We may start to sound repetitive this month but…. WE LOVE LARA ADRIAN. And we are more than excited to have gotten a chance to ask her some questions. *fangirl squeeing going on right now* So really I don’t think we need to do much of an intro, you all should know that she’s the most awesome writer of the Midnight Breed series, as well as historicals under the name Tina St. John. Without any more delays, please welcome to UTC….LARA ADRIAN!
Welcome to UTC, Lara! Here at UTC, we’ve been longtime fans of the Midnight Breed series since book one. However, with your most recent release, EDGE OF DAWN, you take a different approach. Can you tell us what makes this book different than the others in the series?
Hi! Thank you so much for the support and kind words, and for inviting me to be part of Under The Covers today!
EDGE OF DAWN is different from the previous books in the series for a couple of reasons. It’s set 20 years after the close of DARKER AFTER MIDNIGHT, in which (spoiler alert!!) the Breed was outed to mankind in a very violent way, after centuries of living among humans in secret. Things are much more volatile in the story world now, with war between the species both a lesson from the past two decades and an ever-present threat. And there are some individuals on both sides who stand to benefit—and profit—from the unrest. EDGE OF DAWN is also different from the previous books in that it begins an all-new arc of the series storyline, and introduces some new characters in the form of offspring of the early characters, and some brand-new additions who will be part of the cast going forward.
So much growth and development has occurred over the course of the series! We love how you are able to keep things interesting and fresh! Did you always have an idea of what was to come or did this evolve as the series continues to grow stronger?
Thank you for the praise! One of the things I’ve been conscious of from the very beginning of the series was the need to keep each book interesting in its own right, with fresh storylines and conflicts, and also to make each romantic pairing unique and distinct among what quickly became an ever-expanding cast. I’ve often said I write each Midnight Breed book so that it has its own “personality” while still feeling an integral part of the series as a whole. I wanted to do this mainly because as a reader, I am easily bored with long-running series that start to feel like they’re retreading overly familiar ground. I don’t want to read the same story over and over again, and as a writer, I definitely don’t want to be guilty of delivering that kind of story to my readers.
Around the midpoint of the series, I realized I could only take subplots involving my primary villain, Dragos, so far before the Order either had to beat the guy, for God’s sake, or take a major hit from him that would turn everything on its ear. I opted for a little of both! I decided around the fourth or fifth book what needed to be my big turning point in the overarching plot of the series—meaning, the events that occur toward the end of DARKER AFTER MIDNIGHT—and I’d been working toward that moment, along with a few other things that are just now becoming part of the series fabric, since that time.
One of my favorite things about your writing is the intense, pulse-pounding action you have in your books. Each action sequence is tightly written and exhilarating! What would you say is the key to writing a great action scene?
I looove action, adventure and suspense! My husband and I joke all the time because I am an action movie girl and a dark-and-twisty thriller reader, where he loves feel-good movies and romantic comedies. Yes, my hubby loves the chick flicks! (He’s going to kill me that I just said that in public! LOL).
I think the key to writing great action is to really put yourself in the scene, in the moment, in the action. It really has to come to life on the page, and as a writer you do that by taking care with your word choices and sentence cadence. Use the element of surprise or shock, or ratchet the suspense bit-by-bit until the action needs to explode. I think because I watch a lot of action movies, I’m able to picture the scenes in my head in vivid detail. My goal is always to paint them as vibrantly on the page, no matter what kind of scene I’m writing, so it comes to life in cinematic detail for the reader. I want them to feel like they’re living in the scene right along with me.
In EDGE OF DAWN, we are introduced to many of the past couple’s children who are now adult themselves. Naturally, this gets me SO excited! How many of these new characters will we see and if you had to pick your favorite, who would it be and why?
Ahh, well, I couldn’t possibly choose a favorite! Some of the new characters I’m going to save for surprises along the way, so I won’t tell you about all of them now. But you already met (or heard about) many of the “next generation” characters in EDGE OF DAWN. There’s Lucan and Gabrielle’s son, Darion. There’s Chase and Tavia’s fraternal twins, Aric and Carys (daywalkers! I’m so excited to have daywalkers to play with!). Of course, there’s Rafe, Dante and Tess’s son, who was just an infant in the previous books of the series. And you’ll also eventually meet Tegan and Elise’s son, Micah.
I’m most looking forward to Nathan’s book, who will most likely become one of my new book boyfriends soon. What can we expect from Nathan in future books?
