It's Day One of Tempeste O'Riley Week here at The Purple Fantasy Den.



And since it's Monday that means that it's ASK AUTHOR!


I'm really excited to welcome Tempeste here. She has just released her first novel with Dreamspinner Press and I can tell you it is WONDERFUL. And you should totally go get it.


Thank you for having me over to The Purple Fantasy Den, Vic. I’m ecstatic to be here and to have an opportunity to share with your wonderful readers.

1. When did you start writing?

As a small child, but I stopped writing after high school. Life, work, tragedy, etc. got in the way and I stopped writing as I considered it frivolous when I had so much real life that demanded my time and focus. Thankfully things have changed and I’m now able to express all the things crowding my head.

2. How do you come up with your stories?

Things in life catch my attention and before I know it, my brain is creating people for the situation to work through. It’s kind of annoying at times, but seems to be working for me so far.

3. Do you prefer to write in silence or have music on?

Oh, music. I hate silence. It’s creepy, lol. Pandora is my best friend ;c)

4. Do you prefer to write about regular romance or do you prefer BDSM?

While I included BDSM elements in my story, I write romance. That’s not to say that BDSM can’t be within the confines of romance and love, just that I prefer to focus on the romance.
I write what my characters tell me to. I don’t tell them what kind of sex life to have, lol.

5. Do you do a lot of research for your books?

Yes. I researched sensual BDSM and even had a couple of people who live the life read before submission. It was easy to research James’s health issue, as it’s what I live with every day. And since I started writing ToD, I’ve interviewed various gender fluid people, bio male and female, to help get Alex ‘right’.

6. How long does it take you to finish a book?

If I could sit down and focus every day? Probably about two months, plus crit/beta time. But, with my children and other responsibilities, nine months or more. :c( I hate that, but can’t/won’t change my family and spirituality obligations.

7. What inspired you to write?

My partner pushed me to write the stories bouncing around in my head. I wasn’t sure others would like them, but after he got a few others in on it, I caved and started writing. And am soooo glad I did.

8. Is there a genre or subject matter that you want to write about but are hesitant to do so (ex. Interracial, Disabled, Transgender, Mpreg, etc.)?

That’s actually the situation in ToD, one of my current WIPs. One of the characters is gender fluid, and while a topic I truly want to write about, it’s one I also find worrisome to tackle. More people seem to grasp what transgender is that gender fluid, in my experience. And the other MC of that story is bi, another oft misunderstood orientation. So, I was hesitant but determined to see Dal and Alex get their HEA. It’s also an interracial story.
As for others I would like to write about, hmm... FTM probably would be my choice for this query.

9. Is it harder to write about menage+ couples than two men?

I’ve not written ménage, yet, but I imagine the sex part would be harder to plot out, but the romance part shouldn’t be too much more complicated... depending on the crux of the storyline.

10. You have a BDSM series (or more, I can’t remember). Did you enjoy writing about that sort of lifestyle or was it difficult?

I’m not sure I’d call Designs of Desire a BDSM book, though there are BDSM elements in the story. Seth is a sensual Dom but due to James’s health and past, he limits his ‘dommy’ actions and sex for the sake of his partner, though he does hope to step things up over time.
It was only difficult in the how to make it work between men with such different pasts and situations. I hope that readers can see what I was hoping to show. And yes, I enjoyed writing it!

11. If you had to pick only three of your characters to take on vacation who would it be and why?

Hm... Alex, he’s a fantastic chef. Chase, life would never get dull. And, Seth. With him there we would no wanting for anything, lol.

12. How do you come up with the ideas for your books?

Situations that are personal and those of people I know. Though I’ve altered the situations immensely, that’s still where I get the ‘starts’ of my stories.

13. If you had to choose who would be your favourite author?

Andrew Grey, hands down. He gives me so many different types of stories, sweet, passionate, western, mystery, fantasy, self discovery, etc. And with how often a new book comes out, I’m never without something new to read!

14. What is the best thing about being a writer?

Getting to let my inner characters free into the world. I love sharing them with others, whether those others ‘get’ my characters or not, lol.

15. If you weren’t a writer what would you be?

I’m a mom, first and foremost. But beyond that, I used to work in retail, management, and loved it. Sadly, with my mobility issues, it became something I had to give up.

16. What are the genres that you generally read, excluding MM?

Romance, adventure, mystery, and crime.

17. Do you read MF or MFM books?

I read all kinds of gender mix stories. While I write M/M, I do not limit my reading to that genre only. All forms of love, passion, and sensual connection interest me.

18. How about the FF genre?

Yes, I read straight (pun intended) F/F stories.

19. What do you think about the New Adult genre for MM?

The same thing I think about the New Adult genre for all types of books... that it’s wonderful. I love seeing the just barely an adult get their stories told. Too often they are lumped in with teens, which they aren’t, or in with adult novels, which they aren’t quite yet.

