Today I am speaking with AJ Hampton. Hello AJ, how are you today? We at FAR are anxious to hear about AJ.

Would you like to be addressed as AJ?

Yes, please. In case anyone was wondering with burning curiosity, the AJ isn’t short for anything, LOL.

I looked at your website; you have some great upcoming releases I see. What inspires you to compose erotic romance? Is that the genre you love the most?

I’m inspired by what I read and write. For a long time, I thought “close door” sex scenes was the best I was going to get in a good romance novel. Once I found others that were passionate about getting into all the details… well I was hooked! I really am a sucker for the paranormal romance books. Vampires, shape shifters… witches. It puts a really sexy, unique spin on romance.

Frozen Terror and Grave Weight look intriguing. What can readers expect when they open the pages and begin their journey into these two books?

Both of these are very short Halloween pieces that I wrote for Cacoethes Publishing. I’m hoping that it will be a short sample at some of my longer works. While neither one is erotic and more horrific (it was for Halloween!) I’m hoping that readers will enjoy my writing style. Both are spooky and leave you wanting a little bit more. The best horror, in my opinion, is one that doesn’t spell out all the gruesome details. What our imaginations come up with can be quite terrifying.

Do you see yourself in any of the characters in your books?

Not really in anything that is coming out. I have just submitted one novel that was written in first person. It’s called Edge of Disaster and I feel this has the most of myself in it. Most of my other books do follow my morals and beliefs. I couldn’t imagine writing something that I didn’t believe in.

Besides writing, what is your favorite thing to do every day?

I love watching TV, yes I have a full week schedule!! Its just a nice way to veg out and let the stress of the day melt away. I also enjoy puzzles, but I find I rarely have the time to devote to them.

What are your plans for future WIP?

I have a couple of trilogies in the works that I’m really excited about. One is a vampire story that will follow three brothers. This will be a different approach for me because the tale really delves into the hero’s perspective. Normally I wrote from the heroines.

My next trilogy is about a woman named Cassidy Keller who really discovers herself and her past. Written over three books you’ll see her come to grips with her powers and the man she loves to hate.

Do you have to go through many drafts/edits to get it polished just right?

Oh yes!! I read through things over and over again, just to make sure they are the way I want them. Changing one or two things can really make a difference.

As an author, do you think it is important for a writer to stay in touch with his/her readers, and the growing trend of what they really like to read?

I definitely agree. I’m always open to hearing comments and suggestions. With out honest critiques how will I grow as a writer? I love writing, it’s a passion, but I also want to provide a product that satisfies. Just recently I got a request for an erotic scene where the woman is in control in the sexual situation. I plan on filling that request as soon as possible!

Is there a book you have read that left a strong impression you will never forget?

Yes, the Anita Blake series by Laurell Hamilton. Until I started her series, I had no idea there were books that could cross so many genres. I’ll never forget the first time I picked up Guilty Pleasures.

Which room in your home would you say is your favorite?

Well my house isn’t that big! LOL. It doesn’t take much to cross from one room to the next, but I’m fond of my living room/office.

Where would you classify as your most romantic place to visit to gather some story ideas?

The beach! One of my favorite things is going to the beach during a storm. There is something beautiful about dark, looming clouds over a churning ocean. To me, that’s romantic, but my tastes do run dark.

If you could be a character in any Disney Movie, which movie would you choose?

Oh goodness. LOL. You’d think I’d be better versed in Disney considering I have a two year old! I’d be Alice in Alice in Wonderland.

Do you have a favorite nursery rhyme you will always cherish?

No, not in particular. I remember a few, but none that I hold dear.

Your editor just phoned and said she needed you to host a banquet dinner tomorrow and she needs you to prepare enough food for sixty guests, plus do a book signing. Do you stay calm? And what menu would you delight the guests?

Stay calm? Heck no! I scramble around the house before I get to googling for some quick fix ideas! Knowing me and my culinary skills I’d go for a simple sandwich tray and some veggies!! You can’t go wrong with croissants.

Do you have another website than http://www.ajhampton.com that you would like to share with your readers, like a blog or links to your books?

I do! I do most of my blogging in Live Journal, where I do try to keep up with regular posts. The posts I most enjoy are my “Fun Fact Monday” entries where I’m trying to give my readers an insight into what makes me, me. You can find that at: http://ajhampton.livejournal.com/

In addition, I also have a MySpace and a Yahoo Group where my readers can keep up to date with releases.

AJ, I have enjoyed our talk and thank you for taking time to share some insight with us into your life and writing.

Interviewed by: Linda L.