I was very fortunate to have a wonderfully talented author take time out of her very busy schedule to answer a few questions for us.  Without waiting another moment let’s hear from the wonderful

Mackenzie McKade

I read you have only been writing for about six years. Did you have any plans of being a writer before that?  If not, what did you want to be when you grew up?
I never thought of becoming a writer when I was younger. Of course there was that one creative writing class in 7^th grade. I had to write and provide illustrations for a short story. Mr. Doodle, The Dingle Bug was selected as one of the books gifted to the Cripple Children’s Hospital that year. I have to admit to feeling pretty proud of my accomplishment.

When I was young, I wanted to be a veterinarian. I love animals. I’ve owned two bobcats, one fox, a skunk, a Macaw, a Lorie, every barnyard animal you can think of, cats and dogs.

You write in several different genres. Do you have a favorite and if so why?
Wow! That’s a hard one. Each genre has its own merits. I love paranormals, the magical aspect intrigues me. Futuristic and fantasy allows my creativity to take wings. Of course, what can you say about cowboys. Yummmmm…

How do your stories come to you?  All at once or slowly page by page?
The best ideas come out of nowhere and hit me with a vengeance. Stories written quickly during a period of excitement and enthusiasm usually fair better than those I write because there’s a deadline looming. I like stories to flow and drive me, instead of the other way around.

Tell us about what makes Mackenzie…Mackenzie.
Laughter and humor. I love to laugh. If there’s a joke to be had, I’ll be involved. <g> I try to put a little laughter in all my books. I’m also a very passionate individual. You’ll find a lot of emotions in my writing—it’s what spills out of my fingers. LOL

What are some of your favorite things…foods, authors, movies, and music?
I like Mexican and Italian food; however, you can never go wrong with a good steak. I prefer pecan praline or strawberry ice cream. And my fallback food is a hamburger.

Christine Feehan, Iris Johansen, Stephanie Laurens, Kay Hooper are some of my favorite authors. But, I have to admit there many authors that I find enjoyment in their work. I can’t believe how many talent authors are out there.

My two favorite movies are Cutting Edge and American Dreamer. If you haven’t seen American Dreamer I highly recommend.

There is nothing like a country song. I couldn’t live without country music. A lot of my ideas come from a line within a song.

It sounds like you enjoying spending time with your family doing activities outdoors. What is the perfect day for Mackenzie?
Oh my. Can I name two perfect days?

I love the mountains. There is serenity in a lake or creek surrounded by mountains. The sound of trickling streams, wild animals in their natural habitat, it’s all so innocent and pure. Whether it’s breathing in the fresh pine scent or walking down mountain paths, I’m filled with awe. It’s a great opportunity for the family to just sit back and reflect.

Of course, there is nothing like a summer day out on the lake watching my girls and grandson wake board. Add to that a tube or an elongated tube called a banana and the fun begins. From climbing aboard to being tossed across the waves you can be sure there will be laughter. Then when everyone is tired we break open the ice chests and have lunch. The break allows us just enough time to re-energize, and then we’re off again.

How does your family feel about your writing?  It sounds like your husband has been very supportive and encouraging. Do they know you write very sexy wonderful stories?
My family is the greatest. My girls and husband are my biggest fans. We celebrate every milestone and accomplishment together. A win for me is a win for them.

Oh yeah! My family is very aware of what I write. They don’t read my work, but I believe they have stumbled upon some of my research—judging by the giggles coming from behind closed doors. <bg>

If you could bring one of your characters to life, who would it be and why?
Prince Eral – the werefin out of Kalina’s Discovery. Why? Because the ocean is a mystery. I’d have Eral personally reveal all its secrets and then some.  LOL Can you imagine the fun in sea toys?

Do you have any advice for aspiring writers?
Don’t give up. This business isn’t easy, but it’s the writers that keep writing that finally win in the end. We might never become a Nora Roberts, but if we can touch one person we have accomplished more than most people ever will.

I read somewhere that most authors publish after writing their fourth book. THE GAME was my fourth book. <g> So, don’t give up!

Do you enjoy hearing from your readers and what is the best way to contact you?
I love hearing from readers. You can email me, or go to my website, visit Myspace or join Wicked Writers -  where we talk about all things wicked and more!

When you are writing do you need total quiet or can you write anywhere?  Do you set aside a certain amount of time each day for writing?
I prefer a quiet place, which is much different from the environment I worked in when I started to write. I use to be able to write even though the house was coming down around me. Today, I prefer a more secluded place with no distractions.

My schedule is pretty chaotic at the moment. Since I returned to work I haven’t been able to create a routine. Writing is hit and miss at the moment. Mainly my weekends are spent at the keyboard.

Do you have someone that you consider a mentor?  How have they influenced your writing?
No mentor, but I do feel a mentor is very valuable, as well as a good critique group. You can’t always be on top of your game. Your critique buddies will make sure you don’t do something stupid or embarrassing.

How do you promote your work?
Chats, conferences, etc. You can’t beat word of mouth from readers and reviewers.

If you had the opportunity to travel in time where would you go and why?
I love the historical time periods, especially the Renaissance. I’d love the opportunity to make women a stronger figure during this barbaric time. The only problem, I’m a hardheaded woman. I’d be in trouble every second of the day.

Perhaps the Greek mythology period would be a better time period for me. I love writing in my pajamas. In Greece, I could walk around in a sheet all day. <g>

Is there anything else you would like to share with us?
First, I’d like to thank you. It’s always a pleasure to work with Joyfully Reviewed. Second I’d like to remind everyone that Lost But Not Forgotten releases July 31, 2007 at  Samhain Publishing. 

Also, check out my back lists. Fallon’s Revenge just won the paranormal Passionate Plume contest. A Tall Dark Cowboy took second place in the contemporary category.

Thanks again for having me.