Holla!! It’s Tori. I’m so pleased that I am here today with bestselling author Katie MacAlister to talk about life, books, smexy men, and her newest release-Much Ado About Vampires- #9 in her Dark Ones series.
Hi Katie! (insert fangirl SQUEEE) Thanks so much for being here with me today at Smexybooks. I LOVE fantasy and smexy men so your Dark Ones series excites me in many, many ways I really can’t say on here. :P I am VERY excited about your newest release, Much Ado About Vampires, which releases October 4, 2011. Will you tell us about it?
And I’m squeeing about you squeeing, because I’m so excited about this book coming out! :)
Much Ado About Vamps is the ninth of my vampire books, and picks up threads from the last two books, and wraps up a few things that have been annoying me because they weren’t initially resolved. It’s the story of Alec Darwin (who was seen in both Zen and the Art of Vampires, and Crouching Vampire, Hidden Fang) and Corazón Ferriera, who made a guest appearance as the sister of the heroine in the Unleashed novella (which was in the Cupid Cats anthology).
Alec and Cora have a unique relationship in that she really does not like vampires, and he witnessed his Beloved’s death several centuries ago. But they work things out, mostly with the help of characters from the previous three books, and with some additional help with a cross-over character from the dragon series. The book has liches, demon lords, necromancers, and vampires hunting other vampires…in other words, it’s just another day in the Otherworld.
You are a very prolific author; over 5 strong running series and numerous single releases…where on earth do you find the time and the ideas?
Writing is my job, so I treat it that way—I usually spend between eight and ten hours a day either writing, editing, promoting, or doing something related to any of those items, and there’s still not enough time to get everything done that I want to get done.
I love writing, however, so there’s a huge reward in seeing readers have as much fun reading the books as I have writing them.
What type of research is involved in writing this (Dark Ones) series? Do you base your characters on any real people you know?
For the vampire books, I usually research location and any specific element related to a character (for instance, if a character is a game and wildlife agent, as in the Unleashed novella, I talked to some agents about what exactly they did with animals in the wild). But mostly it’s location research; I like to talk with people who live in a spot I’m using if at all possible, but sometimes I just have to go with online research of a specific area.
I really don’t base my characters on real people—I find it much more intriguing to make my characters a bit quirkier, and sometimes emphasize their flaws, and I wouldn’t want to play fast and loose that way with a real person.
I see you are on #9 of this series. How many more do you have planned all together?
I don’t have plans to end the series any time soon, so I don’t really see an end to them. So long as readers keep reading them, I’ll keep writing. :)
Will we be seeing Fran and Ben again? And the Vikings? Because the Vikings were the absolute best. I laughed so hard when I read In The Company of Vampires.
They will be back in the next Dark Ones book; both Ben and Fran, and the Vikings (who I admit I adore). That will be out next September, and is the book I’m about to start writing.
Let’s talk about you now.
How did you go from writing software tech books to writing about sexy supernaturals?
I started writing fiction out of sheer desperation because writing the software books was SO INCREDIBLY BORING. No dialogue, no witty anecdotes, no jokes, no humor…it was horrible. The day I finished the first software book, I sat down to plot a novel, and started working on it immediately. I had so much fun tormenting characters, and creating worlds, and doing anything my muse demanded, that I knew I’d switch from non-fiction to fiction. It took a few years, but I finally managed to stop writing the boring books, and dove right into the fun ones.
Have you always had stories to tell?
Surprisingly, no. I have always been a reader, however, and I firmly believe that all writers are devoted readers, so I think it’s my love of fiction that prompted me to (finally) want to start telling my own stories. That didn’t happen until I was in my early thirties, though, so it took a while.
What do you love and hate about the writing process?
I hate plotting a book. I know that I need to have something about the plot written down, else my brain won’t write, but at the same time, I hate sitting and staring out the window for hours on end while my muse creates and rejects any number of plots. It’s never an easy process, but it’s a necessary one, so I try to get through it with a minimum of swearing, and maximum of chocolately bribes to the muse.
I love, love, love editing a book, because all the hard work has been done, and I can just polish and tweak and make everything look pretty. It’s always a happy time when I get to edit.
Will you be writing anymore YA’s?
I would like to, because I had a lot of fun unleashing my inner-16-year-old, but right now they’re not on the schedule. Hopefully I’ll find some time in the next year to whip up a couple of them.
Is there any particular playlist or group you listen to when you write?
Each book gets its own playlist depending on my mood, and the feel of the book. Much Ado was written to a soundtrack containing music by two very different groups—the first was Sequentia, a medieval music ensemble who has the most awesome Gregorian chants, and the second was a Celtic group named Secret Garden. It’s a strange playlist, but hey, you gotta go with whatever works.
What do you do when you’re not writing?
