My Interview With E-Author Resources

Interview with Susanne Leist, Author of Prey for the Dead – Book Two of The Dead Game Series

Prey for the Dead LARGE (2)

Hello,

Today’s interview is with Susanna Leist, author of Prey for the Dead – Book Two of The Dead Game Series.

Please enjoy!

Best,

-Vincent Lowry

 

Interview

1) What is your author name and in what state do you live (or country if not in the US)?

 

Susanne Leist

New York

 

2) What is the title of your newest book and what is the genre?

 

Prey for The Dead, Book 2 of The Dead Game Series

Paranormal suspense

 

3) What is the book about?

 

Prey for The Dead is the second book in The Dead Game Series. My main character, Linda, and her friends find themselves faced with the return of The Dead vampires. These vampires aren’t as peaceful as the vampires living in Oasis, Florida. A love triangle develops where Linda is caught between a hybrid—half vampire and half man—and a vampire. Their adventures take them to an exclusive club in Disney World and the swamps of southern Florida to defeat the evil vampires.

 

4) Where did you come up with the idea?

 

Vampires living in Florida came from my overactive imagination.

 

5) How long did it take you to write it?

 

The book took me a year to write, a year for others to proofread, and six months for me to edit.

 

6) Did you learn anything from the project?

 

My publisher edited my first book, The Dead Game. I used the ProWriting Aid program to edit my second book, Prey for The Dead. The program gave a more comprehensive edit than the Outskirts Press’ editor. I felt confident enough to send my book for a Kirkus Review. The reviewer liked the story and the supernatural mystery. 

 

7) Do you have an author website and/or blog? How about a book video?

 

My author website is https://www.susanneleist.com/

My blog is https://susanneleist.wordpress.com/

 

I have book trailers. My newest one is https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pILNxaD5XlI

 

 

8) Do you have any success tips to pass on to fellow authors? How about any great editors/cover artists?

 

My best tip for a new author is to have your promotions prepared in advance before you launch your book. I learned this from experience.

 

9) What genres do you like to read? Are you open to reading new authors and reviewing their work?

 

I read all genres. I don’t stick to the same authors. I enjoy reading books written by different authors.

 

10) What is your favorite book of all time and why?

 

My favorite is And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie. This book led me to read mysteries, and it set my expectations for future books. For me to enjoy a book, it must have plenty of twists and turns. Thank you, Agatha Christie.

 

11) Fun Question: Do you have any pets? If so, what kind?

 

I have a Maltese. His name is Nounous, which means a teddy bear in French. My daughter gave him his name.

 

12) Fun Question 2: Do you own an electronic reading device? If so, what kind and how do you like it?

 

I own a kindle, but I read e-books on my computer. I prefer paperback books.

THE DEAD GAME BOOK TOUR

HERE IS MY INTERVIEW WITH SUSANNE LEIST BY FIONA MCVIE

 

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

Hello. My name is Susanne Leist. Do I have to give my age? Okay, I’m 59 years old.

Fiona: Where are you from?

I’m from Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn.

Fiona: A little about your self (ie,  your education, family life, etc.).

I have an M.B.A. in Finance. I worked as a financial analyst in the commodities markets and then as a budget analyst. Later in life, I turned to writing. I have two daughters, both married. I live on Long Island with my husband, Maltese dog, and dwarf bunny (who belongs to my younger daughter. Poor Thumper.)

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

I’ve recently completed book two of The Dead Game series. The first book resolved the murder mystery, but at the same time, opened a Pandora box of new problems. Its surprise ending leads us to book two.

The second book takes the heroine, Linda, and her friends on a chase through Florida from a private club in Disney World to the swamps of Southern Florida. In its wake, a trail of dead bodies leaves their bloody signature.

Book two should be released this summer. That is if I can stop editing before I send it to the editor.

Fiona: When and why did you begin writing?

I’ve always loved to read books. I grew up reading all types of thrillers and mysteries, from Agatha Christie to Sherlock Holmes. Except for Agatha Christie’s novels, I’ve been able to figure out the endings. Then one day, I decided to write a book of my own, to play with clues like the famous authors, and create a surprise ending. I wanted to be like Jessica Fletcher, played by Angela Lansbury, in Murder She Wrote.

After I wrote The Dead Game, my fantasy came true. I wasn’t so concerned with profits as I was with having people read my words. After I sold the first book, I was on Cloud Nine thinking about someone somewhere reading my story.

Fiona: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

I still don’t know if I consider myself a writer. I’m a dabbler. I dabbled in Finance, then Marketing, and now writing prose and poetry. Once I published my book, I felt more like a writer than before.

Fiona: What inspired you to write your first book?

I wanted to write a book that combined paranormal with mystery. This type of literature is hard to find. I decided to write a paranormal, murder mystery of my own. My book, The Dead Game, has dead bodies and suspects like a traditional murder mystery. However, it also has humans, vampires, and vampire derivatives. And don’t forget the haunted house—we must have one of these.