I’m writing Nathan’s book now. He’s a complex character, as you can imagine, given his background. All that ruthless training to create an emotionless assassin hasn’t quite left him, even though he’s been with the Order for 20 years and part of a healthy family connection since his rescue from Dragos’s control at age 13. He has intimacy issues resulting from his formative years, and has never allowed himself to let someone into his heart, aside from the friendships he shares with his fellow warriors. Nathan is cool and dark and seemingly unreachable . . . until the right woman crashes through his defenses. I love those kinds of romantic pairings, and I’m having a blast with Nathan’s story.
And because we’re just so excited…The title of book 12 in the series is called CRAVE THE NIGHT. I know it’s early but what can you tell us about this next release?
I think I just spilled the beans! CRAVE THE NIGHT is, indeed, Nathan’s story. At the risk of spoiling anything for folks who haven’t read EDGE OF DAWN, I’m afraid I can’t tell you more than what I already did in the previous question.
If and when you get time to read for leisure, which authors do you turn to and what is it about their writing that makes you enjoy their work?
As I mentioned, I’m a big fan of thrillers and dark, action-y stories. I grew up reading Stephen King, Anne Rice, Dean Koontz, John Saul, etc. Now, I read across the board – everything from romances of all flavors and genres, urban fantasy and paranormal romance, as well as psychological suspense and even some horror. I don’t really have favorite authors anymore, probably because my tastes are eclectic and I’m something of a magpie when it comes to choosing my next read. But basically, any author who can put me smack-dab into the story with them, where I’m turning pages (or clicking the page forward button on my Kindle) faster and faster, staying up half the night because the book is just—SO—good is an author I’ll come back to again and again.
In romance specifically, I recommend (in no particular order): Larissa Ione, Laura Wright, Alexandra Ivy, Jennifer Ashley, Shelly Thacker, Karen Marie Moning, Kristen Ashley, Tina Folsom, Bella Andre, and probably a hundred more I’m forgetting at the moment!
What does a typical writing day look like for you?
Long. When I’m heavy into a book, I don’t like *any* distractions, so I tend to immerse myself to the neglect of everything around me. It’s not unusual for me to be at my keyboard by 6 or 7 in the morning, write all day, break for a quick dinner, then head right back to it until 10 or 11 at night. Sometimes longer, if a scene is going really well (or really poorly!). I’ve never worked longer hours or put more time and dedication into anything the way I have with my writing, but I wouldn’t want to do anything else for a living. It’s incredible to me that what was once my dream has somehow become my reality.
And lastly, if you could collaborate with another author on a project, who would you pick and why?
Oooh, that’s a tough question! And interesting that you should ask, because lately the idea has come up with a couple writer friends of mine that we should team up on a project or two. Much too early to name names, but the odds are pretty good that sooner or later, I’ll do something collaborative.
Thanks again for a fun interview! And thanks for all the support and enthusiasm for my books. I hope everyone enjoys EDGE OF DAWN!
Please be sure to pop in and visit me on Facebook sometime: http://www.facebook.com/LaraAdrianBooks
Happy Reading!
Lara
Twenty years after the terror of First Dawn—when mankind learned that vampires lived secretly among them—the threat of violence reigns as the two species struggle to coexist. The only group preserving the fragile harmony is the Order, an elite cadre of Breed warriors dedicated to protecting humans and vampires alike. And in this precarious world of torn loyalties and shattered trust, Mira, a fiery squad captain, finds that every fight bears an intensely personal cost.
Raised among the Order, Mira has always believed in the warrior’s code of swift—and even lethal—justice. But the one thing she desires more than the Order’s hard-won acceptance is Kellan Archer, a sexy but troubled Breed fighter. In love with him since childhood, Mira once broke through his tough exterior during an unexpected night of rapture, but the next day he mysteriously disappeared, never to return.
Kellan didn’t think he would ever see Mira again—or have to confront the truth of why he left. After abandoning the Order years ago, he now leads a band of human rebels intent on carrying out their own vigilante rule of law. Yet a high-profile kidnapping assignment brings him face-to-face with the past he sought to avoid, and the striking woman he has tried desperately to forget. And as tensions mount and the risk of bloodshed grows, Kellan and Mira must take sides—between the competing missions that dominate their lives, and the electrifying passion that claims their hearts.
About the Author
As a child, Lara Adrian used to sleep with the covers up around her neck, afraid she might become the midnight prey of deadly vampires. Later on, under the influence of Bram Stoker and Anne Rice, she had to wonder if her fear wasn’t actually something else: a secret desire to walk in a darker world, to live a dangerous and sensual dream with a man of seductive, preternatural power. It is that twining of fear and desire that fuels Lara’s own fantasies today, and the idea that she explores in her New York Times bestselling Midnight Breed series of vampire romance novels from Bantam Dell Books.
