Today's guest author on Interviews with Dante is J.L. Dillard. Enjoy learning a bit about this wonderful author.

Please tell us a little about yourself.
I’m a southern girl at heart living in the big city. Writing is my first love, though I’m having an affair with music (I’m a drummer in my spare time). I enjoy creating stories and giving life to the characters of every book I compose. It’s a liberating feeling and I couldn’t be happier.

Tell us about your latest book.
A Love of My Own…it’s the story of two friends who decide to spend a week together to see if their secret attraction is real or a figment of their overactive imagination.

What do you have coming out in the future? I have several books coming out this year, Book 3 of The Pleasure Principle Series, The Found Road Home.

Blurb for Say Yes! - For Lauren Trenton, her mantra was intimacy without strings until Danger Coldwater walked into her life and ignited a flame long since forgotten. Determined to change her mind, Danger readies himself for all-out war, set to pull out all the stops to gain her trust and love for a couple of forevers.

From where do you draw your inspiration? 
I people watch and that’s where I get my stories. I could be walking in the mall, reading the paper or walking to my car.

Do you ever base your characters on real people in your life?
No. It would be too messy and I run the risk of getting dirty looks. Lol

What authors inspire your writing?
My favorite authors are James Patterson and Jackie Collins

What do you like to do when you are not writing?
I binge watch my favorite shows

What was your road to publishing like? Tell us about it.
The road wasn’t easy. I faced many rejection letters and second-guessed my God-given talent, but I preserved through the disappointments until finally I was given a chance to prove my characters needed to be heard. For that I’m truly thankful.

How did you come up with the title of your book?
Most times I will hear a song and it will trigger a title. On occasion the title will come to me.

Is your book a stand alone or a series?
I have both. Series book gives me a chance to spend more time with the characters.

What celebrity would you chose to play the main character(s) in the movie rendition of your book?
Jill Scott

What is the hardest part of the writing process for you? 
Listening to the characters. Sometimes we have a difference of opinion and until we’re on the same page, the story cannot be told.

With many publishing routes available today, which felt the most reliable to you when it came to the many choices?
E-books gave me my first opportunity and I look forward to one day having my own imprint company to offer other first time writers a platform to tell their stories.

When did you know you truly wanted to give writing a shot?
When I was a kid, I played make believe in the backyard and wrote my own stories, TV shows, movies and plays. Of course at the time, I didn’t understand what was going on or what it all meant and thinking about it now some of things I wrote were horrible, but I kept writing.

Today's guest author on Interviews with Dante is Sarah Brocious. Enjoy learning a bit about this wonderful author.

Please tell us a little about yourself.
I like to say I’m a loan specialist by day and a writer by night. I have four completed books and I am working on five and six!

I am an introvert and many find this surprising because I can be very out going. (I guess I am a high functioning introvert.) I would honestly rather be reading, writing, listening to music, or sitting by the water all by my lonesome. I am best when I am with a small group of really close friends or family.

I grew up in a big family…four girls and four boys. I’m thinking that may be why I like to be alone (big families can get overwhelming and alone time growing up was a treat)

Tell us about your latest book.
Nolan’s Evolution is the sequel to The Awakening. It’s a continuation of Nolan and Raina’s story. It’s truly about the evolution of all the characters from The Awakening, but mainly about the changes Nolan must go through…an acceptance of his immortality.

What do you have coming out in the future?
Well, I was working diligently on the third book to follow Nolan’s Evolution, but it was slow going. Not wanting to burn myself out on it, I decided to focus on a story that’s been teasing my imagination. I am hoping to get “What Remains” out and in the reader’s hands within the next few months! It’s just a sweet Contemporary novella, but it will be a great read!

Do you read the genre you write for or do you prefer other genres?
I write Contemporary Romance and Paranormal Romance and I love reading both. I have learned that I do like Horror and Crime as well, but mostly I am a romance girl.

The second book in the Wake Up Series, Nolan's Evolution, is a continuation of this epic love story. We find Raina, Nolan, and Thanatos adjusting to the change brought on by Nolan's "contract". He is no longer Raina's protector and he must have no part in her life...a fact that is torment to both. 
Each will go through difficulty adjusting, but especially Nolan. For too long he has pushed aside his gifts, but they are about to be tested and he will have to choose which way he will go. As Raina experienced her awakening....Nolan must face his own evolution. 

And there is more to his past than he has let on. He and Thanatos have been keeping secrets and they will do everything to keep that past from hurting Raina. 

