Aleatha Romig~Author of the Week~Final Day and Interview~

This week we are excited to have Aleatha Romig as our 'Author of the Week'!!

We have treated you to Teasers, Excerpts, a few fun facts and an awesome signed giveaway!! There is still time to enter the giveaway if you are quick! Unfortunately, today is the last day of our teasers, boooooo! But, I hope it has whet your appetite and compelled you to pick up these books. It truly is a mind bender of a series and Aleatha has talent beyond belief! I hope you enjoy the interview we conducted with your submitted questions and would love for you to let us know your thoughts on Consequences, Truth and Convicted. Team Tony?...

FUN FACT 7: 
Consequences, Truth, and Convicted make up a tangled, layered, multifaceted story, that I personally love! I admit, it came to me in parts--each book. I didn't know the secrets of Convicted when I wrote Consequences, but I spent untold hours making sure they all fit together. I hope you enjoy the time and layers. It really is a journey, thank you for taking it with me!

Convicted Excerpt #3:

-Summer 2016-

The woman stood silently, concealed within the shadows of the tall trees. With the Iowa wind rustling leaves above her head, she watched in fascination as children ran around the well-kept playground. Although many youngsters vied for position on the ladders and ramps, her attention centered on the beautiful, dark-haired little girl and blonde headed little boy playing in the sandbox. She’d seen the children on numerous occasions—always from a distance. She knew the little girl was almost two and a half years old and the little boy was almost two years old. Steeling her shoulders, she decided today was the day she’d finally voice her appeal—face the barrier to her goal—and make her request known.
The children wouldn't know who she was or why she was there. There was no doubt, the woman with the eagle eyes of a mother and aunt—the woman watching the children’s every move, wouldn't only know her—she wouldn't hesitate to send her away or call the authorities.
Inhaling deeply, New York Times bestselling author, Meredith Banks, stepped from the shadows into the sunlight. As the proximity of her goal increased, so did her anxiety. This wouldn't be easy. Emily Vandersol had made it crystal clear that she didn't want the children exposed to the media circus. That circus had already exposed too many family secrets—secrets which, for their sake, would've been better left hidden.
As Meredith neared the park bench, Emily’s ever present scan of the crowd zeroed in on her, and their eyes met. Before Emily could protest, Meredith rushed to the park bench and touched Emily’s sleeve. “Emily, please let me speak. Please...let me finish their story.”
Momentarily looking away from the children, Emily stared toward Meredith, her green eyes burned with emotion. Her back straightened as her hushed words overflowed with intended harshness. “You’re not allowed to be this close to me or to her. I have a restraining order against all members of the press.”
“I know, but I’m not just the press—I’m Claire’s friend—I was”—Meredith added thoughtfully—“Please—I want the world to know the rest of their story.”
Emily leaned closer as her perturbed tone hardened. “Don’t you think you've told enough? One day, I’m going to have to explain your book to her. Don’t you think you've done enough damage? Or maybe it’s just the money you want. I’m sure revealing more private information will sell more books.”
Meredith didn't like Emily’s tone.  Although she knew she deserved it; she wouldn't let it stop her quest. After all, engaging Claire’s sister in any conversation was more than she’d accomplished in the past. “I hope you know this isn't about selling books. Claire approached me with her story. We had an agreement, and I followed through. I’m not denying that her story’s made me a fortune. What do you want me to say? I’ll donate all proceeds from the rest of their story to Nichol? I’d gladly do that, but we both know she isn't lacking for money.”
Emily looked up as the dark-haired little girl came running toward them. Undaunted by the visitor, Nichol spoke loud and clear, “Momma”—shaking her little head, she corrected—“I mean, Aunt Em, Mikey’s not sharing. I want my...”
Meredith stared, mesmerized by the young girl’s features. Her long, dark hair was pulled into two pigtails which swung side to side as she ran. Her light complexion emphasized her pink sun-kissed cheeks, and her deep brown eyes shimmered in the sunlight. Meredith recognized the intensity of the young girl’s stare, the perfect combination of her parents; however, the determination and diction in the small voice unquestionably came from her father.
This was the closest Meredith had been to Anthony and Claire’s child. With all of her heart, Meredith wanted to pull the little girl into her arms and hug her tight—anything to help make Claire’s daughter’s world a better place.
While Emily rectified the situation between the children, Meredith pondered the events that brought them all here today—the events that changed Nichol’s life forever. Meredith remembered the Claire Nichols of the past—the carefree young woman who skipped class at Valparaiso to spend the day at Wrigley Field. She recalled the woman who recounted horrific details of a life she never wanted or deserved, and she recollected the last time they met—almost three years ago.
Claire had arranged their meeting. She wanted to discuss Meredith’s first book My Life As It Didn't Appear. Claire desired to stop the publication.
Momentarily, Meredith recalled Claire’s countenance—finally happy and obviously in love. While they ate lunch in Chicago, Claire opened up, talking about her change of heart, and confessing her pregnancy. It was a step of faith on Claire’s part. Her pregnancy hadn't been publicly announced, yet during that luncheon, Claire entrusted her long-time friend with her special news. Undoubtedly, it could’ve been a great coup, but Meredith wouldn't leak the news. She’d done that to her friend once before, and the repercussions of that deception would haunt Meredith forever.
Unfortunately, the book was beyond Meredith’s influence; it was in the hands of a publisher with specific instructions. Claire offered any amount of money to hide the story—forever. She worried that someday her child would learn the truth behind her parents’ meeting, and Claire didn't want that to happen.
Meredith promised Claire she’d try—and she did.
Then, less than a month later, Claire disappeared—the disclosure clause of their contract went into motion. Publication was imminent. Meredith’s efforts, along with a multitude of Rawlings’ attorneys, were unable to keep the book from being published. Upon publication, My Life As it Didn't Appear entered the bestseller list and has broken records ever since.
Meredith hoped that by continuing their story—telling the world the rest of their saga, maybe—just maybe—someday Nichol would understand.
Emily’s voice brought Meredith back to present. “The answer is no, and if you release any information about Nichol, I’ll have you fined, and with my husband’s help—arrested.”
“I’m not here to expose Nichol,” Meredith continued. “I’m here because I want to talk to Claire. The people at the Everwood facility said all visitors must be approved by you; therefore, I’m asking for your permission.”
Emily sat taller. “Ms. Banks, I’m not sure what part of this conversation you’re not hearing or comprehending, but the answer is no.” Before Meredith could respond, Emily continued, “Besides, it wouldn't do you any good. Claire can’t tell you her story—she can’t answer your questions.”
“Then let me just talk with her.”
“Don’t you understand? She can’t talk to anyone.”
“The staff didn't say visitors were restricted due to her condition. They said they’re restricted due to your insistence.”
“Ms. Banks—so help me God—if I read about this in a news release, I’ll come after you myself. Do you understand?”
Meredith nodded and replied, “I want to help Claire—I truly do. I want to expose the truth so the world will know what happened.”
Emily continued, “I’m only telling you this because my sister considered you a friend. Some of the doctors call it a psychotic break brought on by physical and mental stress. Others have said it’s the result of multiple head injuries.” Shaking her head, she added, “Claire hasn't spoken to anyone in over two years!”


