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Freaky Friday Contest and Interview With Dexter and Antoine

Posted under Contests, Interviews, Site News by Site Hostess on Friday 15 May 2009 at 7:33 am
*****

Dexter and Antoine – in the Fur

From the author: Hi, Jeri Smith-Ready here, author of Wicked Game and Bad to the Bone, aka the WVMP Radio urban fantasy series. When invited to do a Freaky Friday post, I was told it usually involved interviewing the characters rather than the author. Ciara Griffin and Shane McAllister have each been interviewed numerous times, even by characters from other novels.

So for something original, I had to go a little deeper into the books. A little weirder. A little…furrier.

So I give you Dexter the vampire dog, one of the heroes of Bad to the Bone. Dexter is joined by Antoine, who, being a cat, is nobody’s hero and likes it that way.

SETTING: Family room of David Fetter, general manager of 94.3 WVMP, the Lifeblood of Rock ‘n’ Roll. In front of a crackling fire sit two pet beds—a large dog bed and a tiny cat bed.

A small white cat sleeps in the plush center of the enormous dog bed. A huge black dog lies on the floor next to him, chin resting on the cat bed.

No humans present.

DEXTER: The author lady said we had to talk to each other.

ANTOINE: (squeezes eyes shut harder) Come back when I’m not sleeping.

DEXTER: You’re always sleeping.

ANTOINE: Then don’t come back.

DEXTER: (clears throat, which sounds a lot like a case of kennel cough) So, how did you end up living here with David?

ANTOINE: (opens one eye, sighs) All right. My first pet was a vampire named Elizabeth. She took me from the animal shelter I was in charge of and brought me—

DEXTER: Wait. You ran an animal shelter? Don’t you mean you were kept in one?

ANTOINE: I administered the facility from a central office.

DEXTER: Um, did this office of yours have metal bars?

ANTOINE: Yes, it was furnished in the sleekest, most modern of styles. Anyway, one day Elizabeth didn’t come home, so this David person became my companion instead.

DEXTER: Do you miss Elizabeth?

ANTOINE: On occasion. But I prefer my new castle—it has mice in the walls and a charming garden full of baby chipmunks. Furthermore, David has a higher body temperature than Elizabeth, seeing as he’s a live human, so he is more suitable for a winter’s night snuggle.

(gets up, stretches, curls in opposite direction) Besides, she must still be in the vicinity, because he speaks to her.

DEXTER: Really? I’ve never smelled her.

ANTOINE: Though he always seems to be asleep at the time.

DEXTER: Huh. What about Ciara?

ANTOINE: Oh yes, he speaks to her in his sleep, too. (licks paw) More than ever these days.

DEXTER: No, I mean, what do you think of Ciara?

ANTOINE: (sniffs) Delusional. Claims not to care for cats, and yet scratches behind my ears when no one’s looking. Pathetic, really.

DEXTER: But good scritchies, right?

ANTOINE: This Ciara person will not admit she is my pet, and I won’t allow for the possibility she is my equal. Therefore, we are at an impasse.

(blinks and looks into the fire) But yes, good scritchies. Good scritchies indeed. Shane is a fortunate man.

DEXTER: You’re both lucky. I wish I could fit in the bed with her.

ANTOINE: Oh, please. Even if you weighed ten pounds, you’re far too putrid to allow in a human bed. Your muzzle reeks of bird excrement, and your feet smell like rotten mushrooms.

DEXTER: (long pause) I could eat you if I wanted.

ANTOINE: Perhaps you need reminding that my pet is a former Control agent, skilled in six different anti-vampire weapons. Touch so much as a whisker on my face, and David will execute your clammy, mangy hide faster than you can say “ALPO” backwards.

DEXTER: (sits thinking)

ANTOINE: I rest my case.
—-

Jeri here again. Since Antoine didn’t actually ask any questions of Dexter in return, feel free to do so. Dexter could use some attention, and he’s a good boy—he’ll respond right away.

Thanks for joining us for Furry—I mean, Freaky Friday!

****************************************************

Readers, learn more about Jeri Smith-Ready here:

Read the Bitten by Books reviews of the author’s work here.
To visit the author’s website go here.
To visit the author’s blog go here.

****************************************************

CONTEST: Readers, here’s how to enter the contest. You can do just ONE or ALL of these things, and each one will give you additional entries at a chance to WIN. Jeri will be giving away one Autographed set of Wicked Game and Bad to the Bone plus a 2nd prize for another lucky reader. A $25.00 gift card to PetSmart or Petco (winner’s choice). Contest is open to readers worldwide!

The contest portion of the event will end on 5/16/09 at 11:59 pm PDT and is open to readers worldwide!

Please note, the prize stated IS the prize you will receive, there will be absolutely no substitutions or changes the prize is non-transferable. If you don’t want the prize being offered, please don’t enter the contest. If you ever win an electronic copy of a book, please note that it is ILLEGAL to forward, give away or copy it in anyway once you receive it. Doing so violates copyright. If we find out that it has been done, you will no longer be eligible to win any of our contests.

1. The easiest way to enter is by purchasing copies of any of Jeri’s books in any format! Yep, it is true, just use any or all of the links below to make your purchase during the contest.

WVMP Radio Series
Bad to the Bone
Wicked Game

Aspect of Crow Trilogy
Eyes Of Crow
Voice Of Crow
The Reawakened

Stand Alone:
Requiem for the Devil

You will get SIXTY entries to the contest for EACH copy you purchase in ANY format from AMAZON using the links above or the BBB search box on the right hand side of the site.

It is NOT mandatory to purchase anything to enter the contests, there are plenty of other ways to enter and win. Just email me a copy of your purchase receipt to racoo.smith @ gmail.com (no spaces). Sorry no faxes or snail mail copies.

2. In order to be entered into this contest the ONE thing you ALL have to do is leave at least one question for Antoine or Dexter. No talking = no entries! You can come by through 5/16/09 and comment for more entries. Good for 10 entries.