What celebrity would you chose to play the main character(s) in the movie rendition of your book?
Oh, this is easy! Nolan would most definitely be Henry Cavill…no question! Raina? She’s harder to decide because she has so much of me in her character that I am nearly always in her shoes. The character of Thanatos? He would most def be Jensen Ackles from Supernatural. (Oh look, my paranormal preferences are showing!)

What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?
The hardest part is finalizing the story! I have an issue with letting go of my characters. I just want their story to go on and on! Maybe that is why I am finding it so hard to finish book three of The Wake Up Series…I don’t want to let go!

What is the easiest part of the writing process for you?
Losing myself to the story and connecting with my characters. When I write it is like there is a movie playing in my head or a play of some sort. I see the opening scene and the ending scene chapter to chapter.

Who or what are your inspirations/influences? 
My biggest influence to write did not come just from authors I admired or stories that I loved. My greatest influence to write, to create, to publish came from my Grandma (Monk) Mary Ellen McCullough. She pushed me all my life to make it happen. Without her encouragement, I would have given up.

How would you describe your writing style?
Emotional…like me. I like to build upon my characters so that the reader has an emotional connection to them.

Do you have a careful plan when plotting your stories or do you just go with the flow?
I have to write an outline initially, but generally I go with the flow. I can be in the middle of a sentence and my character will change my mind for me. haha

With many publishing routes available today, which felt the most reliable to you when it came to the many choices? 
I published independently but through Amazon KDP. I like having the control over my writing. 

When did you know you truly wanted to give writing a shot?
I had been writing for years. I have notebooks, trappers, pages and pages of writings. I was scared to share them with anyone. I had a small few that I had allowed a peek say that I had to publish…which was encouraging. 

It was not until my Papa passed away April of 2014 that I finally took a step. Him passing caused me to question my own mortality. What had I accomplished? How long did I have left? What am I leaving behind? Sounds morbid, but it lit a fire under me. I want to touch as many as I can with my writing and I want to leave my mark on the hearts of those it does.

Today's guest author on Interviews with Dante is Sarah Ashwood. Enjoy learning a bit about this wonderful author.

Please tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Sarah Ashwood, and I’m a stay at home wife, mom, writer, runner, college student, and homeschooling teacher. I will graduate from American Military University this summer with a degree in English, and I like to keep busy! (In case you couldn’t tell.)

Tell us about your latest book.
My latest published book is Aerisia: Field of Battle, the concluding volume of the Sunset Lands Beyond trilogy. The idea of this trilogy is that a young college student, Hannah Winters, is taken unexpectedly from Earth to the parallel world of Aerisia—the land beyond Earth’s sunsets. Here, she’s told she is the Artan, a long prophesied heroine who must save Aerisia from the Dark Powers. Long story short, Hannah initially resists the idea, but the longer she stays in Aerisia the more she begins to discover herself, her resilience, her magic…and love.

Aerisia: Field of Battle, is the conclusion of Hannah’s long journey from girl to woman, college student to Artan. It is an epic battle of good against evil, Hannah Winters against the Dark Powers, and the stunning aftermath that holds devastating consequences for all of Aerisia. Furthermore, it is the wrapping up of a romance between Hannah and Lord Ilgard, the High-Chief of the Simathe, a band of mysterious, immortal warriors. Aerisia: Field of Battle is actually my favorite book in the trilogy, because it is the conclusion of a love story that’s been a long time in the making.

What do you have coming out in the future?
Right now, I’m in talks with a publisher for a fairytale romance novella (fingers crossed). I don’t know what will happen on that end, but my next release will be an updated version of Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset, the first book in my Sunset Lands Beyond trilogy. We had so much reader feedback asking for more of Hannah’s backstory before she was taken to Aerisia, that my publisher and I decided to go back and add it in. There are a few other changes too, including cleaning up a sprinkling of editorial errors. That being said, I’m very excited for the re-release of Aerisia: Land Beyond the Sunset. Hopefully, it will be coming out in a couple of months!

What genre do you enjoy writing the most and why?
The two genres I enjoy the most are fantasy and historical fiction. I love history, I am obsessed with history, but I’m also obsessed with speculative fiction. The cool thing about fantasy is I can combine these two loves into one. The cool thing about historical fiction is I can revisit fascinating times, peoples, and places of the past.

Today's guest author on Interviews with Dante is Carmen Stevens. Enjoy learning a bit about this wonderful author.

