Thursday, September 9, 2010

Welcome Featured Guest Beth Trissel

Today, I welcome my good friend, Beth Trissel. Even though, we've never met face to face Beth and I have formed a special freindship and I'm so happy to have her here today as she is gearing up to celebrate yet another new release.


Beth is a member of Romance Writers of America, Virginia Romance Writers, Celtic Heart Romance Writers, the Golden Network, For the Heart Romance Writers. She is married to her high school sweetheart and lives on a farm in the heart of the Shenandoah Valley with their children and multiple animals. The beauty of the valley and uniqueness of rural life has led her to write a collection of atmospheric personal essays compiled into a work of nonfiction. Virginia is her inspiration.


Welcome, Beth.

You recently had a new release. Could you tell us a little about it?
Ah yes, my new release is a suspenseful light paranormal, *unique, Scottish time travel entitled Somewhere My Lass. Somewhere My Lass is Book Two in my ‘Somewhere’ series. The concept behind this series, of which Somewhere My Love is the first release, is that the story opens in the present day, although so far in old homes, and then the reader is transported ‘somewhere’ else. A pretty wide open theme.

I was inspired by all the intriguing old homes I grew up living in and or visiting. Victorian, plus some 19th and 18th century. Virginia is a highly historic state. Also, interestingly enough, the British Murder Mystery series called Midsomer Murders, to which I’m addicted, fueled my inspiration. Their plots take place in modern times but in old manor homes, ancient chapels, quaint villages, sometimes with the added flashback to the distant past.

Did you have to do any special research for the novel?

I always research like a mad woman and obsess over every detail, but wasn’t actually able to visit Scotland. Being a British junkie, I watch PBS and rent British shows and films from Netflix and have done for eons as well as read many novels written by British authors, so that helps. And my family roots are English Scot’s-Irish, reaching well back into colonial America and far beyond to the British Isles.

I’m fortunate that our genealogy is well documented. We can trace lines back to Chaucer, a direct ancestor fourteen or so generations back, and some general who served under MacBeth. *Yep, that dude really lived. Our family has tie-ins to the Salem Witch trials and all sorts of fascinating eras. This rich legacy is a source of considerable inspiration to me.

Why do you write in the genre you do?

I write both historical and light paranormal with a strong historical element because I’m passionate about the past.

What was the hardest scene to write?

That entire book was hard to write! I thought I’d never make it through, and now it’s my favorite book.


You have an amazing backlist, as seen in your picture above. Would you like to tell us a little about it?

I’m rather eclectic. I love history and fantasy, can write straight historical or a blend of both. I started out with a focus on colonial American, including the Shawnee Indians and the colonial frontier, and the American Revolution, then branched out into light paranormal as well as exploring my English Scots-Irish roots. I’m currently working on a story set in England during the French Revolution, and am planning a sequel to Somewhere My Lass.

What is the best writing advice you’ve received?

Write what you love because if you don’t no one else will.

What is the worst advice you’ve heard, to you or an author?

To write for the market, focus on what sells.

What kind of books do you read?

Mostly non-fiction research stuff.

How do you spend your down time?

As noted above, I’m a British TV/film buff. Some American too. I’m an avid gardener, do some reading, and have a burgeoning family.

Are you a goal setter?

Yes. Self-imposed generally although I do have some editors nudging me now.

How do readers find you?
My website also has my facebook, myspace, twitter and blog info at: www.bethtrissel.com

Do you have a writer’s cave or are you able to write anywhere anytime?

I have a cave when I’m not buried under people and sometimes a troll in there with me. I feed it dark chocolate until the rumbling subsides.

Conferences: What advice can you offer to author’s attending them?

Make the most of your investment; they’re not cheap. Attend workshops, meet and greet, make some good contacts.

Write the book of your heart. What does that mean to you?

The book of my heart is the first book I ever wrote and rewrote until I finally got it right, coming out tomorrow, an American historical romance entitled Red Bird’s Song. Writing that book and the research I did for it, all that it encompassed, was the most amazing adventure ever. I literally put my whole heart into it. And when I finished, I realized, it’s all about the journey which is why I can’t imagine not writing what I love. Yes, I look forward to sharing my stories with other kindred spirits, but the true meaning for me was in the doing.

Thanks so much for having me here. Blessings on you all. As the Shawnee say, Tanakia, until our paths cross again.


Info commerical for AJ: September contest. One follower will win a beautiful Autumn scarf. Winner announced October 1, 2010.

35 comments:

  1. Beth, Could share a blurb for each of your books?

    ReplyDelete
  2. My first book was also the book of my heart. I love the research part as well. I get lost in the research. Good post and good luck with sales.

    ReplyDelete
  3. As you know I loved Somewhere My Lass...can't wait to get started on Red Bird's Song..probably sooner than I thought!

    ReplyDelete
  4. Posting for Beth:

    SOMEWHERE MY LASS
    Suspenseful/Scottish Time Travel Romance

    Neil MacKenzie’s well ordered life turns to chaos when Mora Campbell shows up claiming he’s her fiance from 1602 Scotland. Her avowal that she was chased to the future by clan chieftain, Red MacDonald, is utter nonsense, and Neil must convince her that she is just addled from a blow to her head–or so he believes until the MacDonald himself shows up wanting blood.

