Loading ...Interview and Contest With Author Helen Scott Taylor
A big welcome to our readers today! Be sure to read to the end of the interview to find out how to WIN the fabulous prizes being offered up. The contest is open to readers worldwide.
PLEASE NOTE: This is not a fixed time event, the post just goes live at 10:30am CDT. You can stop by any time during the day or evening and leave your questions and comments.
PLEASE KEEP SPOILERS TO A MINIMUM. Not all of the readers today have read the Magic Knot.
Interview:
Hi Helen!
Welcome to Bitten by Books, we are excited to have you here today!
I would like to thank you taking the time to join us for the question and answer session with our readers. It has been very interesting to get to know more about you and what makes you tick as a writer! Readers, if you haven’t done so already please stop by and get your copy of Helen’s book The Magic Knot.
BBB: What are the most challenging and the most rewarding aspects of writing?
HST: The most challenging aspects are all the non-writing parts such as the promotion, networking etc. The part I love and find most rewarding is actually writing the story. I love getting to know a new group of characters and watching them face challenges and find their happy ending.
BBB: I love the idea of the elements dictating human’s personalities. Where did the inspiration come from and which element do you think best describes your personality?
HST: In Astrology, each of the signs is related to either earth, air, fire or water. When I searched the Internet for information on how the elements relate to personality, I found many sites with information on this. The concept is embraced by many spiritual and alternative belief systems. When I took the elements quiz on my website, my element comes out as Air, which is right for me. I have my head in the clouds most of the time.
BBB: Do you have any plans to explore Rose’s mother’s story in future books?
HST: I haven’t thought about writing about Rose’s mother. She is rather a sad character and her life didn’t have a happy ending. She managed to take Rose away from her dangerous father, but she wasn’t a strong, determined character like Rose.
BBB: How do you keep track of your world building?
HST: My fantasy world is all in my head, and I don’t consciously keep track of it. I get ideas for characters, then make up my stories as I write. The world grows organically and develops to fit the characters as the story unfolds. I feel as though the world already exists, and I’m just writing about it.
BBB: What do you feel are the benefits of the new electronic readers such as Kindle or Sony Digital Reader to the environment?
HST: I have never used an e-reader. I haven’t even seen one up close. In the UK, we are way behind the USA in the use of electronic books. UK publishers are only just starting to think about this market, and I don’t know any UK publishers that produce their print books as ebooks yet. The UK Amazon doesn’t sell Kindle, and I’ve never seen an e-reader in the stores over here. Common sense suggests that producing paperless books must be better for the environment, but I admit, the idea of paper books disappearing and all books becoming electronic fills me with dismay.
BBB: What impact do electronic readers create on the bottom line for authors in the end? Do you feel they have a negative impact or positive, or no impact at all that you can see?
HST: I haven’t thought about this and don’t know how the rise of ebooks will affect authors. I suppose one of the main problems for authors and publishers is that ebooks are much easier to pirate and supply illegally with no recompense going to the author or publisher. I do like the idea that providing alternative delivery methods for fiction might bring in new readers.
BBB: Who or what inspires you to write?
HST: The characters inside my head who don’t leave me alone until I write their stories. (I’m not mad, honestly!)
BBB: Can you tell us what your next release (s) will be? And do you have stand alone or anthology titles forthcoming?
HST: My next release is the second in my Magic Knot Fairies series. The Phoenix Charm will be available in January 2010. This book is Michael’s story: the twin brother of the hero from The Magic Knot. When lovable rogue Michael is left in charge of his twin nephews, one of them is accidentally trapped in a gateway to the Underworld. The king of the Underworld demands Michael make the ultimate sacrifice to free the child, and only a woman’s love can call him back to life.
BBB: What inspired you to write about faeries?
HST: I love fantasy and paranormal stories, but I wanted to write about something other than vampires and shapeshifters that other authors have already done so well. When I first wrote The Magic Knot in 2006, fairies were still unusual in romance fiction, so they appealed to me. When I researched the myth and folk law about fairies, I discovered the fairy world includes many types of magic and creatures, and provided me with a wonderful starting point for my imaginary world.
BBB: So, I read in your bio that you have faced rats the size of cats and other creepy crawlies. Obviously rodents and bugs don’t scare you. What does?
HST: I hate small spaces. My ultimate nightmare is being buried alive. I also dislike snakes.
BBB: Outside of writing, what is the most interesting job that you have ever had?
HST: When I was at college, I used to help out at the local veterinarians in my summer break. I loved working with the animals. Although the first time I was present at an operation, I fainted!
