Today is the day during Book Blogger Appreciation Week that we, as book bloggers, are given the amazing opportunity to interview another book blogger. I am very fortunate to have gotten to interview Caribousmom, who not only has a great blog and wonderful reviews, but has adorable dogs, as well.

What made you decide to open your own blog and devote it to book reviews?

My blog evolved from a personal blog to a book blog over a period of about a year and a half. I started it as a way to share my stories about my life and animals with family and friends…but very quickly I discovered the book bloggers and I decided I really wanted to be part of this community. Everyone was so friendly…and of course, they all talked constantly about books. I thought “Wow, a community where I can feed my obsession and not be thought weird!” I also discovered that I really enjoyed the process of writing a review – it gave me a way to think about what I had read in a meaningful way.

What is the best part about being a Book Blogger?

Not to sound like a broken record, but being part of the larger community. I love the sense of belonging to a group of people who delight in reading and sharing what they read.

What is the worst part about being a Book Blogger (not that there is anything BAD about being a Book Blogger)?

Well, it is mostly a very positive thing in my life. I look forward to sitting down and creating posts, browsing other people’s blogs, participating in blogging events, etc… My only complaint is the occasional drama that rears its ugly head and it is really impossible to please everyone all the time. I hope, for the most part, that my approach to the “issues” is logical and well thought out and not overly emotional. But, like everyone, I am prone to get sucked into stuff from time to time. Luckily, this is a rare occurrence in this community – and calm heads usually prevail!

Beyond merely writing book reviews, what impact do you hope to make as a whole through your book blogging?

I feel that what the book blogging community is doing is really important – promoting literacy and reading in a way which is easily accessed by anyone. I hope that readers of my blog feel like they have a relationship with me, like sitting down with a friend to discuss books, and that my thoughts might motivate them to pick up a book they might otherwise not read; or try a new genre. I also post about things other than books which are important to me (for example last year I chose a local Therapeutic Riding Center to highlight as part of the Read-A-Thon… I wanted peoples’ awareness to be raised about groups like Triple Creek Ranch which helps people with disability). My hope is that by raising awareness of the things that I feel are important will have a larger impact in some way.

When did you discover your love of reading? What made you realize your hobby?

I was exposed as a very young child to reading and books. My parents always read my sisters and me a good-night story…and it was one of my favorite parts of every day. I also loved visiting the library to take out books. My love of books and reading has never wavered…although the types of reading I do has evolved and changed over the years.

What do you say to the recent controversy that most of the reviews book bloggers write are not real reviews because they are not approached from a critical viewpoint? Most book reviewers write why they liked or disliked a book, so they are very personal, and some say this approach is not one of a ‘true‘ review; what is your opinion on the matter?

Print/professional book reviews are very different that what the typical book blogger writes…and I think that is a good thing. Both types of reviews fill a niche. To be honest, even before I became a book reviewer, I rarely read the professional reviews of books because I found them boring and I never felt connected to the person who was reviewing the book. I much preferred a friend’s opinion…after all, they knew me and what I liked. Book bloggers are like that friend to me…most bloggers share a bit of themselves on their blog – their personality shines through. Very quick ly, I have been able to recognize which bloggers will like (or dislike) the same books I like (or dislike). To me, their opinion becomes invaluable to me as a reader. And I think that the market is bearing this out as well – book bloggers are having an impact on the sale of books and are being recognized as a good marketing resource.

I am not sure who the people are who are defining a “true” review. For a long time I thought the negativity directed at book bloggers was due to professional reviewers feeling threatened (lots of newspapers have shut down or scaled down their book sections for example). But I’ve changed my opinion lately. I think it is just preference. Some people prefer a more intellectual, critical review – others want a more personal review. Of course, book bloggers are quite capable of providing BOTH a critical/intellectual review AND a personal one…and many do that.

So the short answer to your question is: there is plenty of room for everyone in the book review business…and the people who connect the most strongly with readers will be the ones who will be most successful. I think the jury may still be out on this one!

In your opinion, what ethical guidelines should a blogger always follow?

First and foremost – honesty. There has been some controversy this year about book reviewers who accept “free” books from publishers and publicists and authors…some readers are questioning whether those20bloggers’ reviews are honest, and they wonder if book bloggers are being “bought” or used by big business to simply advertise and sell books. I believe most book bloggers have integrity…and many, many have begun to post review policies on their blogs which is a good thing. I tell publicists, publishers and authors right up front that I review honestly and fairly. I give my opinion – good, bad or indifferent – regardless of where my book comes from…I believe this is really important. If we want to be taken seriously, we need to maintain some objectivity. I would tell any book blogger who cannot do that, to not accept books for review.

What advice can you give a new or up-in-coming book reviewer?

Have fun! Reach out to other book bloggers – you will find a vast group of people who want to help you be successful. Get involved in the community. Regarding actual reviews…go out and read lots of other blogger reviews and identify your own unique style by seeing what works for you and what doesn’t. There are lots of resources about how to write a review…but ultimately you need to find what works for you.

Other than blogging, what do you love? What are your other hobbies?

I am married and I love spending time with my husband. Also, anyone who visits my blog knows my love of animals…I have a ten year old Golden Retriever named Argus and a new 7 month old German Shepherd puppy named Rave. I also have two cats: Gizmo and Maia. I love having these little fur children in my life and I’m happy to say they are all spoiled rotten.