With an ancestry stretching back to the Mayflower and the court of King Henry VIII, Lara Adrian lives with her husband in coastal New England, surrounded by centuries-old graveyards, hip urban comforts, and the endless inspiration of the broody Atlantic Ocean.
Lara was extremely gracious and being that she is TOP AUTHOR this month at UTC she’s giving away a SIGNED paperback copy of DARKER AFTER MIDNIGHT, which includes the short story A TASTE OF MIDNIGHT. One lucky winner will get that. Plus we have 10 swag packets for another 9 winners (winner of book gets one) which include a complete set of bookmarks, a breedmate tattoo, a MIDNIGHT BREED pen and MIDNIGHT BREED koozie to keep your drinks cold 😉 All open international.
I read the first two MIDNIGHT BREED books a couple years ago. Now, I really want to go back and reread them – and read the rest of the series!
Best series ever!
I’m ashamed to say that I got the first couple books in this series when Borders closed… reader fail! So I’m gonna go dig them out and get started 🙂
“I’m ashamed to say that I got the first couple books in this series when Borders closed” and haven’t started reading! I meant to say… 🙂
This was a fun and insightful interview, thanks for that! I still gotta get my hands on the new book but my god, this interview had me all excited! And Nathan’s book is next? I wonder if I can put myself under sleep until the release?
I love her books. The story is SO sexy and hot!
I love this series! i’ve discovered it thanks to the french translation but i can’t wait for the rest of teh series so i’m doing it in english too.
i love how the women are active and not just puppets
thank you a lot for the int giveaway!
I love the Midnight Breed series! I love that the series is based in Boston, MA. Its awesome having a series so local to my house. Lara Adrian is very talented and I love her work! Thanks for this opportunity to win this giveaway! xoxo
I’ve heard great things about this series! I haven’t read these books yet, but they are on my TBR list.
Tegan is my favorite warrior. sdylion(at)gmail(dot)com
I have read the first eight in the series ( I’m a little behind) and have really enjoyed the world and character building!!
Kassandra
[email protected]
OMG! I am a HUGE fan of Lara! Love the Midnight Breed so I know I am going to love this!
Thank you, Lara!
read the first two MIDNIGHT BREED books a couple years ago. Now, I really want to go back and reread them – and read the rest of the series!
I have to catch-up reading this series! I’m on book #7. I’m really happy to hear of all the glowing reviews for this book and the new direction of the series!. Tegan is one of my favorites.
I have read first 4 books in the series so far and my favorite warrior is Tegan.
Thanks for the giveaway!
I haven´t read the Midnight Breed series yet, but they sound very good. The books are already on my wish list so I guess I´ll have to buy them next time I go shopping. :p
I absolutely love this series. Tegan’s book was my favorite. Thanks for the giveaway!!
I loved reading the interview as I’m already a big Midnight Breed fan. I just have the last two to read.
Thanks for sharing!
I been a while since I read the first several books and regretably haven’t picked up the rest…yet! Loved the interview and looking forward to getting back to this series!!
I ADORE this series!! I’m a bit behind
I was REALLY intrigued with the Alaska book
I thought DAMN this is getting GOOD!!!
PicarsMom at yahoo dot com
Wonderful series! I love Lara’s work. Awesome interview 🙂
Thanks
Lucan has been and always will be the best (in my eyes)
I adore this series!!! I cant wait to read the new one! 🙂
I have read the entire series and can’t wait to read Edge of Dawn! Lucan has always been my favorite!
I have read almost the whole series and I an reading my way through the rest. I can’t wait to read Edge of Dawn.
Love this series and Hunter is def. my favorite *swoons* I think i need to re-read his book asap =D
Thanks for the giveaway & Happy Saturday!
//Linda
I have not read this series but I would love to try it out. I know my sister-in-law would like this series.
I have managed to collect ALL the books in this series but haven’t read them yet…
After this they are definitely at the top of my TBR pile 🙂
Lara you read some of my favorite authors: Ione (reading right now!) Ashley, Ivy, Moning…
Thanks for the giveaway and the interview. I’ve heard so much good about this series…I’ve got to get reading!
I haven’t, but I would like to!
Thanks for the giveaway!
mestith at gmail dot com
I love Midnight Breed Series!! It’s so addictive!
Thank you for this international opportunity.
I really need to get reading, I have not read any midnight breed. I have the 1st book, and it’s working it’s way up my TBR list. 🙂
I love the Midnight Breed series and I’m so excited to read the new book.