3. Buy anything from our new BBB Bloody Cafe Swag Shop here:

http://www.cafepress.com/bittenbybooks through 5/16/09. When you purchase items from our store, we make small commission that helps pay for the site upkeep, shipping books to reviewers, prizes for contests and other associated costs. We are ALL volunteers working to bring the best authors, reviews and contests in the paranormal fiction arena. Any contribution you make is greatly appreciated! Also, be SURE to sign up for the BBB Bloody Cafe Swag Shop email newsletter on the left hand side of the site, for specials and other announcements. That newsletter is NOT related to the one you receive directly from this site. Your information will never be shared or sold. Send me a copy of the receipt VIA email (sorry no faxes or snail mail) for your purchase to: racoo.smith @ gmail.com (no spaces). Good for 50 entries PER item you purchase. PLUS if you send us your receipt and address we will mail you a FREE new Bitten by Books swanky bookmark.

4. Buy ANYTHING from Amazon today THROUGH 5/16/09 by using the Amazon search box on the right hand side of our site. We will know if you used the box to search and buy, so please be sure to use it or your entries won’t count. Send me a copy of the receipt VIA email (sorry no faxes or snail mail) for your purchase to: racoo.smith @ gmail.com (no spaces). Good for 30 entries per item purchased.

5. SUBSCRIBE to the Bitten by Books newsletter here on the top right hand side of the site. This is for new subscribers only. Be sure you VERIFY your subscription, an email is sent with the verification link. Unverified subscribers will not be entered and will be deleted from the mailing list. Good for 10 entries.

6. While you are here today, please go and vote in our Shapeshift the Vote poll here: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=7124 and enter the win a Kindle 2 contest here: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=6834. Good for 20 entries for each thing you do.

7. Spread the word, the more places you post the event, the more entries you get. Post the link to the event / contest today (http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=7302) at another blog, website, Myspace, Ning Group, Facebook, Yahoo Group, Goodreads, Shelfari (any group where it is appropriate). You MUST come back here to this interview and post those links in one response here in this thread. Good for 25 entries per place you post the link to this event.

NOTE: if you post multiple links here, your post will not show up right away. If you don’t see it, don’t keep posting it, we WILL approve your entry later on in the day.

8. Add us as your friend on

Facebook Group: http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=59929467915

Good Reads: http://www.goodreads.com/bitten_by_books

Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/bittenbybooks

Facebook: http://www.new.facebook.com/profile.php?id=614064436

Twitter: http://twitter.com/BittenbyBooks be SURE to tweet us after you follow so we can count your entry! @BittenbyBooks

Be sure to mention that you are friending us for this contest so we know to enter you! Good for 10 entries per place you friend us.

9. Be friends with Jeri by joining her here:

Newsletter: http://www.jerismithready.com/contact/
Blog: http://www.jerismithready.com/blog/index.htm
Website: http://www.jerismithready.com/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jsmithready
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=563690139
MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/jerismithready
LiveJournal: http://jer-bear711.livejournal.com/

Then send me all the confirmations you receive verify subscription and friendship to: racoo.smith @ gmail.com (no spaces). Worth 15 entries per place you friend her.

10. Read the reviews of Jeri’s books here:

http://bittenbybooks.com/?page_id=58&book_author_id=Jeri%20Smith-Ready

Then leave a meaningful comment IN THE REVIEW post that shows you read the review, not just a post that says “sounds good” or “nice review”, a couple of sentences would be great! Simply share your thoughts, ideas or opinions and show the author some love. Good for 10 entries per review you comment on.

11. Use the SHARE This button at the bottom of this post to digg, stumble and share this on your social networks and new ones you have never tried before!

12. Twitter and ask your friends to re-tweet the URL for this event be SURE to include us in your tweet @BittenbyBooks http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=7302. Good for 10 entries each day you tweet it.

13. Add Jeri’s website and blog to your blog roll or links page: http://www.jerismithready.com/ and http://www.jerismithready.com/blog/index.htm Good for 10 entries.

14. Add Bitten by Books to your blog roll or links page: http://bittenbybooks.com if you leave our link up permanently you will always be entered into our contests automatically. Just be sure to stop by each contest we hold and leave the link to where it is so we can give you your entry! Good for 10 entries.

15. Email ALL of your friends and invite them to come by this week! If your fiends come and post here and say you sent them, they get FOUR entries and you get EIGHT entries! They have to tell us who you are so we know who to give the entries to. You can invite as many people as you want and get all the extra entries!

16. Join the The Blood Bank the Bitten by Books Community! here:http://bittenbybooks.ning.com/ then come back here and tell us your user name. Be sure to post something about yourself on your blog there. Good for 10 entries

GENERAL CONTEST INFORMATION:

The contest ends on 5/16/09 at 11:59 pm PDT and the winners will be contacted the following week. You will receive your prize directly from the publisher. 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.

IMPORTANT CONTEST RULES AND LEGAL DISCLAIMERS

1. If you aren’t interested in receiving the prize, offered please do not enter the contest.

2. You have THREE days from the day the we contact you to claim your prize by sending your name/mailing address to me. Failure to contact me will forfeit your prize. BBB can at that time, choose either to re-award the prize to another entrant or not.

3. The prize stated IS the prize you will receive, there will be no substitutions, trades or changes. No exceptions. Please do not ask. If for some reason you do not wish to claim your prize, please let me know as soon as possible. Bitten by Books has the option to re-award it or not.

4. Contest is open to readers worldwide. The prize is shipped directly from the author.

5. Bitten by Books is in NO way responsible for the prizes being offered in any of the contests. If for some reason a contributor does not honor their prize, there is nothing we can or will do about it. We are not worried that this will happen, but we want to be very clear that WE are not offering these prizes, the contributor is and it is their responsibility to fulfill their prize obligations.

6. These rules are subject to change or be modified without prior written notice.

7. Contest is void where prohibited.

8. By entering this contest you are agreeing to our terms of entry


85 Comments »

  1. Comment by Rachel — May 15, 2009 @ 7:36 am

    Hi Dexter and Antoine (your royal highness)!

