our first (albeit chaperoned) date. All over my awesome leather jacket). I should have known it was doomed from that start off. LOL
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I rsvpd. I don’t have any bad date stories, I didn’t date much heh. But let me tell you college graduation could not come fast enough. It felt like the last year would just take forever until freedom!
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Sophie–I don’t think there was any particular book that enticed me into paranormal…I’ve always been fascinated with it. I loved paranormal shows (like Forever Knight–remember that one?)
Maggie Mae–I had LOTS of other ideas for careers (like a marine biologist, opera singer, cartoon animator, etc. LOL. My first full novel was a chick lit I wrote a few years ago…of course, it was written right as everyone was moaning about the death of chick lit. Good times. LOL
I’m loving the stories you guys are sharing!! Thanks so much.
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@ Rhonda: Thanks for replying and cool! I actually am a biologist, not marine though, I’m a DNA jockey LOL, molecular biologist by trade. LOVE Forever Knight…of course I loved the original Pilot for the show too when it was called Nick Knight, was set in LA and starred my teen idol Rick Springfield. They made a wise choice in moving the location and altering some of the cast though I thought Rick was fun it….changing the ME to a woman (was a man in the pilot) was a great call obviously.
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Well, no first date stories here, because, well, I had no first dates (yet, perhaps one of these days; I’m a very late bloomer and all LOL) Anyway, on both counts with waiting, the stuff that is popping in the old noggin are test results. Waiting to get that paper back with a grade that you’re hoping will be okay. And whether it is or not, you feel the relief when you see it. But of course, ends up being better when you do better than you expect. Me, I went back to college after 5 years, on spring break now, but sure waiting to take a test; I know I’ll do just fine, but just want to do it already.
And, hmm, question from me. . . ah, well, okay, dumb, yet related to my answer — ah, did you like tests? LOL
And me, I RSVPed, twittered at twitter (@OV_099) and facebook (http://www.facebook.com/people/Lois-Merritt/100000225278700)
Lois
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Hi Erin and Rhonda,
can;t think of a bad date story, sorry,
rsvpd
posted fb:dinastornello
tweeted:dlsmilad
rsvpd for fri
posted goodreads:dinastornello
thank you,
Dina S
dlsmilad@yahoo.com
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Lois–I liked essay tests better than multiple guess–I could puke out everything I knew about the topic and always did better on those. hahaha
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Welcome!!!!
Rhonda - Anxiety is my middle name - LOL!!! The hardest, and longest, thing I ever waited for was the results of my boards. It was pen & paper back then - and it was a 3 month waiting process!! I honestly had recurring nightmares for three months. My poor family was tortured on the weekends would go home & visit. They were so real, to me, that I was running through the house & they were convinced someone was after me!!! The day the results came in - was such a relief for everyone! They could all sleep at night again!!!
Erin, I love all forms of paranormal!!!! I’m addicted to it - LOL!!!
RSVP’d
Tweeted-mom2moms
Entered Free book drawing
RSVP’d for Fri event
[Reply]
RSVPed for this event
I like both humorous paranormal and dark and angsty paranormal. It depends what mood I am in when I get ready to start a book. Whether I
need a good laugh or not.
joined in daily chat
entered to win free books
RSVPed for Friday
shared on Facebook
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shared on Twitter
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Bad date story: movie date with a friend who wanted to be more than friends (but I wanted to keep it that way and said so because there was no chemistry). I hate when people sit right in front of me at a movie, and he, being super-tall wanted to do just that because he wouldn’t stay over with me where there wasn’t a broken seat, so we sat a couple seats apart for the whole movie because he wanted to be rude. Yeah, no chance of a real date there.
I like humor to lighten up my dark paranormal, just like real life.
