Charlene A. Wilson, A Whiz at Paranormal Romance…Ask her Story-Stars…

Hi Charlene…Ravencraft’s Romance Realm sista *smile* So, nice to have you as the featured guest author. We’re here today talking about Charlene’s second book in the Chronicles of Shilo Manor Series, Cornerstone Deep Echoes, a paranormal romance of the yummy kind.

I’m so excited for you…already we celebrate the release of book two – Woot-woot!! *grins*

Here’s a little about Charlene for those of you who don’t know what a wonderful author she is:

Charlene’s interest in writing began in her early teens and she took any creative writing courses available.  A writer of paranormal romance, Charlene loves what magic can add to relationships. 

Many of the attitudes and personalities woven into her characters were taken from those she worked with while serving as a Deputy at a large detention center.  From kindness to bigotry, the variety of personal outlook was amazing.  As time now affords her, she is able to pursue her love of writing and incorporates those experiences into some of her work. 

The stories keep coming and she keeps typing.  On to the next!

Charlene, I’m really thrilled to spend some time together…and so looking forward to our interview, so without further delay…let’s go for it…

KDR ~ Please tell us how the idea came to you for Cornerstone Deep Echoes. Please include all the fun details.

CAW ~ Since CD Echoes is the second book in the Chronicles of Shilo Manor series, the core of story came from book one, Cornerstone Deep.  And that book was originally a short story I wrote for a prompt based contest on an online writing community, Writing.com.  I’ll admit this to you, Kay Dee…  I cheated a bit.  I already had it written down as a memory of a dream I had.  Shh.  Don’t tell.  *wink*

KDR ~ Secret’s safe with me.  Go On…

CAW ~ I had great feedback on that short story and so many people said it should be turned into a novel that I started looking at the possibilities.  Once I started, there was no turning back.  The characters grabbed me and came to life.  They showed me where they lived, how they interacted with each other, who they loved and why.  Personalities started showing more vividly along with differences, to the point it became evident these people came from separate worlds—some more advanced than others.  The story encompassed so much that I realized this was not going to just be a novel.  It would have to be a series.  CD Echoes is a continuation of the Shilos’ story…as will be CD Destiny.

  

KDR ~ What drives Cole, motivates, and/or inspires him?

CAW ~ In a single word, Mianna.  Cole has never been able to let Mianna go after her death nearly four hundred years ago.  All that time they believed reincarnation didn’t exist on Cornerstone Deep.  And he found his soul mate in her.  So when the truth comes out and he finds her reborn in Anna, there’s nothing he won’t do to get her back…and keep her.

  

KDR ~ Can you give a little more about Mianna and Cole? Maybe a bit about the first time they met each other?

CAW ~ Actually, Cole and Mianna met long before this story came about.  Cole and his family were on holiday to the Northern Provence.  They were guests of one of High Priests of the Arylin colony there.  It’s the largest community of Goddess of Love worshipers on Terra.  Cole, James and Vincent were about to leave to go skiing Higgotham Mountain with the man’s older sons when his daughter entered the room.  As soon as their eyes met, Cole knew Mianna was his soul mate.  Her soul called to him, spoke to his when no other woman’s had.  Needless to say, he didn’t accompany the men on that ski trip.

But all these years later, after centuries of grief and loneliness, longing for his eternal love to return but believing her rebirth would never come, a woman’s soul spoke.  And it couldn’t have come at a worse time.  That moment catapulted a series of events that became the first books in the Chronicles of Shilo Manor series.

KDR ~ Can you tell us about the Shilos’ abilities? How do they help OR hinder?

CAW ~ Cole is a Sentinel from a gifted dimension, Meridian.  Like others from his plane, he has powers.  It’s the oldest realm in the Arched Spectrum of Realms and the inhabitants have progressed far beyond any of the other planes.  While these abilities are common to them, it’s like magic to those of Cornerstone Deep.  So, Cole, James and Vincent are known as wizards. 

Cole’s talents lie in telepathy and enchantments.  James is a master at manipulating the elements.  He can control multiple tasks with great accuracy.  Vincent is very powerful when it comes to commanding energy.  That’s a nice way of saying he blows things up.  LOL.  And sometimes his temper gets the better of him.  He keeps James busy cleaning up after him.

Their talents definitely help.  Cole relies heavily on his ability to read emotions and share his thoughts.  But it makes it hard for him to deal with situations at times.  For example, in Cornerstone Deep, the emotions emitting from everyone in the room as they tried to unbind Anna’s soul would have made it impossible for him to carry out his role in the procedure.  He was very thankful for James’s potion that allowed him to only have to deal with his own feelings.

James turned to Cole and handed him a small vial. “Put that on your tongue. It will help you cope without the added emotions of others.”

