Bitten by Books
Bad, Bad, Angels: So, So Good
Angels have long intrigued romance readers. What’s a better example of tension and conflict than a heavenly creature succumbing to human weaknesses? When depicted with recognizably human failings, I think a love story with angels in the center ratchets up.
In my novel, Angel Lover, I wanted readers to question what had always been the norm-that angels are automatically the good guys. There are three types in my Angel Assassins series: Heaven’s pure, white-winged beings; the fallen, black-winged Renegades; and the half-angel/half-human Nephilim, wingless offspring of the fallen.
The actions of the three groups proved none were infallible. Even my heroic Nephilim, Kasdeja, made dark choices that brought pain and suffering to others. Yet it’s his initial attraction to Mariel-and then his fully-realized love for her-that made him one of my favorite characters to write. If I had to choose between writing any other mythical species or writing angels/nephilim, the “holy” rollers would win every time.
Buy a Kindle copy of Angel Lover from Amazon by clicking here. – Only $3.99!
Books in the Angel Assassins series in the order they should be read:
Angel Kin
Angel Lover - Only $3.99!
About Tricia Skinner
Author Bio:
Tricia Skinner writes passionate dark fantasy. She’s a newbie “green” practitioner, strength training enthusiast, and a technology geek. She is a mother and a wife. Her family includes three Great Danes. She’s also a gamer. Trish is represented by Laurie McLean of Fuse Literary Agency.
Connect with Tricia
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Who are some of your favourite authors?
Hey Minna,
JR Ward, Kresley Cole, Patricia Briggs, Robin L. Latham. I could list most of the authors of PNR and UF, honestly. I love to read. Do you have a favorite?
Some of my favourites are Nora Roberts/J.D. Robb, David and Leigh Eddings (fantasy), Cindy Specer Pape (steampunk), Gini Koch (aliens) and Jax Garren (steampunk).
I still remember when I first read “The Diamond Throne” by Eddings. Blew. My. MIND! Looks like I’ll have to pick up Koch as well. I’m on an “aliens” kick at the moment.
David Eddings! Ex-friend’s mother had sent me the Belgariad series. I was hooked. That woman also got me hooked On Mercedes Lackey’s Valdemar world. Yes, I am a big fantasy lover…
I LIVE!
If you could only give ONE piece of advice to newbie authors and writers, what advice do you think is the most important one to give?
The Pros of being a writer. The Cons…
Hey Raonaid,
Let’s assume a noob writer has heard all the standard advice (“Write every day! Never give up, never surrender!”). My tidbit is, “Don’t lose you.”
This is a weird career path. No one can make you successful, and no one can guarantee anything. While you’ll have good and bad times, the most important lesson I’ve lean red so far is NOT to lose myself in the process. That means I try to manage my hope and disappointment, and I try to remember what I love about writing when times get hard.
Which angels from TV, movies, or novels other than the Angel Assassins do you love? Some of my favourite angels are from books written by Cynthia Eden, Cassie Miles (the Impostor) Dana Marie Bell, Kerrelyn Sparks (Vampire Mine) and Stacy Gail.
Do you like angels to be good, or a little bad? Well, maybe not exactly bad, but rather as the kind of angels who do what they feel is right -even if it gets them kicked down to earth.
Yay for angels who do what is right, no matter the personal cost. All that conflict, all that uncertainty. I love it. It’s as if the character tortures himself or herself. I don’t have to do much.
Do you have a fave angel from TV or a movie? I love Castiel from Supernatural.
Not really. I remember I liked Highway to Heaven when I was a kid and later Touched by an Angel (in that one I liked the angel of death), but would I like them now… I don’t know. I’ve found that sometimes the TV series I once liked no longer seem as good as they once did.
HAhahaha! HIGHWAY TO HEAVEN! Minna! No!
Would you prefer to be a pure angel, a fallen angel, or a Nephilim?
— Hrm, tough call. It’s a toss up between fallen angel or Nephilim. I don’t think I would enjoy the restrictions on being a pure angel..
Which angels from TV, movies, or novels other than the Angel Assassins do you love?
—- The first three Prophecy movies! Christopher Walkens did a brilliant job in those movies. You just couldn’t help but hate him… And Viggo Mortensen as Lucifer. Rawr. Glen Danzig played an unknown angel and I think. Eric Roberts plays Michael.. I did enjoy Cynthia Eden’s Angel series.. and gotta love Larissa Ione’s angels in her Four Horsemen series. Rawr! There is another series that deals with angels and demons but I’m blanking on. it was good. And I don’t have my book program up and running… Although, came to think of it, there was a movie called Gabriel that was pretty bad ass…
Do you like angels to be good, or a little bad?
