*Interview and Giveaway with Kara Griffin - author of A Highlander In Peril*

Author Kara Griffin answers some questions and offers a great giveaway in connection with her latest release - A Highlander In Peril:

Can you start off by telling us a little about yourself? 

Writers tend to be introverts and when it comes to my craft, I suppose I am reserved. Some interesting things about me: I've been married for 25 years to my teenage sweetheart, I love Doritos and eat them without guilt, I'm a Gemini and a romantic. My dream is to visit Europe, especially Scotland and Wales, and if I have time some places in England. I have three grown daughters whose lives I meddle in on occasion. I work a full-time day job and happily manage to write my stories. Life is pretty good.

What inspired you to write your first book? 

I had been an avid reader since the age of sixteen and one day this couple came to my thoughts. Their story was intrusive and I had to write it down. I did so for my own sanity and decided others might enjoy it too.

How many books have you written? 

I have been writing since 1999 and have published ten books in three series (two medieval and one futuristic) and a few novellas.

Do you have a favorite book or character that you've written – other than your latest release, of course?

I love the Gunn Guardsman series, but ultimately my favorite book is from The Pith Trilogy, Claimed By A Charmer. I just love that book. Isabel, the heroine, is someone I wish I could be. She's so courageous and can handle a Highlander. She has such spirit and is a perfect match for Douglas, the hero.

What is your next project? 

I'm working on the last book in the Gunn Guardsman series right now. And then it is on to the next series, untitled right now, but it takes place during Robert the Bruce's time and is the story of four men who have honor and meet with unfortunate circumstances. I cannot wait to start writing it. That time period was so tumultuous.

Do you have plans to write books for any of the supporting characters in A Highlander In Peril? 

The last book in the Gunn Guardsman series is entitled 'In Love With A Warrior' and is the story of James Gunn, who you meet in A Highlander In Peril. I think of all the Gunn Guardsman he is the most dreamy and chivalrous. I'm sure readers will be swooning over him, much like I am.

Give us a brief overview of A Highlander In Peril: 

This story is is about two people who have no choice but to accept each other, and once they do, the sparks between them lead to a love that can overcome even the most dastardly villain. 

What draws you to writing books with a “highlander” theme? 

From about 1100's to 1400's, in my opinion, was one of the most difficult eras to have lived in. There was so much danger and yet people managed to live their lives. I can only imagine the fear and despair many women faced back then, when knaves came and plundered their villages and homes. Being a romantic, I imagine there were some men (Highlanders) who, no matter what the consequence, rescued ladies in distress and protected them no matter what the cost. 

What are your thoughts on writing a book series?

Originally the Gunn Guardsman series was intended to be only one book - One & Only, but then another story came, and then another. I think readers enjoy the continuation of characters in subsequent books. It's like visiting old friends.  

Tell us about the cover/s and how it/they came about. 

Being a self published author, I am extremely selective of my covers. As a reader, the cover is what always got my attention. So I wanted to make sure my covers go with the story. I will not be happy until it does. There's nothing worse than looking back at a cover and it not having any connection to the story. I'm fortunate to have Sheri McGathy who does most of my covers. She's wonderful and such a perfectionist. I cannot wait until readers see the In Love With A Warrior cover. It is really fabulous. I'm smiling as I write this because it's the best one yet!

What book are you reading now? 

Blushing, I have a few erotics that I'm reading. Red Phoenix's Brie series. Very hot. I have a loaded Kindle and try to read at least a book a month, but usually I fail at that goal. 

Do you have anything specific that you want to say to your readers?

I truly hope readers enjoy the stories I've written. They're all written from my heart and often have a hidden message in them. For example, in Claimed By A Charmer, the symbolism is definitely friendship and trying to be what your love wants of you (Douglas wanted a demure woman and so Isabel tried to be what he wanted - ultimately though he had to accept who she was). 

In the book I'm writing now, In Love With A Warrior, the symbolism is really affecting me as I write it. It's underlying symbolism is following your heart, doing what pleases you, and not conforming to everyone's will just because. I hope readers take these themes with them when they've finished reading the stories. And of course, I thank readers so much for taking an interest in my books. I really appreciate it. It means so very much.

 

Thanks to Kara Griffin for stopping by!  :)

 

Kara is offering a great prize for one lucky commenter: A download of any of the Gunn Guardsman series (reader chooses which one) or a signed print copy.

 

In order to enter the giveaway, commenter must reply to this post with their email address ( can be entered like "john AT Hotmail DOT com). This giveaway is only open to US and Canada residents. I will pick a winner on August 29th. Winners will have until September 2nd to get back to me or else I will select a new winner. Good luck!

How to connect with Kara and learn more about her books -

 

Website:    Heroes Heroines Villains Romance Website
Facebook: http://tinyurl.com/nl4ckpf
Amazon Author Page: http://www.amazon.com/Kara-Griffin/e/B006ZCH4PG/ref=sr_tc_ep?qid=1406926148
Smashwords:    http://www.smashwords.com/books/search?query=kara+griffin

Goodreads:     https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1428371.Kara_Griffin 

Shelfari:    http://www.shelfari.com/karagrif66