What is your preferred writing environment? 
Anywhere that's quiet, preferably with just myself in the room.

Please tell us a little about yourself. 
I'm a 23-year old, recent college graduate who spends my time promoting my novel, working part-time, and searching for a career in my field of study. I enjoy reading, music, movies, shopping, and spending time with my pets, family, and friends.

Is your book a stand alone or a series? 
I'm not quite sure yet. I've debated turning my novel into a trilogy, but I'm not even sure if I will ever write another book. 

Do you have a careful plan when plotting your stories or do you just go with the flow? 
I just go with the flow. With 'Anne', I wasn't even completely sure what the story would be about until I was at least 25% done with it.

What was your road to publishing like? Tell us about it. 
I decided to go with self-publishing because I initially submitted 'Anne' to a traditional publisher, but it was rejected. Then I realized how uppity many traditional publishers are, and how I wanted control of my own book and what happened to it. So, I decided to self-publish.

What celebrity would you chose to play the main character(s) in the movie rendition of your book? 
I can't think of any talented British actors/actresses off the top of my head who match my characters' traits, but I'm sure there are some. I would certainly want them to be talented, even if their names aren't too well-known.

Please tell us a little about yourself.
I was born, educated and lived entirely in New Jersey until four years ago. I taught Spanish and English as a Second Language in high school and adult community schools. I was lucky enough to be transferred to Florida where I am living as if I am on vacation every day. I write full time. My husband works all day. I am at home where my Labradoodle and my Shih Tzu keep me company and remind me to get up out of the chair to walk or swim. I started writing romance when I inadvertently crashed a Romance Writers of America chapter meeting here on the Space Coast. I was invited to stay. I was hooked from that day forward.

Tell us about your latest book.
My latest published book is The Relentless Brit, a tale of sex, love and espionage during World War II. It is a story of love at first sight. Sweet romance, heartbreaking betrayals, forgiveness and uncompromising men and women. Conflict sets the pace of the book and relentless loves rules the day.

What do you have coming out in the future?
My next book will come out before August this year. I just received the manuscript from my editor. I have some work to do before it goes to the formatter for publishing. I am writing the last in the series, The Relentless???. 

What genre do you enjoy writing the most and why?
I really love writing what I call  Historical Vintage Romance. I started out writing contemporary romance, but was dissuaded when I read the first ten pages at my chapter meeting. My dialogue lends itself to vintage times” 1940’s to when, I am not sure yet. Someone recently told me that my book is better placed in the Women’s Fiction genre.

Do you ever base your characters on real people in your life?
I always base my characters on real people, but then I follow the ‘what if’ path. What if she enlisted in military service or he chose undercover work or she became an insurance investigator or fire marshall. That is what makes writing fun for me.

The Relentless Brit is an historical romance. It is a tale of sex, romance, betrayal, and heartbreak during World War II. History, romance, spies, espionage, intrigue, love, sex, war, peace, and the happy every after ending you love.

War rages in Europe. Conflict is worldwide. History is repeating itself. Germany seeks domination of Europe. Hitler’s troops occupy all countries except Great Britain. Nevertheless, bombing from German aircraft have scorched London and other parts of the British Isles. Peace is elusive. Hitler has betrayed the Prime Minister of England. Spies and espionage are rampart on all sides. Japan is on the move in China and the islands in South Pacific.

What authors inspire your writing?
Well, first my Creative Writing 101 teacher  said she loved all of my work and I got an A in that class. Most recently my friend and class discussion leader at a local class, Greta McLaughlin whose new book, Celtic Cries was just released. I can say I always wanted to write about life as imagined it as a child. Inspiring authors are Barbara Kingsolver, Juno Diaz, Gabriel  Garcia Marquez, Isabel Allende and my all my English teacher friends.

What kind of books do you like to read? 
I love to read well written historical fiction. Phillip Gregory  books about the War of the Roses, Henry VIII and his wives are my favorites. I adore Hillary Mantel’s Wolf Hall and Bring Up the Bodies. I don’t read much science fiction. However, I did like Margaret Atwood’s  The Blind Assassin. I like the genre called Barcelona Noir from Carlos Ruiz Zafron. I cannot forget Melinda Haynes’ Mother of Pearl  and Barbara Kingsolver’s Lacuna and The Poisonwood Bible. Of course, romances by Sylvia Day, Julie Leto and Debbie Macomber. 

How did you come up with the title of your book?
I started with my first book as The Uninvited Guest, but it need something snappier to catch attention. I changed it several times until my editor and I agreed on The Relentless Brit which I copied from my really first book, The Relentless Italian.  