I am a hiker, a quilter, a crafter (in general), and a gourmet cook who loves to create my own take on a recipe. I love anything to do with the out of doors.

Professionally, I work as a physical therapist…the best part of that job is the work I do with adults with developmental delay. I have also been a volunteer in Search and Rescue for over 11 years now (both as a canine handler and as a “Mantracker”). And I spent five years volunteering at a therapeutic horseback riding program until I needed to take a break last fall.

I love trying new things – there is still a lot I want to do that I haven’t done yet!

What is one thing you have always wanted to do, but have yet to do?

I want to travel more…so far I have done a limited amount of that…mostly because I am not yet retired. But, I hope at some point to travel around Europe with my husband…and I have always wanted to go to Africa.

I would like to be part of a volunteer group which goes to a third world country to help those in need of medical care. I feel strongly that the main reason we are here on this earth is to touch other people’s lives…and there is still so much need in the world.

I would like to thank Loucinda McGary for stopping here at Morbid-Romantic.net as part of her blog tour for The Treasures of Venice. The Treasures of Venice is a book that I am looking forward to purchasing because, let’s face it, the Renaissance is just beautiful. And a Renaissance scene set in Venice, the most beautiful of all. So, welcome Loucinda McGary!

An Up-Close and Personal Interview with Loucinda McGary

Thank you for inviting me to be a guest here on Morbid Romantic. My second romantic suspense novel published by Sourcebooks Casablanca was ‘officially’ released this week, though it has been popping up on store shelves since the last week of August. I’m excited to be promoting The Treasures of Venice, because not only does it make me a multi-published author (that phrase has such a lovely ring to it!), but it is also the first romantic suspense I wrote and is truly the book of my heart.

The Treasures of Venice is unique in the romantic suspense sub-genre because it has a few paranormal elements, and features a dual storyline set in both modern day and Renaissance Venice. Here’s a blurb describing the story:

When American librarian Samantha Lewis and Irish rogue Keirnan Fitzgerald set off to find priceless jewels, they become embroiled in a 500-year-old love story that eerily prefigures their own…

In 15th century Venice, beautiful and wealthy Serafina falls in love with Nino, a young Florentine sculptor. They decide to flee to Padua, and to fund the trip, Nino copies a set of jewels that then disappear.

In modern-day Venice, Keirnan needs Samantha’s help to locate the jewels so he can pay his sister’s ransom. Samantha must decide whether the man she’s so drawn to is her soul mate from a previous life…or are they merely pawns in a relentless quest for a priceless treasure?

Now that you know a wee bit about my book, I thought I’d answer some personal questions. I’ve heard from both reliable and dubious sources that readers like to ‘get to know the real author.’ So I asked my intrepid critique partner Cathy D. to send me some questions she thought readers might like to have answered. So here are my answers warts and all!

When you are reading for pleasure, what is the one thing that will make you put down the book and quit reading?

Glaring mistakes that pull me out of the story. Two examples that spring to mind were both in recent novels written by well-known authors. The first was actually in a book set in Venice and the heroine was running around for hours during Carnevale wearing nothing but a bedsheet – no shoes, no undies, nuttin’ honey! Well, I’ve been in Venice just a few days after Carnevale (that’s why The Treasures of Venice is set at the same time of year) and trust me, she would have had hypothermia after about thirty minutes. The second story had the hero taking his motorcycle for a long drive west of Los Angeles. I’m a native Californian, so I fell on the floor laughing, but you only have to look at a map to see that the only thing a long way due west of LA is the Pacific Ocean!

When you were in Ireland and Venice, did you know you would be setting novels in those places?

Afraid not. I visited long before I started seriously writing for publication. But both places left lasting impressions on me, and I always take photos and keep extensive travel journals on my trips. Pulling those things out stimulated my memories and made me recall the sights, sounds, smells, and other things I experienced. I also bought guide books and maps before I started writing to be sure I had my facts straight. No long drives into the Adriatic or the Irish Sea!

How do you pick names for your characters? Are they family names for the Irish heroes?

Most of my main characters pop into my mind with their complete names – first, middle, and last – intact. Though I will say that my hero Keirnan’s nickname, Sionnach came about when I was looking up some Irish Gaelic phrases. I came across the Irish word for “fox” and thought it the perfect moniker for my clever hero.

I purposely try not to use family names for my Irish characters. Wouldn’t want to insult any relatives (any more than I usually do), or give them an over-inflated ego!

While researching online, I ran across a great website that lists the most common Irish surnames (from 100 year old census records) broken down by county. I use these largely for secondary characters, since as I’ve said, my main characters appear with their names.

Interestingly enough, when Keirnan Fitzgerald popped into my imagination, I knew he was from County Kildare, where they breed many Irish thoroughbreds, and that his father was a horse trainer. Later, when I looked at the most common names from County Kildare, Fitzgerald was on the list!

Trust your characters. They really do know best.

Are you hurt when someone criticizes your books? How thick is your skin?

Even after years of rejections, I’m afraid my skin is still not quite thick enough. Negative reviews do get to me, and no matter how many wonderful, glowing reviews I get, it is the negative ones I remember most. Go figure!