Most recently, I was waiting to see if my fiance could get the job he applied for in my state, but when he called back, the position was filled, so back to square one and some hard choices to be together. We were waiting for them to call back for an interview like they said they would. *sigh*
One thing I remember in art class that turned out better was when I put too much ink on my roller and it blobbed up on my printmaking, but it actually turned into a pretty feathered marbled pink purple and blue painty pattern. Now I’ve used it as an abstract design in my http://www.cafepress.com/kaoticrebel store (Hot Ink Swirl), my business cards and my Etsy (wherelittlethingsare) and Artfire headers (Wherethelittlethingsare). I like when mistakes come out pretty.
Many things seem to happen for a reason, I just wish I could more easily predict when to take successful steps. I try hard, though, to get as many irons in the fire as possible and do my best.
Thanks for all the fun discussion!
RSVPd for this.
Did book chat, RSVPd Friday’s, entered for free books, and checked out other events.
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Hi, Ladies.
Rhonda, did I ever have to wait for something? Back in the old days before all the technology we take for granted now, news usually arrived by mail. No instant response. I’d applied to the Peace Corps my junior year of college. It was a matter of mailing the application out, then sitting back and waiting. No little note or email to say “We have gotten your application and are processing it.” Nothing for a few months, then the letter shows up. A big surprise since I hadn’t told my parents I’d applied.
Erin - as for my paranormal, I like it with a sense of humor. Dark and angsty are OK once in awhile , but ,for an extended period It gets to be a bit much. Patricia B.
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Hi Erin and Rhonda
* Well i can answer Erins ?I like all sorts of paranormal the Dark and the Funny.right now I’m reading a funny series by Kerrelyn Sparks.
* I have spread the word on my myspace and facebook and here are the links
http://www.myspace.com/sasluvbooks & facebook.com/sasluvbooks
* I RSVPed
* Stacey S
sasluvbooks(at)yahoo.com
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Hi Rhonda and Erin! Thanks for joining us!
I don’t have a bad date story, but that’s a good thing right!
I like my paranormal stories to be dark and angsty, with a pinch of snarky humor thrown in, because that’s how I like to break up the tension.
Well this other question comes at a great time, because the six and a half years I waited for the 2010 Winter Olympics to take place in my hometown of Vancouver and Whistler felt like forEVER! And with the city reporting on everything to do with the event, from construction of venues, athlete housing and cost over-runs, protest groups, to updating transportation systems which adversely affected many businesses on the new route built for the event, it made for a painfully long and arduous time.
The naysayers keep harping on how most Olympics end up costing the city for decades, but they still haven’t tallied all the costs so I’ll cross my fingers on that one and hope for the best. But nobody watching could say that this was not an successful Olympics, because it was just plain “incredible.” Look at the way the whole city in the end embraced the event from the first day and every day thereafter bringing nationalistic pride to the streets in a sea of red and white with maple leafs. We’d been promised we’d own the podium by officials, and as the days went by and it seemed less and less possible, but we didn’t let the total metal count get us down! We’d discovered a pride that wasn’t about that anymore, it was about our love of country, our love of selves and our appreciation of our athletes. But as we got down to the final days before the closing of the event, our athletes saved their best for last and astonished us with even more unexpected achievements.
We didn’t manage to own the podium. Congrats to the US team for getting the most metals EVER! But we’d gotten the first Gold on home soil (third time hosting, third time lucky) then 13 more to make history as the most Gold for a host nation and the most Gold for any nation in a single Olympics! And how sweet is it that the final Gold was for the Canadian Men’s Hockey team in a hockey crazed nation. How’s that for a storybook ending!
We didn’t expect the first day’s tragedy to occur. But we persevered. And what followed nobody could have predicted could forever change our city and to some extent our country and how we feel about ourselves as a nation.
I RSVP’d
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Wow, you guys have some great stories–I’m glad to see I’m not the only person who has had to wait a lot! LOL
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Hi Erin and Rhonda,
no bad date stories from me, sorry, I’ve been lucky so far:)
I like humorous paranormal only, because dark and angsty is too close horror genre, and I’m not into it. I like to be entertained by books, not worried:)
I usually try not to think about anything that makes me feel anxious, but I don’t always succeed. Sometimes waiting for something that makes me feel excited is even harder, like waiting for a movie that I’m dying to see, or a package with books to arrive.