Is your book a stand alone or a series?
Here’s the thing. I wrote The Relentless Italian first. When I thought I finished it, I realized it needed more work. So, I set it aside and wrote The Relentless Brit.  I published the latter book first because it makes chronological sense. So the series starts in 1940 during World War II. The connecting thread between the books is that the children born during the war become the characters in the second book having had the war influence who they are. 

What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?
The most difficult part of writing for me is putting into words what is deep inside the characters’ heads and hearts. One of my readers wanted to know why the heroine fell in love with the hero. I guess I did not make that clear. Something I need to work on more. 

What is the easiest part of the writing process for you?
I would say that coming up with the main idea for a story is the easiest for me. Imagining the characters is also easy for me. Going from scene to scene is usually easy, but sometimes I think out of order and wish I hadn’t.  

Which of your characters is your favorite and why?
My favorite characters? That is like asking a parent who is her favorite child. I cannot choose one. I like them all for different reasons. Both heroines can be snarky with the men. I like that about  them. Marie Gentile in The Relentless Brit is forever forgiving of her love interest after she let him know a thing or two. Sophie Carrieri is somewhat the same, but more of a feminist in thinking. I love both heroes. Charles Stanhope is quiet to the point of being covert. He  never walks away from Marie as angry as she may get with him. Tony Andriosi is mysterious at the same time as being an outgoing career singer.

What is your preferred writing environment?
Do you mean where do I prefer to write? That is easy. I sit in a my comfortable leather chair in my kitchen/family room with my laptop.  The television tuned alternately to the shopping channels. PBS, or baseball. Can you believe it?  I never listen to music while I am writing, but I am inspired by lyrics when I am driving. I surprised myself when my husband and I took a long drive from the east coast to the west coast of Florida. I took along my tablet to check the Nanny Cam at the dog boarding place, but instead started typing a new series. It seems when I am typing, stories fall out onto the screen. How lucky can I be? I should say blessed.

With many publishing routes available today, which felt the most reliable to you when it came to the many choices?
Here is what happened. I started first send the begin of the books to contests. No luck there. As I was writing, I read more, took classes, paid attention to other members of my writing chapter, and, read craft books galore. I sent out query letters. No luck there either. I looked at many publishing companies who wanted thousands of dollars to publish. I researched Createspace.com, Kindle Direct Publishing, Smashwords.com and talked to some free-lance editors. While I was getting reading to self-publish, I though why not submit to a few more publishers. Again, how lucky or blessed can I be? I received two contracts within two weeks. The terms of rights, royalties, and length of time to publish were just not acceptable. I did not even try to negotiate. I was anxious to get the book up for sale. The manuscript was ready to upload to Createspace and Kindle. So, I did. I am happy with my choice.

When did you know you truly wanted to give writing a shot?
I wanted something to fill my hours and my mind as a hermit living with my dogs all day. I love to sew, knit, quilt, swim, and bike too. However, writing seems fulfill me the most at the moment. I decided publish at that first Space Coast Authors of Romance meeting I crashed over two years ago. I think if I am going to write, why not publish? Maybe some of my friends would enjoy the books.

Please tell us a little about yourself:
My name is Robin Field and I am a stay at home mom who just recently moved to the east after living all of my life in California (by the way, I thought I knew what winter was but boy has living here definitely changed my perspective on that!) I have enjoyed writing ever since I was young and find that it not only relaxes me but allows me to express myself in ways I can't in real life.

Tell us about your latest book:
I just indie published my debut novel by the title of Drow of Darkness. It is about a community of elves that have a doppelganger curse set on them since embracing the luxuries of modern life. Each mother gives birth to a set of two identical children at once: one who is meant for the elven light while the other is meant for the darkness of their drow brethren which is essentially a dark elf. It centers around a set of sisters who have to undergo their test to determine who stays and who goes and what happens in the aftermath of all the chaos.

What do you have coming out in the future?
Currently I am working on a story about the afterlife and how souls are ferried to their correct "place" once passing over. My main character has been living in this world for a few years and she deals with her new duties with a more skeptical eyes then her fellow peers. It will be the first in a trilogy and I am very excited about getting it to publishing status.

What genre do you enjoy writing the most and why?
I enjoy writing young adult, urban fantasy the most and I think that is because when I was growing up and coming into my own, I found I could get lost in the stories meant for that particular age group and anything that had a fantasy element allowed me to get lost in worlds that weren't real and let my imagination take flight. I still to this day love to read in that genre and love to write in it as well.