I know not everyone likes the same things, and I really don’t mind when a reader or reviewer says something like, “this story just didn’t appeal to me.” But it is another thing when they attack the genre (if you know you don’t like something, don’t read it!!), or they totally miss what I was trying to achieve with the plot or characters.

Usually, after I read a really negative review, I’ll pour myself a tall, cool drink and hurl a few choice Irish curses as I quench my thirst.

All right, I’m afraid I may have revealed entirely too much of the real me! Do you have any other questions about my writing process? My books? Where I came up with such cool Irish curses? Ask away!

About the Author

Loucinda McGary took early retirement from her managerial career to pursue her twin passions of travel and writing, and sets her novels of romantic suspense in the fascinating places she has visited. She was a finalist in the 2006 Romance Writers of America Golden Heart contest in Romantic Suspense. She lives in Sacramento, CA. For more information, please visit http://loucindamcgary.com/.

Giveaway!!

closed
Loucinda McGary’s The Wild Sight and The Treasures of Venice
I have been given the amazing opportunity by Sourcebooks to give out 1 two book set that contains Loucinda McGary’s The Wild Sight and The Treasures of Venice. There are a number of ways you can win this book, each good for one entry each. For each entry, leave me a separate comment. Also, make sure that you leave me a way to contact you if you win.

1.) Leave a comment below telling me that you’d like to win.
2.) Blog about this contest and leave a comment with the links.
3.) Add me on twitter (@morbidromantic) and Tweet this contest then comment with a link to the Tweet or your username.
4.) Stumble this giveaway or my main site and comment with your StumbleUpon username.
5.) Rate my blog at Blogged. Click here or find the graphic on the sidebar under ‘ranks.’
6.) Add my RSS reader here and leave me a comment telling me that you subscribe to my feed.
7.) Comment on and rate (rating is found in the header of the post) any of my previous book reviews and leave me a comment telling me that you have.
8.) Add me to your Technorati favorites: .
9.) Add me on LibraryThing, Good Reads, Shelfari, Book Blogs, or BookBlips and leave a comment telling me where you’ve added me and (if you can), your username/name.
10.) Answer this question: what would you want to see or do if you went to Venice?

If you do all of the above, you will get ten entries. That’s ten chances to win.

Winners will be selected on 11:59pm EST on September 21st. I will be using Random.org to select the winner. When you win, I will send you an email asking for your physically mailing address, which you have 3 days to respond to before new winners are selected. No PO Boxes. This contest is open to the US and Canada only.

About Rita Herron

Rita Herron is an award-winning author of more than 30 romantic suspense novels for Harlequin and Dorchester. In 2007 alone, she was nominated for two Romantic Times Reviewers Choice Awards, including a Career Achievement Award.

Five fun facts about Rita Herron:
1. I set Dark Hunger in three of my favorite cites, Savannah, Charleston, and New Orleans because they’re all haunted and possess an eerie atmosphere – perfect places for the Death Angel. The B & B with the outdoor garden where Annabelle stays in Savannah is fashioned after a B & B where my husband and I stayed. And Shayla Larue is modeled after a voodoo priestess I met at the RWA conference in New Orleans.

2. Emily Nelson, the social worker in the book, is named after my daughter who’s a dedicated social worker in real life.

3. The idea of the Death Angel taking a vulture’s form came from a brainstorming session with two author friends at a writer’s retreat near Charleston. I’d been flirting with other forms but, when the vulture idea came up, I knew it was perfect—creepy and symbolic of bad luck, evil and death.

4. Alfred Hitchcock’s The Birds inspired me as I was writing Dark Hunger. I also envisioned David Gray’s song “One With the Birds” as the soundtrack for the movie.

5. When I was a child, I knew a preacher who inspired me to create Reverend Narius. He was a hellfire and damnation type who yelled and stalked up and down the aisles during his sermon. It was as if he was singling you out to let you know you were going to hell. I was terrified of him!

For more information about Rita Herron, visit her official webpage.

About Dark Hunger

Reporter Annabelle Armstrong will go to any lengths to deliver a story, even track down Quinton Valtrez, a man she believes is a coldhearted assassin. Yet the truth about the darkly sensual Quinton is even more shocking…and the overwhelming desire he ignites is one she vows to resist. Quinton has fought his demonic powers since he was a child. Now using his gifts for the good of national security, he can’t let himself be distracted by the beautiful, determined Annabelle. But his need for her is sudden, fierce–and could soon cost Annabelle her life. For a wicked enemy is out for vengeance, a demon who wants to draw Quinton into a life of pure evil and is willing to use Annabelle as bait. To save her, Quinton must achieve the near impossible: tame the sinister force that is both his inheritance and his curse before it claims him forever.

Enjoy the book trailer:

For more information, visit The Demonborn website.

Watch out for my review next!

Interview With Rita Herron

What do you think draws readers to the paranormal? What is the appeal?


I think readers are drawn to the paranormal because it presents a mystery and delves into the unknown. How many of us haven’t wondered if there is more to life than our life on earth? If there is truth to reincarnation? If ghosts exist? If there are extra terrestrial creatures out in space?

Also, the dark sexy vampire represents the alpha male to the upteenth degree. He’s sexy, mysterious, tortured, and exudes masculinity and sexual prowess.