BBB: If your book had a theme song, what would it be?
HST: “For You” by The Calling.
BBB: If you could pick one of your characters to have dinner with, who would it be and why?
HST: Michael O’Connor, a secondary character in The Magic Knot and the hero of The Phoenix Charm. He’s a charmer who tells tall tales, and enjoys life to the full. As my daughter says, he’d be fun to hang out with.
BBB: Have you found it difficult to get your books out to readers outside of the UK?
HST: Although I live in England, my publisher Dorchester is American, and they distribute in North America, Australia, and Europe. Readers everywhere should be able to get a copy of The Magic Knot from a local bookshop or from an on-line retailer such as Amazon or Barnes & Noble.
BBB: If you could shapeshift, what animal would you be? And why?
HST: I’d be a cat. I adore cats. My cat is sitting between me and my keyboard as I type. Cats are aristocratic, beautiful, and intelligent. I would love to write a cat shapeshifter book. Maybe one day…
BBB: What is your favorite book of all time?
HST: I like a variety of books and genres. I can’t begin to choose just one.
BBB: Where is the most beautiful place you have visited in the world?
HST: I thought about this question for a while and decided that the type of landscape I find most beautiful is mountains and valleys. This type of majestic landscape has an almost otherworldly feel and makes me realize how small and insignificant we humans are. Of the places I’ve visited, Scotland, Wales, Switzerland, and the Yosemite Valley came to mind. If I had to choose one place as my favorite, I’d go for Scotland.
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Learn more about Helen Scott Taylor here:
Read reviews of the author’s work here.
To visit the author’s website go here.
To visit the author’s blog go here.
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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. Helen will be giving away one AUTOGRAPHED copy of The Magic Knot
1. The easiest way to enter is by purchasing a copy of any of Helen’s book in any format! Yep, it is true, just use the link below or the BBB search box on the right hand side of the site to make your purchase during the contest. You will get SIXTY entries to the contest for EACH copy you purchase.
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 take the Elemental Quiz on Helen’s site here: http://www.helenscotttaylor.com/quiz/quiz.php?quiz=elements then leave a comment telling us what your element is. No element = no entries! You can come by through 5/19/09 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 5/19/09. 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. 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 5/19/09 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. 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. If you are already a subscriber, just let us know and you will get entries too. Good for 10 entries.
6. Some time today, go and vote in our new poll here: link coming soon 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. Use this direct link to the event:http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=7465 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 so we can verify your entries. Good for 25 entries per place you post the event link.
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! If you are already a follower, just let us know and you will get entries too. Good for 10 entries per place you friend us.
9. Be friends with Helen by joining her here:
Newsletter: There is a form on her main page scroll towards the bottom to sign up
Twitter: http://twitter.com/helenscotttaylo
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1017908954
Myspace: http://www.myspace.com/helenscotttaylorauthor
Shelfari: http://www.shelfari.com/helenscotttaylor
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1915619.Helen_Scott_Taylor
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 Helen’s book here:
http://bittenbybooks.com/?page_id=58&book_author_id=Helen%20Scott%20Taylor
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. 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! Tell us which ones you used. Good for 10 enters per place you share the event.
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=7465. Good for 10 entries each day you tweet it.
13. Add Helen’s website and blog to your blog roll or links page: http://www.helenscotttaylor.com
http://www.helenscotttaylor.com/blog/index.php Good for 10 entries for each place you post each link.
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 or this event on your blog there. If you are already a member post your page link in the comments and get your entries automatically. Good for 10 entries
GENERAL CONTEST INFORMATION:
The contest ends on 5/19/09 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. 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.
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
(3 votes, average: 5 out of 5)
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My element is fire.
Please enter me in the contest
[Reply]
Your Quiz Results:
Your element is Water
Water is the essence of love.
The river rushing onward to the sea represents perseverance and the courage needed to stay the course. You are the nurturer, the calm center of the family who supports loved ones to help them overcome obstacles, and conquer problems. When fire forces through change, you smooth the path, and sooth hurt feelings. Sensual, graceful, and often very beautiful, you have strong emotions, and love deeply. Your friends are likely to turn to you for advice on love and friendship. Feelings are made of the same stuff as water and ‘well up’ inside you. Tears spring from emotion and wash away hurt. Cleansing, healing, and psychic, you may be in the healing or caring professions. Taste pure water; listen to a babbling brook; feel the cool kiss of a mountain stream on your fingers. Your season is fall, your time of day the shadowy dusk.
hummm now who would of thought i would be a water sign with being a Pisces
lol
[Reply]
ooopppps meant element sign not water sign lol
[Reply]
Helen your books sound amazing. I love my vamps but always am up for a little bit of fae love as well. With you writing and living in England and your publisher in the States where do you find your largest fan base from.? I have heard from other authors that book signings and fan followings in the States are very different from those overseas…. do you find that this is true?
