AN UNEXPECTED ANGEL
Angelina Sanchez didn’t hold much stock in men. The ones who weren’t slimy fortune hunters weren’t interested in a young lady who would rather spend time with her horses than flirt. But when she saw a handsome stranger in town, there was an instant connection, a spark of familiarity like nothing she’d ever felt. And no matter how fiercely her father warned her away from Jeremiah Baldwin, nothing could have kept her from his side.
A BROKEN WARRIOR
When her father had him beaten and left for dead, Angel’s soft hands and sweet voice coaxed Jeremiah to stay, to fight. In her arms, it seemed he’d finally found a place to belong. But how could he protect her when it was her father who’d led the raid that had slaughtered his family? His spirit guides had told him he would feel true joy only if he made peace with his greatest sorrow. But unless he could find a way to win Angelina’s heart without forsaking his family, he would remain…Destiny’s Captive.
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How did she come up with that?
I’ll bet you’ve asked yourself the same question after reading the latest dark paranormal or watching the latest vampire series on cable or in the movies. With so many people enthralled with the paranormal, the person whose feet stay firmly on the ground has to feel LOST.
So where do authors come up with paranormal ideas, characters, plots and themes without delving into the occult and joining Wicans Local 101? Where does it begin? Does an author wake up one day and announce, “I think my next novel’s going to be about the Fey.” Does she then research the Fey, like everything else she writes? And once she opens her mind to that realm, is she inundated with evil?
I’ve written some paranormal. I admit it. In fact, in 2003 I won the New Voice In Romance Contest (Paranormal), which became the American Title contest (sponsored by RT and Dorchester). I’ve never written about vampires or fairies, etc, though I’ve read many of the best-selling works of dark paranomal. I’ve always been drawn to the unexplainable, but I prefer to think my interest is on a more spiritual plane. I’m intrigued by Native American mysticism, so I study their vision quests and the religions and ceremonies of different tribes. For instance, I’ve read that the great chief of the Apache, Geronimo, could “call the wind.” I discovered a creditable, non-fiction book that described several of these events in detail. Finding it marvelous and strangely plausible, I’ve applied the concept to my own Native American characters that might be pressed or in dire need and I allowed them to dip into their own bag of tricks for a solution.
Other authors pursue myths and legends about vampires and their cousins, the werewolf. From the werewolf, it’s easy to expand into wereleopards, or were-any-other-animal. Our literature abounds with mutations and half-men, half-beasts, and much of it is written for children. Anyone familiar with the Little Mermaid? Beauty and The Beast? The Chronicles of Narnia abounds with mythical characters—part man, part animal—that actually speak.
Let’s not forget J. K. Rowling and the success of her Harry Potter series.
We, our children included, have been so immersed in the paranormal that we no longer consider it paranormal.
In the mid- to late-90’s, I filled the position of Contest Coordinator for the Utah chapter of RWA (Romance Writers of America). Each year, we came very close to having to cancel the Paranormal category in our writing contest for lack of entries. Now, contest coordinators report that the paranormal category boasts the highest number of entries, and many contests have had to limit the number of entries they accept. A well-known author told me that when she first began writing, she tried to sell a dark paranormal—the type that’s since made her famous—and her editor told her, “That type of book has no place in the romance genre.” This author has since gone platinum. Her editor must be seriously regretting the rejection.
Why? Because Paranormal sells.
What happened? Was there some socio-economic epiphany among the middle class? Or has Satan taken over and begun to rule the world, as our spiritual leaders would have us believe? What drove—is driving—the sudden and continuing interest in paranormal? Is it a trend that you believe will continue, or will it die out as suddenly as it flared into life?
So my question for you today is:
What’s so fascinating about PARANORMAL??
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Many thanks to Kate for being our guest today. Leave a comment for the chance to win autographed copies of DESTINY’S CAPTIVE and HOPE’S CAPTIVE (Kate’s previous release), along with a box of Godiva chocolates to enjoy along with the books!