—- Being good or a goodie-goodie is too bland and boring. Guess, a little corruption, a little bad spices things up. LOL.
And I CANNOT believe I forgot about Nalini Singh’s Guild Hunter books. I LOVE Her angels… I want Bluebell. She helped inspire the winged elves in my WIP
JR Ward has an angel series, as well as Gena Showalter. Hell, if someone has wings, grew wings, found wings, or ate chicken wings, I’ve probably read it.
For some reason J.R. Ward fell out of favor with me. I use to love her Black Dagger books… But the ending of Viscious’s book disappointed me, and then the following books after that just lacked what the first three had that drew me in. I just stopped reading her…
Now Gena Showalter, I enjoy! Sadly I am behind on her books. LOL. Now Larissa Ione writes some irresistible angels. Once I finish the book I’m reading to write up a review, I want to jump into her REVENANT. That is if more review books don’t show up.
I think Ward’s world building grew so large she had little choice but to expand into areas that didn’t include the brotherhood that had sucked us all in. I do miss the earlier books, and I have her to thank for showing me a different type of a well-known paranormal creature isn’t always a bad thing.
Thea Harrison and Kresley Cole I adore for the different types of paranormal creatures: harpies, Valkyries, thunderbirds, gryphons… I like the ones that are not commonly used… but then I love elves (give me drows!)
1. Hahaha. I’ll be stunned if anyone says they want to be an angel and follow the rules!
2. HOLY CRAP! I LOVED the Prophecy films! Viggo playing Lucifer was HOT! That did not make me want to stay out of Hell, lol! Nalini Singh’s Guild Hunter series is bad-ass ( a must-read for angel lovers<—-See what I did there? Ha!). You're only missing Castiel, Gabriel, Michael, and Lucifer from Supernatural.
3. You and I would make a great Nephilim assassin team.
Whooo! Another person who has watched and enjoyed PROPHECY. - Laughs - Many people are not aware that Viggo played in that… so I imagine after his stint in Lord of the Rings people are like “OMG!”
Now I did not care for the other Prophecy movies without Walkens, they just fell sort of flat…. Hehe! I could not believe I forgot about Nalini Singh’s Guild Hunters. Bluebell is so awesome. SO isn’t Aodhan…
Eh… Castiel is cool but the other angels in Supernatural never really impressed me much like the guys in Prophecy.
Now that I am thinking about it, I think there is an angel in a manga I like. BUt he’s a minor minor character.
LOL! That sounds sooo fun!
*shock* You didn’t like Lucifer from Supernatural?! He was wicked! I actually wanted Sam Winchester to get caught and made the vessel! LOL!
Crap. I’m gonna hear some screaming from the Sam fans, I think.
I actually haven’t had time to watch that new SyFy show, Dominion. I have it on my DVR though.
- Laughs - Yeah those Sam Fans can be rabid..
The angel that came to Constantine (the series) was pretty cool. Sad that the stupid network pulled the plug on it. They probably didnt’ like the dark aspect of it. They didn’t pull their punches with that one.
I don’t watch SyFy. If it makes it on Hulu I will.
Found the author and series I was blanking on… with a little sleuth work I found it… I only read the first book… not sure if I have the second. Stephanie Chong’s the COMPANY OF ANGELS series: WHERE DEMONS FEAR TO TREAD ; THE DEMONESS OF WAKING DREAMS
Hm, I don’t think I’ve read these. How is that possible? *sigh* My poor TBR pile is going to get bigger by the end of today.
- Laughs - We are so not going there about my TBR pile… But, if I am not mistaken, I think I found the author through Bittenbybooks. I found a lot of authors thanks to this site.
BittenByBooks is one of the best genre sites I’ve ever seen. I’m not kidding. The layout alone is worth raving about.
Sigh. Okay, I’ll get the first book and give it a shot.
Yeah, it is… actually BBB is about the only site I visit pretty regularly. I want to say 4 or 5 years now. I help Rachel sometimes with her polls. WE’re name mates, having the same name and spelling.
How did you decide to write angels as opposed to other para-norms?
1. I’d want to be fallen - more fun.
2. I love Larissa Ione’s angels (all of them :))
3. A little bad ;).
At the time, most angel stories were angel vs demons. Shifters and vamps were still ruling PNR and while I enjoyed reading about those groups, I had a tougher time tracking down angel stories that weren’t just angel/demon focused. I actually decided to learn how to write a novel so I could create an angel series that had a twist!
Bad, Viki. You just want to get away with stuff.