    Thanks for being with us today. :)

    Dexter do you find that the quality of your treats and pet food meet or exceed your expectations?

    And if somebody wanted to get a handsome dog like you, where would you go to get a new family member?

    [Reply]



  2. Comment by Nicole Hicks — May 15, 2009 @ 7:56 am

    Sweet interview! ;) That is just too cute! And the prizes are GREAT!
    BBB is on perm blog roll on google profile and word press
    nicholandria
    http://nicholandria.wordpress.com/

    I twittered
    following Jeri on Twitter already :(
    Friends with BBB on all already

    Dexter- What are your fav treats?

    [Reply]



  3. Comment by elaine — May 15, 2009 @ 8:00 am

    Great Interview..I can’t wait to read your books.

    [Reply]



  4. Comment by Beet — May 15, 2009 @ 8:02 am

    A big hello to Antoine and Dexter,

    Antoine what is your favorite trick you get your human to perform?

    Dexter what is your favorite toy?

    [Reply]



  5. Comment by Lisa M. — May 15, 2009 @ 8:13 am

    Love that interview! as a person who is a “pet” to a cat, myself, I will direct my question to Antoine: why is it that cats can be so affectionate at times, but when a human tries to give THEM affection, they act annoyed??
    Thanks. Lisa

    [Reply]



  6. Comment by Heather — May 15, 2009 @ 8:21 am

    Antoine, I won’t disturb your sleep, so I have a question for Dexter. I have 2 pups of my own, that I do let sleep in bed with me. My youngest, Harley, loves to dig holes outside. Why do dogs like to dig holes? Do you have this digging obsession. Thanks!!!

    [Reply]



  7. Comment by megzlucee — May 15, 2009 @ 8:24 am

    So, Dexter? Antoine? Do you guys dislike each other because of the usual dog/cat thing, or because of more personal reasons?

    Megan T.

    [Reply]



  8. Comment by Cinnamon — May 15, 2009 @ 8:35 am

    Do vampire dogs like Alpo? How hard is it for Dexter to keep himself from eating Antoine? Where’s your favorite place to curl up or do you even like to curl up?

    I have a link to this from my blog - http://ajourneyofbooks.blogspot.com (right sidebar and soon in contest post)

    I already have you friended everywhere.

    Subscribed to her newsletter, blog, livejournal, already following on twitter and added on myspace & facebook.

    I’ll send you the confirmations I get.

    Added author website to author list. You’re on my bloglist.

    Cinnamon B
    ajourneyofbooks-at-gmail-dot-com

    [Reply]



  9. Comment by Kimberly S — May 15, 2009 @ 8:36 am

    So Dexter, what did you think of Antoine? Do you like cats?

    Antoine, do cats really think humans are here just to feed and pet them?

    The interview was lots of fun! I love Jeri’s books.

    I am on her newsletter list .

    I also posted of the Shapeshift the vote poll.

    [Reply]



  10. Comment by Bridget H. — May 15, 2009 @ 8:47 am

    Dexter I would like to know if you prefer to read or be read to?

    I posted the link here:

    http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1084897775&ref=profile
    http://www.myspace.com/bridgetlaprairie
    http://bridget3420.blogspot.com

    Joined newsletter
    Added her site to my awesome authors section of my blog
    She is on my blogroll
    Already following her on twitter
    Added her as a friend on Facebook
    Already friends on Myspace
    Tweeted
    BBB is already on my blogroll

    [Reply]



  11. Comment by Nancy Haddock — May 15, 2009 @ 9:00 am

    Antoine and Dexter, how good of you to be here! I’ll let Antoine sleep, too, but Dexter, do your favor boxed treats, or those I can find at the local farmer’s market? Homemade by canine lovers, a cookie-like texture, and so fresh, they should be refrigerated. Any flavor you favor?

    You know I adore you and your work, Jeri! Have a fun freaky Friday!!

    Light,
    Nancy

    [Reply]



  12. Comment by Vic — May 15, 2009 @ 9:02 am

    6. My comment on shapeshift the vote: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=7124#comment-53112

    12. My tweet: http://twitter.com/glowstars/status/1807313098

    14. Bitten by books on my blogroll: http://glowstars.net/?page_id=380

    [Reply]



  13. Comment by Beet — May 15, 2009 @ 9:05 am

    Hello again Dexter and Antoine, I know what your thinking Antoine wont this caller just go get staked. 2 more question I promise.

    1st Congratulation Dexter. How does it feel to be pictured on the cover of Bad to the Bone?

    Antoine: Do you have any advice for my feline friend who feels inadequate over not having a tail?

    [Reply]



  14. Comment by Virginia Hendricks — May 15, 2009 @ 9:11 am

    Hi Dexter and Antoine!

    What’s your favorite playtime activity? And Antoine, I have two cats who would probably love to meet you! :)

    Thanks for stopping by!

    (Rachel, twittered, FB, Mark, Dakota and JAPM groups, friends with BBB everywhere, BBB on blogroll, RSVP’d, entered all contests, friends with Jeri on Twitter, LJ and I think maybe FB? I’ll have to look. :)

    [Reply]



  15. Comment by Nicole Hicks — May 15, 2009 @ 9:14 am

    Jeri is on my blog roll as well on google wp
    http://nicholandria.wordpress.com/
    nicholandria on google

    [Reply]



  16. Comment by Shell Bryce — May 15, 2009 @ 9:20 am

    Hooooowwllllloooo to you both. Shane told me it was a no humans interview today but hopefully Jeri can translate. So my question is for Antoine…. since David is calling out Ciara’s name in his sleep does that mean that he has the hawts for the lady??? I mean, if David becomes more of a lurv interest for Ciara after their kissy kissy will that leave Shane all alone and AVAILABLE for someone like me perhaps to help him pick up the pieces?