Fiona: How did you come up with the title?

The Dead play an essential part in the book.  Since they enjoy playing evil games to the detriment of the residents of Oasis, I called it The Dead Game.

Fiona: Do you have a specific writing style? Is there anything about your style or genre that you find particularly challenging?

I write what I feel inside. I keep writing until my fingers hurt and my eyes get blurry. Then I edit and edit. Editing is challenging, and I don’t know when to stop.

Fiona: How much of the book is realistic and are experiences based on someone you know, or events in your own life?

The book isn’t based on reality in any way, shape, or form. The story and characters evolved from my overactive imagination.

Fiona: To craft your works, do you have to travel? Before or during the process?

I travel through the strange ideas in my mind. I use the computer to check up on places and events.

Fiona: Who designed the covers?

I designed it with Outskirts Press. I asked for a door with a hand holding it open, and blood dripping out. They didn’t have it in stock. So we agreed upon the door with fire around it.The door plays a significant role in my book.

Fiona: Do you see writing as a career?

I can now say I’m a full-time writer. I pen my poetry on my blogs and AuthorsDen.com. After I publish my second book, I’ll work on the third one in the series.

Fiona: If you had to do it all over again, would you change anything in your latest book?

I learned a lot from the reviews on my book. I wouldn’t have written in multiple points of view, which can confuse readers. My second book is written basically in one point of view with a few other points of view thrown in as needed along the way.

Fiona: Did you learn anything during the writing of your recent book?

I now know to have everything in place before my book is released. The Dead Game first sat on Amazon and Barnes & Noble without a by-line or an author bio. Outskirts Press didn’t prepare me. I had to hurry to compose descriptions and open blogs. I quickly learned about Facebook, Twitter, and Google as social sites to share my book. The first month was hectic. I know better this time around.

Fiona: If your book was made into a film, who would you like to play the lead?

Linda is sensitive and loves to read. She is a good and loyal friend. KatharineMcPhee, Natalie Portman or Emily Blunt would be great leading women.

Fiona: Any advice for other writers?

Have all your social media, blogs, descriptions, and everything else in place before you release your book. Announce the arrival of your book in advance to raise readers’ expectations before the big event.

Fiona: Anything specific you want to tell your readers?

The most important thing I want for you is to enjoy my story and let it take you away from the mundane to a world of adventure and where the impossible becomes possible.

Fiona: What book are you reading now?

I just finished Lisa Unger’s book, Crazy Love You. It’s a psychological thriller like Gone Girl. I expected more from Gone Girl after all the hype. Crazy Love You also delivers a story that is slow and predictable.

Fiona: Do you remember the first book you read?

My first grown-up book was the Murder of Roger Ackroyd by Agatha Christie. My brother was an avid reader, and I read what he did.

Fiona: What makes you laugh/cry?

The TV show, Mom, makes me laugh. If anything happens to an animal in a movie, on TV, or on social media, I’m a crying mess.

Fiona: Is there one person, past or present, you would love to meet? Why?

I would love to meet Angela Lansbury. Need I say more?

Fiona: Do you have any hobbies?

Shopping and swimming in that order.

Fiona: What TV shows/films do you enjoy watching?

I enjoy Supernatural, The Originals, Deception, Riverdale, Mom, and Timeless.

Fiona: Favorite foods, colors,  music?

Pizza. Purple. Soft music.

Fiona: Imagine a future where you no longer write. What would you do?

I can’t imagine that. How much shopping and swimming can I do?

Fiona: You only have 24 hours to live how would you spend that time?

Travelling as much of the world as I can.

Fiona: What do you want written on your head stone?

She tried her best. I just made this up.

Fiona: Do you have a blog or website readers can visit for updates, events and special offers?

Website   https://susanneleist.com

Blog https://susanneleist.wordpress.com

Amazon authors page https://www.amazon.com/Susanne-Leist/e/B00F253FE6/ref=sr_tc_2_0?qid=1525078784&sr=1-2-ent

authorsinterviews

Hello and welcome to my blog, Author Interviews. My name is Fiona Mcvie.

 

Let’s get you introduced to everyone, shall we? Tell us your name. What is your age?

Hello. My name is Susanne Leist. Do I have to give my age? Okay, I’m 59 years old.

Fiona: Where are you from?

I’m from Sheepshead Bay, Brooklyn.

Fiona: A little about your self (ie,  your education, family life, etc.).

I have an M.B.A. in Finance. I worked as a financial analyst in the commodities markets and then as a budget analyst. Later in life, I turned to writing. I have two daughters, both married. I live on Long Island with my husband, Maltese dog, and dwarf bunny (who belongs to my younger daughter. Poor Thumper.)

Fiona: Tell us your latest news.

I’ve recently completed book two of The Dead Game series. The first book resolved the murder mystery, but…

View original post 1,127 more words

The Dead Game Series by Susanne Leist, Available Now!

