Book Lovers Inc.
Romance Novel Reviews, Author Interviews, Commentary
Interview: Alexandra Ivy + Giveaway
- Alexandra Ivy
It’s our great pleasure to welcome New York Times Bestselling Author to BLI today! Alexandra is here to celebrate the release of her latest novel Bound by Darkness, which which is a Zebra Paranormal romance released on November 29, 2011. Bound by Darkness is the Eighth novel in Alexandra’s enormously popular Guardians of Eternity series of novels and we are going to chat about her series and her latest book!
Lea: Alexandra! It is such a thrill to be able to chat with you today, thank you so much for joining us!
Alexandra: I’m delighted to be here, and thanks so much for inviting me!!
Lea: Alexandra, to start off can you please tell us a bit about yourself?
Alexandra: I actually came to writing from my love for theatre. I’ve always been a huge reader, but when I was younger I hoped to work on stage. After taking a playwriting class I realized I actually preferred to create my own characters rather than mimicking someone else’s. I worked on a play (that I would still love to finish), but my heart has always belonged to romance, so I swiftly turned my efforts to novels.
On a more personal note, I’ve been married to my college sweetheart for 27 years (yikes that makes me feel old) and I have two sons who I’m gently trying to push from the nest. 🙂
Lea: Describe a typical day of writing? Are you a planner or pantser?
Alexandra: I’m a little of both. Writing a continuing series had made me realize I have to have an overall story arc that runs through the books, as well as basic structure for each book. But there are always surprises that happen along the way, which is what keeps writing these stories fun!!
My typical day is usually getting up around six am and exercising (I’m kind of a health nut) and then taking care of email and any promo work. Then, I sit down to write. I often put in at least ten hours or more when I’m in the middle of a book. Once I start I can’t think of anything else until it’s finished. 😀
Lea: Can you please give readers a little overview about your wonderful Guardians of Eternity series and maybe talk about the original impetus for the stories?
Alexandra: The beginning was a direct love affair with Buffy the Vampire Slayer 😉 I was writing historical under the name Deborah Raleigh and the vampire craze hadn’t really started, but I was fascinated by the blend of horror and humor and romance. I actually wrote When Darkness Comes just for myself. It wasn’t until it was almost done that I sent it to my editor.
The Guardians of Eternity started with a clan of vampires in Chicago who were thrust into the role of protecting the world from the Dark Lord. As the stories have progressed the range of characters has increased to include Werewolves, fairies, imps, Sylvermyst and one very charming gargoyle!
Guardians of Eternity Book I
Lea: What can we expect of Bound by Darkness?
Alexandra: The danger has definitely been amped up in this book. The Dark Lord is threatening to tear down the barriers between worlds and Ariyal is determined to stop him, even if it means sacrificing the babies that were created by the evil deity. Jaelyn is a vampire who has been trained to be the ultimate hunter. Nothing and no one can escape her once she’s on their trail. She’ll do whatever necessary to capture Ariyal, despite the passion that is ignited between them.
Lea: What I thought was great twist is that hero Ariyal, a Fey Prince played an antagonistic role in Devoured by Darkness, Book 7 but we sort of knew he wasn’t really destined to be evil. He has a conscience and has had a rough go of it hasn’t he? Please tell us more about Ariyal and how he came to know heroine, Jaelyn?
Alexandra: Ariyal is a dark fey, but when his people (the Sylvermysts) were exiled with the Dark Lord, his tribe remained behind as sex slaves to Morgana le Fay. He knows that the return of his god will mean an eternity of hellish torment. He’s desperate to protect his people, even if it means joining with the ‘bad guys’. Of course, things could be worse. The vampire sent to capture him is drop-dead gorgeous and sexy enough to make the chase far more fun than it should be.
