Author Joey Hill
Something About Witches is Coming!
Ruby Night Divine is a gun shop owner. She’s also a witch who knows magic can fail. She’s experienced it firsthand, with full-blown tragic consequences. Smith & Wesson is a whole hell of a lot more reliable, and nothing’s as cathartic as the ability to put a few holes in the things that piss you off. Like Derek Stormwind.
A powerful sorcerer, Derek is determined to get to the bottom of why she pushed him away and ran three years before. He also needs her help. A coven needs training to help them fight a demon and his minions. While Ruby is willing to do it, she’s sure it’s just a ruse to get back in her heart—and her bed. The thing is, that’s where she wants him. Unfortunately, her bed’s already made, she’s this close to losing her soul, and she fears nothing can save her. Not Derek. Not even Smith & Wesson.
* * * * *
So begins the first book of my new Arcane Shot series. The joke about this series is that it was spawned by my agent suggesting that I pitch a paranormal mass market series to Berkley. During that discussion, she added, “Oh, and make it something about witches.” Snort. What’s particularly funny about that is the title came from a purely independent suggestion from the editor, several months down the road. One of the many little weird kismet moments in the publishing world.
The idea was for this book/series to be a bit lighter in emotional and erotic intensity than my usual stuff. Hmm. Well, my creative scales tip heavily toward the dark side, but I did make an honest effort. Promise. The good thing is, by starting out with every intention of working on the lighter side of things, I stumbled onto a cast of wonderful characters. A modern-day sorcerer who wears a cowboy hat and dragonskin boots, and a witch who runs a gun shop? The sparks flying between Derek and Ruby pulled me right in. Ruby also has a best friend, Raina, who’s a half-succubus/all witch and runs a bordello staffed by sex demons. She doesn’t care for Derek at all, and since he’s essentially a paranormal cop, she rubs him the wrong way as well. Oh, and Ruby has an elderly mastiff named Theo, not the usual witch’s familiar (lol).
Would you like the chance to take an early peek at all of them? There’s a chapter one excerpt on my website. If you leave a comment or question on this post, you’ll also be eligible for a giveaway (domestic or international) of one of my titles, your choice. Hope you enjoy Derek and Ruby’s story!
Author Website: www.storywitch.com
February 15th, 2012 at 1:10 pm
Hello Joey! I have been looking forward to the release of Something About Witches for weeks. Congratulations on your Mass Market release!
You have a collection of gorgeous covers. Do you give much input on how they are designed? Do you have a favorite cover artist?
geishasmom73 AT yahoo DOT com
February 15th, 2012 at 1:26 pm
Hi Stacie! You’re following me on the blog rounds today (laughter – I’m delighted!). Thanks for the congratulations, and for the good words on the covers. I’ve been so lucky in my cover artists, both at Berkley and Elllora’s Cave. Both publishers do ask for my input for their art departments – character description, basic summary of the story, and if I have any cover concept ideas. They have absolute discretion on whether to use any of that information or not, and they balance it against marketing considerations, cover production costs, etc. Despite that, I’d say at least 80% of my covers reflect my input/ideas – and in most cases, they make what I envisioned even better!
Don Sipley has done most of the work on my Berkley covers, and did two of my favorites – Mark of the Vampire Queen and A Witch’s Beauty. At Ellora’s Cave, I’d say Afterlife is one of my absolute faves for the use of color and the two models reflecting my hero/heroine. Syneca is I think the head design/art person for EC’s covers, and she does a great meshing of the photography with unique details that make the cover eye catching.
February 15th, 2012 at 2:11 pm
Congratulations on a fabulous book. I have already pre-ordered the next book in the series. In Something About Witches as in most of your books. You woven threads from other series in particular If Wishes Were like Horses which I loved reading and at the time hoped you would turned it into a series.
It has fascinated me how you tie parts of different series into your book which is a unique I have never heard of any other offer doing it. I was wondering how you came up with the idea?
I cannot wait for the release of In a Company of Witches in May
February 15th, 2012 at 7:01 pm
Kevin, thanks for those comments. Even though I’d love to say it was a brilliant plan on my part, in actual fact it’s come about as a very organic, spontaneous process. When I write a story, there are times characters from other books just “show up”, because they fit well into the plot line at that point and it makes more sense to use them than to create brand new characters with similar skills/interests. It’s also always nice for me to revisit characters from other books, so tying them together with the current protagonists as friends, business associates, or simply having their paths cross due to plot needs works great. I’m glad you like it, and I can’t wait to share ICOW with all of you as well!