Usually something related to writing, like answering reader mails, etc. but assuming you mean in my non-work time, I am a die-hard World of Warcraft junky, as well as a big mystery reader (and watcher of old black and white mystery movies). When my wrist cooperates, I also spin wool into yarn via a drop spindle, and knit atrociously ugly things from my beautiful yarn. Of late, I’ve been addicted to watching road cycling races—it has nothing to do with the manly thighs that are shown during the races, NOTHING WHATSOEVER—so I’ve been watching every race I can find online.
Any deep dark secrets you’d like to share with us? We won’t tell…promise!
I have a burning desire to play the violin, but despite buying myself a lovely one, I can’t figure out how to play it. Taking lessons seems like reading the directions (and thus, wimping out), so every now and again, I drag out the violin and make really horrible noises with it while pretending to understand an instructional video. Pretty much the same goes for the gorgeous customized, handmade hurdy-gurdy I bought as a reward for writing It’s All Greek To Me…although it makes better noises when I try to play it.
One day I’ll master one of those two instruments, and then the world just better watch out!
What drew you to the romance genre? What other genres interest you?
I’m a romantic at heart, so it was a natural fit for me to start writing love stories. Who doesn’t like to be in love? It’s an awesome feeling, and I really enjoying bringing couples together, even if they are just fictional.
I’m an avid mystery reader, especially vintage cozies, so I spend a lot of my reading time immersed in murders.
Where do you picture yourself 5 years from now?
Probably five years older, and still writing like a demon. I love writing, and don’t want to stop until they pluck the keyboard from my cold, dead fingers, so I’m quite happy to anticipate another twenty or so years of happily writing whatever story tickles my fancy.
What authors have a permanent spot on your bookshelf?
Romance authors: Christine Feehan, Roberta Gellis, Christina Dodd, Jane Feather, Stephanie Laurens, Amanda Quick, Georgette Heyer, Jane Austen. Mystery authors: Agatha Christie, Georgette Heyer, Dorothy L. Sayers, William Marshall. Fiction: Emily Kimbrough, E.F. Benson, P.G. Wodehouse, Robert Benchley. I have very eclectic reading tastes.
What big thing do you want to do that you haven’t done yet?
I would like to take an around-the-world cruise. I’m inherently lazy, so the thought of a cruise ship traveling the world sounds awesome, and I’d like to see more places than just Europe (which I’ve visited in the past). That’s on my someday list to do. Just need to find the time (and money) to do it…
Now for the quick responses:
Coke or coffee?
Double tall decaf nonfat latte, please.
Big breakfast or a donut on the run?
Donuts trump everything except potatoes and gravy, so if the big breffy has the latter, then it wins. Otherwise, donuts.
Do you agree that Starbucks is THE evil empire that must be destroyed?
You’re talking to someone born and bred in Seattle, so Starbucks is as vital to my well-being as is air. :)
Dead tree books or e books?
I prefer print books because I’m a very tactile person. I love the smell and feel of print books, but I love the convenience of being able to get ebook versions of out of print books. So really, the answer is both: they complement each other.
Mac or Windows?
Hello! Microsoft HQ is less than twenty miles away—Windows. Although Macs are kinda pretty…
Where can we find you on the web?
I hang around my message forum (http://katiemacalister.invisionzone.com/) and Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/katie.mac.minions ) the most.
Is there anything you’d like to say to our readers?
My personal motto is summed up best by a quote from Baron Bror von Blixen (who was the husband of the novelist Isak Dinesen): Life is life, and fun is fun, but it’s all so quiet when the goldfish dies.
Thanks so much for having me visit! I am delighted to be a part of the site, if only in a tiny way. :)
Thanks Katie! Today we have one copy of Much Ado About Vampires to giveaway! To enter, just leave a comment. Contest open through October 10 to US residents only.
I have never read any of Katie’s work..so would I be lost if I started Much Ado about Vampires? Thanks for the giveaway though!
They are really great books. But yes you should start with the first book ‘A Girls Guide to Vampires’
just love all her books can’t wait for her next one Much Ado was awesome!
Love the interview. Always nice to hear from the authors.
Thanks for a great interview and giveaway. Count me in!
Thanks so much for the interview and giveaway! I love to hear how long authors spend on their writing, because I think a lot of people assume it’s easy and not really “work”, which is SOOOOO not true.
I also want to encourage Katie to go ahead and take lessons for the violin! It really isn’t cheating. Think of it this way – you didn’t just pick up a pen and start writing. You had years and years of school (lessons) first! So lessons are a must, if you really want to learn to play. As with your writing, the lessons give you the tools but you’re the one making the music.
I love all of Katie’s books. I have a hard time deciding which I love best :). Thanks for writing awesome books!
Dawn
Dawnab19(at)yahoo(dot)com
I have read many of Katie’s books (I love the vampires) and I am looking forward to this new one. And I would love to win a copy so I could start reading and because that guy is HOT!