Lea: Is it safe to describe elite vampire warrior Jaelyn as a kick ass heroine? She is beautiful but at the same time lethal isn’t she? LOL
Alexandra: I loved creating Jaelyn! She’s a woman who can take care of business, although her years of brutal training have destroyed her ability to trust others. She’s learned the hard way that opening her heart will only lead to pain.
Guardians of Eternity Book 7
Lea: Jaelyn is actually sent to capture Ariyal so their relationship is initially adversarial, although this changes doesn’t it?
Alexandra: They are forced to work together, but they both understand that at any minute they might be on opposite sides once again. It adds a definite edge to their growing relationship. 😀
Lea: I’ll Say!
Would you advise readers to enjoy your novels in order or do you think Bound by Darkness or any of your stories can be read as a stand-alone?
Alexandra: I try to make sure that they can each be read as stand-alones, but I think that they’re better read in order. Each story has a hero and heroine, but the characters from previous books do make appearances and there’s an overall story arc that has been running through the last few books.
Lea: As a reader I have to agree! I started your series with Bound by Darkness and am actually working backward and I had no difficulty becoming immersed in your world. You give an excellent foundation so a new reader doesn’t get lost in the storyline. 🙂
You have integrated some pretty evil antagonists into the plot of this story, please share a little about the bad guys in Bound by Darkness.
Alexandra: It’s always so much fun to write the bad guys! Sometimes they’re more complex than the ‘good guys’ 🙂 In Bound by Darkness, the overall bad guy is the Dark Lord that was actually introduced in the very first book of the series. He’s been gaining power and attempting to return to the world, and now he has a group of loyal followers who are willing to betray their own people for the opportunity for glory.
Lea: I have to ask about favorite character Levet. Please tell us about the Gargoyle whose presence is felt in your stories.
Alexandra: Levet appeared in my second story Embrace the Darkness and I have to admit I fell in love with him. He’s a stunted gargoyle with fairy wings who says exactly what’s on his mind and can destroy a vampire’s conceit at a hundred paces. 🙂 Thankfully, he’s also charming enough to win the hearts of my heroines and possesses a courage that more than makes up for his small stature.
Lea: Levet is such an endearing character and I love the French! lol
What do you think is the secret of the longevity of your series? You are continuing to gather fans with each publication, is it difficult to keep the series fresh or do new heroes and heroines come to you while writing each book?
Alexandra: I’ve been amazed to have the series doing so well! It isn’t quite as dark as many paranormal and Urban Fantasy series, and I think that it might attract readers who enjoy some humor along with the danger and romance. I try to make sure that each story builds on the last book, and yet is different enough that it keeps the readers’ attention. The new characters do tend to appear during a story, sometimes not being fully fleshed out for a book or two. It’s a great way to introduce new cast members and decide if they’re going to have the complexity to become a lead character or just remain on the sidelines.
Lea: Will there be more books in the Guardian’s of Eternity Series Alexandra?
Alexandra: Absolutely! 😀 I’ve recently signed a new contract and while I have distant plans to write another series, I still have books I want to finish for the Guardians!
Lea: What can readers look forward to next from the desk of Alexandra Ivy?
Alexandra: Fear the Darkness (Caine and Cassie’s story) will be out next September and I’m currently working on Santiago’s story.
Lea: Oh, Santiago! I LOVED that guy! 😉
Please summarize Bound by Darkness for us twitterstyle (in 140 characters or less)?
Ariyal is determined to halt the Dark Lord from making his life a genuine living hell. Jaelyn has never hunted prey she couldn’t bag and tag, but she might just have met her match.
Lea: One last hard question: Please tell us 3 reasons why people should read your books? (LOL)
Alexandra: Hmmm…this is hard! 🙂
1. Insanely yummy, alpha vampires and Weres (along with a Sylvermyst).
2. A fast paced story with lots of action (and some hot sex)
3. A very funny gargoyle who says what we all want to 😀
Lea: Excellent Answers and all very true!!