February 15th, 2012 at 10:11 pm
Hi Joey! Great post! I loved Something About Witches and can’t wait for In The Company of Witches which is Raina’s and bad, bad boy Mikhael’s story. I have a question. I really liked the idea of Raina’s fantasy room. Did something inspire you to create that room or did the story just end up leading you there?
February 16th, 2012 at 1:49 am
I have not read this book yet, I am just starting to read your vampire series (LOVE them so far). I am planning on getting the rest of them because every thing I have seen on all your writing is wonderful. Congrats on your new releases and god luck with the future ones!
February 16th, 2012 at 8:44 am
Kristen, I knew when he appeared on the scene, he’d have his own book. That much dark smolder couldn’t go to waste (lol). Well, part of it was muse-driven, but I won’t deny that part of it was probably inspired by the holodeck of Star Trek, Next Generation. The minute they started using that on the show, my twisted little mind was thinking. Hmmm…I wonder what Riker uses it for? Could just hear Pickard saying – okay, no more elaborate bondage scenes; Data reports the system integrity is taking too much of a beating. Ahem. Literally.
And if you’ve never watched Next Generation, you’re going “hunh?” and thinking I’m a big geek. Of course, that part’s true (wink). Anyhow, I’m not a big sci-fi fan (though I love space opera like Star Wars and Star Trek, and the ultimate – Firefly! yea!), but I could latch onto that idea very quickly.
February 16th, 2012 at 8:45 am
June, thank you!! I’m so happy you’re continuing to read them and each is meeting your expectations. As you know, I want to hear about it if they don’t. Thanks for the congratulations and good wishes. :>
February 16th, 2012 at 1:26 pm
Hi Joey! I have really enjoyed your previous stories and I’m looking forward reading the new series and seeing how different it is from your others. Do you think it’s important for an author to “switch it up” every once in a while in order to stay fresh?
Congrats on the new release
February 16th, 2012 at 2:14 pm
Cheryl, thanks for that! It depends on the author – some can write the same series/genre for a long time without any creative flagging – it’s amazing! And it’s absolutely critical for an author to stay enthusiastic about the story she’s writing, because readers can tell in a heartbeat if you were on “autopilot” while writing it.
So, logically, if you found yourself thinking “ugh, I really don’t want to write another paranormal”, it would be good to write another genre if you can do that. However, sometimes contract obligations don’t give you that leeway. If you’re contracted to write three paranormals in the same series and you get burned out on it halfway through, you still need to deliver those books, so you have to figure out a way to recharge your batteries AND write the books.
I’ve found that writing free serialized vignettes for the fan forum that revisit favorite characters from my other books really helps with that – it’s something I can fit in between contracted works, and I have the freedom to let the story dwell in all those fun romantic parts, without having to worry about pesky plot issues, etc. It stretches my creative muscles and gives me a good break.
Since I write for two publishers, another way I keep it fresh is by alternating – I try to write a contemporary for Ellora’s Cave between every two paranormals I write for Berkley. That helps a lot! And, as you correctly recognized, sometimes having books with different tones/approaches, like the new Arcane Shot series, can help with creative burnout as well. You assume different “voices” for the different series. So, in short, an author can stay fresh by becoming a split personality (grin).
February 17th, 2012 at 4:10 pm
This sounds so interesting and the cover makes you want to read it. It’s going on my TBR list.
Heaven
February 17th, 2012 at 4:38 pm
Joey, I absolutely loved Something About Witches and can’t wait for In the Company of Witches. Do you have it mapped out or are the characters surprising you? Is there anything in this series that when the muse brought it to your attention you thought “Where did that come from?”. I loved the integration of the other characters from your books, I haven’t read if Wishes Were Horses but it’s on my TBB list… still trying to finish up the NOD series, reading Mistress of Redemption now, so many good books so little time.
February 17th, 2012 at 4:52 pm
Congrats on the new series. I’m always up for a story with witches and sorcerers. Never came across a cowboy sorcerer before, that’s different,
February 17th, 2012 at 5:02 pm
The Arcane Shot series sounds so interesting. They are so going into my list of must-reads. Congratulations on your upcoming series.
February 17th, 2012 at 5:13 pm
I love the title and way it happened from your editor’s suggestion. I love a handsome cowboy and the cover art is great. I am not a paranormal reader usually but have to check this out. Thanks for coming to entertain us.
February 17th, 2012 at 5:18 pm
Heaven/Gail, thanks for that! Pam, I like the combination too. Actually, I think Derek was at least partially inspired by my memory of a great fantasy story called Demon Dance by T. Chris Martindale that integrated traditional fantasy elements in the setting of the wild west.