Posted: April 28, 2018 in Announcements
Tags: 

THE DEAD GAME SERIES

 

THE DEAD GAME BOOK ONE

The town of Oasis, Florida, offers tourists a promising glimpse of paradise with its sparkling white sanded beaches, majestic coastline, and legendary sunsets. But suddenly, life changes in the remote town. People begin to disappear, and some even turn up dead on the beach. Once the sun slips down the horizon, dark shadows roam the streets of the town. Overnight, the dream vacation spot becomes an unsafe haven harboring dark secrets and murder.

It all begins with the mysterious invitation to a party at End House. It is a night that neither Linda Bennett nor her friends would ever forget. From this night forward, they find themselves trapped as pawns in a game…caught in a deepening quagmire of deceit and horror…in a power play between good and evil. Pursued by unnatural creatures, they must fight off illusions and elaborate traps. To save themselves and the town, they must reveal the real face of evil–the one controlling the game and its elusive players.

Available on Amazon here: The Dead Game

 

THE DEAD GAME BOOK TWO

 The second book in the series and its title will be released this summer.

THE DEAD return to Oasis. Linda and her friends pursue them through Disney World’s private club to the swamps of South Florida. In their wake snakes a bloody path of dead bodies.

Caught in a love triangle, Linda must choose between a vampire and a human vampire, and somehow, at the same time save the town.

 

 

Susanne Leist, Author

I have always loved books. My goal has been to write a book different than any other that I’ve ever read. I believe I have accomplished this goal. THE DEAD GAME is a supernatural thriller with vampires, human vampires, mystery, and romance.

Learn more at her author website: https://www.susanneleist.com/

Connect on social media: Facebook and Twitter 

 

411 on Books, Authors & Publishing

THE DEAD GAME SERIES

THE DEAD GAME BOOK ONE

The town of Oasis, Florida, offers tourists a promising glimpse of paradise with its sparkling white sanded beaches, majestic coastline, and legendary sunsets. But suddenly, life changes in the remote town. People begin to disappear, and some even turn up dead on the beach. Once the sun slips down the horizon, dark shadows roam the streets of the town. Overnight, the dream vacation spot becomes an unsafe haven harboring dark secrets and murder.

It all begins with the mysterious invitation to a party at End House. It is a night that neither Linda Bennett nor her friends would ever forget. From this night forward, they find themselves trapped as pawns in a game…caught in a deepening quagmire of deceit and horror…in a power play between good and evil. Pursued by unnatural creatures, they must fight off illusions and elaborate traps. To…

View original post 164 more words

The Paranormal Suspense Game: An Interview with Author Susanne Leist

The Dead Game by [Leist, Susanne]

 

Do you have any advice for writers who are struggling in certain ways, making progress with writing but also dealing with too much meantime?

It is hard to juggle writing with promoting books, creating an author platform on various social sites, and living a life outside of books. The best solution is to allocate different parts of the day to the various chores. I like to promote my book in the morning on Facebook and Twitter. Then I write poems for my blogs. Poetry began as a promotion for my book and has now turned into a hobby for me. It allows me to use all the flowery words and adjectives that are now frowned upon in book writing. On the days, I work on my second book, I put aside a chunk of time for it, usually in the afternoon or late at night. Sometimes these afternoon writing hours continue into the middle of the night. I don’t always follow my advice, but I try.

 

 Reviewer: Susanne Leist’s “The Dead Game” is like a scavenger hunt with a twist of the board game “Clue”.

How much time do you spend on the craft of writing?

As mentioned in the answer above, I set aside time for writing that can run from a few hours to a whole day and into the night. I can’t predict how I will write on a particular day. On some days, the words flow smoothly, and on other days, they don’t. When they do, I pound away at the computer.

 

Reviewer : A fast-paced, epic read!

Do you flex those creative muscles every day or how often?

I write something each day, whether a poem or pages of my book. These muscles need to be flexed on a regular basis, just like our arms and legs.

Reviewer: Write with energy and imagination! That’s what the great Oz said on the day author Susanne Leist was born.

What were the circumstances and challenges you faced getting your first book out?

I self-published with Outskirts Press. I didn’t know at the time that I should have promoted my book before its release. As soon as my book was printed, Outskirts Press listed it on Amazon and Barnes and Noble. It didn’t have a description. I didn’t have an author bio prepared. In one week, I rushed to set up blogs and open Twitter, Facebook, and Google Accounts. I lost those first few precious days of sales of a new book.

Reviewer: If you like action-packed, heart-stopping thrillers blended with supernatural elements, then, this is the book for you.

What have you learned on your writing journey that is helped you on your latest creative endeavor?

This time I will be prepared for my second book’s release. I’ve used proofreaders along the way. It’s almost ready for the editor. My book will have a description, links set up, and reviews.

Reviewer: It launches directly into chills and thrills and lays out a wonderfully dark and engaging foundation on which to build all ensuing events.

