Melanie Atkins blogs with Us, Finally

Please welcome Melanie Atkins, a writer who is going places! Melanie answered all my questions but the one about boxers or briefs. She prefers her men in....


Melanie, what was your first published book and by whom?

HAUNTED MEMORIES, in both e-book (2004) and print (2005) by a former publisher I’d rather not name. This book has since been re-edited and lengthened and is about to be re-released in e-book format by Cobblestone Press (July 25). I’m really excited about that.

What themes go through your books?

Honor, loyalty, and facing the unexpected seem to come up most often. This is reflected in the books I read and the movies I like. All have strong, alpha heroes and gritty, determined heroines.

How did you write with kids, family, and deadlines?

My kids are grown, which helps. My mother, however, is elderly and I spend a lot of time taking her to the grocery store, doctor appointments, and the like. I work around it. Writing on a laptop helps, because I can do it anywhere. I write at all times of the day, even at night, depending on my schedule. It differs every day, every week.

How many books have you published?

For me, this is a complicated question. I sold 12 books to my former publisher, but only six came out before it folded. I’ve now sold four books and novellas to Cobblestone Press (two of which are re-releases), and one to Treble Heart Books. So…I guess that means nine, not counting the two short story anthologies published by a small press in my hometown in which I placed stories.

What other jobs have you had?

I worked part time as a cashier, a newsprint measurer, and a waitress at various times while in college. Later, I worked in child care and as a secretary. Nothing exciting, that’s for sure, but those jobs paid the bills and I learned a lot.

What are you writing now?

I’m working on a single title romantic thriller, the third in a three book series, and a shorter book targeted to Harlequin Intrigue. I’m also searching for an agent.

What would you write if you could do write anything you wanted to write?

Exactly what I’m writing. I’d love to write both single title and category romantic suspense. I write fast, so I know I can handle it. I just need the chance to do it!

What do you have out now and coming soon?

VOODOO BONES was released in June from Cobblestone Press and is available at http://www.cobblestone-press.com/catalog/books/voodoobones.htm
HAUNTED MEMORIES, June 25, www.cobblestone-press.com
EMILY’S NIGHTMARE, August 2008, www.cobblestone-press.com

Do you have a website?

Yes. You can check out all of my projects at www.melanieatkins.com and www.myspace.com/melanieatkins

Thank you, Pink Fuzzies, for allowing me to guest blog!

Thanks for your time, Melanie!

Check this out to see why books by Melanie will be on many people's keeper shelves.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_EjARaxRcuc