    Oh yeah I do want to know that answer to Beet’s previous question being here with two male Manx cats I would like to know more of their thoughts…. maybe why they don’t like to use the litter box all the time…??

    I have left info about this interview on my new blog…..

    http://hockeyvampiress.blogspot.com/

    I am already a fan, friend, and paininthebutt to Jeri and BBB.
    Twittered the link RSVP’d and all the fun stuff…..

    [Reply]



  17. Comment by Carmen R — May 15, 2009 @ 9:29 am

    snickers, That was too cute. I can’t wait to read Bad to the Bone, I have already been jamming to the play list for it for awhile now.

    [Reply]



  18. Comment by Heather — May 15, 2009 @ 9:33 am

    Hi Dexter!!! I wonder if I can ask you a favor. Now you work with a nice Jeri, but I have an evil one here at work. Do you think you could stop by and scare her? :)

    [Reply]



  19. Comment by Suzana — May 15, 2009 @ 9:44 am

    When you start a serie, do you already know how the storyline will (should)
    end?

    [Reply]



  20. Comment by Lorraine Minich — May 15, 2009 @ 9:44 am

    Hi Dexter and Antoine, welcome to BBB freaky friday
    antoine, why is it that cats will turn around and bite you, if you are being petted and loved, you are purrin away, and then chomp? This is what my kitty does, does she need therapy?
    Dexter congrats on being a hero, could you tell me a little without givin any spoilers, i cant wait to read the book.

    [Reply]



  21. Comment by Pamk — May 15, 2009 @ 10:09 am

    this has got to be the most intersting post on books i’ve ever read. Can’t wait to read these books

    [Reply]



  22. Comment by Linda Ak — May 15, 2009 @ 10:18 am

    Antoine and Dexter, I bow before thee :)

    Will they two of you get any love interests of your own then?

    [Reply]



  23. Comment by Cheryl McInnis — May 15, 2009 @ 10:24 am

    Hey Antoine and Dexter-great interview :-)

    Have you two ever thought of writing your own series, about what your lives are like, and leaving out all the silly human and vampire stuff?LOL

    [Reply]



  24. Comment by Lesley Cheah — May 15, 2009 @ 10:37 am

    Hi Antoine and Dexter, you guys are way fun!

    I’d like to ask, what are you favorite all time treats?

    (I voted the shapeshifter poll, RSVPed and attended)

    [Reply]



  25. Comment by Vickie B — May 15, 2009 @ 10:44 am

    BBB is always on my blogroll. http://iyamvixenbooks.blogspot.com/ along the righthand side of my blog. I added Jeri’s LiveJournal and her blog to my blogroll, too.
    Already a BloodBank chickie, a buddy on Facebook, already put in my two cents for the shapeshifter and the new poll for next week. I have been a faithful subscriber to BBB for a goodly while.

    Dexter: You are a hero indeed to put up with Antoine the way you do, from the interview I can tell you are thoughtful and patient. I look forward to reading your adventures.
    Why do you let Antoine snuggle in your big bed? Do you prefer the floor?

    [Reply]



  26. Comment by MarnieColette — May 15, 2009 @ 10:45 am

    I loved this interview. Freaky friday’s are one of my favorite features. Thanks for stopping by Jeri and shedding some light on the importance of a great secondary character.

    Dexter - since you have canine teeth already when you go Vamp-Dog do they get more pointy? Are you also stuck in a particular time period? Sorry if this is answered in the series I am new and haven’t read your memoirs yet but I would love to hear it straight from the doggy’s mouth.

    Jeri- After reading your reviews my question is did you bring David into the picture because having a boyfriend that lives forever and is stuck in a particular time period might not be the best thing for a modern girl? Or are you thinking a possible triangle situation?

    I will share and share - myspace, FB and twitter.

    I voted - shapeshifter poll - Go Vane!!! - RSVP’d and I did attended.

    [Reply]



  27. Comment by Jeri Smith-Ready — May 15, 2009 @ 10:59 am

    Hi everyone! Thanks for your patience. Both Dexter and Antoine are nocturnal creatures (one because he’s a vampire and the other because he’s a cat), so it’s taken me a while to wake them up.

    First, Dexter will answer a few questions, then I’ll hand it over to Antoine. If anyone has a question for another character, I should be able to hunt them down to answer it. ;-)

    DEXTER’S RESPONSES:

    Rachel: Thanks for having me. Don’t anyone get mad, but now that I’m a, what do you call it, a vampire, the only thing I eat is dog blood. They give it to me in a bowl. I tried a couple of dog biscuits but they had no taste. I miss Meaty Bones dog biscuits.

    >>>(Jeri’s note: Dexter’s supply comes from doggy blood banks–yes, they do have those in real life!–so no dogs were harmed in the making of this book. Swear.)<<<

    You think I’m handsome? *wags tail so hard he knocks papers off coffee table* Thanks! You could probably find other dogs like me at the local animal shelter. They won’t be vampires, though.

    Nicole: The stuff I eat is boring, but my favorite treats are 1) lying on the couch with my head in Ciara’s lap watching Animal Planet, 2) long 3am walks through the neighborhood with Shane, 3) in the summertime, lying on my back under the ceiling fan

    Beet: My favorite toy is the little red dancing dot that appears on the floor and walls every once in a while. I haven’t caught it yet. I don’t know where it goes when it’s not here. Antoine likes that, too, and when we lived together sometimes we would try to get it at the same time and I would step on him and he would smack me in the face. Those were good times. Good times.

    Heather: Dogs like to dig holes because it’s fun. And dirt smells good, so when we come back inside, we can bring some of those good smells with us on our paws.

    Megan: Did Antoine tell you he doesn’t like me? *sighs and puts head on paws* I thought we were friends.

    Cinnamon: I don’t want to eat Antoine or any cat. I only want to eat dogs. I never get to do that, though, because Mommy (Ciara) is very cautious and Daddy (Shane) is very strong. So when they walk me they make sure no other dogs are out.