As for something that turned out to better, well, it’s my current situation. I’m unemployed for about a couple of months now, and though I sure miss my former colleagues, and the money too:), but I’ve finally been able to get as much sleep as I want, relax from the daily stress at the job, and just do whatever I wish: go out, pamper myself, read a ton of books- you just name it.
Now my question to both of you, what are some of your favorite movies? Thanks!
Dovile P.
I RSVPed
4 - chatted in the Daily chat
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Erin : I don’t have a preference so long as it is well written. I’d read just about anything!
Rhonda : Waiting to hear back from an agent! I practically checked my email every few minutes just waiting for a reply for my query.
With regards your second question, sometimes when I’m working on my WIP and I have this vision in my head which is a little clumsy but when I actually get to the scene and write it, it became a whole lot better than I intended. Thank goodness for life’s little blessings!
My question to you both : what is the hardest part about writing for you? Thanks.
I RSVPed.
I RSVP’d both for Today and Tomorrow.
I participated in the chat.
I signed up for the free book drawing.
[Reply]
Dovile–Oooooh good question. Some of my favs: The Princess Bride, Love Actually, PS I Love You (are you sensing a theme? LOL I love romances). I also like samurai and kung-fu movies.
Lesley–I think that sometimes the writing itself is the hardest part! LOL. Especially on those days you’re not feeling inspired. But you gotta grit your teeth and make it happen.
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Hi, Rhonda.
How are you doing? Well, I hope. I’m looking forward to reading your books.
I didn’t RSVP because, I went brain dead, but I’ve tweeted this, and mentioned it on my blog and livejournal. Now, to your questions: Have I had to wait. Yes. As you know, I too am a writer, so yes, I’m no stranger to waiting. I just recently waited several long weeks for an agent to give me an answer on a full request, and am currently waiting on the results of two RWA contest entries. I also had a manuscript in another publishers contest eons ago that…I think took three months to hear back on. Did they come out the way I’d hoped? Unfortunately, (or at least not the ones I’d heard back on by now). The others? I am ever hopeful!
Did I ever have something turn out different, but better. Um… I can’t think of anything right off hand…
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Oh, and my question. Rhonda, you said you wrote the book in three months, and your agent loved it. I may be missing a step here, did you have the agent before you wrote the book? If not, got any tip for other hopeful budding authors?
Erin, yes, I like both, humorous and dark and angsty works.
And …have I ever had a bad date? Well…I’ve seen a couple really bad movies, back when I was dating, but not really a bad date, that I can think of. 
I must have blocked them.
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Julianne–I was actually working on this story while I was agent-hunting with a different novel. She ended up taking me on and then read the manuscript for Stupid Cupid later.
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Hi Ladies! Happy Release day!!!\
P.S. I rsvp’d
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I love both humorous AND dark and angsty. Once I had a class project that got ruined and I had to redo the whole thing. I wasn’t able to copy it exactly so there were a lot of differences. It turned out even better than the first and I got a good grade on it
Do you ever listen to music for inspiration while you write?
RSVPd
and RSVPd for Friday’s event
[Reply]
I R.S.V.P.’D
2) I Can’t Remember Any Awesomely Bad Date Stories.
I Like Them Both Because I think A Little Bit Of Both Is A Good Thing.
Yes I Have. They Were Sequels To Books I Was Reading.
Yes I Have. A Few Of The Movies And Books I Have Read Were Like That.
4) I Posted This Event On My Facebook Page.
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?ref=profile&id=1510150859
[Reply]
I R.S.V.P.’D
2) When I Was In High School I Had A Boyfriend Who Took Me Out To Eat At The Mall And Afterwards We Went From Store To Store And He Kept Wanting To Buy Me Things And I Kept Saying No Til He Finally Called Me A Cheap Date Infront Of One Of The Cashiers.
