PTBT: Where did you come up with the idea for your new book?
Well, Caressed by a Crimson Moon is the third book in the Rulers of Darkness series and I thought it would be great if I had it take place in the castle Hadrian, the leading man, has been holding up for centuries. I came up with this idea when I wrote about him in chapter 3 of the first novel, Caressed by Moonlight. A draft castle is the perfect backdrop for his love story.
PTBT: How did you come up with your characters?
I have been planning Hadrian's character for a long time. He is dark, brooding, tortured, super intelligent, and is not/all/ hard edges -- my favorite kind of hero. I knew that I would need a strong female lead to play opposite him, enter Eva. She is the swift kick in the a** I think he needs and I love the two of them together.
PTBT: Who did you show your first draft to and why?
I show my first draft to my friend Rebecca. Normally when I finish writing a chapter I email it straight away to get her thoughts. She has been helping me since high school with forming my writing and she knows my characters and their world almost more than I do.
PTBT: Do you have plans to a follow up?
Originally, I had planned 5 books for this series. After introducing some new characters in book two, Caressed by Night, I decided to extend the Rulers of Darkness series to 6. What can I say? I was not expecting for those side characters to have such a powerful presence.
PTBT: Open your book to a random page and tell us the first paragraph...
I even closed my eyes when I did this.
Page #193
"Hadrian's hands curled, his fists shaking as he battled to contain the inferno of rage that violently ripped through him. The demon snarled, demanding the blood of the one who betrayed them. The one who had tricked them. The witch."
PTBT: What is your favorite movie?
It is such a simple question, but it really is tough to answer. I enjoy classic movies - black and white is sorta my thing. Since I always have hard time making a decision, I will say the first that came to mind: To Have and Have Not. It is the first film Humphrey Bogart and Lauren Bacall made together. They met and fell in love while making this movie. I think that is why I like the film so much. You can feel the attraction between them. Also, the movie is based on the Ernest Hemingway novel, To Have and Have Not.
PTBT: What do you like to read?
I read mostly paranormal and historical romance, but I will give anything a try if it catches my attention.
PTBT: Where do you go to escape?
For me, Barnes & Noble is my Disneyland. All those books and ready available coffee! I go there to unwind, especially if I had a stressful day. Retail therapy is truly amazing.
PTBT: Do you have any pets?
Yes I do! My husband and I have one dog. She is a 4-year-old black cocker spaniel named Kelly. She really is the sweetest thing and she does her best to help me with my writing...or, rather, she does her best to distract me. The moment I sit down at my computer she starts bringing me toys. Also, she loves to lie on my papers -- I do a lot of my writing by hand and type it up later.
PTBT: What advice do you have for aspiring writers?
I was talking with a friend of mine the other day that is an aspiring writer. She was telling me of how her family isn't very supportive of her wanting to write and that every time she tries she stops, worried about what they are going to say. I told her 'just write' -like the Nike slogan, Just Do It! Put your thoughts to paper or open your imagination and let the words flow. You never know if you are great at something if you don't try and why deny your passion? It shouldn't matter if your family or friends don't like it or think that it is a waste of time. If it makes you happy, go for it.
I will never forget what my mom told me when I was entertaining the idea of doing self-publishing. I was telling her why I didn't think my book, Caressed by Moonlight, was ready. I was explaining what could be done differently or made better -- I was waiting for it to be 100% perfect. She said, "Amanda, it will never be perfect." (It is true, you are your own worst critic) "But that doesn't mean it isn't perfect for someone else." Fortunately, my family has always encouraged my writing. Not all of them read my work, but they still bought the book just to have it. I really did not know what to except when I self-published my first book.
I didn't know the first thing about advertising, promotions, blog tours, blog hops, and I was so nervous when Caressed by Moonlight finally began to receive reviews. I just did it.
PTBT: Would you recommend self-publishing or mainstream publishing for first time novelists?
I would recommend trying mainstream publishing first, after all, isn't that every writer's fantasy? (Shrug) I tried to find a publisher/agent for about 5 to 6 years with no luck. So, I researched self-publishing and made a few contacts. It is tough but worth it. I'm so glad I decided to go the indie route. If I hadn't, the Rulers of Darkness series would be nothing more than a couple files taking up space on my hard drive. For me, writing isn't about sales or fame. It is about sharing my characters and their world with fellow readers. I am addicted to books. There really is little that compares to the joy of losing yourself in an excellent read.
~*~
About Amanda J. Greene:
Amanda J. Greene is a paranormal romance author. When she is not writing, she can found playing the role of a full time university student who works part time. She lives in Southern California with her very supportive husband and their sweet cocker spaniel. Doing all the above and being a military wife is not easy, but rewarding! Of course, she accomplishes everything with a strong cup of coffee in her hand.
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