I met author Stephanie Nelson in a Facebook writers group, courtesy of the fabOoolous Liz Schulte. Stephanie is one of the nicest and most supportive writers I have met. She’s not afraid to tell us how she feels, how she accomplished her writing feats, and she doesn’t shy away from helping the rest of us accomplish our dreams.
Stephanie’s life forever changed when she picked up the Twilight series by Stephenie Meyer. Not only did our Stephanie discover the paranormal romance genre, but her addiction to books was born.
Like most writers, Stephanie started to read book after book, liking some and disliking others. The more she read, the faster her stories and characters formed, and she took to writing.
After approximately four years of finding her comfort zone, Stephanie found her exact story. Earlier this year, Stephanie released Craved, a paranormal romance introducing heroin Gwen Sparks. Her second book in the series, Deceived, hits the online markets in early January.
Before we get started, here’s a little taste of Craved and Deceived to get everyone in the mood…
Craved:
Gwen Sparks just wants to live a peaceful life in the supernatural town of Flora, but from the moment she reads about the first murdered witch, all hope of peace is abandoned. Possessing the rare ability to read the memories of the dead, she volunteers to help catch the culprit behind the string of drained witches. Gwen has to team up with the one man who broke her heart, deal with a ghost who pulls her into the deathly realm at will, and fight off the advances of sexy but frustrating vampire who not only craves what runs through her veins — he wants her heart.
Deceived:
Gwen’s life has been a downward spiral since she discovered vampires crave witches blood. She’s summoned to Moon, the town of witches, where she learns that a war is brewing and she’s the secret weapon. Paired with the Angel of Death, it becomes quickly evident that she’s more powerful than she ever realized. But this reaper isn’t the robe wearing, scythe carrying kind – he’s a ruggedly handsome handful that has his eye on Gwen. As if that isn’t enough, she’s still tormented by Ian Desperaux’s constant intrusion into her thoughts and dreams. As Gwen struggles to balance her responsibility to the witches’ council and her secret relationship with her vampire boyfriend, Aiden, she’ll soon discover exactly what it means to be DECEIVED.
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When you were a little girl, did you dream of one day writing a bestseller, or did you have something else in mind?
Not at all. When I was a little girl I worshiped Bobby Brown – not the R&B singer, the supermodel. I wanted to be just like her. Eventually, my dream of becoming a supermodel changed to wanting to just photograph supermodels. I prefer being behind the camera rather than in front of it.
Where do you find the inspiration for your stories?
I write what I would want to read—paranormal romance. I find that music helps me get the thoughts out of my head and onto paper. I’ve tried writing without music and I just stare at the computer screen like a confused zombie.
Who are a few of your favorite authors?
Charlaine Harris, Jeaniene Frost, Patricia Briggs, Elle Jasper, Jane Austen, Karen Marie Moning. The list could go on and on…
The cover art for your books is amazing. Did you design them yourself?
I designed the layout for Craved but was still a newbie to Photoshop, so I paid someone to put it together for me. The Deceived cover is 100% me.
Many writers imagine a celebrity or familiar face when developing their characters. Tell us why you chose Megan Fox for the role of Gwen. Did you have her in mind from the development stages or later on?
I actually didn’t have any celebrity pictured while I wrote. I knew what Gwen looked like in my head, but finding someone who resembles a fictional person you have made up is a bit difficult. Megan Fox was the closest I could find that matched Gwen, at least in the looks department; their personalities so do not match.
Ditto with Matt Bomer as Aiden. Anytime Matt is mentioned, we must find a way to weave him into the conversation….
Aiden is actually taller and more muscular, but again, Matt Bomer was as close to a real person that I could compare Aiden to. Not to mention, Matt is gorgeous and has to-die-for smirks and glances that make me sigh.
And Ryan Phillippe as Ian. I think I froze on your website for at least thirty minutes remembering Cruel Intentions.
Yeah, well Ryan plays an excellent bad guy. Ian is sexy on the outside, and a monster on the inside. I don’t know what this says about Mr. Phillippe, but I instantly thought of him as Ian. LOL!
Speaking of celebrities, who are you thinking of at this very moment?
Ryan Phillippe, the previous question sorta had something to do with that. LOL!
Your Gwen Sparks series delves into the paranormal world. What is your favorite supernatural creature and why?
I’d have to say vampires, although if I ever met one I’d be terrified. I think it has something to do with living forever, plus their strength, speed, and healing abilities. For reasons unknown, vampires have always been written as sensual characters, which I find funny since they kill us. Maybe that’s the reason why we love them. It’s like playing with fire without getting burned. I think all of the vampire craze would disappear if they really existed.
Besides writing, what other hobbies do you enjoy?
Hobbies, what are those? Since I became an author, I really don’t have time for anything else. My world now revolves around my computer, which is sad, but what are ya gonna do, ya know? I used to enjoy sewing, playing board games, fishing, and reading. Yep, even reading is rare for me now. After I publish book two, I plan to take some time away from my computer and recharge my batteries, so maybe I’ll find time to visit my hobbies again.
I wouldn’t be myself without asking about television – what are your favorite television programs airing today?
Psych, The Big Bang Theory, Bones, Supernatural, and The Vampire Dairies.
What is your favorite movie all-time?
Hmmm, I love movies but one that I’ll never tire of watching is Pride and Prejudice.
What snacks do you order when at a movie theater?
Nachos
Cats or Dogs?
Both, I’m a HUGE animal lover.
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See? Stephanie is down to earth and as friendly as they come!
Want more Stephanie? Be sure to visit her website and blog, follower her on Twitter, and like her Facebook author page.
In addition to the Gwen Sparks series, look for Stephanie’s first book (Taming the Wolf) in her new Anna Avery series releasing in early 2012.
Do you have a question for Stephanie? Have you read Craved, and if so share your thoughts here! What’s your favorite supernatural creature and why? I’d love to hear from you!
Tiffany A White's Ooo Factor 