I haven’t read your books before. Ducking head in shame. I was wondering if the books are stand alone.
Hahaha. I won’t send my angel assassins after you, Kim… yet.
Yes, the books are standalone but there’s a series arc that ties them together. I’ve recommended folks start with Angel Bait, then Angel Kin, and then Angel Lover, but I’ve also been told you can begin anywhere and not be lost.
Thank you!!!
Thanks for the info. I’m adding the series to my reading list.
Hi Tricia and Congratulations! What’s your strength training regimen?
Hehehe… she benches 3 Great Danes at the same time. j/k
LMAO! I KNOW WHO THIS IS! And I do not bench press my Danes. One weighs 138 pound, dude.
Hey Betty,
Monday through Friday for one hour, I focus on one or two muscle groups and work that (leg day is usually Monday because I need the whole week to recover). So, back and shoulders, chest and triceps, etc. The one thing I’n bad about is cardio. Can’t stand it, but I need to force myself to do it. I TRY to eat clean, but I don’t say “no” enough.
Thank you, Tracia! That’s very impressive! It seems like there’s always something that you have to make yourself do~I struggle with cardio, too! I like to use my treadmill because then I can read on my Kindle as I walk. It helps the time pass and I don’t dread it so much! Also, please post a picture of you lifting the Great Danes!
Excuse me, Tricia! I just noticed I misspelled your name right as I hit Post, of course! Sorry about that!
Ha! I can’t even spell my name right now (book promo brain is exhausting). No worries!
Cardio was created by the Devil. Or something.
I have an elliptical at home and even that doesn’t always convince me to get on the thing. I need someone to create a cardio activity that doesn’t involve running, cycling, or jumping.
The elliptical is truly satanic!
Hey Tricia,
Always happy to support a fellow Twisted Witch
Your book sounds wonderful - I’ve added it to my TBR list!!!
Best Wishes,
Niki
Niki!
Thank you. I’m glad there are folks who like their angels with more of a dark side.
Did you find it difficult to break into the genre? It seems as though there is a large surplus of authors in the field, lately.
Hey Matt. Ugh, you’re making me have flashbacks to when I first tried to find an agent. I was rejected about 45 times. A few were nice enough to send more than a form letter, but they said the same thing: no one wants angels. This was in 2012. *shudder*
I did land an agent (Laura McLean of Fuse Literary, aka the Time Lord). I’m not writing to any trends. I’ll continue writing PNR and UFR because these are the stories I buy and love to read. Eventually, angels will be sexy again (though, I always think they’re sexy).
I’m thinking I would prefer to be Nephilim. I think that way I could have the best of both worlds.
You know, I can’t think of any other angel books or tv shows. I thought of Angel the TV show, then realized he wasn’t an “angel”.
I think I like angels to be a little good and a little bad. I think that makes things fun.
HAhahahah! No, Angel wasn’t, but could you imagine if Joss Whedon had made him an angel instead of a vampire? Then have him go against Spike for Buffy’s love? OMG. Someone write some fan fic!
I think most of us would prefer to be half-angel/half-human (Nephilim). But would you want to have wings or not?
An “angel” Angel vs. Spike would be epic!
I don’t think I would want to have wings. I keep picturing in Michael. Those are just WAY too big.
I’d dig some wings if they were like the ones the angels on Supernatural had (hidden). I’l NEVER forget the first time we meet Cas and Dean demands proof he’s an angel. Best scene ever (you can get it on YouTube).
I’ve never actually wanted Supernatural. I know, I have to remedy this.
Ugh. That should have said watched Supernatural.
You mentioned Angels, fallen angels and nephilim but what about demons? Or are demons considered fallen angels? I love a good angel story especially when they’re given human qualities and not always perfect. I can’t wait to read.
You know, I’ve read books where fallen angels were demons, and stories that had demons as a separate race completely. In my series, demons weren’t previously introduced, but things are about to change.
I think seeing such perfect being struggle with human temptation is great for romance novels. It makes their final surrender extra sexy.
Sounds good!! I usually like demons over angel because they’re not so perfect
Bite your tongue! Okay, demons can be sexy. The Lords of the Underworld are the hottest demons in print. See, I can admit the truth.
Hi Tricia! I thought we’d make it fun since I know you’re a fellow geek and ask what your favorite things to geek about are? Comics, video games, a certain sexy villain?
LOKI! LOKI! LOKI! LOKI! LOKI! LOKI! GAWD, LOKI!
I don’t have a lot of time to play PC games or watch TV any more, but I make time for ANYTHING Tom Hiddleston is involved with. *shakes head* That man has fined my life. He’s ridiculously gorgeous and talented, and his portrayal of “Loki” made him a legend. Are you going to see Crimson Peak?