 

Susanne Leist

Go Bare Maximum with Edgar Rider

The Dead Game by [Leist, Susanne]

Do you have any advice for writers who are struggling in certain ways, making progress with writing but also dealing with too much meantime?

It is hard to juggle writing with promoting books, creating an author platform on various social sites, and living a life outside of books. The best solution is to allocate different parts of the day to the various chores. I like to promote my book in the morning on Facebook and Twitter. Then I write poems for my blogs. Poetry began as a promotion for my book and has now turned into a hobby for me. It allows me to use all the flowery words and adjectives that are now frowned upon in book writing. On the days, I work on my second book, I put aside a chunk of time for it, usually in the afternoon or late at night. Sometimes these afternoon writing hours…

View original post 360 more words

SPOTLIGHT ON THE DEAD GAME

​This morning, ​I was pleasantly surprised by this spotlight. An excellent way to begin my weekend!

Caleb and Linda Pirtle

The Dead Game by Susanne Leist

The Dead Game by Susanne Leist

Book Cover

The Dead Game brings fantasy and the surreal to the simple murder mystery.

After graduating college, Linda Bennett leaves New York for the slower-paced lifestyle of Oasis, Florida. She opens a bookstore and makes new friends. Life is simple that is until the dead body washes up onshore​.

She is horrified to learn that dead bodies and disappearing tourists are typical for this small town. Rumors abound of secret parties being held by the original residents in their secluded mansions. Once night falls, the tourist-friendly town becomes a haven for evil and dark shadows. But this is only the beginning.

Linda and the other young residents receive an unsigned invitation to a party at End House, the deserted house in the forest behind town; a house with its own violent history. They are pursued through revolving rooms and dangerous traps, barely escaping with their lives. Two of their own remain trapped inside. Or so they think.

It’s up to Linda and her friends to search out The Dead and find the evil one controlling their once peaceful community. Can they trust the Sheriff and his best friend, Todd?

THE DEAD GAME has begun.

From Susanne Leist:

Profile photo

I’ve always loved to read. I grew up reading Agatha Christie, Alistair Maclean and so many other authors who filled my imagination with intrigue and mystery. The TV show, Murder She Wrote, kept me entertained when I wasn’t reading late into the night.

Over the years, my taste in books expanded to include the supernatural and paranormal genres, which has been reflected in my selection of shows, such as Supernatural, The Vampire Diaries, and The Originals.

My first book, The Dead Game, is a paranormal suspense/mystery. It brings fantasy and the surreal to the simple murder mystery. It has dead bodies and suspects.

However, it also has humans, vampires, vampire derivatives, and ​a touch of romance to spice up the mix.​

Review by Diane Murier:

The Dead Game never quits. It takes off like a rocket through skies that may or may not be real, and it ends in fantastical possibilities that burrow into the secret earth. But throughout, there’s the mysterious, sexy, brown-eyed Todd and the responsive and curious heroine Linda.

Can they ever get off of the diabolical crazy train long enough to take care of business?

Hmmm. You’ll have to read it for yourself. A town with so many questions raised by a mile of bizarre events is worth a closer look. And creepy mansions are elevated to a new level that supersedes the merely haunted houses of days gone by.

The Dead Game. Humans are invited to the party, but just who or what you will be by its end is part of the gruesome fun. Get the book!

RAVE REVIEWS BOOK CLUB’S “SPOTLIGHT” Author Blog Tour

Welcome to RAVE REVIEWS BOOK CLUB’S “SPOTLIGHT” Author Blog Tour.

I’m excited to present our “SPOTLIGHT” Author, Robert Fear.

Meet Robert Fear. Ask him questions. Leave comments. 

 

Robert Fear - Author Pic

 

Exclusive Pedigree v3

 

What’s next for Robert Fear?

Well, before anything else, I will be concentrating on the opportunities offered by being in the ‘Author Spotlight’ for July at #RRBC (Rave Reviews Book Club). It is a huge privilege for me to be chosen and came as a real surprise as I only regard myself to be a part-time writer and editor. As I am in between contracts for my day job at the moment, this gives me more time to promote my writing and also concentrate on writing my next book.

The 2017 Travel Stories Competition (500-1000 words) will run until July 31st 2017. The winners will be chosen by an independent panel of judges and announced early in September. The 2017 Travel Highlights Competition (50-100 words) will then run from mid-September until mid-November, with winners being selected by a public vote in the last two weeks of November. I will then select the best stories and highlights from both competitions. These will be included in a 2018 Edition of the Travel Stories and Highlights book and should be released early in the New Year.

As a special offer to readers of this blog, I would like to offer you a free copy of the 2017 Edition of the Kindle version of Travel Stories and Highlights (normally $2.99) if you sign up to the Fred’s Blog Newsletter. Follow the link to sign up and I will send you regular updates on the competitions and news about upcoming releases.

I have started work on a new memoir but I am making slow progress. It is about the first time I left England on my own and spent the summer season of 1977 working and partying on the island of Ibiza in Spain. This is more difficult to write than when I self-published Fred’s Diary 1981. For this book I do not have a handwritten diary to fall back on. I do, however, have the letters that were written to me while I was there. These are helping me bring back memories and create a timeline of when things happened.