Alexandra, thank you so very much for taking time out of your busy schedule to chat with us today it’s been such a pleasure!
Alexandra: Thank you so much, Lea!! I’m so happy for a chance to chat with you.
Guardians of Eternity Book 8
Series: Guardians of Eternity Book 8
Release Date: November 29, 2011
Publisher: Zebra Paranormal
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Formats Available: Mass Market Paperback, Kindle, Nook, eBook
Purchasing Info: Author’s Website, Goodreads, Amazon, Barnes & Nobel, Book Depository, Chapters, Kindle, Nook, All Romance eBooks
Book Blurb:
Desire is the deadliest weapon.
The Sylvermysts have a reputation as sinister cousins to the fey, and none are more mysterious than Ariyal and his tribe.
To save his people from banishment, he faces a new challenge: Jaelyn, an elite vampire warrior sent to capture him. By rights, he should kill her on sight. Yet he cannot bring himself to hurt her—or to resist her…
Jaelyn is stunningly beautiful, utterly lethal—and always alone. Until Ariyal. From their first encounter, she knows that what’s between them is more dangerous than simple lust. And as they unite to thwart a terrifying prophecy that will mean the end of
his clan and of the world they know, she will risk everything to
fulfill her destiny by his side…
The Guardians of Eternity Series:
When Darkness Comes
Embrace the Darkness
Darkness Everlasting
Darkness Revealed
Darkness Unleashed
Beyond the Darkness
Devoured by Darkness
Bound by Darkness
Novellas:
Taken by Darkness in Yours for Eternity
Darkness Eternal in Supernatural
Where Darkness Lives in The Real Werewives of Vampire County
Where to find Alexandra:
Alexandra has generously offered a print copy of Bound By Darkness to one lucky commenter!
All you have to do is leave a meaningful comment about the interview.
(You can read our full giveaway policy here)
Please leave a valid email when placing your comment so we can inform you if you win.
This giveaway is open worldwide!
Giveaway ends on Saturday, December 17, 2011; and we will announce the winner on Sunday.
Good luck!
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I first started reading PNR series in 2007 when I had major back surgery and was bed ridden for several months. Guardians of Eternity was one of the first series I read and to date one of my all time favorites. This series is one that is hard to put down. I always look forward to the future books. Keep up the good work and thanks for sharing your talents with us.
i’m really to have discovered your serie, thanks yu for the joy you give to your readers
thanks you also for the opportunity to win
isabelle(dot)frisch(at)gmail(dot)com
( i didn’t see the question so i couldn’t answer ^^;; sorry)
I love how you show the good and bad side of some character. Salvatore is my favourite character in the series and he was once a bad guy turned good as did Aryiel. Its a great strategy in showing the complexity of characters as we are led to believe that most people are not completely good or completely evil. Thanks so much for sharing the series with us!
here’s my email addy katmccarthy2008@gmail.com
Guardians of Eternity is one of the best paranormal series on the market. I should know I’v read the entire series four times in 2011 alone…and that isn’t because I’v run out of things to read…my shelves are over filled…it’s just that the books are outstanding. I’v already preordered a copy of her latest…but can always use another copy to share with my many friends that I’v gotten hooked on her great reads.
I love Alexandra’s Gaurdians of Eternity. Not only is she a great writer but she keeps you interested in the story and leaves you waiting on pins and needles until the next release. She is a fabulous author and I would and have recommend her books to others.
I just recently discovered the Guardians of Eternity series. I can honestly say that I love it. I still have three books to go but read one a day. I love the characters in each and every book so far. I am thankful I found the series and look forward to reading more of Alexandra’s work.
Alexandra, in my opinion is one of the greatest writer. I had the pleasure of meeting hera couple months ago. One of the sweetest people ever. I’m in te process of reading The Werewives of Vampire County. Very good read so far. Can’t wait to read the new book. Bound by Darkness. Have a great weekend.