I Actually Like Both. I Am An Equal Oppurtunity Reader And If The Story Is Great That Is The Most Important Thing.
Yes I Have Had To Wait For Things Whether It Be A Book Like Cassandra Clare’s Book Four To Her Immortal Instruments Series Which Doesn’t Come Out Til Some Time In 2011, Or Having To Wait In Between The Twilight Saga Movies.
A Friend And I Went To New York For A DVD Release Party And I Was Pretty Nervous Because I Didn’t Know Anyone At The Party So I Thought I Would Be Sitting In A Corner All Night But It Actually Turned Out To Be A Great Night And I Made Tons Of New Friends.
4) I Blogged About This Event.
http://skyla11377.blogspot.com/2010/03
/bitten-by-bookcom.html
I Tweeted About This Event
(@skyla11377).
http://twitter.com/skyla11377/status/1
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I Posted This Event On My facebook
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yla11377?ref=profile
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I Shared This Event On My Myspace
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[Reply]
I R.S.V.P.’D
2) When I Was In High School I Had A Boyfriend Who Took Me Out To Eat At The Mall And Afterwords We Went From Store To Store And He Kept Wanting To Buy Me Things And I Kept Saying No Til He Finally Called Me A Cheap Date In Front Of One Of The Cashiers.
I Actually Like Both. I Am An Equal Opportunity Reader And If The Story Is Great That Is The Most Important Thing.
Yes I Have Had To Wait For Things Whether It Be A Book Like Cassandra Clare’s Book Four To Her Immortal Instruments Series Which Doesn’t Come Out Til Some Time In 2011, Or Having To Wait In Between The Twilight Saga Movies.
A Friend And I Went To New York For A DVD Release Party And I Was Pretty Nervous Because I Didn’t Know Anyone At The Party So I Thought I Would Be Sitting In A Corner All Night But It Actually Turned Out To Be A Great Night And I Made Tons Of New Friends.
4) I Blogged About This Event.
http://skyla11377.blogspot.com/2010/03/bitten-by-bookcom.html
I Tweeted About This Event (@skyla11377).
http://twitter.com/skyla11377/status/10689509944
I Posted This Event On My facebook Page.
http://www.facebook.com/?ref=home#!/skyla11377?ref=profile
I Posted This Event On My Myspace Blog.
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I Posted This Event On My Myspace Bulletin.
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I Shared This Event On My Myspace Page.
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Sorry About The Double Post But My 4 Year Old Was Pressing Buttons And It Posted Before i Could Fix Number 57 So The Links Would Work Therefore That Is Why I Have Post Number 58 With The Working Links.
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Yes I’ve played the waiting game. I’m getting ready to query my latest WIP and I’m hoping for a positive turnout.
Every time I take a mid-term or final I get really nervous, but when I get my grades, as long as I’ve studied, I end up doing really well.
I RSVPed for this event
I attended Today’s book chat
I commented for Adelle Laudan’s books
I attended Seanan McGuire’s event
[Reply]
Hi Erin and Rhonda!
Let’s see. One of my worst dates was with an ex-boyfriend. We went to the fair because I had been wanting to go ride all the rides. Instead we ended up watching the demolition derby first, which is what he wanted to do. Unfortunately, they served alcohol there, and then he just got obnoxious and drunk. I ended up in tears. And I almost left him there to get himself arrested by the cops that were watching him closely. Finally chased him down and back to my car. Can’t imagine why I’m not with him anymore… *huge sigh of relief*
As for what I like in a paranormal, a bit of everything. Sometimes I like lots of humor, sometimes I like more drama, sometimes I like a nice balance. I like having such a wide variety of choices so that I can mix it up!
Let’s see, I get anxious about a lot of stuff. This year though has been a lot of bad family things happening, so that’s what’s been most on my mind.
What are your favorite colors and why?