I have added you on Goodreads and FB.
Already a member of BBB and the Bloodbank!!
Thanks for coming out to the BBB birthday bash!!!
[Reply]
Sorry forgot to say that I am an earth element…. Mother Earth…. LOL
[Reply]
My element is Water, fasinating, since I have worked in health care for over 30 yrs. I can’t wait to read your book. I must cofess I have had it on my Amazon wish list for a long time, but haven’t yet put it in my cart. Looking at your web site and reading your interview here, has put your books on my top list of to buy. You said in your interview, that the world you put on paper, is built in your head, how do you separate the world built in your head, from every day reality, or do the two overlap?
will friend you on myspace and facebook soon
[Reply]
My element is water.
Hello Helen.
Love Mick and Jacca and I am glad that Mick is get his own hero story. Now for the strangest question you have ever been asked umm…do you like Cornish Pasty? if you do what do you like in them? Confession time, I lived and went to secondary school in Cornwall for three years.
7. 13. both added 14. all can be found here http://beetsbooks.blogspot.com/
6. will be done shortly, 10.done, 16. Must start using Blood Bank More.
[Reply]
Happy “official” birthday to Rachel and the gang at BBB!
I did RSVP, and here I am!
Hello to Helen, I took the quiz, my element is fire.
I posted a link to this interview on my FB page. I very much enjoyed it!
[Reply]
Hi Helen,
My element was earth.
Bridget
Posted link here:
http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=1084897775&ref=profile
http://www.myspace.com/bridgetlaprairie
http://bridget3420.blogspot.com
Following Helen on Twitter
Added as a friend on Facebook
Added as a friend on GoodReads
Added as a friend on Myspace
Tweeted interview & contest & asked to RT
BBB already on my blogroll
[Reply]
Hi Helen!!! Thanks for stopping by. My element is water, which works since I’m a fishie (Picses). My current reading list includes vamps, weres, ghosts, and I’m always looking to learn about a new culture.
With promoting your work, do you find yourself traveling in the states alot, or have you been using more digital media…like this interview?
[Reply]
Eee! My element is water! Which makes sense because that is exactly what I find myself doing all the time. I usually come up as water anytime I take these things- cooky considering I’m a fire sign!
Anywho.
This series sounds really interesting. I love faery stories. And your blurb about the next book just makes me all tingly wantin to read it! I’ll have to pick up the first one.
[Reply]
Hi Helen. Your book sounds great. I took the quiz and my results are:
Your element is Fire
Fire brings spark to life.
Flames leap toward the sky, the driving force to manifest a new idea. Fire embodies passion, enthusiasm and desire. You are quick and bright, but often emotionally volatile. Air conceives new ideas, you implement them, pushing through changes that others resist. Forceful and highly opinionated, you often think you know best and your strong will ensures people listen, and follow your lead. You may be called ‘hot blooded’ or ‘a hothead’ and could be involved in matters of discipline and conflict. Smell the smoke from a fragrant candle; feel the sun on your face; lay your hand against a warm rock, or gaze into a dancing flame. Your season is summer and your time of day the bright hour of noon.
[Reply]
My element is fire! I am a Leo thru and thru
BBB is on my blog roll on wp and google rach!
http://nicholandria.wordpress.com
I have done EVERYTHING except buy from the cafe press store for Kindle contest!
Helen,
Thank you so much for being here! What is your element?
[Reply]
Count me in! My element is Water! Cool.
loony_balooga_91@hotmail.com
[Reply]
Hi Helen!
Welcome to BBB! What a great interview! Thanks for stopping by!
Your element is Water
(Rach-twittered, FB, Mark, Dakota and JAPM groups, BBB on blog roll, friended BBB everywhere, etc etc. LOL)
[Reply]
Hi Helen and Rachel! Antoher terrific interview with another of my favorite authors. Monday is good!
No need to enter me in the contest. I adored The Magic Knot, and am eager for The Phoenix Charm!
I am the Water Element - and love that you have the quiz on your web site, Helen!
Light,
Nancy Haddock
[Reply]
Water is the essence of love.
