Today I am speaking with Aubrey Ross. Good morning, Aubrey, and thanks for dropping by FAR today. I hope you are doing well.

I'm doing very well. The holiday season is hectic, but it’s the fun sort of rush.

I looked at your website and saw the cover to Seducer. Wow, what a cover! Why not tell us a little about Roark and Andrea?

I couldn’t agree with you more. Les Byerley provided the artwork and I think the cover is fantastic. Andrea is a human geneticist who finds herself in the middle of an alien war. Roark feels justified in the drastic actions his people have taken to save their world, but Andrea isn’t convinced. The conflict between them is nearly as strong as the attraction, which always makes for an amusing read.

When did you first think about writing and submitting your first manuscript?

I’ve been writing fantasy/sci-fi/adventures since I was a teenager. I suppose I first thought seriously about pursuing publication when I joined Romance Writers of America back in 2000. My stories have always been spicy, so migrating to erotic romance was natural for me.

With the year, 2008, just around the corner, what can the readers look forward to in the New Year from Aubrey?

I release a book every other month at Changeling Press and as often as Ellora’s Cave can work me onto their schedule. I also write for Loose Id, so the easiest way to keep track of me is to visit my website.

What would you consider the best elements of a great story for you?

I need engaging characters swept up in entertaining plots. If I can’t relate to the characters on some level, I don’t care what’s happening to them. And yet, if the plot is too predictable, even the most likable character won’t keep my interest. I think there needs to be a balance.

What is the hardest part of writing and the easiest for you?

Starting a story is the easiest and most invigorating part for me. Learning who the characters are and deciding what challenges they’ll have to overcome. Making sure all the plot threads have been tied up and delivering a satisfying ending tends to be my biggest challenge. (Often because I’ve begun work on my next project.)

Do you get along well with your publisher and editors?

I feel blessed in this area. I have the same editor for both Changeling and Loose Id and she is fantastic. My Ellora’s Cave/Cerridwen Press editor is also wonderful. I have no complaints with any of my publishers.

What is the most rewarding thing about being a writer?

I write because I love to write, but I also enjoy interacting with my readers very much.

When you are not writing, what can readers see you doing?

I live in Colorado and love spending time in the mountains. I also enjoy live theater and an eclectic assortment of music.

Do you have an agent that works with you?

I’ve worked with Deidre Knight for several years now and think she’s fantastic. I couldn’t ask for a better agent.

After your story is finished and on the shelves, do you think to yourself, I wish I had changed this or done that differently?

There are a few stories I’ve felt that way about. I go back and read some of my older works and I’m amazed at how much I’ve grown as an author. Still, I try to enjoy each story for what it is and move on to the next adventure.

Why not share your website, any loops or myspace with us and where we can find your books?

LOL That’s quite a list. Here goes.

Website: aubreyross.com
Changeling Press: changelingpress.com/author.php?uid=29
Ellora’s Cave: ellorascave.com/
Loose Id: loose-id.com/searchresult.aspx?CategoryID=10
Newsletter: groups.yahoo.com/group/Anything-but-Ordinary/
Myspace/blog: blog.myspace.com/aubrey_ross

I also write paranormal romance as Cyndi Friberg. My "Cyndi" stories are still spicy though not quite as explicit. cyndifriberg.com

Just for Fun: Do you have a favorite candy?

Anything with chocolate and nuts, Almond M&Ms are one of my favorites.

A country you would love to visit?

Anywhere in Europe would be fine with me, England , Ireland , or Germany.

A television show that keeps you entertained or on the edge-of-your-seat?

I’m a mega-Farscape fan. As with Firefly, I was furious when it was canceled. I enjoy both on DVD now. As for currently running shows, I’m hooked on House, MD.

Is there anything in your closets that you hate to part with?

I have shoes/boots I know I’ll never wear again, but can’t bring myself to give away. I always think I’ll find an excuse to wear them then I reach for something a lot more comfortable!

Aubrey thanks so much for taking time out of your busy schedule to spend with us today. We look forward to reading your excellent books.

Interviewed by: Linda L.