    ANTOINE’s TURN:

    Beet: Favorite human trick? Heh. Not to give away any trade secrets, but I particularly enjoy this ploy: While Human Pet is making a chicken or tuna sandwich, I go into the next room (or better yet, a room at the other corner of the house) and knock over something with many little pieces, such as the paper clip container or a cup of pencils. Then, while HP is picking them all up, sneak back to the kitchen and take my rightful share of chicken/tuna. These tricks are especially effective when one has a co-conspirator such as a dog. One can wreak havoc while the other grabs the food, and then afterward we share the spoils of our dastardliness.

    Stolen food is the tastiest. ;-)

    Lisa: The giving and receiving of affection involves a complex algorithm which I cannot expect mere humans to understand, as it involves fourth-dimensional numbers and equations. But it all comes down to messing up our fur. When your hair and makeup are perfect, do you appreciate having someone come along and ruin all your minutes–nay, hours–of hard work? I think not.

    [Reply]



  28. Comment by Jeri Smith-Ready — May 15, 2009 @ 11:19 am

    MORE FROM ANTOINE THE CAT:

    Megan: I don’t, as a rule, dislike Dexter muchly, provided he shows the proper deference to personal space, and reins in his seemingly irresistible need to roll in fox urine.

    Cinnamon: My favorite place to curl up is on David’s lap. There, I said it. *washes face to hide embarrassment*

    Kimberly: Humans do actually have a purpose beyond feeding and petting. Unfortunately, I have been given strict orders not to reveal the nature of that purpose.

    Fear not: the supreme Cat Goddess Bast will make things clear in good time. Meanwhile, I encourage you all to eat fattening foods.

    [Reply]



  29. Comment by Jeri Smith-Ready — May 15, 2009 @ 11:31 am

    DEXTER AGAIN:

    Kimberly: I love cats! They smell good. They’re soft. I wish Ciara and Shane would get me a friendly little cat who would curl up between my paws and purr while I give it a bath. I miss Antoine, even though he wouldn’t let me lick him.

    Bridget: I can’t read, so I would prefer to be read to. Sometimes Ciara reads to me. She has lots of vampire books, but none of them have vampire dogs so far. But to tell the truth, she could read the phone book and it would be just as nice, as long as she’s petting me.

    Nancy: These days I just drink blood, and in the old days I didn’t get many fancy treats, so I don’t know which ones are the best.

    But humans should know that just because a biscuit is shaped like a bone, doesn’t mean it tastes like a bone.

    Beet: It’s wonderful to be on the cover! I am not quite so scary-looking in real life. In real life I have floppy ears and am a little scrawnier (but really strong because of the vampire thing).

    Virginia: My favorite playtime activity is running after a ball and then wandering off to sniff bushes while the humans go get the ball and throw it again. That’s fun.

    Heather: Yes, I am available for scaring purposes. It would have to be at night, though. For some reason I’m afraid of the sun now.

    >>>
    Jeri here again. Be right back–I have to grab some human lunch real quick. Thanks for the great comments and questions, and for spreading the word!

    [Reply]



  30. Comment by Vickie B — May 15, 2009 @ 11:41 am

    Posted some comments, which I thought I’d done in the past when I saw the books up for review….sigh…blonde brain….., for several of Jeri’s books. Several have been on my Wanton Wantin’ Book List and now are highlighted for soonest get my next book buying foray…

    [Reply]



  31. Comment by Lyda — May 15, 2009 @ 11:57 am

    Hi Dexter and Antoine! Awesome interview.

    So Dexter, can you tell me why my pup won’t go to the bathroom outside? But prefers to do it on our carpet???

    And Antoine, why on earth do cats like to leave cat hair EVERYWHERE?

    [Reply]



  32. Comment by dd03 — May 15, 2009 @ 12:03 pm

    I have not read Jeri’s books, so I do not know the following.

    Dexter, how did you become a vampire dog? Do you recommend it for other dogs? My auntie has a chihuahua that is her life…I’d like her to have it always, but well, you know.

    p.s. for Rachel, I rsvp’d yesterday. I’ll be sure to twitter the link. Hopefully, I’ll get to blog it later.

    [Reply]



  33. Comment by Elie — May 15, 2009 @ 12:09 pm

    Dexter, when I RSVP’d for your interview the other day, I had no idea I’d be in for such a treat! I haven’t read you before, but I am wondering about your eh… condition. Does your prey become attached to you after you bite them?

    Thanks for spending time with us today, I can’t wait to read your books!

    [Reply]



  34. Comment by RebekahC — May 15, 2009 @ 12:12 pm

    Love the interview, Antoine and Dexter. I quite think you’d both be fun to have around. Dexter, I’d certainly allow you to be on my side any day of the week. You’re one mean mofo when you want to be, yet on the opposite side of the coin, underneath that rough, kinda scary exterior, you’re just as soft and sweet as a Peep!

    I guess my question is for you, Dexter… Do you wish you’d never been experimented on and, therein, turned? Or do you quite enjoy the life being a vampire now allows you?

    RebekahC

    [Reply]



  35. Comment by RebekahC — May 15, 2009 @ 12:13 pm

    I’m a friend of BBB on Facebook and Twitter!

    [Reply]



  36. Comment by RebekahC — May 15, 2009 @ 12:15 pm

    I’m friends with Jeri at all of the below.

    Newsletter: http://www.jerismithready.com/contact/
    Blog: http://www.jerismithready.com/blog/index.htm
    Website: http://www.jerismithready.com/
    Twitter: http://twitter.com/jsmithready
    Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=563690139

    [Reply]



  37. Comment by Medievalgrrl — May 15, 2009 @ 12:22 pm

    I RSVP’d on the 13th and came back today with a message from Merlyn (long haired black cat that doesn’t know he’s a cat and loves everyone and everything)to Dexter -letting him know that he is welcome to come and share his playroom and bed anytime. He doesn’t mind if your putrid, he’ll still love you. Willow, his tortie companion will be perched high on the shelf if you truly are putrid and will look down on you with disdain and Lola, the Great Dane will be afraid of you but still love too.

