Today we've got another Lady Leo author at the House of Muse. Like the authors I've been highlighting in past weeks, Empress is also a part of Arrow Publications Apple Apps author program (*read more about that here)
Empress: I consider myself a connoisseur of fine romance. I can find romance in any situation and I enjoy writing across genres. My love for writing dates back to high school where my studies took a back seat to my writing. As punishment for my lack of attention, I had one teacher who pulled me forward and demanded I read my paper. That teacher admitted my story was good, but sent me to the office anyway. Here’s to you, Mr. English and thanks ;)
I understand that you write interracial romance. How do you see your role as an author in writing IR Romance?
Empress: There is a strong alliance between the name Empress LaBlaque and interracial romance. Right now, interracial romance is fresh, new, and exciting. It’s also rewarding on many levels. I‘ll write whatever the public demands. Some women will never experience an interracial relationship. To some, it’s considered taboo or an off-limits fantasy. I’m the catalyst who provides a safe bite of forbidden fruit. When writing IR Romance, the hero loves his heroine without condition. I immerse my IR characters in various plots or situations. While I enjoy writing this genre, the majority of my readers are Caucasian. My favorite genres include paranormal, time travel, historical, vampires, as well as contemporary IR romance.
Tamela Johnson is an outstanding substance abuse counselor. She conducts seminars all over the United States. Of course she has everything under control, including her love life. Wrong! While attending a boring seminar, Tamela meets Lane Corbett, an English gentleman. She is horrified when he reveals he’s been following her and has an undeniable crush on her. Because Lane is smitten, Tamela wonders if he realizes she's black. Is Lane blind or simply crazy?
How about a sneek peek of the book?;))
“Tell me your problem? I’m a good counselor.”
Lane took my hand. “You.”
I quickly retrieved my hand and gazed around the dining room. “Stop that. You’re going to give people the wrong impression.”
“I don’t care, Love,” Lane declared.
“Lane. You hardly know me,” I admitted, gazing wildly around the room. “Sh- Someone might hear you.”
Lane sighed and leaned back in his chair. “I’m coming on a bit strong, eh?”
“No—You think so?”
“You conducted a seminar in Atlanta, Georgia, right?”
I tilted my head to the side. I had no idea where this question was going. “Yes. About a month ago,” I replied.
“I listened to every word that fell from your lips, Tamela. By the time you’d finished, I’d fallen madly in love with you.”
I was drinking my tea when Lane made his staggering confession. I almost sprayed his face with it. “In love--with me?” I blotted my lips. “The crowd was massive. I really don’t recall seeing you.”
Lane pointed to himself. “I was the guy who kept standing around after the seminar was over. I helped you take your things to your car.”
I snapped my fingers. “Yes, you did!”
~*~
Define for readers, your ideal heroine:
Empress: My heroine embraces the personality of all women. She can be brassy, demure, lonely, or just in love. Imperfections are a must, as perfect people tend to scare me. Most of all, she must possess a great compassion for humanity, putting her needs aside for the good of others. She selects a mate who compliments her. He will not overpower nor dominate her, yet she’ll always feel safe in his arms.
Question for one of Empress's books:
So many times heat ratings are at the mercy of the distribution site they appear on. I have had some of my books misjudged by the ratings placed on them and so encourage readers to always check my website for clarification of heat levels in my books. As I love happy, enthusiastic readers, I would like to know, if you choose a book by the heat level or by the story?
Leave your comment and be enetered to receive one of the Empress's book!
Thanks to Empress and Arrow Publications for this special blog tour featuring authors from Lady Leo Publishing!
You can obtain a copy of What Color Is Love at Apple Itunes
Learn more about Empress and her books at her website and blog
Check out her books at Lady Leo Publishing
Until next time~
Amanda