From where do you draw your inspiration?
I personally look at things that have been done and wonder what I can contribute to a genre that has so much in it already. That's where I thought of throwing in a doppelganger curse into an elven community because it was something I had never heard of before and wanted to try giving something done before a new twist.

Do you ever base your characters on real people in your life?
I wouldn't say I base characters fully on people I know but I do inject certain traits of people I know into my characters. I try giving them all a mix of quirks and skills that make them into their own person who has good and bad traits that people can relate to.
 
What kind of books do you like to read?
I definitely love to read young adult books and anything with elements of fantasy in them as well. I occasionally read thrillers and mysteries and also enjoy science fiction and its subgenres.

What do you like to do when you are not writing?
When I'm not writing I spend most of the time hanging out with my family. I am currently expecting my second child at the beginning of June so I'm only hoping I still get the chance to write!

Is your book a stand-alone or a series?
Drow of Darkness is a stand-alone but my second novel that I hope to have out within the next four months will be the first in a trilogy.

What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?
The hardest part would have to be when I hit the third or fourth edit. That's where I get really particular about every word I have used up to then and I end up second guessing decisions I had made. I try not to be overly critical so I don't edit it to death so that is when I normally take a good few weeks to just focus on another story or just read to get my creative juices flowing back on track.

What is the easiest part of the writing process for you?
I would have to say the first draft. I fly through them so fast so that I can get it all out of my head for the first time. It's exciting to get it all down whether or not the writing is the best because I know I can go back and edit as much as necessary.

What is your preferred writing environment?
I like writing in my room at my little desk. I tend to write the most and the best at night after my son is asleep and I get this second wind where my creative self just explodes to its delight.

Do you have a careful plan when plotting your stories or do you just go with the flow?
I always find that whatever ideas I have I make sure I write down. After that step, I kind of let these scenarios play out in my mind until they flow in a way that I believe could be a good story and then I bust out a simple outline that I go back to later to develop in more detail before I start that first draft.

When did you know you truly wanted to give writing a shot?
I have always enjoyed writing but I never thought that I would be taken seriously until I realized that it isn't degrees or a big name that would make my writing worth reading. It was my determination and passion in what I did that was going to give me that courage to take the leap whether it would pan out or not. I don't care if I'm a highly recognized name in the literary world; as long as someone reads my book and can experience that sense of escape that it does for me, then I have done what I have set out to do.

Please tell us a little about yourself.
My name is Jessica and I was born and am living in Germany. I have been writing pretty much all my life, from poems, short stories, multi-author stories with friends or even lyrics. I honestly cannot imagine not to write in some way and the love of my life, whom I am living with, is quite supportive of my creative outpours. If I don't write I either am creating other things like renderings, Photoshop graphics and such, enjoy myself in virtual environments, or geek out over my favourite TV Shows and video games.

Tell us about your latest book.
My latest book is my debut novel Sra'kalor. It is the first part of the Ashwood Falls Trilogy, a story about magic, love and fate. The main figures are a young girl named Alana, who developed magical powers she cannot control, and Leandrus, a demon caught in a human body, who gets pestered by his host's soul while he tries to figure out if he wants to love or kill Alana. It gets especially hairy when it turns out that another demon wants to claim Alana for himself and Leandrus has to make a decision. The whole series is inspired by an old roleplay that I made up with friends, but has taken a whole life of its own.

What do you have coming out in the future?
Right now I am working on the second part of the Ashwood Falls Trilogy, to continue the story of Alana and Leandrus/Tyler. Next to that I have a couple of ideas for a few short stories, that I am writing on, when I need to leave them alone for a little bit.

From where do you draw your inspiration?
From everywhere. I know it sounds cliché, but it's how it is. I have drawn inspiration from just looking around myself, watching people or situations out on the street. Sometimes I am inspired by music, by an object, or even a single word or sentence I heard somewhere. I also am roleplayer, which offers a lot of inspiration along the way. It can really hit anytime and anywhere.

Do you ever base your characters on real people in your life?
Not really. While the people in my real life are great and some surely would be quite tempting to write, I would feel strange knowing that someone in my stories is based on someone I know. I could never see them without the real face, or hear them without the real voice. In my head I would also restrict myself to do certain things with them, because I would feel guilty towards the real person, if it is something bad. I prefer to make my characters up, so I can write without borders that my mind puts up.