    Mora knows the Neil of the future is truly her beloved Niall who disappeared from the past. Although her kinsmen believe he’s dead, and she is now destined to marry Niall’s brother, she’s convinced that if she and Neil return to the past, all will be right. The only problem is how to get back to 1602 before it’s too late.

    The balance of the present and future are in peril if she marries another, and the Neil of the present will cease to exist. An ancient relic and a few good friends in the future help pave the way back to the past, but will Mora and Neil be too late to save a love that began centuries before?

    SOMEWHERE MY LOVE
    Murder Mystery/Ghost Story Romance Novel

    Star-crossed lovers have a rare chance to reclaim the love cruelly denied them in the past, but can they grasp this brief window in time before it is too late? Newly arrived at Foxleigh, the gracious old Wentworth home in Virginia, British born Julia Morrow is excited at the prospect of a summer working as a guide in the stately house and herb garden.

    She quickly discovers the historic plantation holds far more. She becomes obsessed with the portrait of handsome Cole Wentworth, killed in a quarrel over the lovely English lady, Julia Maury, two hundred years ago. Then she meets his double, William, the only remaining Wentworth heir.

    Somehow, Julia must persuade Will that their fates are entwined with those of Cole Wentworth and Julia Maury, and that the man who killed his ancestor has returned to enact the deadly cycle again, or she will lose him twice. The blade is about to fall.

    DAUGHTER OF THE WIND
    Native American Historical Fantasy Novel

    Autumn, 1784: A tragic secret from Karin McNeal’s past haunts the young Scots-Irish woman who longs to know more of her mother’s death and the mysterious father no one will name. The elusive voices she hears in the wind hint at the dramatic changes soon to unfold in her life among the Scot’s settled in the mist-shrouded Alleghenies. Jack McCray, a wounded stranger who staggers through the door on the eve of her twentieth birthday and anniversary of her mother’s death, holds the key to unlocking the past.

    Will she let this handsome frontiersman lead her to the truth and into his arms, or seek the shelter of her fiercely possessive grandfather? Is it only her imagination or does something, or someone, wait beyond the brooding ridges—for her?

    ReplyDelete
  5. ENEMY OF THE KING
    Colonial American Romance Novel

    1780, South Carolina: While Loyalist Meriwether Steele recovers from illness in the stately home of her beloved guardian, Jeremiah Jordan, she senses the haunting presence of his late wife. When she learns that Jeremiah is a Patriot spy and shoots

    Captain Vaughan, the British officer sent to arrest him, she is caught up on a wild ride into Carolina back country, pursued both by the impassioned captain and the vindictive ghost. Will she remain loyal to her king and Tory twin brother or risk a traitor’s death fighting for Jeremiah? If Captain Vaughan snatches her away, he won’t give her a choice.

    AN AMERICAN ROSE CHRISTMAS
    Historical Romance Christmas Anthology

    My story in the anthology is A Warrior for Christmas: Reclaimed by his wealthy uncle, former Shawnee captive Corwin Whitfield finds life with his adopted people at an end and reluctantly enters the social world of 1764. His one aim is to run back to the colonial frontier at his first opportunity–– until he meets Uncle Randolph’s ward, Dimity Scott.

    NIGHTHAWK
    American Historical Romance Short~my FREE READ at The Wild Rose Press
    An abused young wife stranded in the Alleghenies in 1783 is rescued from drowning by a rugged frontiersman who shows her kindness and passion. But can they ever be together?

    RED BIRD’S SONG
    Native American Historical Romance Novel

    Taken captive by a Shawnee war party wasn’t how Charity Edmonson hoped to escape an unwanted marriage. Nor did Shawnee warrior Wicomechee expect to find the treasure promised by his grandfather’s vision in the unpredictable red-headed girl.

    George III’s English Red-Coats, unprincipled colonial militia, prejudice and jealousy are not the only enemies Charity and Wicomechee will face before they can hope for a peaceful life. The greatest obstacle to happiness is in their own hearts.

    As they struggle through bleak mountains and cold weather, facing wild nature and wilder men, Wicomechee and Charity must learn to trust each other.

    THROUGH THE FIRE:
    Native American Historical Romance Novel:

    At the height of the French and Indian War, a young English widow ventures into the colonial frontier in search of a fresh start. She never expects to find it in the arms of the half-Shawnee, half-French warrior who makes her his prisoner in the raging battle to possess a continent––or to be aided by a mysterious white wolf and a holy man.

    ReplyDelete
  6. RED BIRD’S SONG
    Native American Historical Romance Novel

    Taken captive by a Shawnee war party wasn’t how Charity Edmonson hoped to escape an unwanted marriage. Nor did Shawnee warrior Wicomechee expect to find the treasure promised by his grandfather’s vision in the unpredictable red-headed girl.

    George III’s English Red-Coats, unprincipled colonial militia, prejudice and jealousy are not the only enemies Charity and Wicomechee will face before they can hope for a peaceful life. The greatest obstacle to happiness is in their own hearts.