I am SOOoOOOOoooOOOO going to see Crimson Peak. I have wanted to see it since before he was even cast so that was just like dumping a jar of cherries on top for me.
And did you see Only Lovers Left Alive? *faints*
I saw it! *faints next to you*
Congratulations on the publication of Angel Lover! The Angel Assassins series sounds fascinating. If you could invite three of your favorite book characters from any series to dinner, who would they be and what would you discuss?
Aw, do we have to “talk”? *evil grin*
Okay, let me think…. Lestat, Zsadist, and Lothaire. Three of the sexiest vampires even created. But what would be talk about? I could see them fighting, each for a different reason. I think Zsadist would be the protective one, keeping me safe from Lestat’s cruelty and Lothaire’s hunger.
Or they can all go nekkid. Yeah, nekkid is good.
Love your choices! I’ll be joining you for dinner.
AHahha! Cool. Who’s for dessert?
Acheron from Sherrilyn Kenyon’s Dark Hunter series
Answers to Tricia’s questions:
1. I’d like to be a pure angel since I’ve been far from angelic in my human life!
2. The Prophecy movies come to my mind…
3. Angels who are good even though they may be conflicted at times.
You are the FIRST to choose pure angel. I’m stunned! How could you stand the rules and restrictions? Gah! I’d never make it.
Maybe I’m delusional!…
We will seduce you to the dark side! Wait, that’s Star Wars. Um…
OK, count me in! That was hard to do, huh?
Is like to be either a fallen angel or nephilim
I should’ve done this all in one post in hindsight…
2. For the question about Angels from other media. I enjoy the Angels from Larissa Ione’s series and End of Days Series by Meg Collett
3. I like Angels to be a little bad. Being completely perfect is kind of boring in my opinion.
Ashley, have you ever read Susan Ee’s Angelfall (Penryn series)? It’s YA but soooooo good.
Yay, another “grey” angel for my army!
I haven’t but always wanted too!!
I am NOT kidding. GET THEM. I stumbled over the first book, Angel Fall, before the author ended up signed to Amazon. It’s a great story, esp. if you like your angel stories different from the usual.
I’ll have to check them out
1.- Nephilim, without wings. Harder to get into mischief with those things on my back.
2.- The angels from S.J. Days Eve trilogy come to mind… though of course, I prefer Eve to Cain and Abel. lol
3.- I prefer my angels to have personalities, so a I would say a little of both. No one is all good, or all bad.
Except maybe Tricia, in which case all bad comes to mind.
Not surprised, although wings would get you out of the mischief you caused.
You truly amaze me Tricia. How do find time and motivation to write when your life is soo busy?
Just had to follow me, didn’t you?
She’s going to put you in the garage, Matt.
I don’t believe in sleep. Or sunlight. Or fresh air.
My motivation is this is my full-time job now. If I don’t write the story, no one else can dig it out of my head and write it. I wish I was faster at this stuff, but I’m still a noob and learning.
Author questions
Since I would like to have special powers without losing my humanity, I would choose to be Nephilim.
Some of my favorite movie/tv angels are Gabriel from The Prophecy, Seth from City of Angels, and Castiel from Supernatural. Angels from the Guild Hunter series by Nalini Singh and the Fallen Angels series by J.R. Ward are my favorite book angels.
I definitely like my angels to be a little bad. They are much more interesting if they have some faults.
Okay, I think we need a T-shirt now: BAD ANGEL
Is there any particular author or book that influenced you in any way either growing up or as an adult?
Apart from the authors I mentioned a bit earlier, I’d like to also add Jude Deveraux’s romances and a lot of historical romances played a part in hooking me as a reader. When it came to learn how to write novels, I tried to emulate what those books did to create heart-pounding love stories.
Hello! I love stories about angels. Do you have any favorite stories, movies, or tv shows featuring angels? Love Cas on Supernatural.
Cas remains one of my fave TV angels. I also really liked Gabriel (Tilda Swinton) in the movie Constantine. She has this androgynous quality that makes her an actress you can’t take your eyes from. The flip side to this questions are the angels I don’t like. Did you see a movie called “Legion”? Ugh. Bad. Sooo bad.
Hey Tricia, looks like it went pretty good…
Steve! Yeah, look at all these naughty angels and nephilim! BittenByBooks knows how to through a party.
Why use just 3 types of angels?
