Joey W Hill writes about vampires, mermaids, boardroom executives, cops, witches, angels, simple housemaids... If there's an erotic love story to be told, she'll take the plunge. As a result, she's proud and humbled to have four series and over twenty award-winning and highly acclaimed titles under her belt, as well as the support and enthusiasm of a wonderful and widely diverse readership. In 2009, Joey was nominated for a Career Achievement award in Erotica by Romantic Times.
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BOUND BY THE VAMPIRE QUEEN by Joey W. Hill
Book VIII of the Vampire Queen Series (Vampire Queen's Servant/Mark of the Vampire Queen should be read first)Sworn to obedience, compelled by loyalty, and threatened with damnation for betrayal, Jacob entered Lady Lyssa's servitude as a human servant. Now he is a vampire, but still bound to Lyssa, who has found herself struggling with the capricious powers that have come alive in her paternal Fae blood - and challenged by two enemies...
While the Vampire Council threatens to take away Lyssa and Jacob's newborn son, the Fae Queen has ordered Lyssa to appear before the Otherworld court to face inescapable charges. The Fae have nothing but contempt for vampires, but to serve her, protect her, nourish her, and pleasure her, Jacob will follow his lady into hell itself. No one - neither Fae nor vampire - will compel him to break the oath he made to serve a vampire queen forever.
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WIN - Leave Joey a question about her new book today at her Cyber Launch Party and your name goes in the hat for a $50 Gift Card from Amazon or Barnes and Noble and an autographed book of your choice from Joey's impressive backlist - check out your choices here!! Please leave your email address, so we can contact you if you are today's winner - Good Luck!
Woo Hoo Joey!!! Happy Release Day!!
ReplyDeleteHow exciting to be celebrating the release of a new book in your wildly popular Vampire Queen Series with you!
For those who aren't familiar with your series, can you tell us all about it and how the books connect?
And I'm also thrilled to hear you have another release coming out in February that kicks off a brand new series for you - can you tell us a little bit about that too?
Enjoy your very special day today and I hope BOUND BY THE VAMPIRE QUEEN is your biggest bestseller yet!
Sounds very good! How many more books are in the series?
ReplyDeleteamysmith98@gmail.com
Joey, I'm SO EXCITED about this one!
ReplyDeleteMy question is this: Was it difficult to revisit a relationship that you've give a HEA already and do you plan to do another book on Gideon, Anwyn and Daegan? (I love love love those three).
Joey, what was your favorite part of the book to write? I haven't read any of this series. But I enjoyed the Daughters of Arianne series.
ReplyDeleteWas there any part of this book that was difficult to write?
ReplyDeleterockchick531 at gmail dot com
Hi Joey! I adore all of your books. My favorites are the Arianne series, but I love the Vampire Queen, too. Jacob's loyalty and love for Lyssa is heartwarming. I am planning on picking up BbtVQ this weekend. I would love to know if maybe Jacob and Lyssa are favorite characters of yours since this is the third book for them? I know they are favorites of mine.
ReplyDeleteshiderly77@yahoo.com
It's wonderful to be here today. I have to finish up something this morning, but I promise to be back after lunch and answer all questions! Thanks for your patience with me. This mix of Christmas with deadlines and new releases and preparing for parties and family stuff is a crazy but fun carousel! (grin) Be back shortly - promise!
ReplyDeleteGood day Joey! This is one of my all-time favorite series.
ReplyDeleteDo you have a new series in the works or on your mind? If so, what will it be about?
Happy release day and congratulations!
Kathleen
kcharles1004@yahoo.com
Joey,
ReplyDeleteYou KNOW how I excited I am about this release, and Getting to revisit my absolute FAVORITE couple from your Vampire Series... although Lady Daniela and Dev are a close second.
Any chance of continuing their story as well?
April Riley
adawnpixie@gmail.com
Congrats on the new release! I was wondering if you've ever had to deal with emails from anyone who was either against erotica, BDSM, or something of that nature. It seems to me that your work might attract that type of response from people who don't understand why you write these types of series. Thanks!
ReplyDeleteLiz E.
reddjenaATyahooDOTcom
Congrats on your new release! Sounds like a fantastic read! What is your favorite part of writing?
ReplyDeletelead[at]hotsheet[dot]com
Loved Bound by a Vampire Queen. Downloaded the ebook this morning. It was awesome :D
ReplyDeleteWill there be another book later on, where we get to know more what happens after the end with the council and stuff and more about the Fae world? Don't want to write the question to detailed so not to spoil it.
also will Kane get his own book somewhere into the future, I'm intrigued about his new necklace and if there will be a time when it will be needed lol?
Happy release day Joey. Will you be writting anymore sequals with Gideon,Anwyn,and Daegan again? kimmyd10000@yahoo.com
ReplyDeleteCongrats on the new release Joey. You are a new author for me and would love to win and read this book. Would love to win the gift card. I love to read and always looking for new books and authors to check out. Thanks for the giveaway and the chance to win.
ReplyDeleteMy questions for you are:
Do you have any favorite authors/books to recommend? What is your favorite genre to write? Who is your favorite character form the Vampire Queen series and why?
christinebails@yahoo.com
congratulations and happy release day!
ReplyDeletebeing book VIII do you find it easier or harder to write the farther into a series you go (easier because you know the characters so well or harder because you have to go farther into a story line or find new story line with each new book)?
terri_dion@hotmail.com
Hello Joey! Congrats on the new release. When you started this series did you know how many books you wanted to write?
ReplyDeletegeishasmom73 AT yahoo DOT com
I have to say that I am a recent addict to your series'. I have a question about your relationships to your characters. Is it hard to say goodbye at the end of the book? I find myself "missing" some of my favorites and have always wondered if the authors have as much character withdraw.
ReplyDeletewhen did you get so awesome?
ReplyDeleteHi Joey,
ReplyDeletei love the cover, it's gorgeous and the book sounds wonderful. i can hardly wait to read it and see what happens.
did you have a lot of input on the cover? i know that some authors do get alot of say and others don't.
Happy Holidays!
trvlagnt1t@yahoo.com
Congrats on the new release Joey! Is it hard coming up with new material for Jacob and Lyssa?
