{"id":127,"date":"2017-08-03T12:19:40","date_gmt":"2017-08-03T16:19:40","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/korysteed.com\/?p=127"},"modified":"2017-08-03T12:19:40","modified_gmt":"2017-08-03T16:19:40","slug":"an-interview-with-authors-remmy-duchene-michael-mandrake-about-their-hot-new-mm-romance-novel-love-at-the-right-tempo","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"http:\/\/www.korysteed.com\/index.php\/2017\/08\/03\/an-interview-with-authors-remmy-duchene-michael-mandrake-about-their-hot-new-mm-romance-novel-love-at-the-right-tempo\/","title":{"rendered":"An interview with authors, Remmy Duchene & Michael Mandrake, about their HOT new, M\/M Romance Novel, Love at the Right Tempo"},"content":{"rendered":"

Welcome, Remmy & Michael! Your new M\/M romance novel, Love at the Right Tempo<\/em><\/strong>, about a classical violinist and an ex-military man with a tangled past sounds very intriguing. I love complicated characters!<\/p>\n

\"\"<\/p>\n

What would you like readers to know about your book?<\/b><\/p>\n

Remmy:\u00a0 Hrm\u2014well, aside from the usual (interracial, erotic) this story has a different feel to it than anything I\u2019ve ever written. I think it\u2019s a story about two men trying to find themselves and each other.<\/p>\n

Michael: For me, it is different. I\u2019m so used to writing about spies and law figures. Writing a violinist was relatively easy as opposed to the others. *grins* Because of it being a different story entirely, I had to make it more emotional this time around. I believe Freddy and V work nicely together. Their bond is stronger than any couple I\u2019ve done recently.<\/p>\n

What was it like to write the story? Did you face any difficulties\/challenges?<\/b><\/p>\n

Remmy:\u00a0 Well, the characters themselves have been through a lot before they were even on the page. We\u2019ve had to recalibrate this story a few times to get it right. But that\u2019s a part of writing\u2014Michael and I are in different countries and with different time zones and day jobs, well, let\u2019s just say it took some doing.<\/p>\n

Michael: It did, but I believe it turned out wonderfully. Once we got started, the words seemed to flow on the page. As Remmy said, there were a couple of rough spots where the characters hit a patch, but for the most part, it was a smooth process.<\/p>\n

What do you love about your story, and why?<\/b><\/p>\n

Remmy:\u00a0 I love the simplistic complication of it. I know, that doesn\u2019t sound like it\u2019s a thing but it should be. The story is straightforward, but the end result is what we all search for.<\/p>\n

Michael: Other than what Remmy said, the total opposites. I enjoy writing two people who are so different from one another and make it work. That\u2019s what happened here.<\/p>\n

What have you learned from the main characters in your story?<\/b><\/p>\n

Remmy:\u00a0 From Vaughan, I learn that no matter how damaged you think you are\u2014there is always something or someone out there that can mend your heart. From Freddy\u2014well, eat at least two balanced meal a day and never call an ex-soldier\u2019s bluff (grins).<\/p>\n

Michael: *laughs* There is that about Freddy. I learned from Freddy to not allow yourself to get so wrapped up in trying to please others that you lose yourself. I think he tried that with his mother as well as his best friend. From V, yes I learned what Remmy pointed out as well as not thinking you can\u2019t be forgiven. You can.<\/p>\n

Do you write in other genres and if so, what are they? What genres would you like to try that you haven\u2019t already?<\/b><\/p>\n

Remmy:\u00a0 So far, I\u2019ve only written contemporary interracial. I don\u2019t think I\u2019ll ever not write interracial\u2014well I did once and it was fun but not a regular thing. I have written a kind of paranormal with my Shivers Series. I\u2019d like to do more of that and one day perhaps test out the Thriller genre. I would LOVE to write a regency MM piece. I\u2019ve been toying around with that idea for a few years now.<\/p>\n

Michael: I write contemporary, but also paranormal. I love vampires and demons. I\u2019m writing a series now with those aspects. I also have some MM historical on the brain I\u2019d like to tackle.<\/p>\n