Ack! Don’t ask hard questions! I’m out of coffee! *cry*
All right, in my Angel Assassins series, I created a world where supernatural creatures are known to humans. The angels are the most standoffish and stay in Heaven. The nephilim gave me a way to peek into the angel world, where good and bad angels never stopped fighting against the other. There are levels of angels (according to the mythology) but including all of those ranks would dilute the core story, which is the four Nephilim and the angel who saved them.
Pure angle
That’s three of you.
Hi Tricia! I’ve read Angel Kin and am looking forward to Angel Lover - will you bring back your characters from the previous book with each new book?
Hey Susan. Thanks for reading my stuff. Yes, I will have characters from previous books return. In Angel Lover, this was tricky because Kas needs to infiltrate the Renegades organization alone.
Over the last couple of days I’ve been to see three movies with my partners granddaughter(15) the best was Spy so funny. Do you get to the movies often (this was a real treat for me as we hardly ever go) and is there any recent movie you would recommend?
I assume you’re into paranormals if you’re here, so if WHAT WE DO IN THE SHADOWS is still playing near you, definitely go! It’s hysterically funny, and reasonably clean to take a teenager to (though I did have to turn my head a few times because I’m a wimp regarding blood).
I’ll have to look that up but think is no longer playing (if it’s the one I’m thinking of). Thanks for the recommendation
Apparently it’s on DVD in two weeks…that works!
Ohh I’ll keep an eye out
Hey Emma. I don’t get to the movies as often as I’d like at the moment, but I did take my husband to see Jurassic World. We didn’t love that one, but I think we both preferred the original. We’re actually trying to decide what to take out 5yo to see this coming weekend. I’m leaning toward Inside Out.
I have had some good feedback on Inside Out from others at work
That’s good enough for me. I took my son to see Penguins of Madagascar a few months ago and we still quote lines form that movie! Looking forward to Inside Out.
Who is your favorite Muppet and why?
LOL! ANIMAL! I loved him! He’s an awesome drummer AND he always looked like he was having the best time.
1) I’d be a fallen angel, since I know I’m the type who’d fall for a human charge, absolutely!
2) I love Admael from Clare London’s m/m masterpiece SAY A LITTLE PRAYER: so adorable and innocently sexy, with a curiosity about human appetites that’s really erotic and compelling! There’s a scene with his charge-turned-love interest Jonathan (who’s also quite lovable) that always makes me squee and cry. And of course, who couldn’t love Damiel in the Wim Wenders movie WINGS OF DESIRE?
3) My favorite angels are the sweet ones who don’t know they’re naughty!
Dang it! I’ve not read that book. Yet another one for my TBR. I’ve been reading a lot of scifi romantic erotica lately, but none with angels.
I forgot about Marie Dees’ ANGEL IN THE MIDDLE, an m/m story featuring a naive angel named Darius, who gets caught in a power play between an angel-turned-demon and a demon hunter. I definitely had Catholic guilt during a few parts, but I can’t say it didn’t hold my attention. There’s also Devon McCormack’s m/m CLIPPED (where Satan’s demons are actually the *good* guys), which I haven’t read yet.
What started your interest in this genre?
You know, Angela, I remember two series that shook me up when it came to genre fiction. The Vampire Chronicles by Anne Rice and The Necroscope series by Brian Lumley. Both have vampires, yet are completely different takes on that creature. Rice’s work was highly romantic while Lumley’s went more for horror with a science fiction tint. Incredible writing and memorable characters. I wanted more books that gave me a different look at the same old thing.
Do you attend any of the writers “conventions” ?
Hi Helen. I went to my first RT conference this year and I like smaller (local/regional) conferences. I find those easier yo manage and I always end up hanging out with readers and writers, chillin’ and talking books. If you ever meet me, you’ll see I’m a total nerd so I prefer the smaller events.
Where do you find your inspirations/ideas?
The universe is my playground, Yvonne. I’ve had story nuggets listening to public radio, watching my son at play, watching movies or TV shows on streaming video, walking our dogs. I have a small notebook I keep with me and I’ll jot down ideas as soon as they hit. Some are outside of the PNR/UFR genre I write in, but I save them anyway. I never know which idea will scream to be written next.
Is there a genre that you would like to try writing in, but haven’t attempted for whatever reason?
OMG, Fox, yes! I want to write science fiction romance one day and a bit more dark fantasy. I once thought historical romance would be cool, but I’m interested in the older ages, like medieval or ancient instead of Regency or Victorian.
How do you overcome writer’s block?
Hi Holly. I go read something not in the genre I’m writing. I used to try to force my way through a block, but that just gave me a headache. Now, I grab my iPad and start reading for pleasure. That always relaxes me and I’m ready to get back to the computer after a day or so.