The paranormal also offers new, different and creative story lines. Even if we don’t believe in fairies, vampires, werewolves, witches, etc., it’s just plain fun to visit a world of make-believe where virtually anything is possible.

Why do you choose to write your characters the way they are rather than make them average every day people?



Hmm, this sounds like a trick question. I do write some every day normal people, LOL. In fact, I chose to plant my demon characters into the real world because I think it’s actually more frightening to think that these evil creatures might exist among real people in a real town.

That said, I’m writing fiction, so writing “larger than life”, unique characters is much more interesting to write – and read – about than the average person. After all, most of us lead fairly normal, lives, and on a daily basis, fairly boring lives. That’s not bad, it’s just not the stuff that holds the reader’s attention!

For fiction, we want drama, action, comedy, stories to make us escape, to entertain and take us out of our real world, stories to make us think: what if I was in that situation? What would I do?

What do you do to prepare to write? What is the process that gets you ready to sit down a lay out a story?


Physically writing and laying out a story are two different processes for me, just as revising and editing are. To physically sit down and write, I set daily goals (page count) and try to stick to it. But at that point, I have a synopsis and an idea where my story is going. In the beginning, I write slower because I’m setting things up, working out plot points, getting to know my characters. Midway, I seem to hit my stride and write much faster because I’m mentally into the story, seeing the scenes in my head, and can’t wait to get to the end.

As far as laying out the story, that’s a different tune. I spend a lot of time “thinking” about the story ahead of time, letting the plot percolate, asking myself “what ifs”, making notes on characters, scenes, twists and turns, suspects, and doing some research (although I’m not a research junkie. I research on a need to know basis.) I also have to spend time thinking about the setting, what place will most enhance and help drive the plot and add to the story. I’m not exactly organized, but have a yellow legal pad (I love the sight of a new blank pad of paper!). On the pad, I make notes, draw lines to indicate plot points, etc.

I really love this creative part of writing – there are so many possibilities, it’s like working a puzzle to see how to fit the pieces together.

How much of yourself do you put in your characters? Are they extensions of you, or are they independent creations that take on a life of their own after coming from your imagination?



Most of my characters are composites – not in looks necessarily, but I do draw character traits, mannerisms, speech patterns, values, strengths, flaws, likes and dislikes, job choices, etc. from various people I’ve met or known. As far as putting myself into the character, sometimes certain characters reflect my values or views on life, even represent questions and issues that I might have.

Mostly though, the characters are born from my imagination, and I actually have fun getting into their heads. It’s interesting to stop and put yourself into the mind of someone who might not think like you.

And with every main character I write, I try to put some “heart” into the character. That doesn’t mean that character can’t be evil; it just means I try to portray how he or she might actually think and feel. And even though the characters may not be your average Joe, I try to give them conflicts and problems which the reader or average person can relate to.

What is the most valuable piece of knowledge that you’ve picked up after becoming a published author that you wish you knew from the start?



I wish I’d known how important marketing was to both selling a book to a publisher and to selling it in a bookstore. I came from an education background, and had to learn the business side of writing fast. Unfortunately it’s not always about the best book; sometimes marketing or lack of can make or break a deal or a book’s success.

Then again, maybe it’s a good thing I didn’t know all this — I might have given up!

What is one thing you’ve never done but would love to do?



I’ve never traveled extensively and would love to visit Sweden, Italy, Japan, Australia, Argentina…the list is endless.

Say your books were being made into a movie or TV show, who would you want to play them?



I’d love to see the Demonborn made into a series or movie. I picture Alex O’Loughlin (from Moonlighting) as one of the brothers. Other male actors who would be great in the roles: Clive Owen, Bailey Chase, Eric Bana, Brad Pitt, Dylan McDermont…

I also have imagined David Grey’s song “One With the Birds” playing during the opening scenes.

What have you always wanted to write about but have yet to? Any particular setting? Creature? Historical era?



Having grown up in the South, I’ve always wanted to write a southern women’s fiction novel, and have actually started one book already and have some other ideas. Maybe some day…

What would your ‘theme’ song be on the soundtrack of your life?



“I WILL SURVIVE!”

Everyone has obstacles to overcome, and I had those in my personal life growing up and definitely in my career. So far, I’ve survived, and love the positive attitude that song exudes.

Finally, could you share with all of us a quote that you love?



Hmm, this is not from a famous person but someone who is famous and special to me: my mother.

She always said, “Can’t Never Did Anything.”

That’s my favorite quote of all time and the motto I try to live by. So never say never or that you can’t do something. If you try, you’re a success.

Giveaway!!

I have been given the amazing opportunity by Hachette Book Group to give out 5 copies of Dark Hunger by Rita Herron. There are a number of ways you can win this book, each good for one entry each. For each entry, leave me a separate comment. Also, make sure that you leave me a way to contact you if you win.

