Deborah Cooke: Author

There have been a lot of comments lately, so let’s address that – and the questions – today.

First off, thanks to everyone who posted that they enjoyed KISS OF FIRE. It’s so wonderful to hear from readers who enjoy my books – and Quinn has a special place in my heart. I particularly appreciate those of you who took a chance on a new series without having read any of my work before. That gorgeous cover did its job at catching your eye! Thanks Sharlene and Tamara; thanks Raonaid and Maria; thanks Deborah and Erin; thanks Sandra and Peggy; thanks Caitlin and Becky; thanks Alicia and SandyH.

Phew! I hope I didn’t miss anyone!

And now the questions. Maria was concerned about the series becoming more complex. Well, I think it’s characteristic of urban fantasy romance series to become more complex, and that’s part of what readers do want to see. The trick is not going too far! After reading KISS OF FIRE, many readers want to know more about the Pyr and their history. Also, when the hero is more involved with the group – as Donovan and Erik are – their stories will be more entwined with the other Pyr than Quinn’s was.

What will keep Dragonfire from getting too complex, I think, is that it is a finite series with a definite end goal. I can end it at seven books, which is less satisfactory to me, or I can end it at thirteen books, but that will be it. The arc over the whole story is that of the Pyr battling the Slayers for ascendancy and by book #13, the battle will be won or lost. So, while there may be elements introduced in the next few books, they’ll be resolved over the subsequent books.

It’s also a question of emphasis – no one book will hold all of the answers (or be burdened with all of the detail) but the details most associated with that Pyr will be revealed in his book. In Donovan’s book, KISS OF FURY, for example, you’ll learn how Slayers are made and what it means to be Slayer because that conflict has meaning for his story and journey. In Erik’s book, KISS OF FATE, you’ll learn about the schism between Pyr and Slayers, because Erik was there when it happened and the incident shaped his perspectives. So, I don’t expect any one book to be too complex, but taken together, they’ll give you a clear view of a complete alternate world.

If you’re not sure what I mean by this, you can wait to read the books, or you can check out my last historical series, the Jewels of Kinfairlie, which was structured in a similar way. It was supposed to be at least 7 books long but only the first 3 were published.

Deborah loved the descriptions of the Pyr as gemlike. I thought it would be fun if they looked like the treasure they hoard – and illustrations of dragons always make them look gorgeous and glittering. I’m glad you liked the detail!

As for Deborahs being crafty, I think everyone is creative. 😉