Hi Leigh! Welcome to Fallen Angel Reviews! Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to visit with us.

In your Dareville Series, the stories are set in a small American town. Do you like the small town environment of the big cities for writing stories?

I prefer the small town environment as far as writing fiction goes. I’ve lived in big cities and small towns, and I have to say that small towns have a charm that a reader can sense when enjoying a story. The town can become an important character if the author knows how to portray it. Another to plus to creating a town, as I did Dareville, is that the author has complete control of the setting and doesn’t have to research a New York or Boston for accuracy. Very similar to the worldbuilding a science fiction author does.

Per your website, I see that there are currently four stories in this series. Do you anticipate any more stories after Dare to Dream: JJ and Claire’s Story?

I have a few ideas for shorter works within the world of Dareville, and would like to see them written one day. These novellas would focus upon minor characters and maybe have seasonal settings. I have a story idea for one character, Jared, featured in Truth or Dare, and one involving Brady’s daughter, Melissa, who has been mentioned but not yet seen.

Do you prefer to write series or individual stand alone stories?

I do like series in the way that I get to revisit familiar faces and give them new things to try, but I also like creating a different story entirely, with new characters and situations. So, I would have to say my preference is about 50/50 right now.

I also see that you have written some short stories. Do you enjoy writing a quick sizzling story more than a long romance?

I do enjoy writing shorts, but I find lately I prefer longer romances. There are times I’ll begin a story with intention of keeping it short, but I discover I want to add more to it, more characterization and background. Truth or Dare, for example, was to have been a standalone novel, but I enjoyed the characters so much I wanted to continue writing about them.

What is your favorite type of genre to write?

I love humor writing, witty dialogue and situations. I would love to build a following of readers who might enjoy erotic romantic comedy.

From what do you derive the most inspiration for your writing?

Everyday observations are key. I’ll go to work, or to the park or bookstore, and see something or somebody that will inspire a thought or an idea. I would have to say just basic living is my best inspiration.

Do you have any special rituals to help you get in the mood to write?

I don’t do anything special. Most days I’ll just sit down, turn on the laptop and start writing. Sometimes, though, I’ll need a boost and might listen to some music or meditate.

Since everybody needs a break, even when doing something they love, how do you like to spend your time away from writing?

Well, between a full-time job and being a mom, I don’t have much free time after writing. When I do get the chance, I like cycling and yoga.

Tell your fans something about you they would never guess.

I once cried my way out of a speeding ticket. Luckily I didn’t have to do anything else.

Of all things you have accomplished, is there one accomplishment you are most proud of?

That would be my daughter, who is fast approaching her first birthday.

What would we find on your bookshelf?

A variety of books – romances from authors I have edited, a few works by Amy Tan and Carl Hiaasen, Dick Francis, Neil Peart, and the usual slew of American classics.

How do you know what to name your books or the characters?

I don’t have a system, really. Sometimes a name will come to me, sometimes I’ll borrow the first name of a favorite TV character, then maybe change it as it suits the story.

Do you have a character that is especially close to your heart?

Two: Cal Briscoe of the Dareville stories, and Boone of my upcoming Muse. Both are modeled somewhat after the same person, and as such have been the most vivid in my mind. Boone has been with me for a few years in some form or other, even before I decided to try erotica.

What appeals to you the most about this character?

With Cal it’s his sense of humor and adventure. He lives a life most people dream about living, yet are afraid to try. With Boone it is his gentle nature and compassion, a side of man we don’t often get to see.

Can you tell us a little about your other upcoming works?

I have a few of note. I have contributed to the anthologies Midnight Treasures (paranormal, Phaze) and Sinful Sundaes (Midnight Showcase, paranormal). My first M/M novella, The Healing is forthcoming from Venus Press, and Muse and contemporary erotic romance, is due from Phaze later this year. Presently I am writing Daring Young Man, the third Dareville novel.

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?

If you’re in the Virginia Beach area, stop by The Pink Banana on Newtown Road on November 18 for In The Pink, a multi-author event sponsored by Phaze. Proceeds will benefit the Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer fund.

Thank you so much for stopping by Leigh. For anyone looking for a sizzling, tantalizing tale, stop by Leigh’s website, www.LeighEllwood.com, to see what you are missing.

Interviewed by: Jessica