Thinking Outside The Box

by Olivia Starke

  

I admit I’m lousy at thinking “outside the box.” If a proven path is tried and true, you can bet I’ll be trotting down it enjoying the expected scenery. But when it comes to writing I’ve taken to paranormal, which has forced me to think beyond what’s normal. Maybe it’s my way of testing boundaries and limits, and seeing how I can stretch as an author.And as a person.

(But being in my box is so cool! I’m two away from a fort!)

All authors try to push the out of box experience, even with the usual romance plotlines. It’s how we keep a reader’s attention. But paranormal really challenges you. Building a world that makes sense, even if it is outrageous, and delivering it effectively is an art form. I’ve learned a lot about seeing things from unique and lopsided angles, and it’s an adventure for me. It amazes me where a plotline can take a twist, especially when I have more boring pathways in mind.

I guess I could carry what I’ve learned over to my mundane real life job, I’m sure they’d love my attempt to contribute innovation. But there’s not much use for sexy vampires, ghouls, and other otherworldly beings in retail. 

Her Moonlight Lover

Blurb: Stranded in the middle of Iowa, Bailey has to rely on the hospitality of a hot redhead with a body to die for. After skinny dipping leads to an incredible night of Sapphic loving, Bailey is smitten by the eager and willing Melanie.

When morning comes, Bailey may find there’s more to Melanie than meets the eye.

Excerpt: 

I love a woman with stamina.

Bailey cleared her throat. “So, Melanie, you have a husband somewhere?”

She flashed that gorgeous smile. “Nope.”

“Boyfriend?”

She shook her head. “Nope.”

“Girlfriend?”

Melanie stood in waist deep water. Rivulets poured down her shoulders.

“I-I’ve never been with a woman, actually.” She swept her hands in wide arcs over the surface and small waves lapped at Bailey’s chin where she tread water further from shore. Bailey kicked toward her, then stood and the other woman sucked in a breath, eyes widening. She took a step forward watching closely for any sign that her redhead might shy away.

“Melanie, let me make love to you.”

She peered up through her lashes. “I wouldn’t know how. I mean I know how with a man, but….”

Bailey smiled, reaching a hand to the other woman’s upper arm, letting her fingertips trail to her shoulder then down to the delicate gold chain she wore around her neck. A tiny infinity pendant dangled from it.

Their breaths quickened.

Olivia Starke www.authoroliviastarke.comhttp://romancingthepentoday.blogspot.com

Author Bio: Olivia Starke calls a little town in southern Missouri home. Some of the most beautiful country in the U.S., she loves the Ozarks and hikes, runs, kayaks, or rides horses whenever possible. When not working at her laptop or in her retail management job, she’s playing mom to an ever expanding collection of dogs, cats, and horses who find their way to her little farm.