Diana, I have quite a few contemporary readers who enjoy my paranormal work because my primary focus is still the relationship. I hope you’ll find it worth your while as well! And it was my pleasure to be here. You all are a great group. :>
February 17th, 2012 at 5:24 pm
Pyper asked “Do you have it mapped out or are the characters surprising you? Is there anything in this series that when the muse brought it to your attention you thought “Where did that come from?”.”
Pyper, first, thanks for that enthusiastic reaction to SAW. I’d have to say my characters and story direction do surprise me often, mainly because, even though I have a rough outline of the story when I start, how the characters evolve is very organic. I don’t always expect their reactions to certain situations. Derek’s fortitude through the emotional challenges Ruby presented both surprised me at times and made me more in love with him.
Now, Raina and Mikhael, my protagonists for In the Company of Witches, have definitely been full of surprises. Raina, as half-succubus and the madam of a bordello, had some unexpected vulnerabilities that Mikhael uncovered because of his unique talents in the take-a-woman-off-guard department. And he was far more complex than expected – for those of the D&D generation, he was somewhere between “lawful neutral” and “lawful evil” at times, with a pretty unwavering code of honor. Intriguing for a guy who walks in darkness most of the time. How he reconciles what he was to Ruby in Something About Witches, and what he is to Raina in ICOW, will definitely surprise readers – if they view it the way I did (smile). Kind of nebulous answer, but I’m trying to avoid spoilers (wink). Hope that answered the question sufficiently, however! Thanks for coming by.
February 17th, 2012 at 5:36 pm
I love reading Paranormals! The cover to Something About Witches is the most attractive cover I’ve seen in a while. It’s irresistible and takes you in.
February 17th, 2012 at 5:58 pm
Something About Witches is probably my favorite read so far this year, and I am thrilled that it is part of a series.
February 17th, 2012 at 6:14 pm
I’m already a big fan of yours and look forward to reading this story!
February 17th, 2012 at 6:25 pm
I really like stories with witches in them!
February 17th, 2012 at 6:25 pm
Interesting what you say about this one being a little different. I will be interested in seeing how different it is. I have read and loved your other books.
February 17th, 2012 at 7:35 pm
I haven’t yet read your books, but hopefully to make up for that one soon
February 17th, 2012 at 7:55 pm
Hi Joey! This sounds like a great read to me! A series I definitely want to check out!
February 17th, 2012 at 8:19 pm
You guys are a treat! Came back for a bedtime check and all these lovely new comments were here! :> Louise, I do love the cover – we asked the art department to add her tattoo, because otherwise it was a little too western rather than paranormal, and I would have given her an automatic instead of a six shooter (since she loves her Sig), but I love the way Ruby and Derek are depicted, and the fabulous cover scheme. Glad you liked it too!
Cathie, I love hearing that it’s your favorite book so far this year – even though I know it’s only February, I’ll take it (lol).
Kammie, thank you for that – let me know if SAW doesn’t meet expectations. Sherry, you might also like my book If Wishes Were Horses. The hero is a Wiccan priest, so in that one, the “witch” is a very hot male (grin). His heroine is the local sheriff. There’s also a free short story on my site called “Thou Shalt Not Suffer” which is about a witch, that has remained a personal favorite of mine over the years. Just look under the short story link on the left side of the screen when you go to my home page.
Debby, I’ll be interested in your opinion about it. I’m always curious/nervous about how my existing readers will react to a new series (smile).
Julia/Ashley – I hope when they make it onto your TBR pile, my stories won’t disappoint!
February 17th, 2012 at 8:42 pm
love stories about witches and this one sounds fantastic. will definitely be adding to my wish list.
February 17th, 2012 at 9:43 pm
Oh like the sound of this book and will have to go buy it soon.
Hugs!
Lisa
February 17th, 2012 at 10:01 pm
As of yet I have not read any books by this author but this one has caught my attention, will have to put it on my to buy list.
Robin
February 17th, 2012 at 11:14 pm
I have enjoyed your books and this one looks like another winner. I have to agree that you have the most gorgeous covers – very striking!
February 18th, 2012 at 1:02 am
Hi Joey, Love the title and how it came about. Sounds like a interesting read.
christina_92 at yahoo.com
February 18th, 2012 at 5:22 am
Congratulations on the new series. Love the cover.
February 18th, 2012 at 7:10 am
Sounds like another great one!
February 18th, 2012 at 9:19 am
Wishing you good luck with this series.