    Oh and Merlyn would like to answer Lyda’s question to Antoine. We leave hair everywhere so you will never forget we are always around and we are sharing our essence with you. Feel the love. And more importantly, because we can.

    [Reply]



  38. Comment by Heather — May 15, 2009 @ 12:23 pm

    Dexter, thanks for answering my questions - I’m sending lots of belly rubs!!! I know pups love that. :) I’ll contact you later about the scaring thing.

    [Reply]



  39. Comment by MJ — May 15, 2009 @ 12:26 pm

    Dexter, How do vampire dogs feed..only from other dogs???

    mj.coward[at]gmail.com

    [Reply]



  40. Comment by Cathy M — May 15, 2009 @ 12:34 pm

    Dexter and Antoine, who is your favorite human?

    [Reply]



  41. Comment by Cindy Bacon — May 15, 2009 @ 12:38 pm

    Haha that’s one interesting thread for sure!
    I’ll had these books to my amazon wish list (which is god damn to long!).

    [Reply]



  42. Comment by Jeri Smith-Ready — May 15, 2009 @ 1:18 pm

    ANTOINE’S TURN (MEOW):

    Beet: No tail? Oh my, that’s a tragedy. I’m sorry, I do wish I could help, but that’s just…has he considered getting a prosthetic tail?

    Shell: I can’t presume to know what transpires in the mind of the David Pet. He is a confused, restless man. From my (admittedly uninterested) observation, though, Shane has nothing to worry about. It’s very kind of you to offer to comfort him.

    As to why your cats don’t always use the litter box, perhaps they need an extra one? We cats prefer to have an extra on the side, so if you have two cats, logic prescribes three litter boxes. Then perhaps try a different litter in each to ascertain their preference. Best of luck to you.

    Lorraine: Cats will often turn around and bite when being petted because, frankly, the intimacy frightens us. We feel that tug of love, the pull of devotion that threatens our independence, and our insecurities make us lash out because deep down inside, we feel like we’re not worthy of such unconditional adoration.

    Ha, not really. We just don’t like our butts touched.

    Linda: A love interest? How ironic you should mention. There’s a certain cat who perpetually sits in the neighbor’s front garden. When I approach her, she never flees, but neither will she respond to my attentions. Her fur is cold as stone, and she never blinks, only stares, her paw lifted in an eternal grasping. What does she reach for? Alas, not me. I fear my love is unrequited.

    [Reply]



  43. Comment by Dianne — May 15, 2009 @ 1:43 pm

    I RSVP’d, added as a friend on facebook (Dianne Wickwire Barskey) and myspace (faerydreamer64). I signed on to the Blood Bank as Dianne Barskey.

    I just found this website. I have fallen in love with the wide spectrum of authors available.

    I cannot wait to see more of what Dexter and Antoine do next.

    I am sending lots of scritches to both of you. I hope that I can find a vampire dog for myself.

    Do either of you have any feelings on the plight of unwanted animals in this world? I personally love to take in birds (no Antoine you may not have one for dinner.)

    [Reply]



  44. Comment by Jeri Smith-Ready — May 15, 2009 @ 2:07 pm

    DEXTER AGAIN!

    Lorraine: I don’t know what a spoiler is, but it sounds bad. Unless it involves me getting spoiled by Ciara. BAD TO THE BONE, I think, is all about how I came to be with Ciara. We lived in a bunch of different places during the book, which I think might have been my fault. I don’t like landlords.

    Linda: I only have one love interest, and that’s Ciara. I’m not allowed to see other dogs, male or female, because I would eat them. :-(

    Cheryl: Antoine says he’s talking to his agent about writing a spinoff. He says I’ll get a one percent cut of the profits, which sounds great to me!

    Lesley: I’ll let Antoine answer the treat question, since I don’t get those anymore.

    Vickie: Why do I let Antoine snuggle in the big dog bed? Because he’s a cat. ‘Nuff said.

    MarnieCollette: Huh. Come to think of it, my fangs do seem sharper than before. Not that I get to use them much. I don’t know about time periods. Dogs don’t really follow fashions.

    Lyda: Sorry about your pup not being housebroken. Is he very young? Maybe he can’t hold it that long. Ciara uses something called “positive reinforcement”–she praises me when I do good things and tries to avoid situations where I might do a bad thing (like eat other dogs). So my advice would be to give your puppy lots of chances to go outside and then give him a treat or praise when he does what you want him to. Whatever you do, don’t rub his nose in it!

    dd03: I became a vampire dog in something called a “lab”–which is kind of confusing, because Ciara says I’m part lab, part Great Dane. So maybe I got the Lab part from being inside of one. What was the question?

    Elie: So far I haven’t had any prey. I get my blood from a bowl, and it comes out of little vials that Ciara takes from the fridge. Thank you for having me!

    Rebekah: I think it’s turned out pretty well. My life before the “lab” wasn’t very easy. And thank you for being so nice! *wags tail, gives virtual face licks*

    Medievalgrrl: Tell Merlyn thank you. It would be nice to know a friendly cat. *glares at Antoine*

    Heather: Thanks for the belly rubs! *kicks leg reflexively*

    MJ: Yep, I’m afraid so. But Ciara gets my blood from the bank so I don’t get to–I mean, have to bite other dogs.

    Cathy M: Ciara is my favorite human! Shane is a close second. He’s a vampire, so he understands me. Plus he’s awake at night so we hang out then, and sleep together during the day.

    I’ll go wake up Antoine now and see if he can answer more questions.

    [Reply]



  45. Comment by Jeri Smith-Ready — May 15, 2009 @ 2:17 pm

    ANTOINE AGAIN (SNARLS):

    Lesley: Favorite all-time treat? A tuna melt sandwich. OK, technically it’s a meal, but it’s a treaty meal.

    Lyda: We leave hair everywhere in the hopes that it will clog the vacuum cleaner. Vacuum cleaners are not conducive to naps.