I love Katie MacAlister’s books and I’m really looking forward to reading Much Ado About Vampires. I’m so happy it’s finally time for it to be released.
Barbed1951 at aol dot com
I’ve read a couple of her books and they were awesome :)
I laughed at the fact that she is trying to learn how to play the violin, I could just picture her randomly playing it and making horrible sounds.
I love those Vikings! I love the dark ones series and am looking forward to this book.
Thanks for the interview and giveaway!
Great interview. Thanks for the giveaway.
What a great interview. My first book I read by KM was Men In Kilts, which I simply ADORED! I read some of her single title, and am currently reading the Aisling Grey Guardian series. Those dragons can give me the ‘dragon’s fire kiss’ anyday! I have the Vampire series lined up to read next. Thanks for sharing the interview, and to Latie….Keep wirting!!!!!
Oh crud! Where’s my autocorrect when I need it???
*hangs head in shame*
I meant to say: …and to Katie…Keep writing!!!!!
*slinks away mumbling to self, “I’ll never get the give away now….”
I love this series! I just found it this year but I am almost caught up on buying them all (only need 1 or 2 more short story books, lol). I can’t wait to get my hands on this book. I have not read her other books but I am sure I will. Thank you for the chance to win a copy of this book *fingers crossed*
June M.
manning_j2004 at yahoo dot com
I enjoy learning about the authors I read.
I just love her books!! I cant wait to read this one!
Great interview. Thanks for the chance.
mythic021@gmail.com
Hi Katie! I am a huge fan and have been reading the series since you first came out with it. I loved the interview and would love to win a copy of the new book! Happy to see Alec get his HEA. Thanks for the contest. bpatrick64113@sbcglobal.net
I have not read any of Katies books yet, but have heard great things about them. Thanks for the giveaway and the chance to win. I would love to win and read this book, so please choose me for the giveaway. I love to read and always looking for new books and authors to check out.
Great interview. I have not read any of Katie’s books. They sound very interesting. Can’t wait to read this series.
Katie, I am a huge fan of yours! Corset diaries is one of my all time favorites, as is Men in Kilts. Excited about another vampire story!
Katie is a new author to me but I have seen this book around. I love the cover. I would love to read this! Thanks for the giveaway!
What a fun interview! Great questions and really detailed answers. Interesting to read that she likes the editing process – it’s somewhat inspiring, since that’s the hardest part for me. And these books have awesome titles.
Thanks for the wonderful interview and giveaway. Unfortunately, I haven’t had the pleasure of trying any of Kate’s work but I’ve heard such wonderful reviews! I’d love to be able to read this awesome book!
I love the Dark Ones. Thanks for the chance!!
bacchus76 at myself dot com
CRAP. Wish I lived in the US cause I would have loved to win….HOW HOT IS THAT COVER!!
Congratulations on your all new release! I love the cover and I definitely have to get my hands on a copy soon. Enjoyed the interview. ;)
Oooh, this sounds so good–yet another author I need to try!!!!
love the interview and great giveaway !!!
reginamayross@gmail.com
I am always looking for new authors to read. Please enter me in contest. I would love to read these books. They sound very good. Tore923@aol.com
I love Katie’s books! They are funny, light, smexy–great sstress relief and escapism. This was a great interview!
mljfoland AT hotmail DOT com
I am really looking forward to this book. Great interview!
I love Katie MacAllister romances! Can’t wait to read this newest one, too!
i love your books..so witty looking forward to reading this one!!
I absolutely LOVE/HAVE all of your books. ^_^ Can’t wait for the next one!
I love reading interviews with my fave aurhors. It really show how much of their personalities come through in their work.
Great interview! Thanks so much for this generous giveaway opportunity too!!! =)
Valerie Long
just.val.1974@gmail.com
Jewelry Creations by V.S. Long https://www.facebook.com/vsl1974
Good interview with Katie. Katie’a books are so funny.
Katie,
You are the reason I got hooked on vampire books! I picked up your first book and ended up going out and buying the rest the next day! I could not put it down! Thank you for writing and keep it up, my daughter just started reading your books as well.
Loved this interview, LOVE Katie MacAlister! Would love to win a copy of this book, too! wordgirl79 at gmail dot com
I love all of Katie’s books. I love the interview. I can’t wait for the next Light Dragon book to come out.
Also, hate to point this out… but how can none of the Dark Ones be a Smexy Boyfriend?! Thats just… shocking.
I love all your books. Can´t wait for the next one.
always so funny to read
I have everyone of your Dark Ones books and have read and reread them. I love all of them and also loved Katie MacAlister’s Silver Dragons and have start the The Light Dragon Series, also love these so far. I can’t hardly wait for the next installment of all of these series.
I love all of Katies books! So fun and I adore all the sexy new covers! Thanks for sharing a great post with us!