In the past I have been more of a diarist or a memoirist, as well as an editor and proof-reader, rather than an accomplished author. I am having to get my head round a completely new skill set and learn the art of creative writing.

This may be a risk at such an early stage of the new book, but I am including a small extract below of what I have written so far. Your feedback and constructive criticism would be welcome (please e-mail me at fd81@assl.co.uk).

The ferry edged its way from the berth and headed for the harbour entrance. In the early evening light the clouds lifted, and the sun appeared on the horizon for a few minutes. Through the descending gloom I could make out the famous white cliffs of Dover as we left the shores of England.

The seas were choppy, and the wind icy as we headed across the channel. I put on a jumper and buttoned up my denim jacket. Determined to stay on deck, I enjoyed the feel of the wind that blew against my face and through my hair. A surge of elation swept over me as I realised that my dream had come true.

I did not hear her approach as I had become absorbed in my own thoughts. It took a few seconds to realise she had spoken.

‘Hi, how are you doing, where are you heading?’

She was taller than me and several years older. Long blond hair wrapped itself around her shoulders and her pale blue eyes glistened as she looked at me.

I averted my gaze for a moment before smiling back,

‘Hi, sorry, I didn’t realise you were there. I’m travelling to Barcelona by coach and then getting a ferry across to Ibiza.’

‘What are you planning to do there?’

‘I’m hoping to work for the season in a place called Es Cana.’

‘Is this the first time you’ve worked abroad?’

‘Yes, I’ve just finished work at a bank in London. Where are you heading? Sorry, I didn’t catch your name.’

‘Everyone one calls me Micky, but my real name is Michelle. I’m off to Barcelona. We’re on the same bus. I saw you earlier on and thought, as you are on your own, you’d appreciate company. I’m an English teacher returning to the school where I work, after an Easter break back at home in Bristol.’

Micky edged closer as if to get extra protection against the biting wind.

‘And what’s your name?’

‘Most people I know call me Fred.’

‘Is that a nickname then?’

‘Yes, I got it at school and it’s stuck since then. My mates call me Fred though my real name is Robert.’

Her eyes widened,

‘You seem more like Fred than Robert.’

I smiled back,

‘How long have you worked in Barcelona?’

‘Just under a year. I finished Teacher Training College in 1976, not long after Franco died in November 1975. Spain was a country that had always interested me. When I saw an advertisement in the paper for a teaching position there, I jumped at the chance and applied straight away. After an interview in London I got the job.’

‘Are you enjoying it?’

‘On the whole, yes. Spain is changing fast after forty years of dictatorship, but people’s attitudes will take longer to change. Life for a female is still difficult. I am lucky they take care of me while at the school but things can be awkward outside sometimes.’

‘Do you ever regret doing it?’

‘No, not at all. Travel gives you a new outlook on life. You’ll discover that for yourself this summer. That is as long as you don’t weaken and I don’t think you will Fred.’

‘Thanks Micky, that’s nice of you.’

The loud sound of the ship’s siren broke the atmosphere for a moment. The ferry had arrived at the port of Calais.

Micky gave me a quick kiss on the cheek and winked at me,

‘I’ll see you back on the bus, take care.’

‘Yes, great to meet you, see you later.’

What a lovely surprise, I thought as I smoked a quick cigarette before my return to the coach.

 

Books published to date:

Fred’s Diary 1981 getBook.at/FredsDiary1981

Travel Stories and Highlights   getBook.at/TravelStories

Exclusive Pedigree getBook.at/ExclusivePedigree

Author Bio:

Born in Leicester, UK in 1955, Robert’s family moved to Surrey when he was 11. He was educated at Reigate Grammar School. After this he worked at a bank in London for several years before getting the travel bug. Fred, a nickname he got at school, stuck throughout his travels and has remained with him to this day. His travels took him to Ibiza for the summer of 1977, hitch-hiking around Europe in 1978 and the USA and Canada in 1979. During this time he also settled and worked in Germany. Fred’s Diary 1981 was written during the 158 days he spent travelling around Asia.

These days Robert is happily settled in Eastbourne, East Sussex where he lives with his wife and three cats. He works as a software consultant and has been able to combine work with some travel during the past fifteen years, having visited countries as far apart as Australia, Singapore, Ghana and Suriname.

Facebook – @fredsdiary1981

Twitter Handle – @fredsdiary1981

Website – http://www.fd81.net/

 

Thank you for joining our Author Blog Tour.

 

Author Showcase – Susanne Leist (The Dead Game)

Come and see my Author Showcase on superkambrook.com

 

Author Showcase – Susanne Leist (The Dead Game)

 

Author Showcase – Susanne Leist (The Dead Game)

 

Kindle Purchase Link

Amazon Print Link

Nook Purchase Link

 

~~ EXCERPT ~~

 

Linda was passing the empty tables by the tall windows when she felt her arm being tugged—very hard. Before she could react, she found herself being forcibly dragged through the open patio doors and onto the isolated garden path. She came face to face with the mighty Wolf and his trusted companion, Hayden. The grounds were deserted. Everyone had left the gardens and she was all alone with the two wicked vampires.