ReplyDeletelilazncutie1215[at]yahoo[dot]com
Woohoo happy release day Joey! Bet that will be another keeper!
ReplyDeletedannyfiredragon@ aol. com
Happy Release Day !!! i love this series :)
ReplyDeletereginamayross@gmail.com
Happy release day. I am loving this series. Can't seem to get enough although each sends me through an emotional wringer. All my questions have pretty much been asked unless you want to tell us when Ben's (KOB) story is coming out?
ReplyDelete1_trouble AT msn DOT com
happy release wishing you many sales :) Do you have an writing rituals you have to do to get in the vibe for writing ?
ReplyDeletemeandi09@Yahoo.com
Congrats on the new release!! What made you choice this genre?
ReplyDeletecsdsksds[at]gmail[dot]com
Happy new release, Joey! Thanks for celebrating with us! Do you have any special ways of commemorating your new releases? (New jewelry? Framed cover flats? Dinner out? Trip to Paris? ;))
ReplyDeleteHope you're having a lovely month--thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule to hang out with us!
f dot chen at comcast dot net
Congratulations!! I'm very happy for you!
ReplyDeleteWhere did the idea for your book come from?
Gena Robertson
robertsongena@hotmail.com
this sounds like a great story! obsidianstar@mail.com
ReplyDeleteis it exciting to have your books loved by so many people?
ReplyDeleteCongrats on your release day :) I haven't had a chance to read your books yet and I'm swamped with review books lol but you're definitely on my list of authors that I'm going to be checking out :D I read about a book a day so eventually I will get to them all :D
ReplyDeleteI actually was reading about.. hmm I think its called Authors After Dark and your supposed to be the Mistress this year? I've never gotten to go to a book convention but one day I will go to one with all paranormal authors, or at least a lot and have fun talking with them and then of course showing it on my Paranormal Addicts fb page lol :) do you have any special plans for when you're mistress? :)
swtlilangel4jc at yahoo dot com
Good heavens, all my unavoidable to-dos this morning mushroomed quite unexpectedly. My apologies to all of you - I'm here now and prepared to plunge into questions. Stay tuned... But first and foremost, thank you for your enthusiasm, your wonderful comments, and for stopping by!
ReplyDeleteThanks, AI - You asked -
ReplyDelete1) For those who aren't familiar with your series, can you tell us all about it and how the books connect? Answer: My Vampire Queen series are paranormal erotic romances, hinging on the idea of the vampire/servant relationship being an extreme form of Dominant/submissive relationship. Vampires view humans as inferior, property to do with as they wish, yet since vampire politics are so brutal, often a vampire's most intimate relationship emotionally is with their servant. It gives rise to some intense relationship dynamics. The series started with Vampire Queen's Servant, where Lyssa, a thousand year old vampire, was in need of a new servant. She finds one in the unlikely but highly appealing package of Jacob Green, a former vampire hunter and Ren Faire knight. He's an alpha male, in no way submissive, but he has a compelling need to serve and protect her. Their story actually took two books to write, that one and the second book in the series, Mark of the Vampire Queen. Books III-VII of the series have explored other vampire/servant pairings,including a 1950s vampire and an Australian bushman (Vampire's Claim; a male vampire who protects a servant who is a fugitive from the vampire world (Beloved Vampire), and even one about a vampire who runs a wild cat sanctuary (Vampire Instinct). Then there's the popular menage of two vampires and one servant, who happened to be a hardcore vampire hunter when they met him! (Vampire Mistress/Vampire Trinity). So there's a lot of room to explore storylines in this series. You can read excerpts for all of them on my site under the Vampire Queen series link. As far as how they connect, most of the books have been spawned by secondary characters of previous books, so there's always the chance to revisit favorite heroes and heroines (smile).
2) And I'm also thrilled to hear you have another release coming out in February that kicks off a brand new series for you - can you tell us a little bit about that too?
This one is more paranormal sensual, focusing on the world of witches. Like all my stuff, it's pretty much based in our contemporary world. The first one was a lot of fun to write because Ruby, my heroine, is a witch who runs a gun store/gun range, and she's basically trying to avoid hooking up with Derek Stormwind, a sorcerer partial to cowboy hats, dragonskin boots and Ruby. This series is intended to be a little lighter paranormal fare, but it keeps an erotic edge and of course I'm incapable of writing anything that doesn't delve pretty deep into emotional territory. It was a nice re-visit to how I started my writing career, though, with more traditional fantasy elements like witches, sorcerers, magic use, casting circles, etc (smile). Again, you can find free excerpts, blurbs and cover art on my website, www.storywitch.com. There are extra excerpts on the fan forum as well, www.jwhconnection.com (see 2nd par of my website home page for access info).
Amy asked: How many more books are in the series?
ReplyDeleteAmy, so far there are eight and I'm contracting for two more in 2012. That's hot off the press news, just confirmed today! I always say I'll write as many as the muse give me and the readers want, so hopefully this series won't be ending anytime soon. :>
I love the Vampire Queen stories.. I mean all your books are amazing, but there's just something about the Queen and Jacob's story that I awesomes me! I wanted to ask... besides the first two and this book, will there be more with them as the hero/heroine?? Please say yes :D
ReplyDeleteThanks.. Miranda from Colombia
Jennifer, hello! Hope you're doing well. You asked: 1) Was it difficult to revisit a relationship that you've give a HEA already...
ReplyDeleteBoy howdy (lol). Don't ask my husband how many curses I heaped upon this manuscript while I was working on it. I love being a character-driven author, because the relationship and the personalities, how they mesh/clash, is always the most intriguing part of the journey. However, for a relationship that has already resolved a lot of the "clash" part, you necessarily have to focus more on that four-letter word - PLOT. Ugh (laughter). And of course the vampire books have always been complex, with the politics, the vampire world structure, etc. When I was all done, though, I was happy with the result - well, I will be when I'm sure YOU all are happy with it. :> You guys are the ones who always make all the edits worth it.
2) ...and do you plan to do another book on Gideon, Anwyn and Daegan? (I love love love those three).