If you could spend the day with any literary character, who would it be, and why? What would you ask them?
I had to think about this one for a bit. I’m still torn. Okay, I’d hang out with Hana from The English Patient. I read the book and saw the film, and I’d enjoy hearing about the soldiers she cared for as well as the patient the book is named for. I’m intrigued by her strength, but I also would enjoy hearing about her life. If I could share with her, I’d express my gratitude for nurses like her who gave so much to people they would never be around again.
Where did you get your strength training regimen from? A particular dvd, youtube video, personal trainer…?
Hey Bethany. I go to a local gym where most of the patrons are body builders. There are no Zumba classes or pilates. It’s hardcore weight lifting with national and international body building pros. I find them to be incredibly approachable and helpful. Everyone is happy to help a non-pro like myself with training and nutrition tips.
Answers to author’s questions:
1. Would you prefer to be a pure angel, a fallen angel, or a Nephilim?
A pure angel
2. Which angels from TV, movies, or novels other than the Angel Assassins do you love?
I love the Guardians of Ascension series by Caris Roane, which aren’t exactly angels, but more of winged vampires. I consider them part angel.
3. Do you like angels to be good, or a little bad?
A little bad….could be fun.
Winged vampires? I read a series with Viking vampire angels, but the name and the author’s name escapes me.
Are you thinking of Sandra Hill’s Deadly Angel’s series? If not, I highly recommend them…they are viking vampire angels too, and so hot.
YES!!!!!!!!!!!! Becky, you win at life! That’s the series!
Have you ever felt discouraged or thought the story wasn’t going well and should start again?
You’ve been in my house, Ann. Yes, more often that I’d like to admit, but it’s part of being a writer. I have three stories in that position. Since they’re in the first draft stage, I tend to immediately think they suck after only a few chapters. That happens because the full story in my head isn’t yet on the page, and I do struggle with not giving up on it too soon because it’s sometimes better than I think it is. That’s where good critique partners or a beta reader come in handy. If someone else says it’s not shit, I’ll keep going.
Hi Tricia!! I don’t know if anyone has asked you this yet (too many comments) but what type of books do you like to read in your spare time? I can’t wait to read your new release.
Hey Barb! I’m currently reading a ton of science fiction romance and fantasy because I also write a column for FreshFiction.com that spotlights SFF. My weak spot is for space opera and I haven’t shied away from the more erotic stories. What is it about aliens needing mates draws me? LOL.
Have you ever scrapped a story because it wasn’t going well, or you hit a writing block?
Hey Katie. Ann (above) just asked that so I’ll repost my response for you here:
Yes, more often that I’d like to admit, but it’s part of being a writer. I have three stories in that position. Since they’re in the first draft stage, I tend to immediately think they suck after only a few chapters. That happens because the full story in my head isn’t yet on the page, and I do struggle with not giving up on it too soon because it’s sometimes better than I think it is. That’s where good critique partners or a beta reader come in handy. If someone else says it’s not shit, I’ll keep going.
hi Tricia, yes I think you do need to write medieval or ancient, these are a fav of mine too.
I like good and fallen angels. lol
I love Dominion
Dina, give me some recs, woman! I’ve read all of Kathryn LeVeque’s medieval historical romances, but if you know some I MUST read, please share.
Are there any other genres you would have an interest in writing ?
Yeah, Michelle. One day I’ll try science fiction romance and historical romance. I’d like to see both genres with more diverse characters and cultural situations.
What do you like the least about being a writer?
Debra, I think the solitude of the process sometimes gets to me. Staring at a computer all day and forcing words out of my head is not a lot of fun. Ha! It’s tough to also be a mom who hasn’t to explain why she can’t leave her office to go watch TV with the rest of the family. I’m lucky because my son loves books and knows I’m writing a book. He thinks it’s cool.
Do you prefer to read the book first or see the movie first?
Book first, Mary! This does make it difficult when I go to a movie expecting to see certain scenes, but the writer/director didn’t bother with it.
who is your favorite author?
This question is HUGE, Thomas! I’ll go with Susan Ee for writing Angel Fall, a brilliant YA fantasy romance with angels bent on wiping out mankind and the young girl who stands in their way.
wheres your favorite place to write?
Hey Amanda. You won’t believe this, but I tend to do most of my writing in my garage. It’s not some swank garage either. I have a small desk and chair, and a fan (Texas is hot, yo!). I use the garage because we have THREE Great Danes and a 5yo Darth Vader-in-training. It’s the only place in the house the noise doesn’t get to me!
Any current favorite shows or books?