What kind of books do you like to read?
All kinds of books. Well okay not all. I do not really read religious books or self-help books, actually not a lot of non fiction books at all. I do love to read a lot of fiction though, no matter what kind of genre. Even if it is a genre I usually do not have a strong connection with, I do not mind trying to read a book that falls into it, just to have at least tried it once. I see it the same as I see it with music: I might not like a genre, but a certain song can still touch my heart.

What was your road to publishing like? Tell us about it.
I am self published, so it was quite different from classic publishing of course. While I was writing, the question on how to publish of course came up. I did not have any friends with that kind of experience at that point, so my biggest friend was google search. I have found several ways and sites that allow self publishing, have read many many Terms of Services, all together days of informing myself. In the end I really liked smashwords for ebooks, because they do not only help with the publishing but also distribute the book to several retailers and do not expect exclusivity. Same goes for my print book, which I published through Lulu. The most important thing, I think, is to really read every material you can get, no matter how small the fine print is, so you know what you are getting into.

Is your book a stand alone or a series?
It is the first part of a series, well a trilogy. So this book can be read alone, but if you want to have the full experience, I do recommend to read all three parts, once they are published.

Have you joined any writer’s groups?
In a way, yes. As I have mentioned I am a roleplayer as well as a writer. For about 15 years I have been writing roleplays online, via email and forum. For the last 3 years I have been member of a group of people, who do roleplay, but actively seek to improve their writing and share quality writing in a multi-author story environment.

What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?
To write when I am blocked. I do have a few mthods to get back into it, but the start of that is still difficult.

What is the easiest part of the writing process for you?
The ideas. I have random ideas all the time. Another easy part for me is the character interaction, though that might be, because my characters get a life of their own and sometimes even take over. I cannot even say how many of my plans have been kicked into the bucket by them. But it was always for the best.

What is your preferred writing environment?
In contrast to many other writers, I cannot write when it is quiet around me. What I need while I am writing is have the TV running. Since I know the lyrics to my music, it distracts me a lot so this is not an option. I also prefer to write at night, because it has less distractions in form of people wanting to chat, phone or come by. Otherwise it does not really matter to me if I am on my desk, the bed, in the park or elsewhere, as long as I can have my writing and TV shows with me.

Do you have a careful plan when plotting your stories or do you just go with the flow?
A bit of both. I would not say that my plan is careful or even elaborate, but I have key points. What happens between them is flowing as it comes. And if something during the flow-phase changes the next key elements, I'll change them.

When did you know you truly wanted to give writing a shot?
I always knew that I wanted to write. But I always thought I would write for myself and maybe for my future kids, in case of children's stories. But a couple of years ago, while thinking about the story of Sra'kalor something in my head clicked and I wanted to reach the point where I would publish it once I'd be done. In the middle of writing I realized I have too many ideas to make it one book, so I decided to split it into three books. I don't regret it a second and I am looking forward to many stories that I'll be publishing in the future.

Is your book a stand alone or a series?
It is the first part of a series, well a trilogy. So this book can be read alone, but if you want to have the full experience, I do recommend to read all three parts, once they are published.

Have you joined any writer’s groups?
In a way, yes. As I have mentioned I am a roleplayer as well as a writer. For about 15 years I have been writing roleplays online, via email and forum. For the last 3 years I have been member of a group of people, who do roleplay, but actively seek to improve their writing and share quality writing in a multi-author story environment. 

What is the hardest part of the writing process for you?
To write when I am blocked. I do have a few mthods to get back into it, but the start of that is still difficult. 

What is the easiest part of the writing process for you?
The ideas. I have random ideas all the time. Another easy part for me is the character interaction, though that might be, because my characters get a life of their own and sometimes even take over. I cannot even say how many of my plans have been kicked into the bucket by them. But it was always for the best.

What is your preferred writing environment?
In contrast to many other writers, I cannot write when it is quiet around me. What I need while I am writing is have the TV running. Since I know the lyrics to my music, it distracts me a lot so this is not an option. I also prefer to write at night, because it has less distractions in form of people wanting to chat, phone or come by. Otherwise it does not really matter to me if I am on my desk, the bed, in the park or elsewhere, as long as I can have my writing and TV shows with me.

Do you have a careful plan when plotting your stories or do you just go with the flow?
A bit of both. I would not say that my plan is careful or even elaborate, but I have key points. What happens between them is flowing as it comes. And if something during the flow-phase changes the next key elements, I'll change them. 