What or who influences your writing?<\/b><\/p>\n

Remmy:\u00a0 Writers – Nora Roberts, Jayne Anne Krentz, Catherine Coulter \u2013 I know they aren\u2019t MM writers but I grew up on. Catherine\u2019s Legacy series and her Song Series gives me LIFE!\u00a0 They instilled a love of the romance genre in me.<\/p>\n

Michael: Writers \u2013 Anne Rice and in our genre I adore LA Witt, Mercy Celeste, Mary Calmes, Sue Brown, Damon Suede, and Rick Reed. They are the tops in my book. Sue Brown\u2019s Morning Report series is my favorite along with Hot Head by Damon Suede.<\/p>\n

Where do you find your inspiration?<\/b><\/p>\n

Remmy:\u00a0 Wow\u2014loaded question \u2013music, movies, people walking down the street, my niece, the lake, Toronto\u2026<\/p>\n

Michael: Music, my family, and friends. I live in a diverse neighborhood. If something in the news interests me, I might weave it into a story.<\/p>\n

Who are your author idols and if you met them what would you say to them?<\/b><\/p>\n

Remmy: \u00a0 Like I said before, Catherine Coulter. Aside from fangirling super hard? Well, I\u2019d thank her for doing what she loved to show me that I could one day do what I loved. I would also thank her for saving me\u2014I went through some stuff when I was younger and getting lost with Roland was the perfect get-a-way.<\/p>\n

Michael: I met one of my author idols in this genre. That was Sue Brown. I was so awestruck.\u00a0 However, the biggest thrill would be Anne Rice. After recovering from loss of consciousness, I\u2019d ask about the world she weaved for the vampire books, I\u2019m very aware that New Orleans inspired her, but I\u2019d like to know more.<\/p>\n

If you had to choose your three favorite books by other authors, what would they be and why?<\/b><\/p>\n

Remmy:\u00a0 Hidden Needs by Havan Fellows. Archer and Dalton are life.\u00a0 Memories of the Heart by Felice Stevens \u2013 This story had me giggling from the very first chapter.\u00a0 The Wyndam Legacy by Catherine Coulter. This book was the first period piece I\u2019d ever read and it has always had a place in my heart.<\/p>\n

Michael: I mentioned Morning Report by Sue Brown because Luke and Simon are the quintessential gay couple. Their story was beyond amazing. I\u2019ve re-read the series several times. Hot Head by Damon Suede was such an amazing book. So well-written, in depth with relatable characters with real problems. I also love books about firefighters. And I have pick Beyond Complicated by Mercy Celeste. She is amazingly talented and what I adore about Mercy is she will take risks no matter what. It\u2019s why I always enjoy her books.<\/p>\n

Do you have any interests outside of writing, and if so, what are they?<\/b><\/p>\n

Remmy:\u00a0 Food, Photography, acting (trying to get back into it), wandering around Toronto, music and music culture (I listen to a lot of music the cool kids would never admit to listening to), my family.<\/p>\n

Michael: I love music. I go to concerts a lot during the year. I have children so of course I love spending time with my youngest who is nine. My oldest is 19 so I rarely see him, but when I do, we talk about goals. My husband and I watch sports together and we enjoy the same music so we\u2019ll take time to listen to things.<\/p>\n

What is your next literary project?<\/b><\/p>\n

Remmy:\u00a0 Um\u2026on my own, I am working on a story titled ALL OF YOU for a Kindle World release in January. I am also gearing up for edits on my nano story ANYWHERE BUT HERE coming soon to Evernight Publishing. I\u2019m also heavily researching ancient Japan for a story I\u2019ve been toying around with for the better part of a year and a series that I\u2019m developing right now that\u2019s a spin off another series I just starting. So, it\u2019s pretty busy inside my brain.<\/p>\n

Michael: Right now, I\u2019m working on my third story for another publisher as well as my self-published series, Immortals. The first book, Demon Be Mine is out. The second book, Immortality\u2019s Gift is in edits, and now I\u2019m about to start the third.<\/p>\n