1.) Leave a comment below telling me that you’d like to win.
2.) Blog about this contest and leave a comment with the links.
3.) Add me on twitter (@morbidromantic) and Tweet this contest then comment with a link to the Tweet or your username.
4.) Stumble this giveaway or my main site and comment with your StumbleUpon username.
5.) Rate my blog at Blogged. Click here or find the graphic on the sidebar under ‘ranks.’
6.) Add my RSS reader here and leave me a comment telling me that you subscribe to my feed.
7.) Comment on any of my previous book reviews and leave me a comment telling me that you have.
8.) Go to any of my book reviews and rate it using the ‘Rate this post’ option in the post header information. Leave me a comment telling me you have.
9.) Add me on LibraryThing, Good Reads, Shelfari, Book Blogs, or BookBlips and leave a comment telling me where you’ve added me and (if you can), your username/name.
10.) Answer this question: could you call in love with a person who had a little bit of demon in them?

If you do all of the above, you will get ten entries. That’s ten chances to win.

Winners will be selected on 11:59pm EST on September 4th. I will be using Random.org to select the winner. When you win, I will send you an email asking for your physically mailing address, which you have 3 days to respond to before new winners are selected. No PO Boxes. This contest is open to the US and Canada only.

Participating Sites:

http://yankeeromancereviewers.blogspot.com
http://dreyslibrary.blogspot.com
http://bookinwithbingo.blogspot.com
http://justanothernewblog.blogspot.com
http://hotdealsbybec.com
http://www.trishasbookshelf.blogspot.com
http://reesspace.blogspot.com
http://booksoulmates.blogspot.com
http://www.mybookaddictionandmore.wordpress.com
http://justjenniferreading.blogspot.com
http://seductivemusings.blogspot.com
http://www.wrightysreads.blogspot.com
http://nightdweller20.wordpress.com
http://www.startingfresh-gaby317.blogspot.com
http://cherylsbooknook.blogspot.com
http://ajourneyofbooks.blogspot.com
http://www.myspace.com/darbyscloset
http://carolsnotebook.wordpress.com
http://jeannesgifts.blogspot.com
http://www.cheekyreads.com
http://booksandneedlepoint.blogspot.com
http://www.bookwormygirl.blogspot.com/
http://www.thisbookforfree.com
http://aparkavenueprincess.blogspot.com
http://fallingofftheshelf.blogspot.com
http://www.my-book-views.blogspot.com
http://jmomfinds.amoores.com
http://www.mgpblog.com
http://bridget3420.blogspot.com

Today we welcome Elle Newmark to Morbid-Romantic.net, who is on blog tour for her novel Book of Unholy Mischief. I was fortunate enough to get an interview with Ms. Newmark, so I hope that you enjoy reading it just as I did! I definitely now have this book on my wishlist because it sounds great. I recommend and encourage all of you to do the same. Who can resist the Renaissance?

About Book of Unholy Mischief

Luciano, the wily hero of Newmark’s entertaining first novel, is only a street urchin when the doge of Venice’s chef finds him, but once dragged into the kitchen as an apprentice, he discovers more bubbling than boiling water. While the town is in an uproar over the rumor of an ancient book containing magical potions and lessons on alchemy, Luciano pines away for a girl and learns the basics of chopping, sweeping and eavesdropping. As he and his maestro become friendlier, Luciano begins to learn that there’s more to his teacher than a garden of strange plants and a box of spices. Newmark does a fine job of building suspense and keeping the novel barreling along, and her knowledge of and affection for 15th-century Venice adds charm to this nicely told adventure yarn.

Interview With Elle Newmark

Venice is without a doubt one of the most beautiful places on Earth, and is has such a rich history. Why did you choose Venice as the setting of your novel?

Venice is a mysterious city, a city to get lost in, much as the characters in my book get lost in their intrigues. I think the main character in my story says it best. “I’ve often revisited Venice since my youth if only to smile at the irony, the enduring illusion of her nobility. The water still whispers tales of death as it laps against decaying palazzi. Men in capes still appear out of the darkness and dissolve back into it. Venice has always been a perfect setting for secrets, seduction, and the melancholy thoughts of a poet. Tainted by iniquity, Venice invites moral surrender not with a playful wink, but with the understanding that she is and always has been sluttish under her regal disguise.”

What sort of research went into making this book or is this a subject you know very well?

I did a boatload of research into Renaissance Venice and certain notable people of the time, but there is no substitute for having visited Venice. The unique sights and sounds and smells of a city built on water must be experienced. As for the character of the chef and his apprentice, I drew on the experiences of my father who is a chef and was a chef’s apprentice in Italy at the age of 13. I grew up hearing those stories, watching him dice onions at the speed of light and stir a pot like a mad alchemist. All that went into the writing of The Book of Unholy Mischief.

When you write something based on historical figures or events, do you worry people finding historical inaccuracies?

I do now. I thought I was a pretty rigorous researcher and I did my best to get things right, but several readers have let me know where I went wrong. Just today I heard from a man in Italy who tells me that Savonarola was not hung but burned at the stake. I’m sure my sources said he was hung, but apparently they neglected to mention the fire he was hung over. It might seem a small thing, but it’s embarrassing. I will be more careful in the future.

If you could spend the day as or with any historical figure, who would it be and why?

Oscar Wilde, and thanks for asking. At this point, I’ve done a lot of interviews and answered a lot of the same questions but you’re the first to ask that one. Oscar Wilde has got to be the most unfailingly witty figure in history. Even on his deathbed in an expensive hotel in Paris he said, “I’m dying above my means.” He had the most unusual way of seeing things and must have been enormously entertaining to be with. At the same time, he was a poignant figure, derided and ultimately ruined by small minds. I’d like to spend a day with him if for no other reason that to say, “That-a-boy, Oscar. I think you’re great.”

