Dear readers, you all know I love historical romances with knights and highlanders and am jazzed by authors who write in that genre. Today it’s my honor and pleasure to welcome the lovely Mary Morgan, whose book Dragon Knight’s Axe is heating up the ethers. Mary doles out a touch of fae magic with her writing too, another attribute that’s down my alley. She was kind enough to take time from a busy schedule to answer a few questions and then tell us about Dragon Knight’s Axe.
1. What is your genre and what inspired you to write it?
Paranormal Time-travel Medieval Scottish Romance. I have a love affair with history, and I’ve often told others that I feel displaced within this century. When I was sitting on a boulder in the Scottish Highlands, the Dragon Knights were born. I was surrounded with the rugged landscape and only sheep. It was perfect. Of course, the Fae entered quietly on that evening to put a little dash of magic into the story.
2. Tell us about your writing schedule. (What drink do you always have by you?)
My day starts at 5am. I’m a morning person, so when my feet hit the ground, I’m moving. After breakfast, I spend a few hours with promoting and answering emails. Then, I’m off for a walk, bike ride, or yoga. I’m usually in my writing cave around 11am and work until 5 or 6pm. Sundays are my rest day, but sometimes you’ll find me on the couch with my current work-in-progress and writing in my journal. Ahh…there are no drinks on my desk. I have this fear of spilling something on my computer, and trust me, it has happened.
3. What was hardest for you in writing your latest book?
Pulling apart my characters. I believe they wrote those scenes more than I did. Each time I wanted to re-unite them, they would shake their heads and walk away. It was brutal! But isn’t that what finding love is all about?
4. Chips, chocolate cake, candy bar, or cheesecake?
Definitely chocolate cake! Now, I’m craving chocolate!
5. What stories do you have planned for the future?
I’m in the middle of edits for the fourth book, Dragon Knight’s Shield, which is Angus MacKay’s story—the oldest. I’ve just started the fifth and final book in the Order of the Dragon Knights (title to be revealed later). Then I’ll have a spin-off from the series with the Fenian Warriors.
I’m envious of Mary’s affinity with the wee early hours of the morning. Let’s find out about Dragon Knight’s Axe now.
Battled scarred, Dragon Knight, Alastair MacKay, has fled to the seas to separate himself from his powers that are connected to the land. Yet, when he rescues a woman from a slave trader in Ireland, he steps back inadvertently into a world filled with magic—taking on the role of protector and leading him on a journey to confront his greatest fears.
Research assistant, Fiona O’Quinlan loves translating ancient artifacts at Trinity College. When she falls asleep on an archeological dig, she awakens in another time. She soon discovers a Dragon Knight’s relic has been entrusted into her care. Determined to return the artifact to the Great Glen, Fiona is unprepared for the danger ahead—losing her heart and soul to Alastair “Beast” MacKay.
Will their love be strong enough to soothe the beast and heal the man? Or will Death swing its axe, leaving them lost for all eternity?
Excerpt:
He would get the truth out of her. She was now his. Bought and paid for.
His anger simmered just below the surface, and he allowed his eyes to flash with the fire of the dragon. Hearing her gasp, he smiled. Good, little bird. Fear me. Without giving her time to react, he swept her up and dumped her over his left shoulder, and strode to the ship.
He heard her sharp intake of breath, and then she started to pound against his back. “Put…me down,” she demanded.
“Nae.”
She started to kick, and he clenched his jaw in frustration. The little bird had talons. He responded with a smack to her bottom, but instead of removing his hand, he kept it against her soft curves. “I will put ye down when we are on my ship.”
She went completely still, and then she screamed.
Alastair dumped her onto the ground. “For the love of Brigid, did ye have to yell into my ear?”
Fiona rubbed at her bottom and then stood. “You beast,” she spat out at him. Jumping onto a nearby boulder, she looked directly into his eyes. “Don’t you ever touch me like that again.”
Alastair yanked her to his chest by her arms, his face mere inches from hers. “And what are ye going to do?” He watched as her eyes widened in alarm. Blue eyes that reminded him of the sky on warm summer days. Then his gaze traveled down to her lips, red as berries.
Instantly, his beast roared to life. Claim one kiss, Alastair.
“I will slit your throat,” she whispered.
Releasing his hold, his beast laughed, mocking him. He stared at her for a few moments before turning away. Stalking over to the ship, he climbed up the ladder.
****
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Bio:
I am a constant daydreamer and have been told quite often to remove my head from the clouds. Yet, this is where I find the magic to write my stories. Not only do I love to weave a good tale, but I have a voracious appetite for reading. I worked for Borders Books for almost fourteen years. Imagine my delight to be surrounded by so many books, talking to others about them, and getting paid.
Pure bliss!
I have traveled to England, Scotland, Ireland, and France. There are those who know me well when I say, “My heart is in the Highlands.” I believe I have left it there or maybe in Ireland.
When not writing, I enjoy playing in my garden—another place where magic grows. Of course, there is time spent with my family. They are the ones that keep me grounded.
Thanks for spending time with us, Mary.
Cheers & Happy Reading!
Flossie Benton Rogers, Conjuring the Magic with Paranormal Fantasy Romance
Hi Mary!
A pleasant surprise to find you here! Flossie loves everything medieval and knights saving damsels in distress so no wonder after all.
Wow! 5am awake! You sound very organized and disciplined regarding writing schedule. Lovely interview! best of luck with finding new fans!
Thank you Flossie for bringing Mary in the limelight!
Carmen, I am very impressed by Mary’s writing schedule too. Those early morning hours are so fertile and I only wish I was truly a morning person! Thank you for stopping by with your lovely greeting.
I envy authors that can write late in the evening, Flossie. It sounds like a perfect time, but I turn into a pumpkin after 6pm. Thank you so much for hosting me and Dragon Knight’s Axe on your blog! 🙂
Waving to you, Carmen! Yes, I have to be “verra” disciplined. My creative mind flows more freely when I take care of the business of the day. Thanks so much for stopping by. 🙂
Mary, I’m so glad we met during a recent FB party. Thank you for being my guest here today.
Me, too, Flossie! 🙂
Wonderful interview! I am jealous of Mary’s travels, Ireland and Scotland are the only countries I have ever considered visiting. Maybe one day. The Order of the Dragon Knights sounds like a great series!
I long to return to Ireland and Scotland, Linda. Keeping my fingers and toes crossed for a trip next spring or summer. Scotland has a rugged, mystical beauty and Ireland’s magic is everywhere. I hope you get to visit one day. Thanks so much for stopping by. 🙂
Those are also the places I want to go, Linda:)
I love Meeting new Authors!
Aww…Cathy, I love meeting new friends. 🙂 Thanks so much for stopping by.
A great interview, ladies.
Oops, I hit post before I was ready. Mary, I loved hearing how the Dragon Knights came to be. What a lovely place for a story to be born.
Psst…that always happens to me, too, Mae! It seems when I’m typing, the gremlins pop out and send my reply before I’m finished. Mae, I will never forget that time in the Highlands. I brought back wool from the ground and stuffed it between the pages of my journal, along with small rocks. It was my first adventure to this magical, mist-filled country, and I long to return. Thank you so much for stopping by. 🙂