I'm not sure. The muse hasn't given me anything for a full length book yet, but there were of course some loose ends for these three that might eventually evolve that way. They have a major role in Bound by the Vampire Queen, so at the very least I hope they keep making guest appearances in future books. We'll see what happens as other projects clear off the front burner. In the meantime, I have a plethora of free vignette ideas featuring these three I can offer at the fan site going forward!
Hope you enjoy BBtVQ and I'll look forward to your opinion on it as always!
Niki, so glad you've tried my mermaids and angels (smile). You asked: What was your favorite part of the book to write?
ReplyDeleteThis is a tough one, because it's a major spoiler. Jacob has been a knight in a previous life, and something happens when they're in the Fae world, something that every knight, modern day or otherwise, probably dreams of happening to him. That was my favorite part to write, though it made me cry, because it touches that part of all of us which hopes magic like that truly exists.
If you do decide to try my vampires, I'd recommend going with Beloved Vampire first, Book IV of the series. It's the most romantic of all of them, a little closer aligned to the Daughters of Arianne series, and I've been told by lovers of the vampire series that it's the best book for new readers to "ease" into the story flow (smile). It's a standalone, no worries, but you get a taste of the characters from the other books.
Tanya asked - Was there any part of this book that was difficult to write?
ReplyDeleteTanya, my best answer is probably the one I gave Jennifer (about 2-3 slots up from this response, I think?). There was a lot of movement in this story - from South America, to Atlanta, to the Fae World, to Berlin, so it brougth together a lot of different characters and storylines, and yet I didn't want to lose the central focus on Jacob and Lyssa, because often when I read plot-heavy books, that's how they lose me as a reader. I want to be in the hearts and minds of the main characters throughout, and when juggling that many balls, that can be challenging. Thanks for the question!
I cant wait to read this book. Joey you never disappoint this reader.
ReplyDeleteLeslianne
Shiderly, thanks so much! It's wonderful to see fans of my Daughters of Arianne series here. I miss writing about my mermaids and angels, but hope I'll get back to them one day. I hope you've visited the fan forum (www.jwhconnection) to read the free vignette about David and Mina of A Witch's Beauty. It was a fun one.
ReplyDeleteYou asked: I would love to know if maybe Jacob and Lyssa are favorite characters of yours since this is the third book for them?
I'm glad Jacob and Lyssa are your favorites as well. I do have a soft spot for them since they kicked off the tone of the whole series. However, I'm not sure if there's a correlation between my fondness for them and the three books featuring them as the main protagonists. At the end of Mark of the Vampire Queen there were so many open ended issues, it naturally dovetailed into the third book, though I needed the intervening books in the series to prepare myself to re-enter their specific relationship. That's usually the deciding factor - for instance, probably my favorite contemporary series characters would be Marguerite and Tyler of Ice Queen / Mirror of My Soul, but their story was finished at the end of the second book. They'll come back in guest appearances elsewhere, but I doubt I'll ever have another full length book about them, because I have a sense of closure to their story, even though I love them both.
Hope that helps answer the question!
Kathleen asked: Do you have a new series in the works or on your mind? If so, what will it be about?
ReplyDeleteKathleen, thanks for the compliment. I'm so happy you love my vampires! At this moment, just the mass market witch series mentioned in my above response to Author Island. I don't have any new series ideas percolating, though I have a couple single titles simmering, one focusing on the Medusa mythology. I think part of it is I have four ongoing series right now with no definite end in sight to any of them, so that there's no "room" in my head for a new one (lol). That can always change in the future, though!
Hey, April! Glad to see you here, girl, and hope you enjoy the latest installment with your favorite couple (beaming). You asked: Any chance of continuing Lady Daniela and Dev's story (Vampire's Claim).
ReplyDeleteThis one is a little more nebulous. Don't see anything in the immediate future for them except guest appearances in other books, like they did in Beloved Vampire, or in future free vignettes to give us all the chance to revisit them (smile). They were pretty well sewn-up in terms of closure at the end of VC. However, there is something that happens with them in Bound by the Vampire Queen that could open up other possibilities. We'll see! Thanks for the question, and hope to see you in the coming year. :>
Liz asked:I was wondering if you've ever had to deal with emails from anyone who was either against erotica, BDSM, or something of that nature. It seems to me that your work might attract that type of response from people who don't understand why you write these types of series.
ReplyDeleteLiz, that's a great question - I don't get asked that too often. Interestingly enough, I don't think I've ever received a direct email from someone objecting to the erotic content or BDSM in my work, though I've seen reviews posted at Amazon and B&N that were obviously from someone who picked up the book, didn't realize it had that content, and reacted very negatively to it in their review, because they object to or are not familiar with the genre.
Now I do have BDSM/erotic readers with different levels of tolerance for the consent/pain issues I explore, and sometimes if I go a little deeper in the hardcore stories than they like, they might send me emails that ask for more clarification as to why I took the story in that direction, or they might indicate it made them uncomfortable, interfered with their enjoyment of the story for X reasons, etc. Always respectful - just a differing opinion, and it's very humbling/flattering that they were involved enough in the story that they took the time to voice the objection.
Grin - now, the ones who most likely object to what I write are personal friends and family. But rather than attacking me about it, they politely avoid any discussions about it (lol).
Virginia asked - What is your favorite part of writing?
ReplyDeleteThat moment when I get kind of lost in it. Most authors will tell you there's a moment when you "let go" during the creative process, and you're immersed in the muse, not thinking about sentence structure, deadlines, will the readers hate this next book, etc (lol). You're just in the zone, you and your pen just a conduit for the creative energy.
If you've ever seen Legend of Bagger Vance, the scene where they are watching Bobby Jones step up to take his next swing, and Will Smith breaks it down, noting how everything disappears for Bobby, there's just him and the fairway and the ball...it's a lot like that. Another movie that captures it well is Neverland with Johnny Depp and Kate Winslet, the way he watches the kids bouncing on the bed, and suddenly he's imagining them soaring in the air, out the window and into the night sky...
Margrete, I'm doing the happy dance - so glad you liked BBtVQ! Thanks for letting me know. You asked:
ReplyDelete1) Will there be another book later on, where we get to know more what happens after the end with the council and stuff and more about the Fae world?