Contest stuff:
I RSVP’d, maybe as Amanda Leigh
1. Amanda N
2. done
4. spread the word:
http://not-really-southernvampchick.blogspot.com/
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?ref=profile&id=100000813465371
http://twitter.com/NRSVampChick/status/10748520306
http://bittenbybooks.ning.com/profile/AmandaLeigh
http://www.goodreads.com/mandan513
Entered to win free books, RSVP’d for Friday’s event
I’m also curious if you like humorous paranormal, dark and angsty, or both?
[Reply]
I’m also curious if you like humorous paranormal, dark and angsty, or both?
Humor in books almost become auto-buys. I love stories with humor embedded with the serious stuff. There are moments and days when I need the humor as a pick me up. Then there are times when I like the dark and angsty.. Both angst and humor would definitely get me to read it.
So, my first question to you is, have you ever had to wait for what felt like forEVER on something you were anxious about?
Does moving a good distance from the in laws work with this question? Heheh. sorry but that is the only thing that comes to mind by this question. After five years of living pratically next door to mother in law and two sister in laws from hell (especially the one)
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[Reply]
Raelena–I listen to music all the time while I write!! I love how it can help set the tone and mood for whatever scene I’m working on.
NRS Vamp Chick–my fav color is green. I just find it super soothing.
And I dig any kind of paranormal…it just depends on the story!
Thanks for coming by, everyone!
[Reply]
I rsvp’d
I think when you really want something, it does seem like forever until you get it, so yeah, this has happened to me on many occasions.
As for the second question, sometimes, when I’m knitting or crocheting, if I don’t like how the pattern is written (or it doesn’t make sense as written), I will adjust it to my taste and it does come out better than I’d hoped. I am currently doing this on a pattern for a market tote, but I’m not finished, so I don’t know if it will be a success or not!
Margay R
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Hi to all. Of course I’ve waited on things that seem to take a year and a half when really it’s only 7 to 10 business days.Now for the second question, yes again. I went down to rescue one choc. lab and ended up with one lovely choc. lab and one choc. cat. They were accepted in my pack and are just wonderful. My question to you both is at what age did you know you had to be a writer? I have done all of the things. Thankyou Lisa D.
[Reply]
Hi Erin and Rhonda,
The most recent bad date I had was sad more than anything else. I met this guy via an online dating site. We meet and find out we have nothing really in common and that our opinions are mostly opposites. When we left, he pulls out enough money for himself and so I had to pay for my own meal. We shake hands and we separate. First, last and annoying date.
Paranormals.. I love all the dark, antsy and hilarious books. I’ve recently found one that started as a bad night and ended with the girl becoming a succubus. Hehe.
Rhonda, I love this idea of a pda cupid–I wish I had one of those when I was in high school and crushing on a guy. Is that what inspired you to write this type of story?
For both authors, how did you decide whether the books were going to be single novels or series?
Thanks so much and congratulations on your releases.
Bookchat: complete
Free book: complete
Friday rsvp: complete
[Reply]
Erin,
I had a blind date once (ONCE!). A guy friend of mine set me up with his cousin. My guy friend? Super cute. His cousin? Not so much. My best friend Traci and I (thank God she was there) laughed and laughed. My “date” had such messed up teeth we joked that he must have fell down a flight of stairs. The whole night was awkward.
Best part?
My best friend Traci married him three years later
Rhonda,
Waited for forever? I guess that would be for my now husband to ask me out. We were living in the same split level house, my girlfriend and I had the upstairs and we rented the basement out to three guys, my now husband Al included. I really liked him but he appeared to be not interested. One day, one of the other guys Troy, came to talk to me. He said that Al really liked me and he wanted to warn me so I could nip that right away. He said it would never work out with us all living together. I then told Troy that I really liked Al. Best part of this story? Troy was a best man in our wedding
journey through books @ gmail dot com
Sheila D
[Reply]
Thanks for stopping by and chatting everyone! And for sharing your bad dates and other thoughts.
Erin
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