Fun interview.
Lol the interview was hilarious :) but Katie always is…the giveaway sounds amazing, thanks for offering it.
Love Katie- Just started on the MAC from being “forever windows…” you MAY want to consider coming over Katie…. truly. Even if you have to move… :o)
Great interview. Sounds like fun books. Thanks for the giveaway.
I love that Katie MacAlister is so real & down to earth. I love all the books I’ve read of hers. She holds a permanent spot on my bookshelf.
~Mad for MacAlister!~
Love the Dark Ones novels!
Fabulous!! Love Katie’s books!!
I really enjoy all of Katie’s books. Love the Dark Ones but also love the the historical novels. Katie has a really great personality if her books are anything to go by.
I love Katie’s books and cannot wait to read about Alec and Cora!
I love all her books. Thanks for the interview and giveaway.
PS- to learn an instrument gotta do two things: 1. Practice 15 mins every day 2.Take lessons with a real live instructor. (videos are silly–its like learning to ride a bike or swim by video) it’s much more fun (and motivating) if you meet with someone once a week! Good luck, Katie!!
The first book I read of Katie’s was the Corset Diaries and I didn’t stop laughing and have since bought all of her other books. Much Ado About Vampires is the only one missing from my collection but look forward to getting it also. The Dark One series is my favorite but I love her wit and heros in all of her books.
Absolutely love Katie! Can’t wait to read Much Ado… :-)
I love reading author interviews! I would love to read this book. I’m like you I love the feel and smell of a book.
If you haven’t read any of Katie’s books get thee to a bookstore or Library!! :) They are all a fun romp. We are talking laugh so hard to pee or fart without shame.
I love love love Katie Mcalister’s books! She is an amazing writer, and I look forward to many more books!!
Great Q&A Tori! You got answers to questions that I have been burning to know. Thanks!
I’m excited to hear that Fran and Ben will be back in another book. I love it when characters make appearances in other books in the series!
This is one of the best series out there, I am always waiting for the next book because I get done with them to fast :)
I LOVE Katie’s books. Awesome interview. I would love to add Much Ado to my collection
Would love to read any of Katie’s books, but this one sounds especially good:) Thanks for the giveaway!
yadkny@hotmail.com
I love all of her books, but the Dark Ones are my favorites. I cannot wait to read this one. Keep up the great work! :)
I love the characters and whenever I need I good laugh or warm fuzzes I always read katies books. Thank you so much for all the wonderful stories and can’t wait for many more years of more wonderful characters!
thanks for the fun interview. LOVED reading ‘Much Ado..’ this weekend :-)
Love Katie’s books. Just the right touch of romance and humor.
I enjoy all of Katie’s books. And look forwared to reading more
I love Katie MacAllister. Her books always make me laugh out loud and the men in her books are super hot. And the ladies are awesome.
I love Katie’s books! They are a quick read and are absolutely delightful :) I can’t wait for the new one and future new ones!
I haven’t read one of Katie’s books that I haven’t loved!
Oh, sounds like a wonderful read and what a gorgeous cover!
LOVE Katie’s books, particularly the Aislan Grey and the Dragon series. Haven’t come on one yet that I haven’t enjoyed.
Great interview. I love all your books/series. They are so much fun to read that I count the days until the next one comes out.
Not much to say . Just to summon it up Katie Mac is the best there is ;)
Would love to read this book, haven’t read any of her books yet. Thank you for the contest
Well it is quiet when the goldfish dies, isn’t it. Good luck K Mac, with the violin and with the hurdy gurdy. I’m not even sure what that is really, even though I read about it on your blog. Love Pia and all the books, can’t wait to read about Cora. Thanks for the giveaway.
lisagk(at)yahoo(dot)com
I would love to read this book!
mom1248(at)att.net
I love Katie! I like to listen to her audiobooks and I always feel stupid in the store because I can’t help laughing really loud. People probalby look at me funny. Plus!!! I love the Light Dragons!!!!! I love Baltic.
Katie is an amazing author and I look forward to every new book!
Great interview. Look forward to reading more of your work.
pick me, pick me!!!
i Hope you Keep Writing like a Demon and I hope you keep righting this series Love it!
sasluvbooks(at)yahoo(dot)com
Thank you all for the lovely comments and support! I always appreciate hearing from readers, and especially when they have such a fine appreciation of a dishy cover. :)
Smooches to you all!
Nice interview, really enjoyed reading it. And cool that you also like Christine Feehan and Amanda Quick. Not entering the contest though, as I live and read in Holland ;)
I’d like to read this book. Thanks!
moslmoots AT gmail DOT com
Love all your books, but my question is actually about the Light Dragon series. You must have been asked this many times, but what made you decide to turn Baltic from bad guy to good? I’m definitely pleased with the choice, just curious as to how it came about.