What?! I just finished this book, the Manuscript from the Bowels of Hell, and you want another?! LOL - seriously, while I don't know if we'll ahve another book with Jacob and Lyssa as the main protagonists, the Fae world introduced about four new characters I'd like to explore more - particularly Keldwyn - so I have a feeling we'll see a book or two from that. As far as the vampires, as noted in the earlir question, I just contracted for two more vampire books today, and since one of them is current-day setting (the other will be the 1950 Australia time period, featuring Alistair and Nina), I know we'll get to see what's happening as a result of the changes introduced in BBtVQ.
2) also will Kane get his own book somewhere into the future, I'm intrigued about his new necklace and if there will be a time when it will be needed lol?
Most definitely - that kid has oodles of personality as a toddler - I can only imagine he'll be wide open as he grows into young adulthood! And of course with him being the son of Lady Lyssa, there will be enemies who have designs on him. That necklace WILL prove useful.
Hey Anonymous - you asked: Will you be writting anymore sequals with Gideon,Anwyn,and Daegan again?
ReplyDeleteHere's the answer I posted on this for Jennifer, above -
I'm not sure. The muse hasn't given me anything for a full length book yet, but there were of course some loose ends for these three that might eventually evolve that way. They have a major role in Bound by the Vampire Queen, so at the very least I hope they keep making guest appearances in future books. We'll see what happens as other projects clear off the front burner. In the meantime, I have a plethora of free vignette ideas featuring these three I can offer at the fan site going forward!
Now remember, those who are asking about Daegan, Anwyn and Gideon, there is a NOVELLA-length FREE download vignette revisiting them at the jwhconnection.com fan forum. If you haven't had the pleasure of it, it's a great one-on-one involving Daegan and Gideon! Just remember you have to do the quick register/logon to confirm you're not a spammer to access that info.
Chris, hi! Glad you stopped by and are considering my work for your TBR list. You asked:
ReplyDelete1) Do you have any favorite authors/books to recommend?
Here are a few of my favorites: Once in a Blue Moon by Penelope Williamson, the first three Outlander books by Diana Gabaldon, Daniel's Surrender by VJ Summers, Time Traveler's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger, My Sister's Keeper by Jodi Picoult, My Lady's Heart / Flowers in the Storm by Laura Kinsale, the Phoenix Rising series by Denise Rossetti and Bittersweet Homecoming by Ann Jacobs.
2) What is your favorite genre to write?
Contemporary erotic romance. I love my paranormals as well, but the contemporaries are much easier to write because they can be even more character-focused (versus developing the magic, abilities, structure of the vampire, mermaid, angel etc worlds). And if I have my druthers, male/male erotic romance is the most fun (two gorgeous guys, no temperamental female energy at all - laughter).
3) Who is your favorite character from the Vampire Queen series and why?
Wow, that's a tough one. I've been sitting here thinking, and as soon as I think, well X is my favorite because of so-n-so, then I think, yeah, but Y is wonderful because... The one who popped in my head first though was Lady Lyssa. She's a complicated lady, very harsh in some ways, because she's lived 1000 years and had to deal with creating a structure for vampire society that would allow them to survive, despite their bloodlust instincts. She's had a lot of personal tragedies and difficult decisions to make that required her to be tough emotionally, but there's a soft core to her that only Jacob is able to reach. So I'd say Lyssa - she's probably the most complex of all the characters in the series, and she reflects the complexity of the women I grew up around - strong as steel, yet moments of heart breaking vulnerability where you see what went into that forging.
Hi Terri - you asked - being book VIII do you find it easier or harder to write the farther into a series you go (easier because you know the characters so well or harder because you have to go farther into a story line or find new story line with each new book)?
ReplyDeleteKeeping past facts consistent is a challenge. I have a volunteer putting together a series bible for me now, something I should have been doing from Book II forward. Any writer out there, take note - you will NOT regret taking the time to do this from the very beginning, because otherwise, like me, you will discover some very embarrassing gaffes in consistency (laughter).
Revisiting the characters is fun because they can explore romantic possibilities in ways a couple unfamiliar with one another can't. I had the pleasure of that in Bound by the Vampire Queen, because of course Jacob and Lyssa have been bonded for some time.
As far as storylines, though, it's easier when it's a series book vs a sequel. Bound by the Vampire Queen is essentially a sequel to Mark of the Vampire Queen, because it's the continuing story of Jacob and Lyssa, where knowing their history in the previous two books (Vampire Queen's Servant and Mark of the Vampire Queen) is essential to getting the most out of the book.
The other books in the series are
separate stories for characters that are part of the same world, so while the setting is familiar, the storyline is fresh. That gives me the best of both worlds - I don't have to create the world, but I get to explore a new set of characters, which is always one of the best perks of starting a new story.
Stacie asked: When you started this series did you know how many books you wanted to write?
ReplyDeleteNo, I pretty much write however many storylines the muse gives me, and that's an open ended flow most of the time. The only exception to that has been my Knights of the Board Room series. It's based on five board room executives, each one pursuing his soul mate with the help of the others, such that after book five, the series will be done. However, most the time it's as I noted in an earlier question - I'll write as many books in the vampire series as the muse gives me and the readers/publisher wants!
Carla, I am completely fine with you being addicted to my work (grin). You asked - Is it hard to say goodbye to your characters at the end of the book?
ReplyDeleteYes - it's a feeling like when you come home from a trip and though you're glad to be home, some part of you misses that place you've been. Now I will say this feeling doesn't happen right away, not usually. When I turn a book in, there's been a plethora of edits, galley reviews, etc, such that the brain has to disengage, get a little distance to reconnect to those characters as characters, instead of as a breakdown of editing marks (laughter). I will say I noticed it immediately for Marcus and Thomas of Rough Canvas, and Marguerite/Tyler of Ice Queen/Mirror of My Soul. They stayed with me a while, with no lapse between submitting the manuscript and getting that distance.
Mar wrote: when did you get so awesome?
ReplyDeleteLOL - Mar, you're too much. Hugs, girl!!
Tammy, I've been blessed by the cover gods, for sure. Love the covers for this series - Mark of the Vampire Queen remains my alltime favorite of all of them.
ReplyDeleteYou asked; did you have a lot of input on the cover?