What do you do to prepare to write? What is the process that gets you ready to sit down a lay out a story?

I can’t over think it. I just get down to business and do it. I know that once I have a game plan and something on paper to work with I’ll have plenty of time to indulge the muse. But starting is so dreadfully difficult I just have to plunge right in. I write backstories for my characters, most of which I won’t use, and I write outlines that I will surely discard. I end up with scads of stuff I’ll never use, but it doesn’t matter. I just have to start, like priming a pump.

How much of yourself do you put in your characters? Are they extensions of you, or are they independent creations that take on a life of their own after coming from your imagination?

Naturally, they must come through me and so are limited by what I know and feel. But as they evolve they do tend to come to life in unexpected ways. At a certain point, when a character is well developed, it is very clear that he or she will simply not do this thing or definitely will do that. When the character starts directing the story things get interesting.

What is the most valuable piece of knowledge that you’ve picked up after becoming a published author that you wish you knew from the start?

I’m amazed to say that it takes as much time and effort to promote a book as it does to write it. These days, publishers insist that authors do everything they can to help market the book, and since The Book of Unholy Mischief came out last December I’ve put a good six months into touring and writing promotional material. I know a lot of writers who balk at this, thinking that promotion is the publishers job, but those days are over. If you publish a book you must realistically expect to put in many months of promotion. If I had known this I would not have made so many other commitments. Next time I’ll know better.

What is one thing you’ve never done but would love to do?

Well, I’m over sixty so I’ve done a lot of what I’ve wanted to do. My biggest priorities have been seeing the world and writing books and I’ve done some of both but of course there’s always more. I’d like to see more of Africa and India, specifically Tanzania and Rahjastan, and I’d like to write a half dozen more books. I guess one thing that would feel great to accomplish is to speak another language fluently. I speak three languages poorly and it seems like a shame not to master at least one of them. I’ll have to work on that.

What would your ‘theme’ song be on the soundtrack of your life?

There is an old seventies hit called “I Will Survive” that strikes a note with me. You can’t live 60 years without hitting a few bumps in the road and learning how to roll with the punches. I must say, this is an unusual interview.

Finally, could you share with all of us a quote that you love?

I really like the quote from Isaac Newton that I used as an epigram for The Book of Unholy Mischief. “If I have seen further than other men it is because I have stood on the shoulders of giants.” No one gets anywhere alone. We all owe something to those who came before and it seems right to acknowledge it.

But I also like this quote from Dorothy Parker: “If you can’t say anything nice about anyone, come sit next to me.”

Today I have the pleasure to bring you Sylvia (Silvia) Weber and her book The Wolves’ Keeper Legend, a story that she wrote at the tender age of 12 and transcribed into English for publication. I would like to welcome her to Morbid-Romantic.net, and thank her for taking the time to let me ask her a few questions. Enjoy!

About Sylvia Weber

Silvia Weber was born in Abrantes, Portugal, on 20th June 1968. She started writing at the age of twelve, sending articles to newspapers and participating in school contests. Graduating in Modern Languages and Literature, her whole career was dedicated to teaching and developing the youngsters greatest potential. A wide diversity of interests took her to a life of researching and studying a variety of subjects such as Languages, Phytotherapy and painting. A strong belief in dreams took her to England at the age of thirty-nine, searching for a place to call home.
- The Wolves’ Keeper Legend Homepage

About The Wolves’ Keeper Legend

From the beginning of time, it seemed that rivalry between man and wolf was at the root of man s dislike for the animal, discovered only too well by Sealgair. Was his fate forever to be condemned to isolation, to see terror and hate in the eyes of the ones he once loved? All he could see in his mind was the last picture of Awena s beloved face, which he carried in his heart for all his life. Was the only way out to discover the special secret held by the papyrus-pearl in the stone pot – what secrets could this hold? And which stone pot could keep that precious secret when there were so many of them? Seanns quest to find the pearls and uncover the secret ended with tragic consequences, resulting in him not only discovering the truth of his birth and who his real mother and father were, but the realization that his father lived among the wolves.

My Review of The Wolves’ Keeper Legend

Genre: Fiction – Fantasy
Finished: July 3, 2009
Rating: 2 Stars

The Wolves’ Keeper Legend by Sylvia Weber is a fantasy tale, full of magic and heroism. It is a story about love lost and a boy becoming a man. Because of the jealousy of the sorcerer Fiosaiche, Sealgair was cursed to roam among man’s most hated creature: wolves. Separated from his home and his love Awena, his curse is a constant torment to him and he wants nothing more than for the curse to break and to be allowed to be human once more. Of course, being a wolf has given him a great respect for the misunderstood wolves, but that is no consolation for what he has lost.

Enter young Seanns, friend to Awena. When she whispers a secret to him about papyrus-pearls in a stone pot, he sends himself on a quest to find these very things in hopes that they will cure her of the malady that has kept her isolated and silent for so, so long. Seanns travels with his friend Maise and elderly wiseman Cibeir, who is brother to the evil Fiosaiche.