The river rushing onward to the sea represents perseverance and the courage needed to stay the course. You are the nurturer, the calm center of the family who supports loved ones to help them overcome obstacles, and conquer problems. When fire forces through change, you smooth the path, and sooth hurt feelings. Sensual, graceful, and often very beautiful, you have strong emotions, and love deeply. Your friends are likely to turn to you for advice on love and friendship.
Sounds right
[Reply]
Oh my goodness. I just took the quiz and I always thought I was air (I’m a Gemini) but based on the quiz my element is Earth and when I read it most of it fits me perfectly.
I have posted a link to this site and contest on my blog page and I follow your blog so it pops up on my blog page when you open it.
http://habrewer.blogspot.com/
And I twittered it @habrewer
This book sounds really good. I have some celtic background in our family and it has always interested me in the legends.
Also bought 2 ebooks for my Kindle by Jaci Burton. Will email receipts. I bought them separately but off of the same search.
Heather Brewer
[Reply]
Helen the moment I seen your book I knew I wanted to read it. At the time, I didn’t have the money to buy it when I seen it at Walmart * pouts* Dang bills. When I did, Walmarts didn’t have it. (I don’t buy things on-line). I’m gonna pester the hubs to take me to Borders sometime so I can buy it.
* Your Quiz Results: Your element is Earth. Earth is the mother.
Earth is the foundation of life, solid, stable, and fertile, the element of birth and renewal. All material fruits of life spring from earth. You are steady, grounded and generous, with your feet firmly on the ground. You’re not a dreamer, but in touch with the physical world. The element of prosperity and business, you work hard with a close eye on your pocketbook, and there is usually plenty of money in there. Friends may come to you for financial advice, as you always seem to have the best and know where to find a bargain. Confident and steadfast, you’re in for the long haul. A strong instinct for survival makes you an excellent protector, and provider of food, shelter, warmth and security. Earth people often like working on the land or gardening. Feel the solidity of a standing stone beneath your hand, sit in a garden and absorb the energy of the growing things around you, plunge your hands into the rich soil. Secrets whispered to you in the night will go no further. Your season is winter, and your time of day the still quiet of midnight.
* When I’m finished here and the poll is up, you can safely be assured I’d vote! Sorry I missed any while I was netless.
* Adding her to my twitter friends (RaonaidLuckwell)
* Twittered it!
* Friended her on facebook (Rachel Flesher)
* Mentioned this on facebook
* Added her on myspace (visionarydruid)
* Added something about the contest on my myspace blog
* Added something about the contest on my myspace bullentin
* Added her on Shelfari (Raonaid Luckwell) - Though I rarely use Shelfari. Still trying to figure it out
* Became a fan and friended Helen on Goodreads (Raonaid)
* Bitten is a permanent link in my Blog’s links
* Added Helen’s web and blog to my link on blogspot
* Shared this on facebook
* Posted something on this on my Blogspot http://visionarydruid.blogspot.com/
* I’m post something about this on JohannaLindsey yahoo groups and bookworms and any others I can remember.
* I’m gonna email Lillie, Keeshe, and some other friends about it.
[Reply]
Hi Helen
I am Water. I had the great honor to review your book and fell in love with it. I am glad to hear that there will be another one. How many do you plan on writing? Hopefully alot. Love the pic of the fairy brooch.
Robin P
robinky42@yahoo.com
[Reply]
Hi, Helen. I’ve not yet read you book but will be getting it! Sounds terrific.
Questions: Do your characters sometimes fight with you to make the story head in a direction other than what you planned? How often do they win?
BBB is permalinked at The Qwillery (http://qwillery.blogspot.com). I’ve sent a friend request on FB to Helen. Already follow BBB on FB. Took the quiz and My Element is fire, which is totally appropriate for me.
[Reply]
Forgot to mention, a friend sends em the coverflats she wins and The Magic Knot was among them. Beautiful!
Oh I also sent a notice about this contest to these following yahoo group, so when I get the digests I’ll forward them: , , we_love_lisa_kleypas@yahoogroups.com, Christina_Dodd_Fans@yahoogroups.com, juliaquinnreadinggroup@yahoogroups.com, league_of_kinley_macgregor_fans@yahoogroups.com… more
[Reply]
I’m so glad I RSVP’d for this interview. I am excited to read your book! I took the quiz and my essence is water. I am the essence of LOOOOVVVVEEE!
How much research does it take to complete your book? I see your sequels are going to take place in Wales and Scotland. Do you get to travel much?
[Reply]
Your element is Water
Water is the essence of love.
I have requested her on Facebook and will send the conf. once I get it.