Honorary Mention of Book Sluts 'R' Us Blogger Awards by 
RR@H Novel Thoughts & Book Talk 
Hi! I’m not sure why other people read paranormal but I guess it’s for the same reason I do. I take great pleasure in discovering the new worlds where anything is possible and you don’t know the rules from the beginning (like you know in our “normal” world). Isn’t it exciting to find out that the person you are in loved with or even you can “call the wind” or be at the same time at two different places or vacuum clean your entire house with one flick of the wand or… you know what I want to say (and no I’m not delusional, I just like to immerse into the story). In this ordinary full- of-problems world a small adventure and a few faster heart beats can make you feel human again 🙂
One of the things an author has to do is suspend a reader’s disbelief by making the events in her book seem completely plausible, not only possible, but real. You’re the kind of reader we love…one who can immerse herself in the book and accept the unusual. I’ve never thought about “calling the vacuum”, but it offers intriguing plot possibilities.
I can see it now…. the heroine’s rushing to get things done before her new mother-in-law (really a witch) arrives for lunch! If she just focuses, maybe she can “glamour” the house and fool her.
It’s kind of hard to pin down, but for me I think it’s the what-if factor. Could all the freaky people of the world be witches, vampires, werewolves, etc.? Or maybe it’s the “normal” people that you have to worry about.
Other than that, I read for the escape. Paranormal is about as far removed from reality as anything can be.
Deidre
You have a point, Deidre. If we let ourselves believe in the paranormal, anything is possible. That doesn’t mean we expect to bump into a vampire at Walmart! But wouldn’t it be…uh, interesting?
I’ve been thinking about your replies. It’s great to escape into a paranormal novel and let your mind take you to a different world, but how deep should you get? I’ve been to booksignings with dark paranormal authors whose fans are REALLY into the worlds they’ve created. Some even have tattoos of their favorite characters. Dress, apparel, hairstyles, even tattoos don’t harm anyone, but how deep should we let ourselves get?
Very interesting post.
WendyK
Kate Lyon’s books are wonderful. I enjoy the interaction between the characters and the ability that she has to go between the two worlds. It makes the story fascinating reading. I enjoy paranormal for the mystery it offers and the unique experience that takes place within the book.
I love the paranormal in books like this because it’s going into the unknown that’s the best way I can explain it! LOL!
This sounds really good, great blog today, thank you
Penney
It’s the right time of year for it, isn’t it??
Do you really think the paranormal in our books is unknown? I’ve talked about the elements in my own books with a friend who’s a psychic. She’s always asking me who I’ve been reading and how I learned that it’s possible to do this or that. Blows her mind when I tell her I just made it up. Subconsciously, I think we must all be aware of the possibilities.
I enjoy the extra freedom paranormals afford authors in creating personalized worlds for their characters. An example: Laurell K. Hamilton, Charlaine Harris, Colleen Gleason and Lynsay Sands all are authors with a successful series featuring vampires. But the background for each series is so different–how vampires live and die, how they were created and interact in a world of humans. Each author has a marvelously individual view of the same parameters. I really enjoy that aspect of paranormal novels.
The fascination for me comes from the unknown aspect. To me it’s not just the creepy crawly stuff (that’s entertaining) – but it also allows hope, possibilities. I’ve always believed that if you can think it, it can happen. We all know that many things previously looked at as fiction have now come to pass. I don’t look to see anything with fangs in the future, but who knows what powers of the mind may develop.
Thank you, Ruth. I’m so glad you enjoy my books, especially the paranormal elements. That aspect is much stronger….well, I should say very strong in my new book, Destiny’s Captive. It’s not a time-travel, but it has a new element. I’m looking forward to reader responses.
The future is closer than many of us know. My psychic friend is writing a “how-to” book explaining how she became aware of her abilities and what she did to develop them.