FAN INTERVIEW

Aleatha, Have you ever noticed that your characters resemble people you know in the real world? Is it coincidence or did you say I want my leading man to be a mix of Chris, George, and Colin, for example?

No, my characters were created, perhaps with qualities of other people, but as the series progressed, they took on a life of their own.

Are Phil and Eric "family" or does Tony understand now that they aren’t just employees and doesn’t always need to treat them like they are?

I believe Claire’s way of handling employees will rub off on him, especially with employees that are close/ family like Eric and Phil.

How is Tony the cat? He is absolutely ADORABLE!!!! He was so scrawny when we got him. Now he is getting bigger and SO full of energy, yet a snuggler!!! I love him, if you can’ t tell.

Did you always want to be a writer?

I had always “wanted” to write.  Wanting and doing are totally different. I’m so glad I jumped in!!!

Who is you dream cast?

Tony: Joe Maganello

Claire: Oliva Wilde

Phil: Anderson Cooper

Harry: Josh Holloway

Sophia: Natalie Dormer

How old were you when you started writing??? And what made you start???

I started three years ago...I’m not telling you how old that would make me. I started because my house was empty, my husband was forced to work third shift and our two oldest children were away at college. It was my “outlet” or my way to control a world, since I couldn’t control mine. (that is according to my psychology major daughter)

What inspired you to write Consequences?

I envisioned the opening scene...a woman in a bedroom. I wrote to find out what happened. I never intended to publish, Indie or traditional. I just wanted to see what happened.

Where did you come up with your ideas for this series?

See above...I truly wanted to learn what happened to this woman and how she got there.  I also wrote Consequence as a standalone book. I didn’t know Truth when I wrote Consequences or Convicted when I wrote Truth. It takes a lot of work to make all the pieces fit. I often say, the next series I write, I want to know it is a series when I start, but I’m not sure. I think this was more fun!

How do you get your mind to go where it needs to, to write such an amazing story?

It takes emersion...I really become part of the story. It engulfs my entire life when I’m in the “thick” of writing.

What is your favorite thing about Tony?

His eyes...I like eyes, if you can’t tell. I love how he can communicate so much without speaking.

What's your favorite genre to read? Who are your favorite authors?

Three years ago I would have answered, thrillers. I LOVE Greg Isles! I also love JR Ward. I like books that make me think and try to figure things out. Now, I must add dark romance and erotica to the genre question. I’m not much of a butterfly and puppy dog reader...I like angst and suspense. As for favorite authors...I refuse to answer on account I may leave out someone I truly love. I have read so  many great books and my TBR list is eight miles long!

What person in your life makes the most impact his/her opinions of your books?

I’d say, #1 my husband. I like to hear his opinion. Then I’d say my betas...I value their opinions. That said, I do what I want. I have changed things based on their recommendations, and I have stood strong and said, “Nope, I like that and I’m doing it.”