Thinking about only yourself, what is important to you in life?<\/b><\/p>\n

Remmy:\u00a0 Family and love. And family doesn\u2019t necessarily have to be people who have the same DNA as you. Family is anyone who accepts you and welcomes you and loves you. Love\u2014not always sexual love but people who you can count on to make you laugh until you cry.<\/p>\n

Michael: Definitely the same things Remmy mentioned. Family pulls you up by your bootstraps when you need it most. My husband has been my rock through many ups and downs. We have an almost perfect relationship. *grins* My kids constantly amaze me with how smart they are and my mother is a fighter. She\u2019s beat cancer three times and is still chugging along. And, of course my friends. My BFF\u2019s have been with me through thick and thin. I couldn\u2019t be more grateful for them.<\/p>\n

Blurb:<\/b><\/p>\n

Violinist Frederick Tremblay is one of the biggest names in classical music. When it comes to work, he\u2019s all in.\u00a0 There is only time for music and working to make his dreams come through but none for love. Hell, he barely makes time to eat. When he agrees to play at an acquaintance son\u2019s birthday party he figured he\u2019d go in, make his rounds then go home\u2014but his plans change when he walks into the path of Vaughan Singleton.<\/p>\n

Vaughan “Sin” Singleton is the disowned heir to a candy empire. After he came out, his life basically ended and he had to start over from scratch. Joining the military was the thing to save him and also the one thing that brought him to his knees. Forced to retire, slinging alcohol wasn\u2019t his dream but he needs something to pay the bills and to assist with easing back into civilian life. When he meets Frederick, Vaughan isn\u2019t looking for love, but one unguarded moment changes everything<\/p>\n

Excerpt:<\/b><\/p>\n

\u201cWay to step out, man.\u201d Deena giggled.<\/p>\n

Frederick ignored her comment and put up his free hand. There was a man behind the bar, but he had his back turned and right now, no one else was there working with him. He looked to be busy drying glasses or perhaps washing. Though Frederick didn\u2019t want to disturb him, he really wanted something else to quench his thirst.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, excuse me, sir.\u201d<\/p>\n

The man turned around and approached them. \u201cWhat can I get you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Frederick eyed the mature gentleman in front of him, taking in his features. Dark brown eyes, hair cut low with a beard and well trimmed mustache. His lips were thick. Kissable. Frederick loved a man with distinct features.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh \u2026 um\u2026 I\u2019d like a soda. Perhaps a 7-Up or Sprite if you have it.\u201d Frederick continued staring, clutching his violin case tightly in his hands.<\/p>\n

Deena seemed to pick up that he was tongue tied. \u201cAnd I\u2019ll have a beer. Heineken if you have it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHeineken for the lady and a\u2014um\u2014soda for the gentleman,\u201d the bartender said. There was a slightly hitch in the way he said soda, almost as if in disbelief. He then focused his attention on Deena. \u201cWould you like the bottle or a glass?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe bottle is fine. I\u2019m a simple kind of gal.\u201d She giggled.<\/p>\n

Frederick smiled at the man, still holding onto his violin as if it were a life raft. He wondered why the bartender seemed put off by his request. \u201cSomething funny about 7-Up or Sprite?\u201d<\/p>\n

The bartender eyed him with his head tilted slightly to the side. \u201cOh nothing.\u201d He spoke, his lips forming over the two words making them escape his being easily. \u201cNothing at all.\u201d Without another word, he walked over for a clean glass that sparkled. They had the word Prince\u2019s <\/i>with a crown on the side in golden letters. Using large hands, the bar man operated the tap to expertly fill the glass with Sprite before grabbing a green bottle of Heineken from a cooler and prying off the cap. When he returned he set the glass before Frederick without a word but offered Deena a smile with her drink. \u201cMa\u2019am?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks.\u201d Deena batted her eyelashes at him.<\/p>\n