I have to tell you a crazy experience I had–one of many. Hubby and I were at an NBA basketball game. I don’t watch much of the games when we go, because I’m so caught up in watching the people. While I was “people-watching” I spotted an old friend, but he was too far away for me to get his attention. So, I willed him to turn around and focused my mind on him. All of a sudden he turned and scanned the crowd right where I was sitting. He was scowling and very intent and looked long and hard. I was so surprised that I couldn’t even wave. Afterward, I didn’t approach him because I was afraid he’d think I was “weird.”
Lucy says this type of ability is the least that we’re all capable of, but it shook me up so much that I haven’t wanted to try anything else, though she’s offered to assist me on this journey. Maybe it’s just the fear of the unknown, or could it be fear of other people’s reactions, of being labeled “strange” and becoming an outcast?
Oh I love the cover of this book. I really enjoy reading the paranormals, I think its because of the unknown that is out there. Lets face it we really don’t know what is out there for sure and the paranormal books give us a taste. Can’t wait to read this books sounds awesome.
Thank you! The cover is very western, isn’t it? I hope the paranormal elements are a welcome surprise.
I just returned from visiting the Pacific Northwest, including the North Cascades mountains–Bella and Edward country. We lived in Walla Walla once upon a time, but I’d never been to this area. It’s incredibly beautiful, lush and deeply forested. The colors this time of year seemed other-worldly, more brilliant than I’ve ever seen them even though it was overcast four out five days. The only sunny day was the one we spent in the mountains. The land was exactly as I’d pictured it when I read Twilight–a different world, yet familiar, too.
Do you believe setting plays an important part in a successful paranormal?
I find the paranormal fascinating because even though I haven’t seen proof or actually experienced the supernatural, I do believe it exists.
Love the cover and a chance to win chocolate.
cyclops8: Not having experienced it, makes it that much more intriguing, doesn’t it? One of my critique partners used to complain that she’d never experienced it, but like you she still enjoyed it.
Pat L.: LOL! Did you choose the icon?? Good luck!
Hi Kate!
I love reading paranormal, but your book sounds like it is more than that – the plot is extraordinary and not a 08/15 story… Paranormal means for me something new, something I don’t expect in the world and with every new book the paranormal genre is getting bigger because every single author adds his or her own world – that’s fascinating!
You’ve mentioned some interesting aspects – after reading a book it intents me for a while… I’m seeing the world from a other perspecitve – in some ways… and frequently I’ve asked me if those world exists… but I think at that point I would draw the line – some things have to stay in my world of books and not in the one with work and family…
as for the setting – paranormal needs no setting, it is all over the world, there can’t be a place without it and I think an author can write a story for every setting…
Thanks for the great post – it really affected me!
Wish you all the best,
Ina
I agree with the others…. Look at that cover!!! Wow… as for paranormal… The unknown elements, new creatures and worlds to discover, the way authors can create and stretch their imaginations… love to see what they can come up with! 😀
Ina, don’t you think that’s the test of a really good book: how long does it stay with you after you’ve read it? It’s even better if it makes you ponder the possibility that the different world you’ve read about might actually exist. It does! In your mind and heart. Several of my favorite romances were set in Texas, Mexico or New Mexico and every time I see Spanish architecture, especially a casa with a central courtyard, I think of those books and remember the story.
You’re right about paranormal not needing a setting–it surrounds us.
People say that even in your worst possible moment, when you’re suffering the unimaginable, you’re never alone. I think that’s when the paranormal kicks in and incredible things begin to happen. Who can say if those things–the voices that speak to you or direct you, the strength and courage you pull out of nowhere, the ability to do amazing things–come from somewhere deep within you or from an external source.
Thanks for your good wishes, Ina, and my best wishes to you. I hope that you continue to find peace and a respite from the real world in the books you read.
Thank you all for the compliments on this new cover. The positive feedback has been uplifting! For midlist authors like me, covers can be…. hmmm, how to put this? …troublesome.
When I was writing this book, my editor wasn’t all that excited about the (spoiler alert!) wolves; she said they didn’t add anything to the book. I either had to expand that aspect or cut it. I chose to let them loose and then had to keep a lid on them! Native American religion, the mysticism surrounding their faith, makes anything possible. I’ve just scratched the surface of possibility.
