Could you tell us a little bit about yourself?

A vampire and horror fan from way back, I have always been intrigued by the supernatural. My first novel, Rabbit: Chasing Beth Rider, was published by TreasureLine Publishing in November 2010, garnering high praise and scores of new Rabbit Chasers (our affectionate name for my readers) weekly since then. May 24^th marks the 6^th novel published and I have a dozen more cooking in me. My dream is to entertain my readers and give them a story that will stick with them forever.

Describe your book ‘Rabbit: Chasing Beth Rider’ in 30 words or less. 

Bestselling author Beth Rider had no idea that her uplifting vampire novels would anger real bloodsuckers in her midst. Bravely, Beth runs into the storm to save the vampires from themselves.

What was the hardest part of writing your book?

For the most part, this novel wrote itself. The only time I remember getting into a corner was when I was writing the last five chapters—the finale. The climax was well-mapped-out, but how to disperse with the loose ends left me affirmed that we needed to make a sequel. When I finished the Epilogue, I determined that this book would be the first of a trilogy. Since then, Book Two has come out (Rabbit Legacy) and a supplemental book of 20 short stories featuring the characters and plots of the three novels entitled, Loose Rabbits of the Rabbit Trilogy (both from TreasureLine and available to sample on fReado).

What books have had the greatest influence on you?

Not to sound cheesy, but much of my plot development and themes are drawn from my study of the Holy Bible. I don’t preach and I don’t teach, but like any good modern tale—my novels will make you think as much as you enjoy. I also am influenced by the work of Frank Peretti and Stephen King among others.

Briefly share with us what you do to market your book?

I have all of my novels sampled on fReado, as well as involved in the fReado Cover Matching Game. I also have a reader/fan group set up on Facebook where I interact with my readers and do giveaways. And I love Goodreads where I have an active profile and readership. Self-promotion takes a lot of time and energy, but you have to do it. Even the most famous author self-promotes. Ask Anne Rice or Stephenie Meyer…it’s the way of the future of this business, so go ahead and get in the game. The world needs your book!

How do you spend your time when you are not writing?

Aside from writing, I work closely with my publisher in a capacity as an interior formatter and illustrator for the other authors in our TLP family. I also run a freelance art business from home where I paint commissioned pet portraits, various fine art, and wall murals. My hobby is writing… so any moment no one needs me for anything, I’d rather be working on a novel!

What are you working on next?

Currently, I have three novels going at once. I am working on book three of my series, The Corescu Chronicles, the highly-ranked saga of a priest who is turned into a vampire against his will and without his knowledge, and what happens when he realizes that his method of judging evildoers and taking their blood may not be God’s will at all.  Books one and two are out now, The Judging you may sample on fReado, andDamascus Road was just released May 24^th. I am also working on completing book three of my Rabbit Trilogy, entitled Rabbit Redemption. Lastly, I am in love with a standalone novel that sits outside both if these series and will definitely blow away everyone who reads them (see link for a sneak peek: http://www.ellencmaze.com/sneak-peek.php ). I can’t wait to share them with the world!