Berkley does ask for author input. We give them a summary of the book, hero/heroine description, any specific features we might like worked into the cover or concepts we've imagined. For the most part, they've done a great job of using some of those suggestions, but the ultimate decision for what the cover will look like rests with them.
My editor would tell you the biggest problem I've had since the Twilight craze is that I feel like they're drawing the cover models too young. They kindly "aged up" the model on the Bound by the Vampire Queen cover because in the first version I said I felt like I should be dropping him off at his varsity football game, not ogling his half naked body (lol). Of course, it could be ME getting old, but I'm not ready to admit that!
Oh, and just to clarify - that wasn't a slap at Twilight. They're excellent YA books and I love the movies. Rob Pattinson makes my heart skip a beat!
ReplyDeleteJeanette, thanks! You asked: Is it hard coming up with new material for Jacob and Lyssa?
ReplyDeleteI know you've probably read the earlier comments along this vein, indicating the politics and world/location hopping made it a more difficult book to write, but those were logistics. Coming up with the new material, if the muse wants me to do the book, isn't so hard. It's organizing it in a cohesive manner (lol). Sometimes she'll give me a lot of scenes in flashes, but leave it to me to tie it together with some kind of connecting plot. I think she likes the character exploration more than the plotting as well (laughter).
Hey Danny and Regina - glad you could come by, and thanks for the well wishes!!
ReplyDeleteDonna, thanks for the compliment on the series - I'm always delighted when a reader tells me they're enjoying my vampires! You asked: when is Ben's story (Knights of the Board Room)coming out?
I'll be submitting Hostile Takeover to Ellora's Cave by the end of December. Though EC doesn't set release dates until they receive the manuscript, they released the last book about three months after submittal, so I hope we might see the ebook by sometime in March. The print book should be out in time for Romanticon 2012 in October!
Jennifer, thanks! You asked: Do you have an writing rituals you have to do to get in the vibe for writing ?
ReplyDeleteI started writing for publication when I was working a fulltime job and managing a busy homelife. While that was a crazy schedule, it taught me not to rely on any particular environment - just to scribble or type as much as I could in whatever space of time I could find (laughter). However, ideally I have a quiet space in one of my favorite writing nooks in the house to tap away on the key board for a few blissfully uninterrupted hours. Doesn't usually happen, though! If I get creatively stifled, I tend to write through it and go back and fix it in edits. Sometimes I'll listen to favorite mood music, watch a inspiring movie scene, etc, to get me going in the right direction as well.
Runner10 asked: What made you choose this genre?
ReplyDeleteI was reading paranormal stories from the time I could read - loved the heavy character-driven fantasy of Raymond Feist, Stephen Donaldson, Lloyd Alexander, etc, and my interest in it grew even stronger as I became older. As far as the erotic, the intense relationship dynamics that happen in erotic interactions fascinated me as a reader, so it was a natural draw for me to bring both the paranormal and the erotic interests together in my vampire series.
flchen1, it's always a pleasure to spend time with you! You asked: Do you have any special ways of commemorating your new releases? (New jewelry? Framed cover flats? Dinner out? Trip to Paris? ;))
ReplyDeleteLaughter - boy, I wish I had an exciting answer to that, but here's the truth - I take 24 hours off before I start the next book, and that's a huge treat for me, if I actually do it. Meaning instead of getting involved in home chores, promo to-dos, etc, I really take a day off - read a book on my TBR list, watch a favorite movie, take the dogs to the beach, etc. I make an effort to do one of those things, because it helps the creative batteries recharge.
Gena, I hinted at it a bit in the first response to Author Island's question, but essentially the series was spawned by my interest in the vampire-servant relationship. As a reader, I didn't think it had been explored as deeply as it could be, and since I write erotic D/s, I thought it had great potential for a BDSM spin. Plus, I'm a big fan of the King Arthur lore, the ideals of chivalry, and when I thought of the pairing of Lady Lyssa, my 1000 year old vampire queen, with a modern day Ren Faire player who had the heart of a true knight, I couldn't wait to see where it went. And here we are, 8 books later in the series, and the third book featuring these two!
ReplyDeleteTrudy, thanks for that compliment!
ReplyDeleteKaila asked: is it exciting to have your books loved by so many people?
Kaila, it's always the highlight of my day to hear from readers who've enjoyed them so much they'll reach out and give me that feedback. It never gets old! I hope I'll always be able to give them that experience.
Chelsea, no worries, I understand being busy like that!! I'll look forward to your opinion on the stories whenever you have a chance to read them, and I hope you enjoy the experience!
ReplyDeleteYou asked: hmm I think its called Authors After Dark and your supposed to be the Mistress this year? do you have any special plans for when you're mistress? :)
Yes, I'm honored to be Mistress of Ceremonies at the Authors After Dark 2012 this year. This is such a great con, because it is very reader-focused, and really that's my favorite kind of con to attend, because it's pretty much a love fest for all of us people who love books, whether we're writing or reading them. You can't believe the amount of books they give away!
Stella, the incredible ring master for this event, will tell me what I'll be doing (lol), but I know I'll be hosting a masquerade, possibly leading a field trip of interested readers to show them some of the New Orleans sites featured in my upcoming book Hostile Takeover, and serving on a variety of reader-focused panels about my genres.
New Orleans is an awesome setting for a con and I know Stella and the other organizers have planned it so the attendees can enjoy teh sites and plenty of opportunities to hang out with their favorite authors in informal settings. I hope you'll get to come, if not this year, then some year soon!
Leslianne, thank you! What a great thing to say. I hope it will always be true! :>
ReplyDeleteMiranda asked: will there be more with Jacob and Lyssa as the hero/heroine??
Miranda, I'm glad you love Jacob and Lyssa like I do! You probably noted my earlier comment that I have a special fondness for them, since they kicked off the series. Unfortunately, you probably also so my earlier comment that I don't really know if I'll have any more books with them as the main protagonists. We'll have to wait and see if the muse changes her mind about that. In the meantime, however, I can guarantee they will show up in other books as guests! And there may be more fan forum free vignettes featuring them. There's of course one on there now featuring Lyssa with her former servant Thomas that I enjoyed writing ("One Night Only").
Thanks so much for coming by, and hope you like BBtVQ!