To be honest, I am not sure what the plot is supposed to focus on specifically because it is scattered all over the place. Was Seanns supposed to be seeking out Fiosaiche to make him break the spell? Or was the purpose to find the papyrus-pearls to break the spell? Or both? I just don’t know what the ultimate goal of the trio is. There is a lot about this book that left me confused and disorientated. Weber is excellent with her descriptions of nature, and she describes the world around the characters in vivid and lustrous detail. But I had a lot of trouble with the fluidity of events as they unfold. A lot of the time while reading the book, I was perplexed as to what was happening, how someone got where they were, and how one event led to another. Along with that, most of the dialogue is left without any clear cut indication of who or what is speaking, so most of the time I wasn’t sure who was saying what to whom. Apparently in this world, trees and spirits talk, which added a whole new complication to the ‘who is talking’ issue. From out of nowhere, things that were not human would talk, but it would never state what these things are. And then there are confusing plot elements like the sword Cibeir gets from some traveling merchants that he said was important… why did Cibeir have it when it served no real purpose in the end? He didn’t DO anything with it, and neither did Seanns. And why did Awena say that her child with Sealgair had been killed when we were told that Seanns was their son? These things were never explained or developed and I have no idea what the deal is with Seanns being their son.

If the transitions were better and the dialogue were more clearly assigned, The Wolves’ Keeper Legend would be a great fantasy book for kids and adults. Weber has a lot of talent with words. Like I said, her descriptions of the physical world are quite lovely. The book just needs to be bit more focused, less erratic, and better defined to eliminate confusion or holes.

Interview With Sylvia Weber

You wrote your book when you were only twelve years old. Why did you wait so long to have it published?

I was living in Portugal, by then, and the Portuguese publishing market was much different from the English one; I don’t know how it is now. The truth is that I tried to publish it several times. I remember sending it to many contests; for example, or the City Council of Sintra or to the Fnac, and I did never get any reply. I tried the publishing magazines for advice, but I was told that, to publish the book anywhere, I would have to pay for all the publishing costs, so I didn’t have a chance.

What sort of research went into finalizing this book?

I researched a lot about wolves – their habitat, the way they behave, what they eat, the way they relate in the pack, their breeding process. I read books from the Middle Age, particularly about the day-to-day life. Then, I tried to improve the information contained in my book, though the most of it doesn’t come from research, but from imagination.

What do you do to prepare to write? What is the process that gets you ready to sit down a lay out a story?

I must say: it used to be a piece of paper and a pen; now I have my precious computer. Then, take a deep breath and dive. There is no preparation, just let the imagination flow. The improvements come later.

Is it your goal to ultimately become a career writer? Or would you like to teach again?

Teaching and writing would be amazing. I couldn’t see myself, at the moment, separating those two parts of my life. But it can happen; I guess there must be so many other interesting jobs to do, so many things and worlds I don’t know yet. On the other hand, if ever I could afford to spend all day in my computer writing, that wouldn’t displease me too.

What is it about your story that appeals to children the most? And what appeals to adults?

The action – this book isn’t boring, and its pace becomes more thrilling as it evolves. The characters are very colourful and varied, specially the most legendary ones, such as the griffin or the dragon-snake. At last, it has an open end, leaving a thousand possibilities in the horizon.

How much of yourself do you put in your characters? Are they extensions of you, or are they independent creations that take on a life of their own after coming from your imagination?

They are absolutely a product of imagination. Of course I got involved with them and I couldn’t treat them in a cold and objective way, but I tried to keep a distance. What most surprised me was exactly that they took a life of their own – I was expecting something like that to happen, but never in such a autonomous way.

What is the most valuable piece of knowledge that you’ve picked up after becoming a published author that you wish you knew from the start?

If I knew, I would have written my book in English before and sent it to publishers outside the boundaries of Portugal. I didn’t have a realistic vision of the world by then.

What is one thing you’ve never done but would love to do?

Travel the Road of Silk. It would be absolutely fascinating.

What would your ‘theme’ song be on the soundtrack of your life?

“One moment in time”, by Whitney Houston. It is overwhelming, extraordinary, beautiful.

Finally, could you share with all of us a quote that you love?

Einstein said once “Imagination is more important than knowledge”. It doesn’t mean that knowledge isn’t important and who knows his work goes further in the sense of those words. To me it means that only knowledge combined with imagination can lead to innovation, discovery and achievement.

I would like to welcome Pat McDermott to Morbid-Romantic.net. I recently had the honor of reading and reviewing her ebook A Band of Roses. If you would like to learn more about Pat McDermott, you can visit her official website

About A Band of Roses

A Band of Roses is an alternate history adventure set in modern day Ireland. The “what if” premise of the story supposes that Irish High King Brian Boru survived the Battle of Clontarf in 1014 A.D. and founded a dynasty that rules Ireland to this day.

Crown Princess Talty Boru, the daughter of the current King Brian, is the heir to the throne, though she wishes she weren’t. She’d prefer to pursue a military career, but she’s resigned to her royal fate until England’s Prince Geoffrey seizes a tiny Irish island in the North Atlantic and the oil-rich ocean bed around it. Geoffrey plans to return the island to Ireland in exchange for oil wells in the Irish sea. He proposes a conciliatory treaty that would marry Talty to the unbalanced young English King. Talty agrees, as the terms demand that she relinquish her title as heir to the throne. She believes she’s free of her duties as crown princess, but a murder attempt on her wedding night turns her life upside down.