    Cathy M: My favorite human is the one who invented the tuna melt sandwich.

    [Reply]



  46. Comment by Cheryl M — May 15, 2009 @ 2:21 pm

    Hi Dexter and Antoine,
    Do you guys watch TV or use a computer?

    [Reply]



  47. Comment by Nancy Gilliland — May 15, 2009 @ 3:33 pm

    Hi guys. I have a question for Antoine. Have you ever had a catnip obsession. My little lady kitty is hooked and I’d like to help her out.

    [Reply]



  48. Comment by Ashley Madden — May 15, 2009 @ 4:05 pm

    Hi Dexter and Antoine, welcome to BBB!

    How do you stand each other? lol You know, dogs say ‘Dogs rule, cats drool.’ And cats say the opposite, ‘Cats rule, dogs drool.’ Don’t you ever want to strangle each other?

    [Reply]



  49. Comment by Lori — May 15, 2009 @ 4:06 pm

    Don’t have any questions because exhaustion is taking over my brain tonight. Jut wanted to stop bye and say I LOVE YOU JERI!!!!!!

    [Reply]



  50. Comment by Ashley Madden — May 15, 2009 @ 4:10 pm

    Rachel,

    I voted in the Shapeshifter poll, I entered for the Kindle 2, I have friended BBB at Myspace and Facebook, I have BBB blogrolled at http://nightdweller20.wordpress.com and at http://nightdweller20.livejournal.com, I have Jeri’s website and blog blogrolled at both above blogs, and I am a member at The Blood Bank.

    [Reply]



  51. Comment by Guenivere — May 15, 2009 @ 4:30 pm

    Hey there Dexer and Antoine,

    I was wondering about the future beyond BAD TO THE BONE. Are there more books planned? Any release dates set?

    Hey Dexter, what do you think of the other DJs? Do you see them often? What about you Antoine? Any comments on the DJs?

    [I’m already following Jeri on Twitter and her blogs and I’m already signed onto the BBB newsletter. So…)

    [Reply]



  52. Comment by Lyda — May 15, 2009 @ 5:02 pm

    Thanks Medievalgrrl. LOL

    And thanks Dexter and Antoine. Love seeing things from inside the minds of animals lol.

    [Reply]



  53. Comment by Sara M — May 15, 2009 @ 5:12 pm

    Antoine, I was wondering, are toys with catnip better than toys without catnip?

    [Reply]



  54. Comment by Elisa Jankowski — May 15, 2009 @ 5:17 pm

    Dexter, I have three questions for you:

    1. how long will it take you to finally cave and eat Antoine. We know you want to… BTW, Alpo backwards is opla so if you don’t say it, David can’t execute you.

    2. why do you let Antoine take your doggy bed?

    3. what do *you* think of Ciara?

    [Reply]



  55. Comment by Janice — May 15, 2009 @ 5:19 pm

    I can’t believe I actually made it! I had RSVP’d but forgot I had to cook for a college Graduation Party today!
    Dexter, I have a couple of problem pooches,any suggestions on how to handle them? Oh yeah, 5 cats own me too….maybe that’s the problem- Overcrowding! I suppose you and Antoine have your moments too.
    Can’t wait to check out your books when life gives me a break from the madness!
    Have a great weekend.

    [Reply]



  56. Comment by Elisa Jankowski — May 15, 2009 @ 5:21 pm

    Oh, and I voted in the Shapeshift Vote Poll today :)

    [Reply]



  57. Comment by misskitty1923 — May 15, 2009 @ 5:36 pm

    I can’t wait to read the books you’ve written. Sadly my reading has gone by the wayside for the last month or so. But this interview has put your books at the top of my list!! Dexter and Antoine, so nice to have you here to talk to us today. I am owned by 6 cats, 1 husband and 1 teen daughter. But my furry owners are most important. Again, thanks for being here!

    [Reply]



  58. Comment by Heather C — May 15, 2009 @ 6:17 pm

    Contest-Keeping my fingers crossed for the books!!!

    2-done
    5-already a member
    6-done
    7-Facebook
    8-done for both facebooks, twitter, and good reads
    9-done everything but live journal & myspace
    12-done
    16-already a member

    i’m off to read reviews now. :)

    [Reply]



  59. Comment by Sonya Hucks — May 15, 2009 @ 6:20 pm

    What is your favortie food?

    [Reply]



  60. Comment by Heather C — May 15, 2009 @ 6:25 pm

    I hope both of you will come back again. I’ve had a blast talking to you. Very insightful. :)

    [Reply]



  61. Pingback by Book Giveaways: 05.11-05.17 | Morbid Romantic — May 15, 2009 @ 7:00 pm

    [...] Jeri Smith-Ready’s Wicked Game and Bad to the Bone at Bitten by Books Contest ends May [...]



  62. Comment by Valorie T — May 15, 2009 @ 7:06 pm

    2.) Dexter, what are your favorite treats? Antoine, what is the best thing a human can do for you to make you happy?

    6.) Voted in Shapeshifter poll.

    7.) Blogged: http://www.morbid-romantic.net/2009/05/11/book-giveaways-0511-0517/

    8.) Friends on Facebook, Good Reads, and Twitter.

    12.) Tweet: http://twitter.com/morbidromantic/status/1812655181

    14.) BBB is on my blogroll.

    15.) Member of The Blood Bank.

    [Reply]



  63. Comment by FantasyDreamer — May 15, 2009 @ 7:28 pm

    Hey Dexter, how are you? I just wanted you to know, I would allow you to sleep on my bed, stinky feet and all. I love dogs, a vampire dog would be so kewl especially since I’m a night person myself. :)

    I’ve read both WVMP books, they are awesome! I can’t wait for the next book.

    [Reply]



  64. Comment by Jeri Smith-Ready — May 15, 2009 @ 7:29 pm

    Hey everyone, it’s Jeri here (um, like it wasn’t before?). ;)

    I hope to return tomorrow morning before my booksigning, but right now my hands are about to fall off from typing, so I’ll just answer one more quick question then go practice my reading.

