 How did you get into writing?
For twenty years had just been a reader. At night when I would go to bed I would dream of stories. One day, about five years ago, I decided to put pen to paper. My writing was vivid…I would daresay it was erotic. Yet, I loved it. Unfortunately, I didn't see where my visions would fit until I read my first erotic romance. I knew then and there that I had a place for my writing.
Do you ever use your experience to make a story?
Yes, all the time. Life is a ball of wax that melts into your state of being. I use some of my experiences and some that I create. But, everything is pure Karen.
How did you come up with the Stripper Chronicles?
I used to work at strip club while I was in college. I was surprised how normal the lives of the women were, and how many misconceptions there were about the profession. My Stripper Chronicles are an ode to those women. I hope that in shedding some light on the darken industry I can clear up some misconceptions.
Will you ever write Jake and Ameril's story?
Yes, Jake and Ameril will both be featured in Desired. I had always planned on their story. And, I can't wait for you guys to read it.
When you start a story do you plan to start a series?
No, each story is individual with a life of its own. Yet, as a I am creating other characters start knocking on the door of my mind, and their lives begin to intertwine. I feel a need to tell their story and that is how a series starts…at least for me.
What inspired you to write The Necklace?
I have always been fascinated with the ocean. Having grown up in sunny California near the beach, I used to spend countless hours dreaming I was a mermaid. I couldn't swim that well and I never grew a fin, but that didn't stop me from dreaming about it. When I joined the Navy and boarded my first ship, the vastness and beauty of the sea astounded me. One day while I was standing on the weather deck looking out at the most beautiful sunrise ever created, the idea for The Necklace came to me like a bolt of lightning.
How do you come up with your story titles?
Well…one of the first thoughts to cross my mind when I begin a story is, "What shall I call it?" Of course, I do try to come up with an intriguing title that fits the concept. Interestingly enough though, things don't always go as planned. My original idea for Shattered involved a reclusive woman and billionaire who meet in the woods. Yet as I was writing, the story evolved into something totally different. I tried to throw the title out, but I just loved it so much I couldn't let it go. So I kept it.
How do you come up with names for characters? Where did you find Ameril's name?
Seriously, I don't come up with anything at all beforehand. All of my stories begin as a general idea in my mind. I don't jot down outlines or plots. So when I actually start writing, I spend a moment thinking about my character then I close my eyes and type. Probably not the most efficient way to do it, but it works for me. Ameril Haverton, the heroine in Desired, came to me exactly that way.
How long does it normally take you to write a book?
That's a very tough question, and I wish I had a more exact answer, but honestly, each book is a process. The Necklace took one year to write, whereas Shattered only took three months. The development of a story, at least for me, is based off my circumstances and where I feel confident as a writer.
I guess the only answer is that there isn't an exact answer. Though, I try to be productive in providing the tales reader's want in a timely manner.
Do you have any advice for aspiring writers trying to get started?
Well…first and foremost continue to write. It's so easy to have a dream, but it's often times much more difficult to carry through the plans needed to bring it to fruition. Over the years, I would start writing stories but never finish them. I have quite of few that will never see the light of day. So, the best advice I can give is to FINISH! The joy you experience from typing 'The End' is unbelievable and it's the best motivation to keep going. Also, find a good critique partner or group. Like-minded people with your same motivation will help you. Additionally, utilize genre geared romance groups for help with the steps you need to take to becoming published.
Why has it taken so long for Desired to be released?
The process of writing a book is actually much easier than the publishing process. The old adage of too many cooks in the kitchen doesn't really apply. There are numerous steps and individuals involved, and all of their jobs entail creating the best product for you, the reader. Additionally, authors have very little control over things like release schedules. Yet never fear … Desired is on the way.
What is Operation: Love?
It's a strategy I'd personally like to see instituted by President Bush  Seriously, it's an anthology with myself, Alyssa Brooks and Melissa Schroeder. We came together to write three stories that celebrate the military and love. Personally, I have to say this collection will knock your socks off.
Do you find it hard to write sex scenes? What's the hardest scene to write?
No, actually the sex scene is the easiest for me to write. There is so much emotion and passion involved, and unlike some dialogue or character interaction you don't have to be circumspect about what should or could happen. Like most of my stories, I don't plot the scene before hand. I let the movements and emotion move me where the characters want to go.
Conversely, the build up to the sex scene is always the hardest to write. Most people generally try to conceal their passions beneath the surface, and you have to use subtle clues to relay to the reader that they are indeed ready to take the plunge.
Do you write any other type of stories aside from Erotic Romance?
Absolutely! I have tons of stories in my brain. I've been working on a mainstream chick lit and an inspirational story with my mother. As a writer, I will never limit myself, but I have to admit that I enjoy writing Erotic Romance. It's extremely fun. Plus, at heart, I am a romantic. I love writing about love … and if it's erotic all the better.
Did you have to do research for your Operation Love story? Or do you have first hand experience?
I'm in the United States Navy, so the research for Wounded Hearts was very easy. I've personally met and worked with SEALs, and I did a stint on the security force when I was stationed overseas. Also, my best friend, Elizabeth, helped to provide a lot of the viewpoints from the psychological standpoint. Her insight was invaluable in researching syndromes and what not.
Although I've shied away from writing this sub-genre of romance in the past, because I felt it would be too much like writing about work, I will definitely have more stories on the way. In fact, I'm pondering another story about another member of the SEAL team featured in my portion of the anthology, Operation: Love.
Please tell me you are writing a sequel to The Necklace?
Yes, I am writing a sequel. The first story, Animal Passion, is about the werewolf Mikel, who was briefly introduced in the first part of the series. This dashing hero finds love amongst a pile of dusty old books, and that's all I'm going to say
Yet beware, it may be a while before this book is released in any format, since I'm trying for some mass market avenues, and this entire process take a very long time … not my choice believe me But, I will be posting excerpts and information on the coming release when available.
What is up with Desired? I thought you said it was 'Coming Soon'?
Well, Desired has taken longer than I expected. Some of that had to do with an unexpected deployment, and some of it had to do with a bit of burn-out. I was just so tired after RT then a lot of things started happening at once. I should have a cover posted on my newsgroup soon, but I bear with me. You never know what can happen 
Are you planning on writing more military themed romances?
Yes! Although I had been reluctant to pen any story involving what is essentially work for me. I really enjoyed writing about Scott and Holly. Two other characters in that novella are pounding at the door of my brain asking to be told. So, stay tuned, you may just see something about Kara and Erik.
Will you be writing another anthology?
Probably not … at least not in the near future. I have some other works that need to be finished, and I need to focus on those first.
If you have other questions you would like asked please contact me.
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