Is there going to be a fourth book or are you going to do a spinoff to this series?

There will be series of novellas: Behind His Eyes – Consequences, BHE – Truth, and BHE – Convicted. They will not be a re-write of my series; instead, significant scenes in Tony’s POV and behind the scene scenes...I’m currently working on BHE-Consequences and there are scenes of Catherine and Tony’s interaction that was occurring without Claire’s knowledge. Since most of the series was written in Claire’s POV, you as a reader also didn’t know these scenes were occurring.

How did you get any sleep at night with all of these characters swirling around in your head??

Not well!!! When I’m deep in the throes of writing...I tend to wake in the middle of the night and write. Truth was mostly written between midnight and 5 AM, and I worked 6 days a week as a dental hygienist.

Will we find out who they were talking about at the end of Convicted?

I tell you in Convicted...or I hint. John and Emily discuss someone who no longer is at Rawlings Industries.  Tony tells Claire that there were women who wrote to him and propositioned him while he was in prison. He says, “I even—“ but didn’t finish. You later learn from Eric and Phil that Tony fired someone.... It was someone who worked closely with him, at Rawlings, and was snarky to Claire in Consequences...do you know?

How on earth do you find the time to write?

Now, I’m a full-time author and I still don’t have time. I have spent a lot of time with promoting Convicted. I’m about to disappear for a while and write. I think I need to. I will miss all the interaction, but I can’t do both!

Has anything in this story come close to happening to you?

lol! NO!!!! Ironically, my mother read my first draft of Consequences and asked if it were autobiographical. I was like, “Yeah, Mom, Jeff, my husband of 25 years (27 now) is really Tony in private!”

I have had people that are close to me involved in abusive relationships. I believe that insight helped me with Consequences.

How has the writing & success of these books changed your life?

It has changed my life immensely! I now am able to work completely from home as a full-time author. We had two children in college when my husband lost his job. We survived with him working full-time third shift and me working 6 days a week as a dental hygienist. However, during that time, we accumulated a lot of debt. I can honestly say that we were concerned that when education loans came due, we might lose our home. Thanks to you wonderful readers who have embraced my stories...our house is secure! Thank you!!!

Have you started to write Tony's novellas yet? If so have they been harder or easier to write than the originals?

I have, and it is difficult. The hardest part is getting back into Tony’s “Consequences” head. Obviously, he goes through a transformation throughout the series. I will start writing and have to walk away, because the “Consequences” Tony just plain pisses me off!!!!

What are 3 things fans don't know about the books?

Consequences has had four different covers. The first was white with red puzzle pieces, it was made by the vanity publisher that published it. The second is black and red...I only used it for a print copy I put out independently...(It was UGLY). The third cover is similar to the final one, but the picture of the necklace was blown up from my wedding picture and not very clear. I’ve since had Claire’s necklace remade and now the cover is much clearer and crisp! (It will be receiving a small upgrade, I’m having “New York Times and USA Today best selling author” added!!!

Claire’s grandmother’s necklace was described from the necklace my father gave my mother when they wed. She gave it to me, I wore it in my wedding, and then I wore it in her second wedding. After her second wedding, I left the necklace at her house and it was stolen. So, the necklace means a lot to me. I’m so glad I’ve been able to have it recreated. I had one made for my mom too!

Third: all of my nieces and nephews’ names are used as auxiliary characters in my series.

How did you come up with the names for the series?  Why is Consequences before Truth, it always confuses me!?

Well, Consequences was titled after I wrote it...and since it is said a lot, it seemed appropriate. “Compartmentalize” wasn’t as appealing. Then, I wanted a title that went with “Consequences” and I realized that the theme of “Truth”, was just that...the Truth behind the Consequences.  And, well Convicted was meant to have two meanings...the obvious, “Convicted” by the law and the inner “Convicted” that occurs when someone realizes what they have done and are remorseful.

Where is your favorite place to write?

My home office, or out on my screen porch. I’m pretty sure I could do it from a balcony overlooking an ocean...

PURCHASE LINKS
Amazon links:  

Consequences: http://www.amazon.com/Consequences-ebook/dp/B009VPQW7K/ref=sr_1_2?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1381490857&sr=1-2&keywords=consequences+romig

Truth: http://www.amazon.com/Truth-Consequences-ebook/dp/B009ZKST1I/ref=sr_1_3?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1381490857&sr=1-3&keywords=consequences+romig

Convicted: http://www.amazon.com/Convicted-Consequences-ebook/dp/B00FP10AOA/ref=sr_1_1?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1381490857&sr=1-1&keywords=consequences+romig

B&N Links:

Consequences: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/consequences-aleatha-romig/1104704467?ean=2940015496376

Truth: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/truth-aleatha-romig/1113690384?ean=2940015928396

Convicted: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/convicted-aleatha-romig/1117044321?ean=2940148633129

 iBook links: 

Consequences: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id716700570

Truth: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id716681538

Convicted: https://itunes.apple.com/us/book/id717199746

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