    Guenivere: There will be at least two more books following BAD TO THE BONE, coming out in 2010 and 2011. I don’t have exact months yet for the releases. My current plans are to have a total of five books in the series.

    Thanks to everyone who stopped by and commented! Sorry I don’t have more stamina today. :-)

    [Reply]



  65. Comment by Beverly G (USA) — May 15, 2009 @ 7:48 pm

    i rsped here i am sorry took so long

    so ANTOINE:ya sure Ciara cant be ur equal be a site to see but whats ur fav part of the new castle

    i signed up for the next event i hope iw in lol would be awesome

    [Reply]



  66. Comment by Caffey — May 15, 2009 @ 8:23 pm

    Hi Jeri!! I discovered your books with your series at Luna. I loved the world you developed Crow books. I’m looking forward to more of these from you! Do you have more books planned for Luna? I have WICKED GAMES here and can’t wait for BAD TO THE BONE. A great title for it!

    Thanks for all you do!
    PS BBB, I have the banner for BBB on my side of my blog and on my page on MySpace for those to click and come right here!
    http://caffeys-reads.blogspot.com
    http://www.MySpace.com/auntcaffey

    [Reply]



  67. Comment by Caffey — May 15, 2009 @ 8:25 pm

    Hi Jeri!! I discovered your books with your series at Luna. I loved the world you developed Crow books. I’m looking forward to more of these from you! Do you have more books planned for Luna? I have WICKED GAMES here and can’t wait for BAD TO THE BONE. A great title for it!

    Thanks for all you do!
    PS BBB, I have the banner for BBB on my side of my blog and on my page on MySpace for those to click and come right here!
    http : // caffeys-reads . blogspot . com
    http : // http://www.MySpace . com/auntcaffey

    [Reply]



  68. Comment by Caffey — May 15, 2009 @ 8:26 pm

    BBB, it wouldn’t post with links, so I had to put spaces on it to make it work, that’s why it looks like that, LOL

    Thanks again for today’s chat Jeri!

    [Reply]



  69. Comment by Seri — May 15, 2009 @ 8:35 pm

    Giggles~ This is just so cute!

    So, Dexter, do you secretly like the kitty?

    [Reply]



  70. Comment by Patricia Barraclough — May 15, 2009 @ 8:56 pm

    Dexter, did you think Ciara was going to get to you in time when you were chained to that cross?

    [Reply]



  71. Comment by Donna — May 15, 2009 @ 9:19 pm

    Hey, thanks for chatting with us today. Dexter, I cant wait to read more about your story. How are you liking the radio station? Really, who is your favorite DJ?

    ——-
    5 - already done
    6 - already done
    8 - already dont
    9 - Just friended on all
    16 - already done

    [Reply]



  72. Comment by Raonaid Luckwell — May 15, 2009 @ 10:14 pm

    - added her as a friend to livejournal (Morriga. The one with the Dev Peltier Stalker icon)
    - Bitten is permanently on my link thing on my blog
    - Twittered (raonaidluckwell)
    - put it on my facebook
    - Added it on my myspace’s b ullentin (visionarydruid)
    - added it to myspace blog

    [Reply]



  73. Comment by wanda flanagan — May 15, 2009 @ 10:34 pm

    Dexter I have a question why do dogs love to ride with their heads out of the car window but hate it if someone blows in their face?Is it a case of all humans breath smellingto dogs or what ?

    [Reply]



  74. Comment by Karin — May 15, 2009 @ 11:11 pm

    I love the interview! Dexter, what a way to be persistent in the face of Antoine’s attempt to get rid of you. It definitely paid off.

    [Reply]



  75. Comment by Trin — May 16, 2009 @ 12:18 am

    Antoine. . .Would you really share your stolen food with a dog like you said in a previous question or would you have something a bit more selfish in mind?

    [Reply]



  76. Comment by Venus — May 16, 2009 @ 5:37 am

    Dexter, can you make more Vampire animals?

    [Reply]



  77. Pingback by HURRY!!! Book Giveaway - Wicked Game & Bad to the Bone by Jeri Smith-Ready - Ends - 05-16-2009 11:59 PDT — May 16, 2009 @ 6:47 am

    [...] http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=7302 [...]



  78. Comment by Lisa Kessler — May 16, 2009 @ 8:35 am

    Ha! Very cute interview!!! :) Loved it!

    I already own WIcked game and all three Crow books, does that count? LOL

    Great interview Jeri!

    Lisa :)

    [Reply]



  79. Comment by Beet — May 16, 2009 @ 8:46 am

    6. WG and BTtB reviews commented on
    7. 13. 14. all can be found here http://beetsbooks.blogspot.com/

    [Reply]



  80. Comment by dorothy l — May 16, 2009 @ 9:44 am

    I have bittenbybooks on my blog roll http://www.luckyrosiescreations.blogspot.com/ con5459(at)gmail(dot)com

    [Reply]



  81. Comment by Heather C — May 16, 2009 @ 10:29 am

    Dexter and Antoine - do you think that you would do a better job of describing the action than Jeri? Do you want your own series? :)

    [Reply]



  82. Comment by Susan G — May 16, 2009 @ 11:54 am

    Antoine and Dexter: What is your idea of a perfect day?

    [Reply]



  83. Comment by Koren Cota — May 16, 2009 @ 10:49 pm

    Dexter who gives you good scritchies? I would if I could

    [Reply]



  84. Comment by Koren Cota — May 16, 2009 @ 10:51 pm

    Alpo backward = Opla…..Kinda close to Opa!…..Greek in anybody’s background?

    [Reply]



  85. Comment by Btchinheels — May 17, 2009 @ 10:28 am

    Dear Dexter, I suggest you do not worry about Antoine. Everyone knows how cats are. Do you have a favorite Vamp DJ or have you met them yet?

    [Reply]



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