When did you know you truly wanted to give writing a shot?
I always knew that I wanted to write. But I always thought I would write for myself and maybe for my future kids, in case of children's stories. But a couple of years ago, while thinking about the story of Sra'kalor something in my head clicked and I wanted to reach the point where I would publish it once I'd be done. In the middle of writing I realized I have too many ideas to make it one book, so I decided to split it into three books. I don't regret it a second and I am looking forward to many stories that I'll be publishing in the future.

Please tell us a little about yourself.
I live in Kentucky with my husband and two sons.  They pretty much keep me running to and from school and sporting events, but I also work full time outside of the home.  We are very much an outdoorsy family and enjoy camping, hiking, and watching my husband race at one of the local dirt tracks.  I’m also the mom of three dogs and three cats, a goat, and a snapping turtle.  I drink way too much coffee, love road trips, and have a slight obsession with college basketball.  My Kindle travels everywhere with me and my stories all entail a happily ever after.    

Tell us about your latest book.
Drive Me Sane is as second chance romance set in rural eastern Kentucky. The heroine, Sera, is a feisty, outspoken and quick tempered army veteran who has no intention of sitting around and hoping for a miracle cure to her PTSD diagnosis.  Tyler has always been the sensible one in the relationship and for the most part, he’s calm and collected.  As teenagers, they’d been perfect for one another, but Sera’s imminent deployment and Tyler’s music career drove a wedge between them that neither knew how to deal with.  They both return home years later and find that while some things have changed, other things remain the same.    

What do you have coming out in the future?
I’m currently working on a contemporary romance tentatively titled, When Love Goes South.  It deals with a couple who meet while on vacation in Cancun, but they are both there for very specific reasons and it’s not for the umbrella drinks or to work on their tans.  I’d like to think it touches on some very realistic issues facing thirty almost forty somethings and how things such as death and divorce affect everyone differently.   

From where do you draw your inspiration?
Music.  I don’t play any instruments and can’t carry a tune to save my life, but music is a huge part of who I am.  I love all genres, but I’m partial to my southern roots.  Most of my work has been inspired by a song in one way or another.

What authors inspire your writing?
I love Brenda Novak and Shannon Stacey.  Their writing is simple without too much angst and I hope that I bring that kind of feel to my work.  

What kind of books do you like to read?
I’m not picky.  I  like a wide variety.  Romance of all heat levels, mystery, thrillers, and memoirs.  Anything except horror.  I’m a weenie and can’t stomach horror.  

Today's guest author on Interviews with Dante is K.K. Gould. Enjoy learning a bit about this wonderful author.

Please tell us a little about yourself.
I live in Northern Michigan with my husband and two beautiful kids. When I'm not busy refereeing 'potty talk' between my 4 and 6 year old; I enjoy reading, writing, crocheting, and knitting. As a family we love being outside. Northern Michigan's four seasons provide the perfect setting for camping and exploring the outdoors.

In order to pay the bills I work as a CT technologist in a busy ER. I have worked in the medical field for fifteen years at many different hospitals around the country.

Tell us about your latest book.
Vengeance is my first book in a series titled The Immortal Savior. It's a paranormal romance with something for everyone; tragedy, hospital humor, sadistic psychopath and of course intense, passionate love. Eliza North has been living a quiet life. She works in a busy ER in Layton Michigan, but she has a secret. She's an immortal hybrid with a horrific past. Her past is about to catch up to her, and a destiny is revealed. A destiny she's not sure she can handle.

Braxton Slater, an immortal bounty hunter, roars into Layton on a mission to catch a psychopath. The psychopath he's been hunting for a century, and who murdered his mate. He arrives in Layton to put a beautiful female under surveillance in hopes of drawing out his quarry. The amazing female begins to revive his dead heart and he discovers he is still able to love. Can he keep her safe?

What do you have coming out in the future?
I have two other books in the works. Book 2 of the Immortal Savior Series, titled 'Awakening', is due out later this summer. Awakening continues with the savior, Liza. She discovers more about her destiny and is not certain she can handle it. She tries running from her responsibility to Jonah Cruz's pack. Jonah was married to her mother many years ago. Her mate Brax, along with a letter from her mother, and the spirit of her grandfather help her realize she can't hide from her destiny. The sub-story in this book features Jace, wolf shifter, and Adara, phoenix. They were in a relationship while serving in the military together. She was suddenly called home and they lost touch for many years, until Jace found her locked in one of Fredric Hahn's cells. After being released she went on the hunt for the person that sold her to Hahn, her husband Kallai. Kallai and his father Masou killed her parents. She is determined to take him down and bring peace to the phoenix on the east coast. The two stories collide when its determined Kallai has been hunting shifters from Jonah Cruz's pack. Jonah and Liza approach from one side while Jace and Adara approach from the other crushing Kallai in between.