Wolf glared at Hayden. “Please let go of her arm; we are not animals. We never force ourselves on women.”

“Chivalry among demons—I’m very impressed. Too bad your table manners and choice of dishes leave a lot to be desired,” Linda said. Her hatred of Wolf had just caused her to forget her low position in the food chain; she closed her mouth to stop herself from talking. In the future, she must remember that he was a vampire—the strongest one in the world—and that he could easily destroy her at any time.

Wolf didn’t seem the least bit focused on her. “I didn’t come here to play parlor games with you. I need you to convince Todd to join with us. He can never be human or will ever be accepted by them. He belongs with us. He must stick with his own kind.”

“He’s not like you in any way at all: he cares too deeply for people and is loyal to his friends. On the other hand, you and your kind enjoy killing too much and have no feelings whatsoever.”

“Todd will never be accepted by humans or by his own kind. He will be an outcast with nowhere to go. He must join with us.”

“Todd is human and will always be accepted by humans.”

“Let’s kill her now, boss. She’s going to be trouble. I could take her away and no one will ever see her again,” Hayden said, grabbing hold of her arm again.

Oops, she did it again. Her big mouth had now sealed her fate. She had to learn how to be more assertive without getting herself into trouble.

Wolf strolled over to her with a wicked gleam surfacing in his eyes.

“I have a much better use for her in the future. When she finally comes to her senses, she’ll realize that she will be better off with a real vampire with limitless powers than with a pathetic human. She’ll learn about intoxicating love and passion—not the games that humans play that pale in comparison.

Here comes the human. Let her go for now.”

Linda was horrified to find herself wrapped in Wolf’s strong, muscular arms. She became hypnotized by his black eyes and tempted by his deep voice. He seemed perfect in every way. She only wanted to be with him.

“I’ll be back for you.” Wolf held her tight against his body and whispered in her ear. “I love the way you stand up to me with your flashing blue eyes. Soon you’ll be mine, my beautiful ice queen.”

Linda couldn’t move her body. She was stuck in some kind of trance…she couldn’t leave; didn’t want to leave if given the choice. His voice soothed her and made her think of love, passion, and great need: a need that could be satisfied only by him with his expert hands and mouth. She knew that one day she was going to be with him, to be joined with him.

He lowered his mouth onto hers and drew her into a swirling haze of unexpected feelings and desires. His mouth fully covering hers introduced her to a new realm of pure pleasure. His powerful form enveloped her, making her feel feelings that were foreign and untried for her. She couldn’t get enough of him. She tentatively began touching his face and then his body with an eager and unrelenting hunger. She didn’t know what she needed, but she knew that she wanted and desired this beautiful man standing right before her. Her past life was washed out of her mind, never to be considered again. She begged him to take her with him tonight. In response, Wolf lifted her in his arms, as if she weighed nothing, and turned to leave the party. His beautiful face looked victorious and happy. His black eyes filled with passion. She hoped that it was because of her. He looked down into her small face and gave a hearty roar.

While Wolf carried her in his powerful arms, a dark shadow swooped out of the house and flew directly at them. Linda was knocked out of his arms, and Wolf was thrown across the patio.

She looked up to see who had attacked them. It was Todd, his eyes a deadly shade of green, standing there panting.

Linda backed away in horror. Todd’s eyes cleared and returned to their original dark color. Then he looked at her. “Don’t ever be afraid of me. I’m here to protect you.”

Then he was struck down by Wolf.

They began circling each other like two wild animals. Todd thrust his body at Wolf, causing Wolf to lose his balance, and they crashed together to the ground. Wolf pushed Todd aside and stood back up. He lunged at Todd, who sidestepped his maneuver. Todd retaliated by lifting him high up in the air and flinging him through one of the glass doors to the house. Wolf rose up and dusted glass off his clothing.

He said to Todd, who stood before him, “We are not anywhere near finished, my dear friend. The next battle between us will be more private—without so many witnesses. If I were you, I would watch your back…and your pretty little girlfriend.” Wolf stalked away with Hayden following close behind. Todd quickly followed.

Linda was left standing alone outside. She felt bereft without the touch of Wolf’s lips on hers and the solid strength of his arms holding her. She had felt the unmistakable pull by him on all her senses. In his arms, she’d felt weak and needy—as if she needed him to live. Todd and Wolf were extremely powerful and both had taken hold of her senses.

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If I had known it was going to be so hard,

 involving computer skills to the extreme,

 I might have thought twice about it,

 thought twice about writing my book.

 Writers must write each and every day.

 We must promote our books daily.

 We must post on our blogs each day.

 But there’s not enough hours in a day.