    As they struggle through bleak mountains and cold weather, facing wild nature and wilder men, Wicomechee and Charity must learn to trust each other.

    ReplyDelete
  7. Thanks Autumn, Some of my blurbs even made it through twice. So, ummmm, yes, I like to write.

    ReplyDelete
  8. I just finished "Red Bird's Song" and simply, simply loved it. The novel was well-researched and full of Shawneee lore and language. And the twist at the end was very well thought-out!

    ReplyDelete
  9. The book of my heart, wasn't my first. SOme feel it's more a WF than tradtional romance. I love the story and still hope to find a home for it.

    Kudos to you, Beth for keeping at it.

    ReplyDelete
  10. Beth I enjoyed your interview and your love of research chines through as doeos your knowledge if personal geneology. Have you ever thought of creating a heroine who is researching her ancestors. Perhaps she meets the hero because she unearths a secret his family want to protect?
    I just feel you could go to town on something like this.

    ReplyDelete
  11. Thanks so much Vonnie! Lovely to hear. And Autumn you will find a home for it. I believe in you.

    ReplyDelete
  12. Great post, Beth and Autumn. Beth, it's so great that you have such a rich, historical family background. You must feel like you "know" some of your ancestors! Congrats on the new book! I know it will do well

    ReplyDelete
  13. What a fabulous idea Sherry! I need to file that one away for sure.

    ReplyDelete
  14. Hi, Beth. Congrats on your new releases.

    I share your enjoyment of historical research, but my attention span is too short for me to do any obsessing. :) What I like best about research is digging up bizarre stuff I never would have expected to find. Such fun!

    ReplyDelete
  15. Great interview, Beth! The book of my heart wasn't the first book I ever wrote, but it was one I wouldn't give up on. A time travel that was difficult to get right. I almost did give up on it several times and through countless revisions, but it's been out for over a year now and has gotten great reviews and now has a contest final. Never give up on the book of your heart should be a mantra for every writer.

    Good luck with yours!

    ReplyDelete
  16. Beth & Autumn, Nice interview. I'm looking forward to reading Red Bird's Song. btw: love the title and cover art.

    ReplyDelete
  17. Beth, Barbara brought up bizarre stuff. Is there a tidbit from your research you'd like to share? Maybe something Some Where My Lass and something from Red Bird's Song.

    ReplyDelete
  18. I share some of the inspiration behind my stories on my blog, but right off hand I remember reading about how amazing Native Americans and frontiersmen were with their tomahawks. I got a little of this into my NA books, but not as much as I read! They could calculate to the exact revolution how a certain spin on a tomahawk would make it land. One account tells of a female captive stripped naked and tied to a tree (unusual with Eastern Woodland Indians in itself) and the warriors were gathered around tossing their tomahawks so that they landed around her like a magician's knives. The poor thing was screeching in terror when a frontiersman happened by with the savy to make the braves think there was more than one of him and rescued her. :) I still wonder if this tale was true.

    ReplyDelete
  19. Oh, and thanks Dawn! High five to hanging in there Susan M!

    ReplyDelete
  20. OMG. That is interesting and what a great story. Can you imagine starting a romance with that as the first scene. You need to write think about that. WOW!

    ReplyDelete
  21. Thank God for us readers that you found your muse!
    I love time travel and read it voraciously.
    You know I wish you the best and I hope you sell a ton of books!!
    I love your settings too.

    ReplyDelete
  22. Hey, Beth and Autumn! You are both wonderful writers and we are fortunate to have you on our Pink Fuzzy Slipper Writers blog. I learn more about each of you with each new blog.

    This story sounds as wonderful as all of your others!

    ReplyDelete
  23. Thanks Mary M. Speaking of the Fuzzies, I am there tomorrow for RELEASE DAY for Red Bird's Song!

    ReplyDelete
  24. Congratulations, Beth. I'm awed by what you've accomplished in such a short time. Happy Release Day tomorrow!

    ReplyDelete
  25. Thanks so much Bev. I'm a little awed myself. :) I have a lot to live up to.

    ReplyDelete
  26. Waving, Beth. I always enjoy your posts and catch up with your writing career. You are an inspiration for sure! I also love history and especially love learning more about my beloved Scotland, home of my Mom's family. Nice photos!

    ReplyDelete
  27. Looking forward to that sequel to Somewhere My Lass. Somewhere My Love is pretty awesome, too.

    ReplyDelete
  28. Hi Beth,
    Coming in a big late here, sorry. Congratulations on all your books, you are indeed prolific. I love watching Midsomer Murders too.Another good English series, if you can see them is Dalziel and Pascoe which is set in Yorkshire. They have some wonderful old houses and beautiful scenery in them, even if it is a police story.

    Best of luck with all your endours.

    Margaret

    ReplyDelete
  29. Hi Autumn and Beth, I know I am late but couldn't make it yesterday. Great interview. I continuously research while writing to make sure specific medical details in my medical romances are correct. Now that I write a paranormal set in Egyptian mythology, I have to do research for every chapter and learn tons of things. I am glad you publish the book of your heart, Beth. Red Bird' Song sounds like a fascinating story.

    ReplyDelete