February 18th, 2012 at 9:38 am
Looks like a great premise, something really different and certainly catches my eye!! Good luck with the series.
Valerie
in Germany
February 18th, 2012 at 9:53 am
I love stories about witches and this one sounds really good!
February 18th, 2012 at 10:45 am
I can’t wait to read this it look very promising
February 18th, 2012 at 11:47 am
Thanks for first chapter I enjoyed it. I have added this book to my book wish list.
jmesparza821(at)gmail(dot)com
February 18th, 2012 at 10:21 pm
Hi Joey, what a great book cover and the book sounds really good. I am glad your agent suggested a story about witches. I can’t wait to get my hands on this one
Hugss
LindaH
February 18th, 2012 at 11:00 pm
Haven’t read anything by you yet, but this sounds like an interesting start to an intreguing series — seems that cast of characters would keept thing mighty interesting
February 18th, 2012 at 11:58 pm
Loved the coincidence revealed about the title of the book. Can’t wait to explore this book.
February 19th, 2012 at 8:01 am
Pam/Carol/Linda – glad you enjoy stories about witches. Don’t know if you caught my reply to Sherry (who also likes them!), but here’s what I told her – “Sherry, you might also like my book If Wishes Were Horses. The hero is a Wiccan priest, so in that one, the “witch” is a very hot male (grin). His heroine is the local sheriff. There’s also a free short story on my site called “Thou Shalt Not Suffer” which is about a witch, that has remained a personal favorite of mine over the years. Just look under the short story link on the left side of the screen when you go to my home page.”
Juana, glad you enjoyed the excerpt! There’s also a chapter two exclusive on the jwhconnection.com fan forum if you’d like to read a little further (wink).
Thanks for all the good words about the book – hope everyone who decides to take the plunge enjoys Ruby and Derek’s story.
February 19th, 2012 at 8:34 am
I’d love to read Derek and Ruby’s story. A new series for my TRL. Thanks for posting today and Congrats on your latest release Joey.
Carol L
Lucky4750 (at) aol (dot) com
February 19th, 2012 at 10:09 am
I am a huge fan girl. I saw this one at B&N I gotta get a picture with my daughter holding the book cause it was soo cute,
February 19th, 2012 at 1:41 pm
I am ready for another book about witches and your book sounds great. Love the cover too. susan L garysue@dejazzd.com
February 19th, 2012 at 2:52 pm
I haven’t had the chance to read anything by you yet, but after reading this post I will have to pick this up and get started.
Thanks,
musicalfrog at comcast.net
February 20th, 2012 at 12:12 pm
Tina, I’ve been so excited because of course this is my first book carried in places like Walmart, Target, grocery stores, etc, in addition to the brick and mortar bookstores like B&N and BAM. My readers and family have been so sweet – they’ve been snapping shots of them like Where’s Waldo? and sending them my way (lol). And of course, the one Walmart that ISN’T carrying it? Yep, the one closest to me. We’re a little bitty town, so our Walmart romance area isn’t very big, mostly reserved for the really big names. But hey, as long as it’s showing up in Walmarts somewhere! :>
Carol, Susan and Patti – I appreciate that, very much! Oh, and Little Lamb Lost, forgot to mention earlier – yes, I thought it was amusing, looking back on it, how those two incidents regarding the title connected, because I didn’t even really make the connection until after it was all said and done.
February 21st, 2012 at 5:34 am
Okay, it’s time to announce the giveaway winner, and in fact, there’s going to be TWO of you, because RJ also wants to give away a second prize package. Soooo…via random drawing, the winner of the book-of-your-choice giveaway from me is Patti P, and the winner of the RJ prize package is Cheryl McInnis!! Congratulations, ladies – RJ will be in touch with you to get some information, then we’ll get those prizes out to you promptly!
Thanks so much to everyone for spending time with me here, and thanks to RJ for inviting me!
February 26th, 2012 at 4:45 pm
I love witches,cowboys,guns and everything in this book. One I will have to check into.
February 26th, 2012 at 5:07 pm
Congratulations on your new series! From your blog, it sounds great and I can’t wait to read it.
February 26th, 2012 at 7:38 pm
Congratulations on your new release! This one is going on my wish list. Congrats to the winners, too!
February 26th, 2012 at 8:33 pm
I loved this one and can’t wait to read Raina’s story.
February 27th, 2012 at 6:19 am
Hi Joey. Your new book sounds wonderful. Love the cover.
February 27th, 2012 at 6:49 am
I WANT!!!!!
Valerie
in Germany