Cole quickly emptied the bottle, ensuring not a drop was lost. As if bathed in paraffin, hot wax coated his mouth, reaching deep into his throat and lungs. All anxiety in the room disappeared and he took a deep breath, looking back at his love…

… Linda set a hand on her cheek to pull her to face her. “Anna, you want to remember your parents, don’t you? You used to be one of the most sought after artisans in the city. My father owes you much more than he pays you.”

Elaina laughed, but it came out like a nervous squeak.

Anna slowly nodded as she gazed into her friend’s eyes.

Cole watched the compassionate conversation, glad he couldn’t pick up on Anna’s true feelings. The potion however, couldn’t silence the soft words she spoke as she looked back at him. “But—will I still love you?”

Then, in Cornerstone Deep Echoes, when they learned who Lord Dressen really is…

As the final picture showed and blinked, signifying the completed essence trace, Vincent doubled over as if punched in the stomach. James braced himself with his fists on the desk and Cole stood froze, the final name repeating in his mind. “Kyle Dressen, 1959-.” (Wouldn’t want to spoil it for you)!  *wink*

KDR ~ So not nice Charlene!!

CAW ~ His brothers’ emotions hit him with force. He set his hands at his waist and walked a small circle to expel the added anxiety. It didn’t work.

KDR ~ Is Cornerstone Deep Echoes included in a series? If so, what series and can you give us titles and a tagline for other books in this series?

Click Cover for Buy Link

CAW ~ Yes, it’s book two in the Chronicles of Shilo Manor series.  Book one is Cornerstone Deep.

“My life is a mirage of endless time.  But you, in this moment, engulf me, rivet my mind, encompass my soul.”

 

KDR ~ Tell us about Cornerstone Deep. Does it have a hierarchy or some other code/laws of their kind? If so, can you give us a few of their rules?

CAW ~ Cornerstone Deep is actually the name of the position in the spectrum.  The familiar name of this dimension is Terra.  Terra mirrors Earth in many ways: progression, appearance, aggression…  But it is a bit different when it comes to their hierarchy.  Shilo City is the capitol of the entire realm.  The rulers are called Grand Marshals.  They do have a voting system, but it’s reserved for the elite. 

Also, religion plays a large part in how many noblemen cast their votes.  And with the Shilos being Sentinels appointed by the Gods, it’s hard to rally any support to go against them.  Not that there was ever any reason to stand against them anyway, but in Cornerstone Deep,  Lord Kyle Dressen, Senior Grand Marshal of the courts, decides to do just that.

 

KDR ~ Which scene was your favorite to write? Can you share a little of it?

CAW ~ Cole would probably hate me for drawing attention to it, but I think it would be the scene where Cole runs into his last girlfriend.  For those who’ve read, you’ll remember Charlotte from the first chapter.  She’s completely in love with Cole.  And he loves her more than any other woman he’d dated in decades.  But, of course, he’s looking for so much more than that.  He’s looking for that connection he once had with Mianna.  His soul won’t let him settle for anything less.

In this scene, Cole is ring shopping for Mianna with Vincent.  And who does he run into but…you guessed it.  Charlotte along with her jabbery daughter.

Pedestrians dodged Cole as he stepped from Arbede’s Fine Jewels onto the busy city center boulevard. He clutched the little gift box for safe keeping and turned as children ran around him with giggles and squeals. Despite the disturbance, his heart soared and he looked to the pale blue sky. The yellow sun sent warmth to kiss his face and he couldn’t hold back the curve to his lips.

Vincent stepped from the shop and smiled. “I have to admit big brother, you couldn’t have chosen a better ring. Mianna’s going to love it.”

His heart beat with excitement. He’d never shared his enthusiasm of marriage with his youngest brother and though he was reluctant to do so this time, Vincent proved to be a genuine help. “For a kid, you do have good taste when it comes to women’s jewelry.”

He chuckled. “I’ve had some practice.” Passers-by bumped him again and he cast an irritated gaze their way. “Is it just me, or is it more crowded than usual?”

As Cole glanced around, a sudden flush drained his face. What were the odds? Here? Now? He turned back to Vincent with a clenched jaw. “Let’s get out of here. Quickly.”

“No argument from me.”

A cheery voice rang through the throng. “Tom?”

Cole winced. With reluctance, he turned to see the dark head of curls bounce his way in youthful exuberance.

The young woman bound up to him, her brown eyes sparkling. She threw a bag-filled hand onto his arm. “Imagine running into you down here.” She glanced over her shoulder then stretched her gaze to look past the crowd. “Mother will be thrilled.”

Cole ran a hand down his chest, trying to erase the instant discomfort. He managed a smile. “Amy.”