[Reply]
Hi Helen. I adored the Magic Knot and cannot wait for the Phoenix Charm. My element was water but I don’t fit the description completely. I am a Scorpio and tend to be somewhat dramatic although I am definitely a nurturer.
[Reply]
Your element is Water. -you may be in the healing or caring professions.
Very accurate. That was fun!
Raonaid Luckwell told me about the contest.
[Reply]
Please enter me.
My element is water.
[Reply]
Hi Helen! Love your stories.
My element is earth.
Posted permanent link here: http://angel-on-a-move.blogspot.com/
[Reply]
2) My element is Air.
MySpaced, Facebooked, Twittered
5) done
6) linked on Facebook
7) MySpaced, Facebooked, Twittered
9) MySpaced, Facebooked, Twittered
11) MySpaced, Facebooked, Twittered
12) done
13) Facebooked
14) Facebooked
16) done
[Reply]
Hi Helen! Great interview, I’m definitely going to be on the look out for The Magic Knot. My element is water; makes sense since I live in Nova Scotia, surrounded by the Atlantic ocean!
[Reply]
My element is Fire.
I’m a friend on facebook
I RSVP’d for this interview.
[Reply]
My element is water, which kind of suits me. Thanks!
[Reply]
Hi Helen,
Just popping in to say hello. I love The Magic Knot. Well done, my friend.
[Reply]
Hi Shell,
As my publisher is in the States, my book (soon to be books!) is distributed most widely there, so that is where most of my readers are. I have had emails from readers in Australia, Germany, and the UK as well. I have only done one book signing in the States–at the Romantic Times Convention in Orlando a few weeks ago. That was a blast! The paranormal romance genre isn’t nearly as popular in the UK as it is in America. We are behind you guys!
Helen
[Reply]
Hi Lorraine,
“how do you separate the world built in your head, from every day reality, or do the two overlap?”
I do walk around with my head in the clouds most of the time. The trouble is I’m usually brewing at least three or four stories in my head at one time. I don’t get them muddled with reality, though I do get a bit absentminded!
Helen
[Reply]
YAY!! My element is fire!! Woo hoo!
I RSVPed and here I am!
I also commented on the review of The Magic Knot. It sounds absolutely fascinating!
[Reply]
Hi Beet,
“Now for the strangest question you have ever been asked umm…do you like Cornish Pasty? if you do what do you like in them? Confession time, I lived and went to secondary school in Cornwall for three years.”
I like some Cornish pasties. Depends on the make. Some are dreadful–full of just potato and gristle. Some are yummy with steak and stilton, or other tasty recipes. I also prefer flaky pastry.
I’m glad you like Michael. I had so much fun writing his story as he is such a rogue. He had to shape up and be sensible for a while. I actually had no idea how amazing Michael was going to turn out to be until I wrote his story. He is full of surprises!
Helen
[Reply]
Hi Heather,
“With promoting your work, do you find yourself traveling in the states alot, or have you been using more digital media…like this interview?”
Before I started writing, I had never visited the States. Now I have a critique partner in Florida and one in Toronto and friends all over America, Canada, and Australia through writing. The last couple of years I’ve visited the States twice a year and loved every moment. My latest visit was to Orlando for the RT Convention. So much fun! I do suffer from jet lag, though.
Helen
[Reply]
Hi Nicole,
My element is air and that definitely suits me as I have my head in the clouds most of the time.
Helen
[Reply]
Hi Robin,
I’m planning five in the series about the Magic Knot fairies. The second is Michael’s as I mentioned in the interview. The third will be about Nightshade/Jacca (set in Scotland), the fourth about Troy, and the fifth about an Arabian Djinn character that I introduce in the Phoenix Charm. Funny, I had no plans to create another character who’d have his own story. The Djinn just walked into The Phoenix Charm and demanded I pay attention to him.
Helen
[Reply]
Helen - thank you for stopping by. I am always excited when there is an author that I am not familiar with you pops in for an interview. Your stories sound amazing and I do love faeries.
My element is Earth.
I am a friend of BBB on like everything!
I RSVP’D for this interview.
I have added her on Twitter. (RaonaidLuckwell) - will send confirmation when I get it Rachel!
I will be back to do the rest - work is calling!
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Hi Qwill,
“Questions: Do your characters sometimes fight with you to make the story head in a direction other than what you planned? How often do they win?”
I don’t plan my stories ahead, so the story always goes the way the characters want it to. Much easier than fighting with them. Some of them are very determined, so I probably wouldn’t win!
