Salem inspires paranormal author Nina Jade Singer + giveaways

Author Nina Jade Singer has always loved stories about the supernatural—especially if they include mystery, suspense and a good dose of romance. After working for several years in the corporate world, Nina knew she had to start writing her own such stories and that she had to do it New England near mystical Salem, Mass.

I am delighted Nina is here today to talk more about this highly popular genre. Plus see the end of this post for details about two giveaways.

Nina Jade Singer

What makes a book a "paranormal," Nina?

To me, what makes a book a paranormal is any strong supernatural element. I write about witches, vampires, mystic knights and other preternatural beings—even if they do reside in a "real world" setting. In my book, that makes it a paranormal. Pardon the pun!

How did you come up with the idea for SECRETS OF THE KNIGHT?

I came up with the idea in bits and pieces. And at first, it was taking a really long time for the story to solidify. I finally realized that there was something off about the story that I couldn't place. See, my hero was originally a vampire. And the more I thought about that, the more it didn't fit. That was a real turning point. 

What is the most difficult part about writing in this genre?

I'd have to say how quickly the tide can change in terms of what's "in."

What marketing have you found works best for your genre?

Still trying to figure this one out! This is my first book, so I'm still riding the learning curve.

What do you like best about your publisher, Crescent Moon Press?

Well, first of all, they published my first book! Seriously though, I can't believe the amount of support and guidance I've received, not only from Crescent Moon but from the other authors as well. It's truly a great group.

What has been the toughest criticism given to you as an author? What has been the best compliment?

I submitted a piece to a contest once, and in the passage I was trying to write deep in the character's head. His thoughts were random and disjointed, so I wrote the narrative that way. One of the reader judges marked it low saying it was choppy. That was a little disappointing.

The best compliment is of course when someone tells me they kept turning the pages and couldn't put the book down.

Can you share a little about your current work with us?

I'm about to start revisions on another paranormal, a vampire and witch story in which they're both after a powerful talisman. First they're bitter enemies fighting to harness the talisman's magic. But of course, their attraction gets the better of them. Also, I've got some ideas for a series based on SECRETS.

I see you live in Salem, Mass. Do you think your hometown will influence any of your future books?

I actually live about an hour from Salem. And I definitely feel inspired whenever I'm there for the day. Just the energy of the town and its history revs me up. Not to mention the great New England seafood restaurants!

What do you do when you aren't writing?

I have a very active family, including a really demanding puppy. I also try to get in some physical activity daily. In the warmer months, I play a little golf.

What is something about you or your writing that might surprise your readers?

I tried to write my first novel at the age of 6—what I thought was a horror story.

GIVEAWAY DETAILS

One lucky commenter on today's post will receive a copy of SECRETS OF THE KNIGHT; the winner will be announced the week of Dec. 18. Plus everyone who comments during Nina's blog tour will be entered into the grand-prize drawing for a $100 Amazon gift card. For the full itinerary and more chances to win, visit Nina's author page.

You can also find Nina at her Web site, on Facebook and on Twitter.

MORE ABOUT SECRETS OF THE KNIGHT

Several years ago life forced Thomas "Bo" Bowden to give up everything, including the woman he loves, and take refuge on a Caribbean island. Little did he know, he was taking the first step to fulfilling his mystical destiny.

Nicole Balian has come to the small island of Trenado to find a missing teenager. She's shocked to the core to find her former lover instead. And the attraction between her and Bo is as strong as ever.

Working together to solve the unexplained disappearances plaguing the island, they find themselves in a frightening world of voodoo and magic. Trenado's history is shrouded in supernatural mystery. The danger they face serves to reignite their love. But as Bo fights an ancient evil that haunts the island, will Nicole be able to save the man she loves? Or will she lose him once again, this time forever?

SECRETS OF THE KNIGHT is available on Amazon.