 How do other writers accomplish all this?

 How do they leave free time for their families?

 They must be expert jugglers.

 Experts at writing, blogging, and juggling.

 I must learn this dance,

 this high-wire walk,

 this never-ending battle.

 I must learn to juggle.

 I will do it.

 I will do it all.

 Just give me the chance.

 Book two is being written.

 I feel free.

 I feel empowered.

 I will survive.

 James Patterson, eat my dust.

 

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AND HERE ARE MY BLOGS:

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Author Interview with Susanne Leist, Paranormal Mystery Writer

I’m sharing this interview again since it is one of my favorites.

Author Interview with Susanne Leist, Paranormal Mystery Writer

ProfileHello, everyone! Welcome to today’s author interview with paranormal mystery/thriller author Susanne Leist! Susanne has always had a passion for writing and has achieved her life-long goal of writing her debut novel. Please stick around and discover her and her book, The Dead Game.

Hello, Susanne! Can you start by telling us a little about yourself?

After college, I worked in the fields of commodities, financial analysis, and budgeting. I went back to school for an M.B.A. in Finance. But my creative side had been calling out to me for years, wanting to be set free. I finally listened to it and wrote my first book, The Dead Game, a paranormal mystery/thriller with vampires and vampire derivatives.

I am married with two beautiful daughters. My oldest is married and works as a buyer for an internet company. My second is graduating from college and will go on to graduate school for social work.

My life is complete.

What’s your writing background? 

My writing background is my love for the written word. I have been reading adult books since the age of ten. When I say adult books, I am referring to the murder mysteries that my older brother was reading at the time. He devoured books, a few each week. I followed him into the magic world of books. He read Agatha Christie, Dashiell Hammett, and Alistair Maclean and so did I.

I wrote my book to honor his memory. It took me ten long years to hone my craft. I had to begin at step one and teach myself through editing and grammar books the proper way to write. I hope I made him proud.

When it comes to reviews, do you have a thick skin? How do you handle negative feedback?

I’ve never had a thick skin. I’m sensitive about my feelings and other people’s feelings. I find it hard to give a bad review. I could always find something good to say about a book. But I received a few poor reviews, at the beginning.

These reviews were from fellow authors in review groups. At first, I was hurt and discouraged. Then I noticed a trend to them. They were criticizing the same few things about my book. I was telling too much of the story and not showing the reader enough. I was using too many adverbs. I studied these reviews and read more editing books. My book had been edited by Outskirts Press, but I edited it again.

I believe my book is done. I’m happy with it. It is all what I had dreamed it could be. My reviews have been good so far—fingers crossed.

What inspires your stories? What draws you to your preferred genre? 

I’ve always loved to read murder mysteries. I’ve read all types of mysteries, from Agatha Christie to Sherlock Holmes. In recent years, I’ve begun to watch TV shows with paranormal themes. My favorites are The Originals and Supernatural. They combine horror with wit.

I have always found it hard to find books that offer mystery in paranormal settings. That’s why I decided to write a paranormal, murder mystery of my own. My book, The Dead Game, has dead bodies, clues, and suspects like a traditional murder mystery. However, it also has humans, vampires, and vampire derivatives. A little humor is added along the way. And don’t forget the haunted house—we must have one of these.

Can you tell us about your books? What other projects are you working on?

  The Dead Game is the first in a series of three books. The first book resolves the murder mystery, but at the same time, opens a Pandora’s Box of new mysteries. Its surprise ending will lead to more surprises.

Once The Dead Game is established in the marketplace, I will begin my work on the second book. I have an outline and notes all ready to be written. My writing often leads me in unknown directions, so I won’t know how the book will end until it does.

The story opens with a horrific scene at End House, setting the stage for the rest of the book. End House is situated in an idyllic town in Florida, where tourists frolic on its white-sand beaches. But this paradise turns deadly as bodies wash up on shore. The small town is ravaged by winds and dark shadows.

cover

Three young women move to Oasis for its secluded white-sand beaches. What they find is anything but peace and quiet. They and their new friends are invited to a party at a deserted house. That is when the fun and games begin. They are thrust into a deadly game between humans, vampires, and The Dead.

Linda wants to find a new home and to trust Todd, who might be the ring leader of the evil group. Shana wants love with Sheriff Sam, but he is too close with the nocturnal, original residents. And Louise finds that she doesn’t fit into this small town of secrets and intrigue.

Do they uncover The Dead and save their town? Or are they sucked into the descending realms of the supernatural?

The Dead Game has begun.

Can you tell us one or two quirky thing about yourself? Other hobbies besides writing?

Besides reading and writing, I enjoy shopping, mostly for handbags, and swimming. Swimming gives me the strength to shop and write.

What’s one thing about writing you would have liked to have known before getting behind the computer?

I hadn’t realized beforehand that writing a book was so hard. Characters have to move around and speak at the same time. They can’t sound the same. After all the rewrites, the plot and story of my book has remained the same. Only the dialogue and grammar have changed. I believe I could edit for the rest of my life and still not be satisfied.