Helen
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Okay I didn’t add Helen — but I hope I get points for adding other commentators - see this is what I get when I try to multitask at work.
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Hi Elie,
“How much research does it take to complete your book? I see your sequels are going to take place in Wales and Scotland. Do you get to travel much?”
I usually do general reading on myths and folk law to give me ideas for a starting point, then my world develops from there. I’ve visited Cornwall and live in South West England, so the research was minimal for that setting. My husband and I visited Ireland as research for The Magic Knot as the characters visit the Irish fairy queen in the Wicklow Mountains. I didn’t need to visit Wales, where much of The Phoenix Charm is set, as I’ve been there many times. I am going on vacation to Scotland this summer in preparation for writing my third story about Nightshade. Looking forward to that. Hope it doesn’t rain all the time!
Helen
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My element is Earth. Not surprising…I’m an ecologist! : )
I have now added BBB and Helen as friends at Goodreads. I have also posted a link to BBB at my webpage: http://www.geocities.com/tlanphere/index2.htm#read (scroll down a little) as well as on the sidebar of my LiveJournal (http://ecogryff.livejournal.com/).
Question: Helen, you said that it’s the characters in your head that make you write. Makes sense to me. Do you ever get characters in there who you actually dislike and have to write them just to get them out?
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very interesting interview =)
I am fire. But I don’t quite recognize myself in the description =P
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Oh, I’m Water! I’m definitely a water person so I’m happy with that!
I’m already a subscriber.
I’ll vote in the poll when I find it!
I entered the Kindle 2 contest!
Post on my sidebar and soon in my contest list! - http://ajourneyofbooks.blogspot.com
I have you friended in all those spots.
Friended Helen in all those spots!
Author website and blog added.
You’re already in my blogroll!
Cinnamon B!
ajourneyofbooks-at-gmail-dot-com
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Hi Helen,
Thanks for joining us today and for the great interview.
I am the element Earth.
Helen if you could meet one person past or present who would it be, and what burning question whould you ask them?
ann marie b
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My element is earth.
I tweeted about this also.
http://twitter.com/BookingKitten22
BookCrossingKitten22[at]gmail[dot]com
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Hi Helen, So good to see you at RT! Just wish I’d remembered to bring my copy of TMK for you to sign! LOL Took the quiz, and no surprise, I’m Earth. Looking forward to seeing you again either at RWA or RT next year - haven’t decided which one I’ll be going to just yet. Best, Cai
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Hi Tania,
“Question: Helen, you said that it’s the characters in your head that make you write. Makes sense to me. Do you ever get characters in there who you actually dislike and have to write them just to get them out?”
I’ve never writen characters to get them out of my head. Although that would work, as once I’ve written their stories they tend to leave me alone–or they do so far. The nasty characters are usually quite interesting to mull over. One of the worst was the Irish fairy queen in The Magic Knot. Actually, she is still in my head as she will be back in Troy’s book. I do have characters I like whose books I’d like to write, but haven’t got around to yet. They came back to me periodically to remind me they are still there waiting.
Helen
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Hi Helen!
My question is, what kind of cahracters do you like to write more? Women or men, good guys or bad guys? Combinations?
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My element is Earth. That is actually very close to my own sense of the elements. When I was younger, I was definitely fire and I felt a great affinity for it. I’ve never been comfortable in water (too emotional) and not in air (too intellectual), but Earth is definitely my comfort zone for creating, listening, studying, teaching and mothering.
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Hi Ann Marie,
“Helen if you could meet one person past or present who would it be, and what burning question whould you ask them?”
That’s an interesting question. I think I’d like meet some of the early explorers who helped map out the world we have today. I’d ask them what they thought of the places they discovered.
Helen
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Helen,
I guess the bad guys would be interesting! Thanks.
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Hi Seri,
“My question is, what kind of cahracters do you like to write more? Women or men, good guys or bad guys? Combinations?”
I don’t know why, but I prefer to write male characters. The only women in my books tend to be the heroines. All the secondary characters are male. I’m writing a YA paranormal mystery at the moment, and the main character is a fifteen-year-old boy who’s the son of a Celtic god (although he doesn’t know that yet) and I love writing him. I like writing the bad guys and the good guys. Its actually fun being able to write the bad guys because they don’t have to be heroic.
Helen
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Thank you to everyone who has read my interview and stopped by and commented. I’m glad you’re enjoying the quiz. It’s 11pm here in England, so I’m going to bed. I’ll check back and answer any more questions when I wake up in the morning.
Helen
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My element is WATER
Usually I like Fire but Water and Love goes well. LOL.