I can’t wait to hear Lucy’s reaction!
I like paranormals because of the exotic world building. It’s a great escape. I like the mythologies that are created, it makes the story even more dramatic. And the characters always seem bigger than life to me too.
Who needs those dusty old classics?? We’re creating new ones. You’re right about the characters. Harry Potter’s a phenomenon, but what about Jamie from Outlander and Laurell K. Hamilton’s Anita, Ella and Edward, Sookie. Every time I think her name, I hear Bill saying it.
So, Joder, who are your favorite paranormal characters?
I think paranormal is just an escape from the norm where anything can happen. I also just love the vampires, werewolves and other paranormal creatures in stories!
Sounds like you don’t care to analyze why, just enjoy the heck out of it!
Do you think paranormal’s a trend that’ll pass like so many others have? Lots of people think vampires are almost over. Do you agree?
Hi Kate,
I think paranormal is appealing because the stroy is taking you to a whole different world where anything is possible.
Paranormal is my favorite genre. I enjoy reading vampire series and books by authors who write them. I like to hear all the different takes they have on them!
Who’s your favorite vampire author? Are you a fan of the TruBlood series? Personally, I loved Linda Lael Miller’s vampire novels. I even bought one of her t-shirts for my daughter.
For me reading paranormal is an escape. I am not interested in reading something that resembles my life. I want to escape for a little while into a new world or alternate reality at night after the kids are in bed. It’s my “me” time, my way of pampering myself and relaxing as well.
I read to escape reality. Paranormal is about as far as you can get from reality. Besides, some of those vampires, werewolves and shapeshifters are verrrry sexy!
Hmmm… you like shapeshifters, huh? I’m glad to hear it! You’ll like Destiny’s Captive.
I have loved paranormal stories since i was a kid and have been loving the current rise in paranormal romance these last few years.
I think it is the escapism and the story that there is more than just the humdrum out there. Also i think it tags along with our love of getting scared and thinking about what things lurk i nthe dark that we cannot see.
Hi, Maureen! Good to hear from you. What I’m hearing from you, Teresa W., Cheri J., Estella and Kris–along with almost everyone else who has commented–is that you all read paranormal because it’s best at giving you a break from reality, taking you away from it all.
What form of paranormal is your favorite? Do you prefer vampires, witches or time-travel or the really other-worldly novels? And in what context–contemporary, historical, futuristic?
Do any of you remember what was the first paranormal you read? Was it a shock or surprise to you, or did you love it?
Hi, Kate.
What is your opinion on book trailers? Do you think they help in book sales?
Thanks,
Tracey D
Hi, Tracey —
Marketing/promotion is tough to call. I’ve never used book trailers, so I can’t answer your question, but I can tell you that it’s hard for an author to measure the success of anything we do to market our books. We don’t have enough hard info to compare current sales to previous sales.
Sorry!
Paranormal is my favorite genre. Why I like it because I can dive into a different normal world. Interesting characters to meet. And do you know that actually lots of people like to be scared? The adrenaline and excitement that flow inside are wonderful.
Btw, you are a new paranormal Author for me. I’d like to have the chance to read your works:)
Hi, Mariska–
Yeah, people do like to be scared, but I’ve never understood why. Horror movies, books, etc. give me nightmares for weeks. I have to be careful picking my paranormal fix because I’m very visual.
I’m not surprised I’m a new paranormal author for you. My first book, Time’s Captive, was a time-travel and won the 2003 New Voice In Romance contest, which in 2004 became the American Title contest. In 2003 the contest was for new paranormal voices. I write Native American historicals with strong paranormal elements.
I hope you’ll give my books a try! Destiny’s Captive is the third book in The Captive series, a spin-off of the first, Time’s Captive. In addition to winning the New Voice contest, Time’s Captive was a Golden Heart finalist and earned many awards. That info plus reviews are available on my website.
Great post! And your book sounds fantastic!