I’m stuck watching both using streaming services like Netflix. I don’t have much time to do anything but write. When I finally get a second or two, I usually grab a book! In the rarest of occasions I’ll take a peek to see if a series is available. It’s easier to plan a marathon session than to watch a show a week at a time.
A couple of series I loved: The Tudors, Doctor Who, and Sherlock.
Love binge watching shows on Netflix too, I’m going to try to start watching X-Files or Bones tonight.
I binged Bones a while ago. I had a tough time like Temperance at first, but she grew on me. Plus, ANGEL.. I mean, the actor.
I’m in the middle of Kathy Reich’s Temperance books right now so it will be interesting seeing it in a tv form and yes the actor that plays Booth and Angel is pretty amazing and gorgeous
From any of your books, what has been one of your favorite scenes, or types of scenes, to write?
Lindsey, I’m a sucker for good fight scenes. My heroes are assassins and they bring the pain. All three of my books in the series have scenes of high tension and conflict. In Angel Kin, Cain faced off with his brother Abel a coupe of times, and I still feel my heart clench. In Angel Lover, Kas and Mariel go toe to toe as well, plus there’s a battle in the middle (I won’t spoil it) that I’ve been told blew everyone who read it away.
Questions answered:
1. Would you prefer to be a pure angel, a fallen angel, or a Nephilim?
a fallen angel
2. Which angels from TV, movies, or novels other than the Angel Assassins do you love?
Vampire Mine by Kerrelyn Sparks and Reaver by Larrisa Ione for novels and Cass from Supernatural.
3. Do you like angels to be good, or a little bad?
Good of course
Good, huh? You say that now, but as soon as one take off his armor and shows you his wing span… well, we’ll revisit the question then! *wink, wink*
Alright you got me lol a little bad never hurt anybody
Ha! That’s right, Amy. Welcome to the dark side.
What is your favorite thing about summer?
1. nephilian
2. love Touch by a angel and Highway to heaven when they were on; Castiel from Supernatural
3. a little naughty is good
To answer your giveaway questions:
I’d rather be a pure angel.
I’ve actually not read or seen many books or shows with angels, but I have seen Supernatural, which has an angel named Castiel. I’ve not watched that show in ages, so I don’t know what his character is up to these days, but I remember liking him before.
I don’t think there’s anything wrong with a angel that’s just a little bit bad.
Y’all have been TOO MUCH FUN! Thank you for stopping by. Rachel, you’ve been a lovely hostess of darkness.
Trish
I like my angels to be a little bad…more interesting that way….
what’s your favorite Grateful Dead song?
Steve, I’ve never been a Dead Head so forgive me. I can say my fave Rolling Stones song is “Paint It Black.” That one says so much in the lyrics, and the beat is perfect. Mick’s voice was haunting.
Hi Tricia! Just curious if you got any inspiration for writing about angels from going to church? Or did you study religion? Or did the angel topic just sort of randomly come to you?
Hi Tracy. My vicar would laugh if I said MY version of angels was inspired by going to service. Ha! My fascination was actually triggered by Nephilim. They’re mention a couple of times in the Bible, but you have to go to the Book of Enoch to find a bit more. The idea that angels went against Heaven to join with the daughters of Man always intrigued me. I like thinking of angels as warriors of Heaven, which provides a ton of fiction material.
Q, Why did you choose to write about angels ?
I would love to be an angel. The other angels I like are the Felicity Heaton´s Her Angels series. Because they are all just a little bit bad.
I’ve read that series, Petula! Good choice.
I think my curiosity over angels “falling” and the birth of nephilim just stuck with me over the years. It was easier to imagine angels as warriors, and a lot happens in war. So, for me, exploring a darker side to these perfect beings was a must!
I’m late to the party. What are your must haves for writing? Do you need complete silence, music going, coffee, tea, water, snacks etc.
Coffee and lots of water are a must. I also have music playing (I prefer moody movie trailer-type music). My husband magically makes food appear and empty plates disappear when I’m focused on a project.
Who inspires you the most to write.
The non-writer who inspires me most is my kid. He’s a big book reader at 5yo. I’ve watched him as he reads to me, and the look he gets on his face always makes me smile. I love seeing the reaction to a great story, which is what I hope to do for adults who pick up my work.
What was your favorite part about writing the book and is there a character you had the most fun with?
Earlier I said I’m a big fight scene gal. In Angel Lover, I’ll admit I had a little too much fun with the plot twists. The story kept evolving from my original idea and I gave up trying to force the characters to listen to me. So, I followed them and had a great time with all the surprises they showed me. In Lover, if I could, I’d hang out with Kas (the hero). He’s hilarious and a pure geek.