The writing and publishing process has been a steep learning curve for me. But I would not have had it any other way.

Did you go traditional or self-publish?

I published through Outskirts Press.com, which is a do-it-yourself type of self-publishing house. Once my book had been improved, I was offered a menu of services to choose from. Most of these were expensive. I picked editing and their publishing service. Everything else had to be chosen a la carte.

One day, the publisher informed me that my book had been published. I thought that this meant it was printed. Not only was it printed, it was sitting on Amazon and Nook without a description or bio. It looked sad. I panicked. I had to learn how to use Google. I opened blogs. I found Facebook and Twitter. Luckily, I found some nice authors who helped me with my countless questions.

Advice to those looking to break into your genre? On marketing and selling?

It is important for an author to have everything in place before launching his or her book. I learned the hard way after I self-published. Blogs, websites, and social sites like Google and Twitter should be ready and waiting. Summaries and bios should also be prepared in advance. After the book is released, it should be announced everywhere with bold pictures and words. People will be ready and eager to read it. That’s my goal for my next book, which will be the second book in The Dead Game series.

How can readers get into contact with you?

My readers can find me through my blogs, Twitter, Facebook, and Google. I respond to all questions and remarks. I love to interact with my followers and read their opinions.

http://thedeadgamebysusanne.blogspot.com

http://susanneleist.tumblr.com

https://susanneleist.wordpress.com

http://amazon.com/author/susanneleist

Goodreads 

Shelfari

https://twitter.com/SusanneLeistThanks for reading, everyone. Please let Susanne know how much you enjoyed her interview by leaving a message below, or visiting one of her sites. Have a great week, and tune in next Monday for our next interviewee.

 

AUTHOR QUICKIE

Author Quickie with…Susanne Leist

Sunday, March 13, 2016

by Chevoque

http://chevoque.wix.com/chevoque#!Author-Quickie-withSusanne-Leist/cgcy/56d48c6c0cf25a66a531c9d0

NOTE:
These are the most random Qs I could find and come up with, but it is to show readers how authors are just like them or maybe so different that they are their own species. I have several awesome authors already lined up, but don’t let it scare you to take part though. I’ll be sharing with you all; the answers to the set questions and introduce you to some awesome people, and later, all of this will be used in a statistical type blog. Hopefully, we can keep this going for as long as possible and gain as many author’s inputs to make this thing grow.

But it doesn’t stop there:
~If you are an author who is interested in taking part in this silly game of mine; message, email or find me on a social network.
~If you are a reader and wanna take part; do the same and become part of the fun. (It’ll be really cool to have your stats as well.)
~If you are none of the above…ag, shame. Anyway, if you are an artist, a doctor, a barista or just randomly ended up here; bring it on and we can have a little fun when the stats have grown.

Susanne Leist

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Morning person or night owl?
I am definitely a night owl. I find myself awake until 3:00 morning, writing and reviewing. I love the quiet.

Coffee, tea or neither?
I’m an avid coffee drinker. I average about 3 cups a day.

EBooks or printed books?
I love the printed book. I love holding it in my hands. Breathing in its unique smell. Give me a paperback any day over an ebook.

Bookmark or dog-ear pages?
I always bookmark even if I don’t intend to keep the book. I want it looking pristine and clean for the next reader.

Extrovert or Introvert?
I’m an introvert. A watcher of people and human nature. I search out people’s eyes. The truth lies in the eyes.

Secret talents? If so, what are they?
I perform best under pressure. I can make the important and difficult decisions when needed.

If you had a superpower, what would it be?
I would love to live forever like a vampire. To live through the centuries.

What is your biggest fear?
My biggest fear is dying.

You have three wishes, what are they?
1. Health and happiness for my family, including my animals.
2. I would love to be a best selling author.
3. To be remembered with fondness when I’m gone.

If you could forever break one habit, what would it be?
I love to shop. Handbags are my biggest weakness. But I don’t really want to break this habit.

Your favourite:
Colour – Purple
Animal – Maltese dog
Mythical Creature – Vampire
Author – Brad Meltzer
Book – And Then There Were None by Agatha Christie
Movie – Dirty Dancing
Music Genre – Soft Rock
TV Show – Murder She Wrote
Place to Read – Bedroom
Food – Pizza
Beverage (Alcoholic and/or Non-Alcoholic) – Coffee
Dessert – Anything chocolate
Word – Nice
Season – Spring
Procrastination method – I’m not a procrastinator. I like to do things right away to get them out of the way.

Turn on or turn off
Accents – Love British accents.
Surprises – Love
Shyness – Turn on
Quiet Places – Love
Loud Places – Sometimes, not usually.
Dimples – Adorable
Glasses – Nope
Scars – Nope
Games – No game playing, except for my book.
Comic Books – Loved them when I was younger.

What is your motto?
“If you have nothing nice to say, say nothing at all.” 

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