I'm going to have to go take care of some dinner time chores, but I'll be back later to answer further questions. If I've missed anyone up to now, let me know! It's been a pleasure being with you guys this afternoon. :>
ReplyDeleteHi Joey,
ReplyDeleteI have my copy of Bound winging it's way to me today, and I can't wait to read it. I love all you stories, and am thrilled to get more of Lyssa and Jacob.
What was your mood music for this story?
caity_mack at yahoo dot com
Congrats on your new release!
ReplyDeleteDo you have a favourite series?
chey127 at hotmail dot com
This comment has been removed by the author.
ReplyDeleteHey Joey, Im so psyched the book comes out today, trust me been waiting for this, for a while.
ReplyDeleteAnyways since I know this is about Lyssa and Jacob, theres a new element in the stories which are fairies, now does any of the characters aka Jacob or Lyssa have a lil nookie with any of them? or since Jacob states he will do anything for Lyssa, does he get into a situation he doesnt come out of without repercussions?
I'd appreciate the answer and thanks so very much for being the writer you are, you rock!!!
lalocadesiempre23@hotmail.com or kcolumna@hotmail.com
Congrats on this wonderful release Joey, can't wait to dig in :D
ReplyDeleteLOL @ Mar
maiwilliams08@gmail.com
Congratulations!!
ReplyDeleteGoing into a series do you know how many book there will be, or does it grow according to stories in your head & reader feedback?
marypres(AT)gmail(DOT)com
Hi Joey,
ReplyDeleteCongrats on the new release.I'm looking forward to reading it.
There are so many comments,forgive me if I ask a repeat question.
Out of all the books in this series,what scene was your favorite to write and what one was the hardest?
And if you could spend a day with Lissa what would you like to do with her?
elaing8(at)netscape(dot)net
Cathy, I'm sending you a hug for that lovely comment. You guys are making me feel so loved! (grin) You asked: What was your mood music for this story?
ReplyDeleteIt alternated - I did some Kevin Kern for New Age/score type music in the Fae world, as well as some Lord of the Rings pieces. For scenes with the Vampire Council toward the end, went more with Daughtry and kickass rock (grin). For Jacob and Lyssa together, I have a fairly extensive "Misc Emote" playlist that includes everything from Glee ballads to Jo Dee Messina, Michael Buble, etc. I have the latest version in the jwhconnection fan forum under my playlist section if you wish to be overwhelmed by sappy songs (grin).
Chey asked : Do you have a favourite series?
ReplyDeleteChey, I wasn't sure if you meant my own or others. My current favorite "other" series (ongoing) is probably the Black Dagger Brotherhood or JD Robb In Death books. Of my own, the ones I revisit the most are the Nature of Desire series books. These contemporary erotic romances launched my career, but more than that, so many of them were the type of books an author dreams of writing - they flowed so easily, the characters were the kind that remained with you well after you wrote the books, etc. And they were so diverse. Male Dom/fem sub, Fem Domme/alpha male cop sub, two Doms, Male/male...each one gave me a chance to explore a different relationship. I love all my series, but that one is particularly special to me.
Krizia, you gave me a smile. Thanks, girl! Hey, this is Jacob and Lyssa. Of COURSE he gets into a situation he can't get out of without repercussions (lol). Seriously, yes, there is some sexual interaction with one particular Fae character, and it actually evolves into a situation like you describe for Jacob. How's that for saying yes without revealing any spoilers? (grin) Let me know what you think when you get to that part!
ReplyDeleteIs there a particular subject matter that you've thought about writing, but wasn't sure how it would be received?
ReplyDeletelenikaye@yahoo.com
Marybelle asked: Going into a series do you know how many book there will be, or does it grow according to stories in your head & reader feedback?
ReplyDeleteI pretty much write however many storylines the muse gives me, and that's an open ended flow. Surprisingly, the biggest influence on future books is usually the secondary characters that appear in the current book. I can always tell if they'll have their own book, based on the impression they make when they take the stage as a side character. For instance, the first time Gideon appeared in Mark of the Vampire Queen, I knew the bitter, hardcore vampire hunter was going to have his own book. In fact, he had two, Vampire Mistress and Vampire Trinity.
And while I wish my readers could inspire what I write going forward - because I like to give you what you want, always - the muse, through those secondary characters, is almost always the deciding factor as to the direction of the next book in the series. If you've read through the questions above, you know a lot of readers would love to see another book featuring Daegan, Gideon and Anwyn, but so far the muse hasn't given me anything that could go full length. So it's something I'm unable to direct, no matter how much I'd like to do so. The muse refuses to be ordered about (grin).
Happy Release day Joey!!!
ReplyDeleteWas it hard to tell anyone about the type of books you write? Is there anyone (adult-wise) that you don't want reading your books? I personally love the combo of erotic and paranormal and would love to be talented enough to write. But there are some of my family that I would not want to read it, lol.
Hope you have a great Holiday season!
June M.
manning_j2004 at yahoo dot com
Mai, thanks for that! Good to see you here.
ReplyDeleteElaine, you asked:
1) Out of all the books in this series,what scene was your favorite to write and what one was the hardest?
This one had been asked, but no worries, girl! Here were the answers I posted:
There wasn't really a particular scene that was difficult to write, but the book itself was a challenge. There was a lot of movement in this story - from South America, to Atlanta, to the Fae World, to Berlin, so it brought together a lot of different characters and storylines, and yet I didn't want to lose the central focus on Jacob and Lyssa, because often when I read plot-heavy books, that's how they lose me as a reader. I want to be in the hearts and minds of the main characters throughout, and when juggling that many balls, that can be challenging.
As far as the favorite scene: This is a tough one, because it's a major spoiler. Jacob has been a knight in a previous life, and something happens when they're in the Fae world, something that every knight, modern day or otherwise, probably dreams of happening to him. That was my favorite part to write, though it made me cry, because it touches that part of all of us which hopes magic like that truly exists.
2) And if you could spend a day with Lissa what would you like to do with her?