Flirtatiously.<\/p>\n

Frederick suppressed a growl and eyed his glass, watching the bartender walk away again. For some reason, it bothered him that the guy appeared to be bothered by his choice of beverage. \u201cI don\u2019t drink alcohol, by the way. I\u2019m sort of boring. The fact I play violin is the most interesting thing about me.\u201d Frederick set Gabriel beside him in a vacant chair. He lifted the glass to his lips and swallowed slowly, still gazing at the handsome gentleman working the bar.<\/p>\n

Deena nearly spat out her beer, and she nudged him with her elbow.<\/p>\n

\u201cTo each their own,\u201d the bartender said. \u201cDid anyone let Stuart know you\u2019re here?\u201d<\/p>\n

Frederick finished his Sprite, still gawking at the man. \u201cYes, the hostess did. I suppose she\u2019ll be back shortly. Do you mind if I ask your name?\u201d Frederick thought he\u2019d go for broke even though it was quite possible he\u2019d be barking up the wrong tree. A part of him said he wasn\u2019t, or perhaps he hoped that to be true.<\/p>\n

Deena gasped next to him, seemingly in surprise.<\/p>\n

The bartender moved to stand directly across from Frederick, braced his elbows into the bar and leaned in. \u201cIf you wish to tell my boss I\u2019ve been an ass to you,\u201d he said, his voice warm and rough. \u201cYou don\u2019t need my name for that. All you have to do is tell him the black guy at the bar. I\u2019m the only one here.\u201d<\/p>\n

Frederick shivered at the sound of the man\u2019s voice and how he leaned in so close to him. Instead of shying away as he usually did, he decided to play the game. \u201cActually, I wasn\u2019t thinking that at all. More like, I wanted to know your name so I know the lovely man that is taking such good<\/i> care of us tonight and, maybe might like to have a drink with me after my performance?\u201d Frederick knew he was going for broke. Gazing at the bartender, Frederick had every intention on finding out something about him, even if it was the disappointing news he\u2019d dread.<\/p>\n

\u201cI see.\u201d The barman licked his lips. \u201cI\u2019m working. Drinking on the job is strictly prohibited, and besides\u2014you\u2019re not a fan of alcohol.\u201d<\/p>\n

Frederick sighed inwardly. He looked to Deena for help, but she only kept drinking her beverage.<\/p>\n

Buy Links:<\/b><\/p>\n

http:\/\/www.evernightpublishing.com\/love-at-the-right-tempo-by-michael-mandrake-and-remmy-duchene<\/b><\/a><\/p>\n

Social Media Links:<\/b><\/p>\n

Remmy:<\/strong><\/p>\n

http:\/\/remmyduchene.wix.com\/remmymantasy<\/a><\/p>\n

Twitter: www.twitter.com\/remmyduchene<\/a><\/p>\n

Intstagram: manluvelikeaboss<\/p>\n

Michael:<\/strong><\/p>\n

http:\/\/michaelmandrake.wordpress.com<\/a><\/p>\n

Twitter: https:\/\/twitter.com\/AuthorSharitaL<\/a><\/p>\n

Instagram: https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/authorsharitalira\/<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Welcome, Remmy & Michael! Your new M\/M romance novel, Love at the Right Tempo, about a classical violinist and an ex-military man with a tangled past sounds very intriguing. I love complicated characters! What would you like readers to know about your book? Remmy:\u00a0 Hrm\u2014well, aside from the usual (interracial, erotic) this story has a … Continue reading “An interview with authors, Remmy Duchene & Michael Mandrake, about their HOT new, M\/M Romance Novel, Love at the Right Tempo”<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[8],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-127","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-promoting-other-authors"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.korysteed.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/127","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.korysteed.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.korysteed.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.korysteed.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.korysteed.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=127"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"http:\/\/www.korysteed.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/127\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":129,"href":"http:\/\/www.korysteed.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/127\/revisions\/129"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"http:\/\/www.korysteed.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=127"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.korysteed.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=127"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"http:\/\/www.korysteed.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=127"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}