Wednesday, April 18, 2012

Behind the Gate Interviews: Jessica from Lover of Paranormal


Today I have the pleasure of welcoming Jessica from the blog Lover of Paranormal to Behind the Gate Interviews. If you haven't already checked it out, Lover of Paranormal is a fantastic book blog with a focus on paranormal and indie books but that also includes other genres and traditionally published books as well. It's a great source for reviews, interviews and giveaways— definitely a blog to follow!





1) What made you decide to create a blog dedicated to indie writers?
At first it was the price. Being a single momma really limits the amount I can spend on books. However, at the time I had no clue the reason why these amazing books were so cheap. I was new to the whole “E-Book” world and just assumed it was because I wasn’t getting anactual hard copy. When I grasped the reason, I was completely blown away. It just seemed unfair that these really great books weren’t lining the bookshelves in book stores around the world. I found out quickly that I was not the only one who felt this way. So the blog was a way to help promote these authors and a place where we “indie-lovers” can discuss these fantastic books.

2) What is it about paranormal and fantasy books that you enjoy so much?
I love the escape that the paranormal genre offers. We live in a harsh world, filled with unforgiving realities.  When I read a good book, I get to transport myself into a different world, where anything is possible. I get to go on journeys and watch the struggles and triumphs of my favorite characters, while cheering them on or crying with them. It is incredible.

3) Was there a particular book that turned you onto reading? What are some of your all-time favorites?
The Hobbit was the novel that turned me on to reading at an early age. All-time favorite would have to be The Lord of the Rings Trilogy, followed closely Pride and Prejudice. 

4) What do you look for in a good book?
Imagery is very important to me.If I can’t visualize the surroundings it limits my ability to engross myself into a book.  Of course, the charactershave to be relatable and convincing of their roles as well. The plot is important but I have found that if I can lose myself in the settings and lovethe characters, I am willing to go on any journey the author has planned in theplot.  

5) Do you share your love of reading with yourchildren? What do you they think of your blog?
Absolutely! Well, with my daughter. My 8 y/o son is missing the “reading gene” so far. He prefers to beread to. Emily, on the other hand, is as in love with reading as I am. I feelso blessed that I have someone so close to share this passion with. We will spend hours in a bookstore together, it is something special her and I share. She is only 10 y/o so I don’t let her read the YA Paranormal Romances that I favor, but when she is a little older I will have killer collection of books for her!  

6) If you found a hidden gate in your backyard,where would it lead to?
*Sigh* If only! It would probably lead to a place eerily similar to Energo… with a much older Calvin waiting on the other side! 
 
7)  Tell us four random things about yourself.
    Ehhh…I am a bit of a strange one and a huge nerd at heart (not the smart kind), so try to excuse my lame-ness…
1. My favorite comfort food is Beef Ramon Noddle (crushed) with Salt and Vinegar chips as my spoon. I know I know, sounds gross. But I LOVE IT!
2. I will purposely look for ways to use Will Ferrell movie quotes in everyday conversation and then am disappointed when noone gets it.
3. Water-logged, wrinkly fingers, touching me… gives me chill bumps while simultaneously making me want to scream.
4. I  ALWAYS get the giggles in the absolute worse possible situations; it is seriously hardwired in my brain to laugh at the wrong time.

Thanks for coming by Jess and for having such a great blog! We have very similar taste in books, Lord of the Rings and Pride and Prejudice are also some my favorites. I totally understand the giggle problem, I do the same thing sometimes.

Be sure to check out Lover of Paranormal and to follow on FacebookTwitter and Google+