20. What do you do when you get a writers block to unblock?

Read. Usually when I can’t write it’s a matter of too much going on in my head to focus on anything, so reading lets my brain have a break and not have to do too much. Plus, it’s just plain fun.

21. Who is your favourite character that you have written about?

Until recently I would have said James, even with all the pain he’s gone through, but now that I’m working on ToD, I’d have to pick Alex. He’s a gender fluid gay person and is just too much fun to write, even the hard parts. I’m thoroughly enjoying the research parts of the story as well.

22. Do you write about more than one story at a time?

Until recently I would have said no, one at a time, but as the two main WIPs I have right now overlap, heavily, I have found myself switching back and forth. I’m not actually sure if it’s #2 and #3 or #3 then #2 that I’m writing, lol.

23. Have you ever written about feline shifters or any other types of shifter?

Actually, I’m working on a short (heaven help me) between a cat shifter and a vamp. To say things are rough would be an understatement, lol!

24. Do you plan on writing for a while to come?

Oh definitely. I have the short, six books total planned for the Desires Entwined series (of which Designs of Desire is book #1). I have other ideas percolating in the back of my mind as well, so yeah, y’all aren’t getting rid of me quite yet. :c)

25. Do like to write series or do you prefer to write single stories?

Not sure yet. I’m working on a series and a short, single story. I think I’d prefer to focus on series as the idea of one-offs just don’t really appeal to me.

26. What is the longest story you have ever written? What is the shortest story you have ever written?

In both cases it’s the same answer. Designs of Desire is just over 60k and is my only published work, so far. When done, my paranormal short should be about 9k.

27. Would you ever write about a man and a woman?

That’s a hard one to answer. I would, but I doubt I would do it under my Tempe name. I would come up with a different name for M/F, I think.

28. Where do you write?  An office, a room, a cubbyhole...

On the couch, turned sideways, with my laptop balanced on the back. I would much rather have a nice desk and such but I have to have the bracing for my one shoulder. (It slips in and out of the socket so if I want to use it and have normal touch senses, I have to brace it or only write in tiny bursts.)

29. When you have the time, what do types of books do you like to read for pleasure?  Favorite authors?

I read so many different genres I would use up half your day trying to list them all, lol. But my favorites are glbtq romance, paranormal, and/or mysteries. Especially if you can mix them together :c)
As for fav authors, hmm… Andrew Grey, Nikki Prince, Amy Lane, Evangeline Anderson, Anne Rice (her pre-convert work) and (yes, I know I’m weird) Dr. Seuss.

30. I'm curious about authors noms de plume, um pen names? First of all, Tempeste O'Riley is a great name. Is it a pen name? If so, how did you come up with it? What do you want it, as a name, to convey to potential readers?
If it's your birth name, well, you are just lucky!

Yes, Tempeste is a pen name. I wanted a name that was not related to my own but did reflect me as a person and writer. I actually batted around a list of names, both first and last, with my critique group until we narrowed it down to T. O. and one other. But, Tempeste fits me in many ways. I’m not destruction but I am from the south, have lived through many hurricanes and severe storms, can have a stormy personality at times (or so says my partner, lol), and it lets me have the nickname of Tempe, :c) *hint, that links to one of my favorite shows, hehe.



Tempeste also shared with us a blurb, cover and an excerpt from her newest release, Designs of Desire. Enjoy it here:


Designs of Desire
by Tempeste O’Riley
M/M Erotic BDSM/Kink Contemporary Romance
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Release Date: July 29th 2013
Length: Novel / 200 pages

Order:
♥ Dreamspinner Press ♥ Rainbow eBooks ♥ All Romance ♥ Amazon ♥ B & N ♥

Add to: Goodreads

Description:
Artist James Bryant has forearm crutches in every color from rainbow for fun to sleek black for business. He even has a pair with more paint splatters than metal. After his family’s rejection and abuse from a man he thought loved him, James only just gets through the day by painting. He lives in constant fear that he’s not worthy of anything, let alone love.
As CEO of his company, Carrington Enterprises, Seth Burns is a take-charge kind of guy, and he is instantly smitten by the artist helping with his newest project. When he witnesses James suffer a panic attack, a protective instinct he never knew he had kicks in. He truly believes nothing is unobtainable—including James—if he’s willing to put in the time and effort.
James is shy and confused by Seth’s interest in him as a person. With Seth’s support, can he work through his fears to finally find the true love he deserves, or will someone finally land the crushing blow he won’t survive?
About the Author:
Tempeste O’Riley is an out and proud omnisexual / bi-woman whose best friend growing up had the courage to do what she couldn’t–defy the hate and come out. He has been her hero ever since.
Tempe is a hopeless romantic that loves strong relationships and happily-ever-afters. Though new to writing M/M, she has done many things in her life, though writing has always drawn her back–no matter what else life has thrown her way. She counts her friends, family, and Muse as her greatest blessings in life. She lives in Wisconsin with her children, reading, writing, and enjoying life.
Tempe is also a proud member of Romance Writers of America® and Rainbow Romance Writers. Learn more about Tempeste and her writing at http://tempesteoriley.com.