My first response was like the question of "what do you let a lion do" answer: "pretty much whatever he wants". Lol But seriously, I actually like the idea of just shadowing her for the day, seeing what she would do unencumbered by my company. Work on her roses, play with Kane, read in her favorite stained glass nook of the Atlanta estate, transform into her Fae form in the forest... She's such a remarkable character, I'd just soak her in and see what I could learn from being around her. Of course, if she decided to flirt and play with Jacob, I wouldn't mind watching that!
Leni wrote: Is there a particular subject matter that you've thought about writing, but wasn't sure how it would be received?
ReplyDeleteI got a grin from your question, Leni, because I imagine it being asked of my editors, and then watching them snort, guffaw, etc. When my current Berkley editor read the first manuscript I sent her, her comment was she hadn't blushed in years! (laughter) For those curious, it was the "fountain" scene in Mark of the Vampire Queen, at the Vampire Gathering.
I don't think there's anything I won't write if the muse inspires me in that direction. In terms of eroticism, the only things that restrain me are my own personal "ick" factors, and they're pretty much on par with my publisher's "ick" factors, so there's no conflict there.
I guess the only answer that comes close is when I'm encouraged to write more mainstream sensual. I'm told that could help me widen my audience, and that may very well be true, but I also know I feel most inspired creatively when I can integrate deeper levels of eroticism. So there's sometimes that little push-pull between advancing my career and trying to stay true to my craft.
Thanks for the very good question!
June, thanks! You asked: Was it hard to tell anyone about the type of books you write? Is there anyone (adult-wise) that you don't want reading your books?
ReplyDeleteSurprisingly, no. I'm a pretty straightforward person when it comes to this stuff. When I worked a day job, I didn't go out of my way to either hide or promote what I wrote in the work place, but as people found out via this or that means and expressed interest, I would give them a general idea of the subject matter so they could decide if it was their cup of tea or not. 99% of the time, they would steer clear of it, not so much I expect because they all eschewed erotic romance, as they weren't comfortable with the idea of associating me, someone they new personally, with the subject matter. My family all know what I write and are supportive, but with few exceptions, none of them read it, for that reason as well.
Probably the only time I've wished someone didn't know what I wrote is the rare occasion when a male friend or co-worker found out what I wrote and didn't have the maturity to handle it, which can lead to some awkward situations, but nothing beyond my ability to handle. It just changed the nature of our relationship, and in one case, it did pretty much end the friendship, which made me sad.
Oh, one more thing on that same subject, as regards writing - I've found 99% of people handle it based on how you, the author handle it. I'm matter-of-fact and professional about what I write, and that in turn sets the expectation that they do so as well. 99% of the time, it works out just that way (smile)
ReplyDeleteThanks for the reply :) I will definitely let you know :) I run a facebook page and tend to ping authors lol ;) I've been looking forward to it for awhile.
ReplyDeleteOhhhhhhhh on the Readers after Dark... GAH, that sounds SO fun! My friend was like why not comic con? I'm like TOO busy, I want to go to a convention where I actually can talk with my favorite authors :) And LOL @ all the free books! Well, if I ever manage to make it, I'll make sure to include a few extra "roll" bags LOL! ;) I love giving away extra books on my Paranormal Addicts FB page! Its been a real blast meeting other Paranormal Addicts like myself ;) I'm going to see if I can talk a favorite uncle (who loves the same type of books) into taking us there! :D Now, THAT would be cool :)
Hi Joey! Congrats on your release of Bound by the Vampire Queen! As an avid reader, I find that the choices of what to read next are endless thereby making the decision a veritable impossibility. Can you convince me to grab BBTVQ next -- in once sentence?
ReplyDeleteThanks for the chance to win!
mleger0546 AT rogers DOT com
Chelsea, it's the perfect con for what you're seeking. Really informal, friendly and reader-centric, and you'll definitely carry back a bunch of books for your site. They have a website, so you can go check out all they have to offer. Hope to see you and your uncle there!
ReplyDeleteHey, YzhaBella - this is a tough book to do that with, because before I could give you one sentence, I'd need to know if you've read Book I and II of the series - those were Jacob and Lyssa's first two books, and you'd need them to get the most out of reading BBtVQ. However, if you have done that, then let me give it a go (though everyone knows brevity is so NOT my thing - lol).
ReplyDeleteIf you like a hero with the heart of a knight, a heroine with killer instincts - literally - spiced up with a trip to the Fae world, vampire politics and an intense central love story, then BBtVQ is a journey worth taking.
Not sure if that one works grammatically, but threw in what might intrigue you (laughter). Regardless, despite my poor one-pitch sentence skills, I hope you get a chance to enjoy my vampires at some point. And there are always free excerpts to the stories at my site if you'd like to check them out.
Hey, YzhaBella - this is a tough book to do that with, because before I could give you one sentence, I'd need to know if you've read Book I and II of the series - those were Jacob and Lyssa's first two books, and you'd need them to get the most out of reading BBtVQ. However, if you have done that, then let me give it a go (though everyone knows brevity is so NOT my thing - lol).
ReplyDeleteIf you like a hero with the heart of a knight, a heroine with killer instincts - literally - spiced up with a trip to the Fae world, vampire politics and an intense central love story, then BBtVQ is a journey worth taking.
Not sure if that one works grammatically, but threw in what might intrigue you (laughter). Regardless, despite my poor one-pitch sentence skills, I hope you get a chance to enjoy my vampires at some point. And there are always free excerpts to the stories at my site if you'd like to check them out.
I'm headed to bed, guys - it's been a wonderful day with you all! I'll check back in the morning to see if there are any unanswered questions from late night owls or folks in different timezones, no worries. Thanks again!
ReplyDeleteI have read a couple of your books and I have a couple more in mount TBR. I am really intrigued by the concept of Bound by the Vampire Queen. What catagory is this series? Is it paranormal, BDSM, UF...etc? I am puting together a group of paranormal and BDSM books to read next year! Thanks for the awesome giveaway. jepebATverizonDOTnet
ReplyDelete@ Joey! Perfect! Thanks for giving it a go!