Multiple attempts on Talty’s life force King Brian to send her away to protect her, though he unwittingly sends her into further danger. From Japan to California, Talty must hide her true identity until her elders can set things straight. She can’t disguise her ingrained training as one of Ireland’s ancient Fian warriors, however.

Her recruitment into International Security Forces’ top secret Peregrine Project allows her to visit strange worlds, one an eleventh century Ireland preparing for the Battle of Clontarf. She finds romance and adventure and brings back a discovery worth more than any oil well, yet all she wants is to return to her family and her lifelong friend and protector Neil Boru, the adoptive cousin she secretly loves and can’t have—or so she thinks. Talty’s warrior cousin has a secret of his own, one that emerges as the Boru clan works with England’s MI6 to thwart an invasion of Ireland and bring Talty home.

My Review of A band of Roses

Genre: Fiction – Historical
Finished: July 23, 2009
Rating: 2 Stars

Historians love the “what-ifs” of history. We really do sit around tables and discuss… what if Jackson had not been killed during the Civil War? What if Jesus had not been crucified? What if Rome had never expanded? You get the picture. A Band of Roses presents a “what-if,” but an obscure one. What is King Brian Boru of Ireland, when he fought against the Vikings at Clontarf, had not died as a result of the battle? How different would Ireland and Irish history be if the King who united the warring tribes of Ireland had lived?

That is what McDermott poses and seeks to expand upon. His modern day twentieth century descendant Princess Talty only manages to escape assassination over some off shore oil issues. A grudge held by the Regent of the Kingdom of England, Prince Geoffrey Wessex, puts Ireland into danger and it’s almost all the Irish warriors can do behind the scenes to head him off.

This book pretty much covers a variety of different genres. There is historical fiction, historical fantasy, fantasy, and science fiction. There is, of course, also the real life elements of international relations and territory rights. Of course, there is also romance in that the princess harbors a secret crush for her cousin, a love she cannot imagine ever coming to fruition. McDremott did a lot of research for her writing, but you can tell that she also at the same time allowed her imagination go. That simultaneous interplay of reality versus fantasy makes A Band of Roses a truly unique novel with a happy ending.

Interview With Pat McDermott

I have a degree in history, so I love imagining the “what if” possibilities. What made you choose your subject to be the death of Brian Boru?

My well-read aunts, who are both Irish history buffs, entertained me as a child with all sorts of Irish legends. Their tales of High King Brian Boru compelled me to explore Brian’s history. Everything I found said how sad it was that Brian didn’t survive the Battle of Clontarf, as Ireland would be a very different place today. The years I spent wondering just how different led to A Band of Roses.

What sort of research went into making this book or is this a subject you know very well?

I knew enough about King Brian to realize I didn’t know enough about him to write the story. Digging into his history became an enjoyable challenge, one that took me to the bookstores of Dublin and Galway. Not only did I visit Clontarf, the site of Brian’s battle with the Vikings and now an upscale Dublin suburb, I also spent a day in Killaloe, his hometown in County Clare, to see the new Brian Boru exhibit.

When you write something based on historical figures or events, do you worry about people finding historical inaccuracies?

Not at all. I research those aspects of a story well. I am writing fiction, however, and I do take liberties by placing imaginary characters in actual events, so I’m not as worried as I might be if I were writing a text book.

If you could spend the day as or with any historical figure, who would it be and why?

I wouldn’t want to be her, but I’d love to meet Granuaile, also known as Grace O’Malley, the sixteenth century Pirate Queen of western Ireland. I first heard of Grace from a priest named O’Malley who proudly claimed descent from her. I’ve read about her adventures on both land and sea, and I’ve come to admire the her as a powerful chieftain who defended her territory against all enemies. She locked her husband out of his castle, gave birth to a son at sea, and met Queen Elizabeth I without so much as a curtsey, as Grace considered herself a queen as well. Last year I had the pleasure of visiting the Grace O’Malley Museum in County Mayo, a wonderful exhibit depicting the life and times of this fascinating woman. Grace has inspired my writing: she plays a part in my third novel.

What do you do to prepare to write? What is the process that gets you ready to sit down a lay out a story?

Making a good strong cup of tea is the first order of business, and my daily calendar has to display the new day. Whether I’m working on my desktop or my laptop, I’ll choose a Quiet Music playlist from my media player, review the previous day’s writing, and pick up where I left off.

How much of yourself do you put in your characters? Are they extensions of you, or are they independent creations that take on a life of their own after coming from your imagination?

The characters in A Band of Roses are completely imaginary. I may offer suggestions as to how they might react in a given situation (I get to control the situations!), and sometimes they listen. Generally, they do behave as the situation warrants. But occasionally, and to my delight, they’ll completely take over a scene.

What is the most valuable piece of knowledge that you’ve picked up after becoming a published author that you wish you knew from the start?

The internet is an incredibly powerful tool.

What is one thing you’ve never done but would love to do?

I would love to live in Ireland for a year.

What would your ‘theme’ song be on the soundtrack of your life?

“If I Ruled the World” by Leslie Bricusse and Cyril Ornadel

Finally, could you share with all of us a quote that you love?

“Man’s mind stretched to a new idea never goes back to its original dimensions.” Oliver Wendell Holmes