I figured I love survives like those so I am happy to try it out and comment.
Also Raonaid Luckwell told me to come here and give her luck in the contest.
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Your Quiz Results:
Your element is Water
Water is the essence of love.
The river rushing onward to the sea represents perseverance and the courage needed to stay the course. You are the nurturer, the calm center of the family who supports loved ones to help them overcome obstacles, and conquer problems. When fire forces through change, you smooth the path, and sooth hurt feelings. Sensual, graceful, and often very beautiful, you have strong emotions, and love deeply. Your friends are likely to turn to you for advice on love and friendship. Feelings are made of the same stuff as water and ‘well up’ inside you. Tears spring from emotion and wash away hurt. Cleansing, healing, and psychic, you may be in the healing or caring professions. Taste pure water; listen to a babbling brook; feel the cool kiss of a mountain stream on your fingers. Your season is fall, your time of day the shadowy dusk.
im already ya friend on goodreads myspace and face book adding Helen
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Great Interview. I have wanted to get this book, it’ll definately be on the list for the next trip to the store.
#2-Your element is Water
Water is the essence of love.
#5-Already a subscriber of the newsletter
voted in the poll
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My element is Earth, the mother. This reminds me to go home and put the book on the top of my TBR!! I hope you are never stuck in a small room with snakes! LOL!
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My element is Fire. What? Me hot headed? Definitely not! Let’s step outside to settle this. Opinionated? Guilty!
Thanks for the quiz and the interview, Helen. Glad to learn about your books and eager to read about the Piskies.
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I have been a scriber to BBB for a while now, I voted in the poll (Cat & Bones, TYVM), I’ve friended on facebook with BBB, Shared ths post at Livejournal and facebook, and am a member of the Blood Bank http://bittenbybooks.ning.com/profile/NancyGilliland
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Oh yeah, I forgot: I am Earth (SAT)
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My sign is Fire. I couldn’t believe how accurate that description is of my personality.
I would like to congratulate you on all your awards and say how good it is to see a British author being interviewed in here . After reading the blurb on your book I shall definitely be looking out for it.
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Okay, addition to my earlier entry. I voted in the poll.
Also, Helen - out of curiousity, how do you come up with your titles? That’s one that I’ve always wondered about.
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Hello, Helen. I am intrigued by the fairy story idea! I do intend to try out your book. I bought a lovely book not long ago, Faeries, by Brian Froud and Alan Lee and found learning about fairy rings and toadstools and, oh, just everything, such fun. In fact, you are inspiring me to leave the Old West and finish the wip I started back then LOL.
Best of luck with your books,
~Tanya Hanson
http://www.tanyahanson.com
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2. Took the quiz before reading the interview. I’m an Earth. The description is pretty close.
6. Voted in the poll (Vane and Bride) and said what I’d do for a Kindle.
10. Read the review. Am still looking for the place to comment. Read an excerpt of this book a while ago. The characters and plot were well established early on. Will go back to the review page and try to find the place to post.
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I took the quiz. I got Air. I like the description.
I’d like to add that I already have an autographed copy of the book, so I’m trying for the brooch
Rachel,
We’re friends on Myspace and Facebook, I have BBB blogrolled at http://nightdweller20.livejournal.com and at http://nightdweller20.wordpress.com, and I am a member of The Blood Bank.
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10. Found the review section and left a comment.
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Oh yeah, and I entered the Kindle 2 contest.
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My element is Fire! Fire brings spark to life.
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This is to Rachel - Happy OFFICIAL Birthday, BBB! May each year get better and better!
Light,
Nancy Haddock
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Hi Helen! So nice to meet you! I so love reading fantasy romances! I discovered them in ebooks and so thrilled to find now more are in print and coming out! I read very few with faeies so I am excited about yours! (I thought your first book would be part of the bookclub at Dorchester mailing book but it wasn’t so I didn’t get it yet). I have to change that soon! How many books do you plan for this series? ARe there other fantasy themes or legends and the like that you would like to write?
By the way I love cats too! I have two and they’re always with me and really do read my emotions!
Cathie
PS I have the BBB on my blogs/site at:
http://www.caffeys-reads.blogspot.com (icon to here!)
http://www.myspace.com/auntcaffey (icon direct to here!)
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[...] Helen Scott Taylor’s The Magic Knot at Bitten by Books Contest ends may [...]