“Oh, she’ll be along.” Returning her attention, she nodded to her load. “I’m getting something special for a friend. She’s the one that was all over the front page of the social column with Lord Dressen.” She nodded and her curls wiggled around her shoulders. “Yeah, I know her. Her name’s Anna Sinclair. And he’s been after her for ages. Can you believe it? A Grand Marshal choosing someone from a lower class?” She scrunched her shoulders and squealed. “I told her she needed to listen to him and just say ‘yes’, and it looks like she finally did.” She smiled a dramatic sigh. “Who says dreams don’t come true?”

“Indeed.”

“Oh, I have to show you.” She rummaged through the packages on her arm. “I looked all over but couldn’t find one like he gave her—not that I could really afford one just like, of course—but I tried and ended up having to buy two sets to get even close to the same scent.”

She pulled out a black candle. “This one is licorice.” She peeked up at him and continued to reach within the bag. “I know, weird, huh. And this…one is…vanilla.” They teetered with her hands as she scooted the bag handles into a more comfortable position.

“The last day she was at work, he brought her one that smelled like both together. She loved it! She left it burning all day while she worked on his privacy screens.” A quirk spread her lips. “Out of all that jewelry and stuff he gave her, a candle finally did the trick.”

Cole straightened as Amy’s free-spirited speech offered more information than he desired.

A woman’s hand lighted on her arm. “Amy, did you find what you were looking for?”

“Oh, Mom. Look who I ran into.”

Unease rushed him and Cole unconsciously took a few steps back.

The woman’s waves fell off her shoulder as she leaned around her daughter to get a better look. Her brown eyes widened against her heart-shaped face and her thick lips parted. “Tom?” Dodging her daughter, she rushed to him and threw her arms around his neck. “Oh! I’ve been so worried. I’ve looked all over for you.”

Vincent stepped into Cole’s view and folded his arms, cocking his brow. Cole cleared his throat as he answered the quizzical stare with thought’s voice. “It’s Charlotte.”

His brother set his chiseled jaw and leaned his head to the side. Drawing a heavy breath, he turned his back on the two.

Cole set his hands on Charlotte’s waist and inched back. “Forgive me.” His eyes flitted to the store they’d just left. “I’ve had business.”

Too late, he realized his mistake. She had followed his gaze.

Blinking back to him, her caramel complexion blushed. “Oh. Of course.” An anxious breath passed her lips and she barely retained a giggle. “I was just worried that… I mean, after what you said the other night… And it’s been a few weeks…” She waved a flighty hand. “And then I couldn’t find your number. I swear it was in my purse. But, then it wasn’t.”

She threw her arms around him again. “Oh, Tom. I love you so much. I thought I’d lost you. But, of course, you’re always so busy. I should have realized.”

Cole forced a breath past his anxiety. “Yes. And I’m afraid I must rush off now.”

“Okay.” She released him but framed his face with her hands. “Call me,” she whispered before pressing her lips to his. “Mmm.”

He sent an anxious plea to his flouting brother. “A little help would be appreciated here, Kid.”

Vincent glanced over his shoulder and cleared his throat. “Excuse me, Tom. But, this was to be a quick trip.”

Cole squared his shoulders and stepped back. “I’m sorry, Sh’létte, but I must be going.”

Her lashes batted as she looked into his eyes and her emotions grazed his heart. His stomach tugged at his throat. Such openness. Such deep feelings that flowed so freely. The very reason he couldn’t completely sever the relationship. And he couldn’t bring himself to correct the situation now. Not here.

He averted his gaze and turned, walking away.

Vincent fell into step beside him. “You didn’t even have the decency to break it off with her? You just left, taking your number with you?”

A scowl tightened Cole’s features. The last thing he needed was Kid’s ill-tempered opinion on the matter. Pedestrians rushed pass, several breaking through the space between them. Cole sent his disgruntlement to the crowd.

Vincent grabbed his arm and pulled him to his side. “And what’s with this Tom thing? What did you plan on doing if you actually found a woman you wanted to spend the rest of her life with?” He held up a hand. “Oh, wait. That’s right. You never planned on spending more than a few months with any one of them.”

“That’s enough, Kid.”

Cole turned down a nearby alley, heading into the depths with long strides. Vincent followed with a huff. “You know, for a while there I forgot what a selfish prick you were.”

He didn’t bother speaking his retort and allowed his telepathic gift to punch his thought deep into Vincent’s mind. “And I forgot what an irritating runt you were.”

Vincent growled and shot his fist toward him. A pulse bolted from his knuckles, sending a flash of blue neon to highlight the neglected back street. With a wave of his hand, Cole dispersed his elements, leaving the charge to strike the dumpster behind him. Discard littered the air with a fowl stench as the iron container rammed against the brick wall, gnarled by the blow.

Biting back the urge to rebuke, Cole darted to the sky and seclusion of the towers. Whatever his situation with Charlotte was, it was between them. Not a kid.

