Whitley Gray is here today! She’s talking about her inspiration for Artistic Endeavor, sharing an excerpt, and holding a giveaway. Please make her feel welcome! 🙂
What inspired you to write Artistic Endeavor?
I joined with a group of authors to write stories set on a fictional college campus—Cathia University. At least one of the characters had to have a university connection. Exploring the theme of a man who had suppressed who he is because of a strict religious upbringing versus a man who is king of the one-night stand held a lot of appeal. I usually write characters who are well out of their teens; Cobey—although inexperienced with intimacy— is twenty-five and has a Master’s degree.
How much do you know about a story when you start to write a first draft?
It depends on the story. For this one, it was easier to plot organically: they meet, escalating action, crisis, resolution. Writing mystery/suspense takes considerably more planning and time—at least for me.
How much of your own life and personality do you put in your work?
Hmm…my life, not much, other than I like to write characters in the medical field. That goes back to write what you know—it’s a comfort thing. Same with location. As far as personality, I think every writer inevitably puts in bits of that. I don’t duplicate people I know, and none of my characters are just like me. Voice is the way you string words together, and the words and manner come back to life experience and what flows for the author.
I’m horrible at titles—how do you choose yours?
I like short titles. A title should sum up what the book is about. “Artistic” covers Cobey’s job as an art professor and Michael’s job as a freelance graphic artist. “Endeavor” suggests a pursuit, in this case the pursuit of sexual experience on the part of Cobey, and the unexpected awakening of love in Michael.
What’s the strangest/silliest/scariest/coolest subject you’ve ever researched for a book?
There have been quite a few. The scariest was probably home invasions for High Concept. Discovering there is a website dedicated to the subject and how to avoid becoming a victim was a bit hair raising.
Tell me a little about yourself—what do you do when you’re not writing?
I work at the dreaded day job. J I do enjoy DVD movies—I’m not much for going to the theater—and I like to try new recipes.
What are you working on now?
The second High Concept book. Beck and Zach are back in a new twisted adventure.
Artistic Endeavor by Whitley Gray
When friends ask one-night stand connoisseur Michael Esteban to introduce college professor and virgin Cobey Miller to the joys of sex, Michael balks. Lust is his thing, not leading a twenty-five year old novice. But shy Cobey has problems meeting men, and their introduction fuels Michael’s decision to help Cobey become a gay-sex-loving guy. It’ll all be fun and games—unless someone falls in love.
EXCERPT:
In the dimly lit bar, Michael drummed his fingers on the table. “Maybe you should have let me meet him somewhere without you two along as chaperones.”
Eli chuckled. “It took me a week to convince him to meet you. He’d never go for the blind date thing.”
“Well, he’s late. Sure he’ll show?”
“Relax.” Burke massaged Eli’s neck. “He’ll be here.”
Ordinarily Michael looked forward to sizing up a new man. In fact, he’d already taken stock of every guy in the room. If Cobey didn’t show, the bartender looked like a good prospect. Prolonged eye contact, a big grin, and a wink when serving Michael’s beer. Yep, good prospect. Someone new.
Of course, Cobey would be new. Too new. Michael sighed. How was he supposed to introduce himself? Hello. I’m the guy our mutual friends have asked to be your sex instructor. How’s it hangin’? Yippee.
“There.” Eli nodded at the entrance. “Just coming in.”
For a moment it was too crowded to see much, but the herd of patrons parted. Michael licked his lips. Well, well, well. The picture hadn’t done Cobey justice. Nicely wide shoulders, narrow hips, hair a man could get a grip on. Dark eyes. A perfect mouth—full but not too full. How was it possible this gorgeous male specimen had never been intimate with another guy? And Michael had the opportunity to be the first one.
I can certainly sacrifice myself for the greater good by teaching him.
Buy Artistic Endeavor: Amazon
Giveaway Details:
A Rafflecopter giveaway has been set up through which four lucky winners will be chosen-
- 1 Winner will take away a $20 Amazon Gift Card.
- 3 Winners will get a free e-copy of “Artistic Endeavor” each.
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Jan 5th – Joyfully Jay – Guest Post
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About Whitley:
Years ago Whitley read and wrote adventure stories under the covers at night. Eventually Whitley decided to write romance—at a desk, during the day. Two heroes turned out to be twice as nice. A pot of coffee and a storyline featuring a couple of guys makes for a perfect day.
Contact Whitley:
Website: Stop by www.whitleygray.com and feed your fix for heat between the sheets with erotica and M/M romance.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/whitley.gray
Blog: www.whitleygray.blogspot.com
Twitter: https://twitter.com/whitleygray
Charley Descoteaux 
Sounds great.
Thanks for stopping by, Laurie! 🙂