And as for the question, I think its fascinating because its different. Just that simple. Who wants to read about something that happens in your everyday life when you could read about vampires, werewolves and ghosts? At least, that’s why I read paranormal. So I can be taken away 🙂
Thanks, Chelsea! Destiny’s Captive is getting great reviews, and RT gave it 4 Stars.
You know, you’re the first person to mention ghosts today. I’ve had a lot of run-ins with the friendly type. In fact, I used to own a restaurant in Prattville, Alabama, that was “gently haunted” by two ladies whose father built the house/restaurant in 1897. I couldn’t really tell you how I know that it was two ladies, I just do, and so did everyone else.
This may be before your time, but I loved The Ghost and Mrs. Muir, a TV series that was on when I was a teenager. I’m still dying to know what happened, though of course, nothing could. Still, the possibilities….!!
Hi, Kate,
I SO want to read DESTINY’S CAPTIVE — it’s on my “wish list”! 🙂
I’ve been fascinated by the paranormal since I was a little kid. I loved “Dark Shadows,” “The Ghost & Mrs. Muir” and anything that was different. I guess that’s what fascinates me about it. It’s so different than “real life” that it’s a nice escape to imagine other worlds and other beings and play “what if…”
LOL! I loved Dark Shadows, too, but didn’t mention it because it’s been quite a while. It was so controversial when it first came out and, while we’d probably laugh at it now, it gave me the shivers back then.
Maybe you’ll get lucky and win the blog give-away, then you can read Destiny’s Captive sooner! If you just can’t stand the wait, there’s an excerpt on my website…..
For me, heroes in paranormals have always been dark, dangerous and the ultimate bad boy. And who can resist them? 🙂
Love the cover for Destiny’s Captive!
Thanks, Mariee! If you’d like a magnet to remember it by, pop over to my website and send me your address.
Jeremiah’s your kind of hero–dark, very dangerous and he’s been a bad boy, but Angel’s reforming him.
I like to read paranormal because it seems like all things are possible. What we would not consider in a contemporary romance seems natural in a paranormal.
First off, I can’t wait to read the new book!!
I don’t really know why I love paranormals so much. I guess because of the unknown. Who knows what’s beyond our planet (or lurking on our own??)
Anyway, it’s good escape reading.
With so many people enjoying paranormal, our fascination with the paranormal doesn’t show any sign of dwindling. Like you, I enjoy the luxury of tuning out the daily stress and worry and ESCAPING into a great book. I hope that you’ll consider Destiny’s Captive when you’re looking for a special place to forget your cares.
I’ve enjoyed blogging with you today. It’s getting late and the day’s winding down. I’ll keep an eye out for night owls. They’re probably lurking out there… just beyond the light, waiting for the right moment.
Happy Halloween!
It’s late here in CA, but I just wanted to add: I think that PN Romance is so popular because it is Fairy Tales for Women and whom among us doesn’t love a Fairy Tale??? I know I do…..and your book looks awesome. Thank you for the chance to win a copy!!!
Mitzi H.
For me, it’s the total suspension of reality. I love that there are NO barriers, that anything can and does happen in a para, and love conqours all.
I think the fascination continues because there are no boundaries….like for me, Demons are a fairly new fascination, so I’m glooming stories about them. But I also continue to buy shifters and vamps and fae, etc….but I just add more to them.
Hi, Mitzi,
I was still up around 1am (C), but I’m jet-lagged from spending last weekend in northwestern Washington and wouldn’t have lasted another minute!
That’s it in a nutshell — fairy-tales for women. You’re absolutely right. Our fantasies come to life.
Good luck winning the books! Hope you enjoy Destiny’s Captive.
Melissa,
You’re very open-minded! Of all the different paranormal characters, demons don’t interest me. Maybe it’s their evil persona. They hold some appeal as antagonists, but I have trouble imagining them as heroes. Perhaps because a demon seems so deeply evil that it’s hard to believe it can be redeemed? In any case, as you say, a romance isn’t truly a romance unless love wins out in the end.