I am so excited to hear that Cain and Cassie are next! Love your series and always look forward to the next book 🙂
Great interview!!
gwoman23(at)gmail(dot)com
Thank you for the interview, I enjoyed reading it. I have got the first three books in this series on my shelves, but still unread. What I have read just know, certainly takes them up higher on my TBR mountain! I was surprised to learn the series has different main characters in each book. But I think, it is the gargoyle that attracs me most.
Thank you for the chance to win your book, I am looking forward to reading this series (finally!).
oops forgot my email again, auriansbooks at gmail dot com
Hi Alexandra! I love your series and I can’t wait to get my hands on this book. Seriously, this series rocks and I can’t wait to see what happens in this book. Thanks for the giveaway.
iqb99 AT yahoo DOT com
I started this series with Devoured by Darkness. I can see where it was kind of stand alone and I enjoyed the book, but I was confused at parts about how the world worked. I would have enjoyed it more if I had been with the series from the beginning. I have been waiting to read this book, however, I think I will read the series in order before I read this ones just for more understanding of the world and characters.
Hey Alexandra! I started reading your books right as book 2 came out… I actually accidentally picked book 2 up first, then put it back down when I realized it was book 2. Your books are amazing. I know that when I pick one up, I’m not going to be able to put it down, so I generally wait to start reading one until I have a day off. I love Levet, he melts my heart!!!! Thank you so much for writing these for all your fans, and thanks for the opportunity for the giveaway.
ladyd2206(at)yahoo(dot)com
The Guardians is a great series. I have read them all except this latest release so thank you for the chance to win it 🙂
I am really glad to see there will be more books added to the series, please keep them coming!
irgl7(at)bonzo15(dot)plus(dot)com
I just read Taken by Darkness in Yours for Eternity and loved Levet. It’s so nice that he always pops up. Love the series. Thank you.
I have been reading Alexandra Ivy since the first book came out! I have hooked so many other friends on Alexandra’s writing as well. We love the series. I even had the pleasure of meeting Alexandra in Philadelphia at a book signing!! She is by far one of the nicest people you could ever meet. She does appreciate her fans.
I always love to catch a glimpse of the “secret” lives of writers and one of my fav question is the planner/pantser one … I’m always secretly reassured by authors saying they are a bit of both! I’m still not over your early exercising though, yikes!? Then again, it obviously helps you stay focused to then sit for up to ten hours of writing 🙂 !
danaan at gmx dot at
I have been reading this series since I first found it. I have been on a paranormal kick for a long time and these books are the bomb! I can’t wait to read this next book in the series.
miztik_rose@yahoo.com
i cant find Caris question sorry! i really loved this series! made it to book 4-5 i think.. need to get my butt in gear and finish the latest ones.. thanks for reminding me!
I forgot to give my email asst. Sorry.natashadotstrongatgmaildotcom
So great to see such a wonderful turn out for Alexandra’s Interview and Giveaway! Good luck to you all!
Thanks for all the great comments. 🙂
Have not read this series yet. Have seen very few books where a gargoyle is an important part of the story. I am looking forward to reading your books.
Alexandra Ivy is a new author to me – hate to admit that in this room full of fans! I do like the sounds of the series, though. Thanks for the chance to win a copy of Bound by Darkness.
kacbooks(at)hotmail(dot)com
Well, I was sold before the interview but you totally convinced me with the gargoyle! jepebATverizonDOTnet
I didn’t see Carie’s question either so hopefully something in my response will answer whatever the question was. I Love all of Alexandra Ivy’s books can’t wait to see how she has Jaelyn & Ariyal work things out since they were trying to kill each other in the last book. Thanks for the chance to win a copy. Everybody should read this series it is truly fantastic. I also love the fact that she keeps the wacky Levet around with his crazy antics throughout the series.
a backup email stagebelle@yahoo.com
Hi Shelley; That was my fault, I made a mistake when setting up the post! So Sorry, no question just your great comment is lovely. Thanks! 🙂
I love the Guardians of Eternity series and I’m looking forward to reading this newest one, Bound by Darkness.