Characters often find themselves in situations they aren’t sure they can get themselves out of. When was the last time you found yourself in a situation that was hard to get out of and what did you do?
Hi Mai. I tend to think before acting so I’ve rarely been in a situation I wasn’t expecting. If I noticed it changing to one I wasn’t comfortable with, I usually got myself out. I’m pretty independent and resourceful. Hey, I grew up in Detroit, where those two things keep a person alive.
Each person has his own definition of an angel. To me, an angel is a person who cares about others more than he / she cares about him/herself. I’d love to become an angel but unfortunately, the greedy nature of mine prevails.
The angel in the neo-baroque world of The Satanic Verses by Salman Rushdie, Gibreel, is an Indian film star. I can´t think of any novel that treats the problems of our time better and more accurately than this one.
I had no idea what a nephilim was so I read it on Wikipedia and it says The Nephilim were offspring of the “sons of God” and the “daughters of men” before the Deluge according to Genesis 6:4; the name is also used in reference to giants who inhabited Canaan at the time of the Israelite conquest of Canaan according to Numbers 13:33. A similar biblical Hebrew word with different vowel-sounds is used in Ezekiel 32:27 to refer to dead Philistine warriors. Well, definitely a nephilim I’d like to be, please.
When did you know you wanted to be a writer?
A fallen angel, Castiel from Supernatural, a little bad
I was a newspaper reporter for a few years so I count that as being a writer.
But for your question, Timitra, I’m assuming you meant writing novels. For that, I made the decision to actually learn how back in 2010. Before that I played around with fan fiction and I wrote a bunch of stuff in notebooks. I enjoyed coming up with weird stories so finally making the decision to learn how was a big stepping stone.
Why and when did you decide that you wanted to be an author and who or what was your major influence(s)?
I would want to be an angel.
Nalini Singh’s Archangels are one of my favorite series.
A little bit bad is far more fun
Would you prefer to be a pure angel, a fallen angel, or a Nephilim?
Fallen angel or Nephilim. a pure angel is boring.
Which angels from TV, movies, or novels other than the Angel Assassins do you love?
Daughter of Smoke & Bone by Laini Taylor
Do you like angels to be good, or a little bad?
I stick to my answer for the 1st question.
if you could go anywhere in the world on a Vacation where would you go?
Right now, I’d love to see my family in England! No matter the day, it’s NEVER as hot as it is in Texas!
What is your favorite movie that was based off of a book?
Easy! The Green Mile by Stephen King was a brilliant book and equally brilliant movie. It breaks my heart that Michael Clark Duncan, who starred in the film, passed away.
Have your job experiences ever found a way into your books? What was the worst job you ever had?
Yep. Ionie in ANGEL BAIT is a reporter at a Detroit newspaper, the same place I worked as a reporter.
Worst job…. hm. It was also a reporter job (won’t name the publication). Horrible working conditions.
1) I’d prefer fallen angel
2) I really like Castiel from Supernatural.
3) I prefer them to be a little less than perfect.
Hi Tricia,
If you could visit any place in the world to do research for a future book, where would you go?
Wow, Tara. Lemme think….
I’d probably head to South America (not sure which countries). So many cultures there to rediscover and explore. I’d want to stay with local families, and just immerse myself in the place. It would also give me extra incentive to get back to learning Spanish!
Would you prefer to be a pure angel, a fallen angel, or a Nephilim?
a fallen angel (that gets a chance for redemption)
Which angels from TV, movies, or novels other than the Angel Assassins do you love?
The Archangel Michael from the movie legion.
Do you like angels to be good, or a little bad?
a little bad- they are more interesting
Okay, Archangel Michael in LEGION was HOT! I went to see that movie partly because of that actor.
Which of your characters do you most relate to?
What inspire you for writing books ?
Hi Tricia! It’s not a book question - most of those seem to have been asked by previous posters - I’m curious what a green practitioner is? My guess is a herbalist or naturopath.
To answer your questions:
1. I would prefer to be a pure angel.
2. My favourite is definitely Castiel from Supernatural.
3. Tough question. I enjoy both, but probably lean towards a little bad. The character normally has more depth then being 100 percent perfect and is more interesting. And especially if they’re breaking the rules for the greater good.
If you could have three folks to dinner living, dead, real, or imaginary who would they be and why?
1. I’d be a good fallen angel
2. Nalini Singhs angels
3. I’d have to be a little bad.
Is this a series?
Hi BN, Yes this is a series. Three books are out now. Two novels and one novella in the works!
fallen angel
no favs
bad