Website ♥ Goodreads ♥ Twitter ♥ Facebook ♥ Google + ♥ DSP ♥ Blog

Excerpt:
James gestured to the chair across the conference table and hoped Seth would sit. He hated to be stood over. Seth smiled and settled into the chair indicated. “Now, what can I do for you, sir?”

“We, Carrington Enterprises, are beginning a new venture and hope you can help with designs. Companies I can manage; design and draw, not so much.”

James nodded at Seth’s pause.

“Let me start by explaining the project you will brand. We’re opening a new hotel chain. This will be a little different than your usual hotel, though. Each site will be more like a large bed and breakfast, but they will cater to the GLBT community. It’s often an issue when a couple wants to vacation. They have to consider the area, the hotel, the other patrons even if they want to do something as simple as hold hands. That is, if they don’t want to be met with hate or possible violence.”

James wasn’t sure which impressed him more, the wonderful idea behind the hotel or the deep, commanding voice that instilled confidence in everything he said.

Obviously unaware of James’s internal dialog, Seth continued his spiel. “With our liberal policies and views, we have decided to make a place where judgment doesn’t exist. At least, that’s the theory.”

God, that voice! He shivered.

“Also, each site will have a club, bar, or restaurant attached. So, this will be an ongoing project, not a one-shot deal.” When finished with his little speech, Seth seemed inordinately pleased with the idea.

No wonder Brian gave me the account. He didn’t realize he had spoken aloud until Seth glowered at him.

“Excuse me?” Seth snapped. “I was assured you have no personal issues or biases that might hinder your ability to provide the needed work. Was I incorrectly informed?”

“No. No, sir. I apologize for my comment. It was out of line,” James said in a rush, trying to smooth over the obvious irritation his thoughtless words had caused.

“Are you able to do the branding or should I continue elsewhere?” Seth demanded.

“You misunderstand, Mr. Burns. I had wondered why I was given your account, considering I’m not one of the senior designers and your account would normally be reserved for one of them. Now that I hear what the project is, I understand why I was chosen.” He knew he was babbling but he couldn’t help it. “You see, I’m the only openly gay designer here and my family runs a small bed and breakfast. This project is perfect. In fact, once we have the branding set up, I’m sure I can point you in the right direction for some specialized marketing. Magazines, newspapers, websites, etcetera. We will help you with all of that, as well.” James tried to restrain the extent of his excitement over the project, but was unsure how successful he was. He didn’t want to seem flippant or inexperienced after admitting he was a junior designer with Skye Designs.

Seth raised an eyebrow and smiled. “Excited, are we? Carl said you were the man for the job. I guess he was right if enthusiasm counts. I have a full write-up of what we need and what we do and do not want to incorporate into the brand.” His smile fell and he became all business again. “This is an upscale getaway, not a high-priced bathhouse.”

“Understood, sir. I think the idea will work in areas with a large enough population of GLBT and open-minded people.” His hands itched to begin sketching and planning.

“Good. Once you’ve read over everything and start your designing, I want you to visit the site we chose for the first hotel. It’s here in Milwaukee, so it shouldn’t be too far for you. Would you be ready by Friday?” At James’s accord, Seth opened his briefcase and began pulling out folders and large manila envelopes and setting them in front of James. He paused, peered up at James, and blinked hard. “I should call someone to carry these things for you,” he mumbled, glancing at the items and toward James’s crutches. “You can’t fit all this in your bag.”

James pinched the bridge of his nose while counting to ten in his head. Why do they always see the sticks instead of me? “Mr. Burns.”

“Seth, please,” he interrupted, giving James a soft smile.

“Seth, Chase acts as my assistant when needed. He will tend to anything I can’t transfer up to my office personally. There is no need to be concerned.”

A strange look flashed across Seth’s face, but his expression quickly returned to his previous in-command smile. “Very good then.”

They chatted a bit about ideas and plans before Seth shifted his coat sleeve back to check his watch. With a slight frown, he said, “Well, I need to head back to the office. I will leave this all in your fine hands, James. Please call me here.” He pulled out his business card and wrote something on the back. “I look forward to our next meeting.”

Seth held out his hand. James flexed his fingers and clasped the offering. He knew this was for work, but somehow it felt different this time. Warm and strong, the grip shot tingles up his arm. Seth seemed to hold on a little longer than necessary for business needs. It had been so long since a man touched him, at least without violence or pain. James shook off the thought he might be interested. Beautiful men like Seth didn’t waste their time on guys like him. Besides, he wasn’t certain he wanted to go down such a painful road again.
James stood in the doorway, watching Seth saunter out the main doors, wishing for something, though not really sure what.

Tempeste is holding a month long giveaway. You can enter it here:
a Rafflecopter giveaway