I am also working on a novella featuring the alpha's of Liza's pack, Shane and Layla North. Their story is an amazing story of love and loss. Layla's heartbreaking journey is an inspirational journey ending in the discovery of true love. I don't have a title for this yet, but am planning on releasing it end of summer or early fall.

What genre do you enjoy writing the most and why?
I write paranormal romance/suspense. I love a story with a strong female lead and her male counterpart. A 'big picture' element is critical. A part of the story that's bigger than just the romance between two people such as; good vs. evil or saving an entire species from extinction. I think these elements add great suspense in a story. I love being able to save the world in my writing.

From where do you draw your inspiration?
I draw my inspiration from real life. I love paranormals that take place within the human world. My writing is based on places I've lived, worked or played.

Do you ever base your characters on real people in your life?
My characters are loosely based on real people from my past. I hate to admit, but my villains are based on past relationships. I don't have a lot of bad past relationships, but I have enough to use. I work in a hospital and have for the last fifteen years at several hospitals around the country. In that time I have met some interesting people or have heard some stories that make for great characters.

What kind of books do you like to read?
I love reading paranormal romance/suspense. I also love fantasies and mysteries. Basically I enjoy reading anything that gives me an escape from the realities of life.

This paranormal romance has something for everyone; tragedy, hospital humor, sadistic psychopath and of course intense, passionate love. Eliza North has been living a quiet life. She works in a busy ER in Layton Michigan, but she has a secret. She's an immortal hybrid with a horrific past. Her past is about to catch up to her, and a destiny is revealed. A destiny she's not sure she can handle.

Braxton Slater, an immortal bounty hunter, roars into Layton on a mission to catch a psychopath. The psychopath he's been hunting for a century, and who murdered his mate. He arrives in Layton to put a beautiful female under surveillance in hopes of drawing out his quarry. The amazing female begins to revive his dead heart and he discovers he is still able to love. Can he keep her safe?

. . . A past she can't hide from . . .

       . . . A love she can't fight . . .

              . . . A destiny she never expected . . .

What do you like to do when you are not writing?
I spend a lot of time with my young family. My two children are 6 and 4. They love being outside and so does my husband and I. We go on lots of adventures around our home. Northern Michigan has many wonderful places to explore. 

I also love reading, knitting, and crocheting.

What was your road to publishing like? Tell us about it.
My road to publishing was pretty simple. I had heard horror stories about formatting and publishing difficulty. The hardest thing for me was deciding to publish. Once I made that choice it was simple. I used the 'Smashwords Style Guide' to do my formatting. It was a helpful resource. It took me step-by-step through formatting. I chose to use Draft 2 Digital and Amazon KDP to publish my book. When I uploaded it went off without a hitch. It was a super easy process. I was amazed at how easy it was.

Is your book a stand alone or a series?
My book is part of a series. However, I hate cliffhangers. Each book in my series could be read alone.

Which of your characters is your favorite and why?
My favorite character is the main character in the Immortal Savior Series, Eliza North. She is an Immortal hybrid; part vampire, shifter, and fae. She has a tortured past, which helped mold her into a strong, self-sufficient female. She's not afraid of anything. My favorite thing about her is her strength and her vulnerability.

What is your preferred writing environment?
I work through the night at a hospital. I often get a little downtime during the night. I like writing at this time because it's quiet. I turn the lights down a bit and pull out my computer. I will often come up with ideas while I'm in the shower. When that happens the hardest part is remembering what I thought of when I get out. 

I limit myself to writing when my kids are in bed or when I'm at work because of my 4 year old. One afternoon I was writing a sex scene, while sitting on the couch. My son came in the room and asked, "Momma, why do you look like that?" 

I hadn't even realized I had a look on my face. I told him, "Nothing buddy. I was just thinking of something." Luckily he didn't ask anything else. That was the moment I decided I needed to write when I'm alone or at least after the kids are in bed.

Do you have a careful plan when plotting your stories or do you just go with the flow?
I have a mind-mapping program on my computer. I have the series mapped out. I use this as a guideline when writing. I don't always stick to it, but it helps.