ReplyDeleteJoey, that's definitely the type of con I'm seeking :) I think the other ones I'd be interested in are the Reader type conventions? I'm pretty sure those are informal, hanging out type of thing too :) I'm not sure he'll go for it, but I dropped him an email with the information for authors after dark, hinting that he'd love it as much as me ROFL :) Maybe he'll take me up on it :) if he does I'll be sure to have read all your books so we can chat about them there! :) Thanks again for interacting with us, its much appreciated, I know authors are busy and I always feel so special when you guys take the time to chat, so thank you :)
ReplyDeleteCongrats Joey! Lyssa & Jacob are so irresistable! I'm so glad to hear that at least 2 more vampire books are planned. Do your publishers ever hint at how many more books they may want beyond a year? Or is it always just one year at a time? You know l love everything you write. Such intensity. Keeps me begging for more!
ReplyDeleteTerry
terry1420@gmail.com
HAPPY RELEASE DAY!
ReplyDeleteLOVED the novel, Joey! Can't wait to sink my teeth into Something About Witches!
Now that you've delved into the Fae world, would you consider writing a new series based on that realm?
Don't you love how I'm adding to your plate? LOL
Congratulations on your newest VQ release, Joey! I've only just started digging into it.
ReplyDeleteMy question is: what is the timeline of the books? For example, if one wanted to read them in chronological order, how would they go?
When you wrote the first book in the series, The Vampire Queen's Servant, did you already have an idea of the size of this series? I dearly love the books of the series I have read.
ReplyDeletelittle lamb lst at yahoo dot com
Jen wrote: What category is this series?
ReplyDeleteHey, Jen - it's paranormal BDSM erotic romance. Hope you like it!
Yzha Bella - thanks! I was obviously a little tired last night, because of course what I meant was one-sentence pitch..not entirely sure what a one-pitch sentence would be.(lol).
Chelsea, I've never been to RomCon, but I've heard that's fun, and of course Romantic Times is a blast. Depends on your budget and time, since RT is a week and more expensive, but of course it also has a larger array of authors, more workshops, games, etc to mesh with that price. There's a link on the rtbookreviews.com site so you can see more about it as well. This year it's in Chicago!
Hey, Terry! Thanks as always for that warm encouragement and support. You asked: Do your publishers ever hint at how many more books they may want beyond a year? Or is it always just one year at a time.
ReplyDeleteUsually it's just one year at a time, particularly in this economy and market. They of course always include the first refusal clause in the contract so they have a guaranteed first look at any related genre I write, but that's pretty standard.
Another reason for that is of course the market changes so rapidly now, they don't want to lock themselves into more that one year in case reader preferences shift significantly, they get different business priorities, etc.
Jae - grin - I was just fussing at someone earlier, asking me when the next book is coming out when I just gave them this one. But heck, what a great thing for an author to have to grumble about - readers wanting more of her books, now now now!
ReplyDeleteYou asked - Now that you've delved into the Fae world, would you consider writing a new series based on that realm?
Absolutely - Keldwyn definitely needs his own book, as well as Catriona. Whether they'll be standalone novels, a new series, or tacked on as part of this series or another ongoing series, I won't know until I reach the point where I'm crafting the books. However, it's obvious some of those Fae characters want their own stories.
LaTia, hope you find it an enjoyable journey. :>
ReplyDeleteYou asked: what is the timeline of the books? For example, if one wanted to read them in chronological order, how would they go?
If you go to my website, www.storywitch.com, and click on the Vampire Queen series in the left gold bar menu, it will take you to the page where they're listed in order, newest to oldest I also indicates which book they are in the series, and whether they can be read as a standalone or not. You can also find free excerpts for each of them there!
Hey Little Lamb - I'm so glad you're a fan of my vampires! You asked: The Vampire Queen's Servant, did you already have an idea of the size of this series?
ReplyDeleteChuckle - for some reason, this was a very popular question yesterday. Here's the answer I gave earlier - No, I pretty much write however many storylines the muse gives me, and that's an open ended flow most of the time. The only exception to that has been my Knights of the Board Room series. It's based on five board room executives, each one pursuing his soul mate with the help of the others, such that after book five, the series will be done. However, most the time it's as I noted in an earlier question - I'll write as many books in the vampire series as the muse gives me and the readers/publisher want!
Thanks for the question. :>
I am currently reading Bound by the Vampire Queen and loving it. Are you planning on doing anymore Vignettes on your forum for VQ??? I would love to read more about Jacob and Gideon and their "mates". I am also wonder what happened with Jacob and Lyssa while in club Atlantis that day.
ReplyDeleteThank you for such a great series. I look forward to reading more of your series and more VQ. I tried to not ask something you had already answered since I haven't read all of the comments yet on this, but plan to after I finish this book. I am going crazy trying to figure out how everything will get worked out. You amaze me in every book.
blonde_mama_t(at) me(dot)com
Wow Joey that RT one looks crazy insane, I think I was reading on a PDF that there's like 350 authors?? *goggles* That's just yeah... crazy stuff ;) All the parties look really really fun, but the fever party by KMM? That would be such a blast :D I stalk her and her assistant Leiha :P lol they are both great :) Thanks so much for sharing that link, doubt I could talk my uncle into two places rofl! Though I can just imagine how much fun that big one is! :)
ReplyDeleteDebbie, thank you (beaming). I sort of sound like a broken record, but I am so tickled you guys love my vampires! :>
ReplyDeleteYou asked: Are you planning on doing anymore Vignettes on your forum for VQ??? I would love to read more about Jacob and Gideon and their "mates". I am also wonder what happened with Jacob and Lyssa while in club Atlantis that day.
Oh, absolutely. When people give me suggestions for free vignettes they'd like to read featuring my characters, I put them in a list in MS Notes. Then, when I have a breathing space and time to do a vignette, I scroll through and let the muse choose whichever one interests her. The list has grown pretty well since I first started doing the forum vignettes, but eventually I'll get around to all of them! (grin)
As I may have noted earlier, the next two will likely be about Ben of Hostile Takeover (Knights of the Board Room series), because readers have been after me for those for some time, and it will also be good prep for his upcoming book, but who knows what the muse will choose after that? Hopefully I'll be able to give you another vampire one soon!
Hope that helps and thanks again.
Chelsea, if you can get him to at least one, I'm sure you'll both have a great time! RT may be more his cup of tea, because they invite authors from a variety of genres, not just romance. Either way, just make sure he can hold his own among a very large group of boisterous women - that goes for either con (laughter).
ReplyDelete