Barbed1951 at aol dot com
Sometimes I find I enjoy reading about the bad guys more than the good. The books looks amazing. I always think it best to read the books in order.
marypres(AT)gmail(DOT)com
You hooked me with the very funny gargoyle, who says what we all want to.
marlenebreakfield(at)yahoo(dot)com
This series is new to me. From the interview, this sounds like a very interesting series. I love paranormal romance and will definitely check this out. Thanks!
tamsyn5(at)yahoo(dot)com
Great interview! I LOVE Alexandra’s books and would soooo LOVE to win this newest release…the local library doesn’t even have it yet!
barbbattaglia@yahoo.com
Thanks for the giveaway. I would love to read this series. It sounds very good. Tore923@aol.com
I was so glad to read this interview and discover that this series will continue a little while longer. Alexandra Ivy’s Guardians is one of the first PNR that I read and I am still very eager each time a new one comes out. Love the world and love the characters even the annoying gargoyle. (-;
Thanks for the giveaway opportunity.
sophiarose1816@gmail.com
I have had this series on my TBR list for a while. Now that I know more about it, I definitely have to start reading! And gargoyles? I don’t know why – maybe it’s the whole stone thing – but I absolutely love them!
Wow, this series sounds fantastic. I also loved the theater, until I tried out for a play production in college and realized I was much better suited to be a patron of the arts. 🙂 Plus, I can’t wait to meet this gargoyle.
Your books are new to me but I love the reasons for why readers should read them especially #3. I’ve never met a gargoyle character and this one seems a real hoot.
I first started reading the Guardians series when a friend at work referred them to me. I have burned through all of them (minus the new) as quickly as is humanly possible. I love your characters. Very descriptive, makes you almost feel like you are part of the story and you know the characters. Love them!!!
I haven’t had the pleasure of reading your book until I read your short in Supernatural. I have the first one and am going to make my way through the rest of them. Loved that short story.
I have had the series on my wishlist for a while but haven’t managed to read any of them as yet. I have seen many good reviews of the books.
I am glad to see that Alexandra believes in putting humour in her books, as I feel that is often ignored and missed in many new novels.
Thanks for the giveaway and please enter me.
I am from outside the US.
Carol T
Wow! This book sounds awesome! You totally had me at: “Insanely yummy, alpha vampires and Weres!” Thanks for the awesome interview and giveaway:)
jwitt33 at live dot com
Congrats on the release!! Cant wait to read it.
I love when series can technically be stand alone but the characters continue though from book to book too.
bacchus76 at myself dot com
Great interview! I haven’t read this series before but I’m definitely intrigued by the gargoyle who says what we all want to, and the fact that you even mentioned Buffy, any series that started with a Buffy love affair is probably pretty awesome. Thanks!
jessicamariesutton(at)msn(dot)com
I haven’t read this series yet, though it does sound appealing. I don’t know why I haven’t picked it up yet. She’s been writing for quite awhile with a great following and several books already in the series. I’m feeling a little left out. Congrats on the new contract!!!!
Hi Ms Ivy!
Guardians of Eternity have a wonderful fans at Indonesia here, and I admit I enjoy your books too. I’d read until Salvatore’s book (guys I’m right that Italian men are sexy! 😉 ) and glad Tane’s had translated too. Congrats for the new contract, and maybe Levett will have his own book?
Ren
sawamura_foxman AT yahoo DOT com
wow.. i’m a fave of ivy’s book 😉
all the hero and hereoine and especially the story that ivy’s wrote are wonderfull, i can wait to read this book
thank you
I admit that you are a new to me author. However, I am intrigued by your series since I am particularly fond of paranormal romance and urban fantasy. the straight talking gargoyle rather appeals, too.