KDR ~ Please share anything else about this story you’d like ~ maybe a difficult scene or character ~ someone or something not cooperating…

CAW ~ There was one scene in particular that caused me more trouble than the rest. LOL.  Both characters were being difficult to work with and details just weren’t coming.  It was the one where Cole faces Lord Dressen. 

It takes place at Shilo Park where hordes of faithful are gathered to witness the absence of Griffin, God of Conformance’s statue.  They’re panicked at the “sudden storm” that overtook the heavens.  Vincent was barely maintaining his promised “let Cole handle it” position and Dressen is…well, being Dressen. 

The conversation just wouldn’t flow.  I don’t know how many little notes I had to piece together to get it right.  And the fight took far too much effort to get out.  The noblemen are protected from magic through an ancient covenant.  So, I had to make sure any magic Cole used wouldn’t be a direct attack.  He’d have to use the elements against him in one way or the other. 

 

KDR ~ What are you working on now?

CAW ~ I’m working on a series called Aumelan.  I have revisions to do on it and hope to have things ready to submit by the end of the year.  It’s the story of Chad, a Tsosey Master who’s sweet on his server, Dee.  His heart feels at home with her even though he has a girlfriend—his childhood sweetheart.  He dreams of what might be if the only thing that stood between them was the air between them.  But, there’s more than just placement separating them.  His people have a unique need.  They can’t produce life sustaining energy and require a host to survive.  Before there could ever be a true love between them, he’d have to free his people of that need and then free Dee.

He leaves his cavern home and steps beyond the borders of the World Beneath the Rock to the World of the Sun to find answers.  And he finds them alright. 

 

KDR ~ Aumelan sounds like a fresh, interesting story. I look forward to reading it.

How about a list of your links?

Author site: http://CharleneAWilson.com

Blog:  http://CharleneAWilsonblog.blogspot.com

Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/pages/Charlene-A-Wilson-Romance-Author/162568770441255

Twitter:  http://twitter.com/AuthorCAWilson

LinkedIn:  http://www.linkedin.com/pub/charlene-a-wilson/15/989/1b8

Buy Links:

CAB: (kindle) http://www.classactbooks.com/Cornerstone-Deep-Echoes-by-Charlene-A-Wilson-Mobi_p_327.html

CAB: (paperback) http://www.classactbooks.com/Cornerstone-Deep-Echoes-by-Charlene-A-Wilson-Trade_p_328.html

Amazon Kindle: http://www.amazon.com/Cornerstone-Echoes-Chronicles-Shilo-ebook/dp/B007A3R6IY/ref=sr_1_sc_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1329457675&sr=1-1-spell

Amazon Paperback: http://www.amazon.com/Cornerstone-Echoes-Chronicles-Shilo-Manor/dp/1935048910/ref=sr_1_sc_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1329457675&sr=1-2-spell

  

What’s Charlene’s Favorite/Preference Quickie Quiz:

Beverage?

Ice water (Yeah, boring. I know). Lol

Writing Tool?

Computer

Pet?

Well, I have a fuzzy black dog, KooJo (don’t ask me what kind he is), gray noisy cat, Chester.  To be honest, I love birds, though.

Season?

Spring

Time of Day/Night?

Any time of day or night. *wink*

Fantasy/Paranormal Character? (ghost, witch, mermaid, shifter, vampire, etc.)

Wizard! Woot!

Past time/Hobbie?

Uh…writing.  And writing.  And then there’s writing.  Oh, I’m also an artist.

What place have you never been and always wanted to go? 

I’d love to see France. J

Click Cover for Buy Link 

Cornerstone Deep Echoes - blurb

Mianna’s return heals Cole’s soul and he promises to follow her for the rest of his existence.  But the past isn’t what he believes.  The fight for her has only begun.

Lord Dressen’s obsession grows as unexpected knowledge is revealed.  His search for Mianna has spanned six life times and he won’t give up now.  The courts stand behind him.  Power pulses through his veins.  Determination peeks and not even Cole Shilo can stop him.  He will win his prize.

Struggling to stay ahead, Cole’s anger explodes.  Nothing is sacred when it comes to keeping his love—not even covenants made with gods.  But, through all his efforts, lofty or damned, the truth remains.  Will echoes of another life cause him to fail?

“Every breath you take is a song to my soul.”

Charlene – so glad you were able to hang out here today – it’s been a great time getting to know you and your story-stars for the Chronicles of Shilo Manor Series. Congratulations on the release of Book 2, Cornerstone Deep Echoes…and look forward to the next book in the series, Cornerstone Deep Destiny.

Thank you everyone for stopping by and visiting with Charlene today – she’d love to hear from you…so remember to leave her a question or comment.

Until Next Time…Warm Hearts & Hugs,

Kay Dee

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