Thank you for the giveaway!
Great Giveaway…. No favorites, love them all 🙂
I have not read any of this series.
Thank you for the giveaway.
Chase is my fav!
I’ve read most of the series, I’m just a few books behind. My favorite breed warrior is Rio.
I have only read the first one and I loved it! I need to get to reading the others. Thanks for the giveaway!
ahh! I love it! Participate! I love Lara Adrian!
I’m ashamed to admit that I have not started this series but I do have the first book on my kindle – just haven’t managed to squeeze it into my reading yet:)
I read the first three books in the series, but need to do some catching up
I have books 1-3, missed 4 and have books 5-7. Love the series!
I haven’t read any of the series yet. So of my friends love the series so I need to get started on it.
When I started reading this series book 2 had just come out lol. I was still in high school and we all passed it around to each other
My favourite characters were always Tegan who is in all ways awesome and sexy and Gabby who I love as a heroine because she’s tough, sexy and smart
I haven’t read it yet but have the series on my tbr list. The series sounds amazing.
I really love Tegan but Lucan is my fave 😉 Thank you for this amazing giveaway!
I haven’t read any of them, though I have a bunch in my TBR pile.
First, I’d like to say Congrats on the new book release!!! I haven’t read any of Lara’s books, the only excuse I have is that I live under a rock only get out rarely. I just recently found out about the series and I’m sooooo far behind. I might need a clone to help me catch up.
How do you celebrate when a new book is released?
I have just bought the series and am dying to read them…Thank you for reviewing Lara’s latest book, cause I may have missed out on discovering her books! Well time to dive head first into book number 1 then!!!!
I can’t choose favorites! As soon as I read a new book from the series I say “wow! hero is the best, my favorite” and then I read a new book and the story repeats :)) I think I like Tagen most though.
Nikolai Mayevskyj is my fav so far
thanks for the chance ^^
Love Midnight Breed! My fave is Lucan!
Unfortunaly, i still haven’t read this series yet.
No, I haven’t read the MIDNIGHT BREED series.
Best series ever!
I am a fan of Lara! I cant wait to read the new one!
Thank you, Lara!
Love the book covers 😀 Thanks for the giveaway 🙂
Lucan’s my fav!
I’ve only read the first book so far, but it was AWESOME!
I will have to get reading. You are right in that.
Haven’t read this series yet.
I started reading the complete series in December. I am currently at the end of Midnight Rising. I am really enjoying the series so far. I think my favorite warrior is Tegan. I started out thinking I would hate him but ended up loving him! I want more Tegan!!
I have never read this series,but I am just starting to read this genre.
Midnight Breed is one of my all-time favorite PNR series. Although I’ve only read the first 6 books and have some catching up to do, I LOVE this series. I love all the Breed Warriors and would hate to play favoritism. If forced to admit it, though, I’d have to confess that Dante and Tegan hold a special place in my heart. I really enjoyed the interview. Thanks for coming by and sharing with us and for the giveaway.
I am a huge fan of your work and I love this series! My favorite…..it’s so hard they are all great but I have a huge soft spot for Rio, NIkoli and Andreas. Thank you for the chance to win 🙂
I have read & loved all of the books in the Midnight Breed series accept the latest book Edge of Dawn, I haven’t had the chance to read that yet. My favorite book is Kiss of Crimson, Dante & Tess’s story. I just LOVE Dante, he makes me swoon.
I have been a fan of Midnight breed for years. Have read them all. So excited about some more. Thanks Lara for not stopping.
I haven’t but they have been on my TBR list for awhile now
Hi, everyone! 🙂
Wow — thank you SO much for all the nice comments. I just read through them all as I wolfed down my lunch and am about to head back into the fray with Nathan!
I’m glad to see so many of you are enjoying the Midnight Breed series, because there are more stories still to come. I’m having far too much fun to stop now!
Thanks again for all the kind words and support! And thanks for featuring me at Under The Covers today!
Love you guys!!
Lara
I love this series and have read all of them so far except not Edge of Dawn yet. I love all of them but I think Dante is my favourite.
Irene
I love this series it never disappoints. Dante and Tegan are my faves. I also really like Gideon.
I haven’t read this series yet but it’s another one that I have to add to my TBR list because it sounds great!
i haven;t read this series before but i want to..
thx 4 the chance 🙂
I love Tegan :).
Tegan is my favorite
I love this series and I love all of all of the males.
Great interview! I just LOVE this series and Lara Adrian 🙂