Can you introduce yourself to my readers a little?
Sure thing! I am an urban fantasy author who writes about all the dark and scary things that go bump in the night. I love fantastical creatures–vampires, werewolves, dragons, elves, fairies–which is probably why I’m drawn to write about them. I’m also an active member of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America and the Horror Writers Association. I’ve written articles for the Writer’s Digest Guide to Literary Agents, USA Today’s Happy Ever After, numerous bloggers and authors, and even my (at the time) local newspaper. You can find out more about my articles and books by heading over to my official website.
I can be found at: Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Google+ | GoodReads | Amazon
Can you introduce us to the world(s) that you have created?
I’m best known for the H&W Investigations series–an urban fantasy series about Shiarra Waynest, a human private investigator who starts out phobic of supernatural creatures until she pulls up her big girl panties and actually gets to know some of them. Sometimes she picks up an extra boost from one of her friends–like the snarky, sentient belt that helps her hunt vampires–but underneath it all, she’s like you and me. No mind-reading, no zombie-raising, no super strength/speed/stamina–and, like anyone would expect, when she’s forced to deal with Others (supernaturals), it scares the bejeezus out of her.? Dragged into the supernatural messes of sexy vampires, ferocious werewolves, and cunning magi, all Shiarra wants is to keep her private investigations business afloat. All of my published work is set in her world–an alternate present day where monsters openly walk amongst us–though I’ve written stories about other characters. If that sounds up your alley, you can dip your toe in the Other-verse by starting with Hunted By the Others.
Will this be your first RT or are you a veteran? Any advice for those who are going for the first time?
This is my very first RT! So be gentle. I’ve been to plenty of other conventions, so the best advice I can give is to remember to have fun and not be afraid to approach anyone or make new friends. You’ll be among your people–hundreds (thousands?) of others who love books. What could be better?
Are you speaking on any panels during RT? Are there any you are looking forward to or are planning on attending?
Yes, I’ll be speaking on the Vampire: Got Blood? Write for the Undead! panel on Friday afternoon. I’m overwhelmed by the number of things I want to see and do while I’m in NOLA! So far I’m thinking about hitting the steampunk and fantasy lovers panel on Wednesday, the UF and vampire (one I’m not on) panel on Thursday, maybe the panel on writing for comic books and Kensington’s (my publisher’s) spotlight on Friday. Aside from that? Up in the air!
Is there anything in particular you’re looking forward to or experiencing while in New Orleans?
I was in New Orleans for Authors After Dark in 2012. I’ve got a huge recap post with tons of pictures here where I talk about the neat things I saw during a ghost tour, how my phone was christened by dead people parts and cursed for all time, and pics of dudes in drag for the Red Dress Run. I’m really looking forward to going on another ghost tour, maybe seeing Walter again, and visiting more landmark cemeteries I didn’t get to see the last time I was there!
If someone were wanting to meet up with you at RT, who should they look for?
That short, weird chick with the T-shirts that have slogans like “Careful or you’ll wind up in my novel.” My natural habitat includes any dark, comfy location with chocolate and coffee, so keep an eye out for me at the coffee shops or being a wallflower on the fringes of all the excitement. You can also stalk me at:
Kensington’s Karmic Carnival party (Thursday, 5:15 – 6:15), The Vampires vs. Shifters party (Friday, 11:15am – 12:15pm), and The “Vampire: Got Blood? Write for the Undead!” panel (Friday, 2:45 – 3:45).
The 2014 RT Booklovers Convention will be held in New Orleans on May 13th – 18th at the Marriott hotel on Canal Street in the historic French Quarter. For the full list of attending authors, who will be signing at the Giant Book Fair on May 17th, here they are: All Authors, Young Adult Authors, and New Adult Authors.