My element is Water, I really liked the imaginative questions,
I tweeted you- faith42love
I BBB on my blogroll
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I’m Earth
i think i RSVP
I went to bbb blod sway shop and got some button but the receipt is not in my mial yet.
got there news letter sent to me do not have a receipt for that yet.
voted on the polls on saturday.
blog about this on myspace the url is myspace.com/sasluvbooks
but nuber 13 and 14 there.
you have been my friend on my space for a long time.
sasluvbooks@yahoo.com
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Hi MarthaE,
“I hope you are never stuck in a small room with snakes! LOL!”
Yikes–don’t even joke about it. Gives me the creeps just thinking about it. I keep thinking I should have a heroine who’s frightened of snakes. Or even more fun, maybe a hero.
Helen
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Hi Cinnamon,
“Also, Helen - out of curiousity, how do you come up with your titles? That’s one that I’ve always wondered about.”
I usually start a book with an idea of the title, but it often changes before I finish writing. I decided on The Magic Knot title before I wrote the book while I was doing research. When I read that a Magic Knot is thought to hold the essence of mind, body, and spirit, the idea fascinated me. I thought what a wonderful way of lovers committing to each other by exchanging Magic Knots. The Phoenix Charm title was decided in discussions with my editor after I’d finished the book. I knew I wanted the word Phoenix in the title and we tossed around ideas and came up with Charm, which works well.
Helen
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Hi Caffey,
Dorchester told me The Magic Knot was sent out to book club subscribers. So I’m not sure why you didn’t get it.
“How many books do you plan for this series? ARe there other fantasy themes or legends and the like that you would like to write?”
I have five books planned in this series. The second due out in Jan 2010 is about Michael. The third will be Nightshade’s book. There are many ideas floating around in my head. I have an idea for cat shapeshifters, which I might have written already but for the fact there are so many shapeshifter books out there. I have a completely original idea for my next series. I like to create unique worlds that no one else has done.
Helen
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Well, I’m late to the party (as usual)! LOL
Hey Helen,
I don’t want to read too much about this book because I just received it as a gift and I haven’t read it yet. I don’t want to see any spoilers. I’m so looking forward to reading it. I belong to Celtic Heart Romance Writers group and I sponsored a St. Patty’s Day gift exchange. The only rule was that the gift had to be “green”, of course! I got your book! How lucky am I?
Took your quiz and I’m Earth “the Mother”! Wow, how wonderful to know. I guess it figures since I have 3 children. LOL I’m off to read more about my elemental sign. Thanks for a cool quiz!
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I RSVP’d last week and just took the quiz. My element is Water. And I’m already friends with Helen on Myspace
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Hello there! I took the quiz, and I’m Earth! This is not a surprise for me, but the quiz is really fun. This author is definitely on my “Best” list.
And yes, I’d like to read everything!
Have a nice day. Friday
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Helen I knew before I took the quiz I’m Water I am on myspace and facebook also on twitter but I’m not sure how that one works. I’m A technotard,but I’m having fun learning. I’m also a member of FTHRW look forward to talking with you. Your books sound intriguing,I will pick one up soon. I love the idea of the Magic Knot. You are the first person to inspire me to blog, I love Fantasy and Paranormal
Mary A
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i am water
ginnn7[at]yahoo[dot]com
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i subscribe
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Thank you to everyone who read my interview and left a comment. And thank you Rachel for having me on BBB!
Helen
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Great interview Helen, and I loved The Magic Knot. Knew my element would turn up as Earth. Did the poll, subscriber.
Hey Cathie, I got Helen’s book from the Lovespell Club. Maybe you’re in the Historical one instead?
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Great interview. I cant wait to read The Magic Knot it sounds really good.
Interesting quiz. I really didnt know how it would turn out but I ended up with:
Your element is Water
Water is the essence of love.
The river rushing onward to the sea represents perseverance and the courage needed to stay the course. You are the nurturer, the calm center of the family who supports loved ones to help them overcome obstacles, and conquer problems. When fire forces through change, you smooth the path, and sooth hurt feelings. Sensual, graceful, and often very beautiful, you have strong emotions, and love deeply. Your friends are likely to turn to you for advice on love and friendship. Feelings are made of the same stuff as water and ‘well up’ inside you. Tears spring from emotion and wash away hurt. Cleansing, healing, and psychic, you may be in the healing or caring professions. Taste pure water; listen to a babbling brook; feel the cool kiss of a mountain stream on your fingers. Your season is fall, your time of day the shadowy dusk.
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Thanks for inviting me! I enjoyed the interview, Helen. Good luck on your book, The Magic Knot. Did I see you at the RT Conference this year in Orlando? I’m a member of FF&P as well. It’s great to meet you.
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