This week I have the opportunity to introduce a fellow BTGN and paranormal romance author, Sharon Kleve.

Danica: Sharon, welcome to my blog! Can you tell us a little about yourself?

Sharon: I was born and raised in Washington and currently live on the Olympic Peninsula with my husband, and our sweet cat Ardy.

I love romance. I love reading romance, living romance—who doesn't, but I especially love writing humorous paranormal romance. There's no greater feeling than watching my characters come alive in each other's arms. Most of all, I love giving my characters the happily ever after they deserve—with a few bumps and bruises along the way.

One of my favorite things is picking up a new book and sinking into the story, immersing myself in the emotions between the characters. I hope someday to inspire readers the same way my favorite authors have inspired me.

My desire to write came in my youth—people were constantly telling me, “You tell a great story, you should write a book about your adventures.” I usually just embellished on the truth—to make it sound more exciting and funny.

When not writing, I can usually be found either curled up in my recliner with my cat and a good book, or in the kitchen baking sourdough bread or bagels. I also enjoy walking with my husband, even when its raining.

Danica: I love reading interviews, but today I think I want to do something a little different. Would you tell us a little more about what drove you to become an author?

Sharon: Oh that is a tough question.

Why do I write? Well, because the little voices in my head tell me to, and they won’t stop! I resisted for many years, but just couldn’t ignore the voices any longer. They kept saying, “Write a damn book, will ya? You will love it!” So I did and now I’m a published author working on my 4th book, and the voices were right – I do love it!

I love to being an author because it’s a lot like being on a roller coaster ride—and I love roller coasters. The writing is like waiting in line for your favorite roller coaster; you shuffle along with anticipation and it seems like it’s taking forever. When you finally submit your manuscript; it’s like strapping yourself in to your seat and the slow ride up the first hill begins. Weeks or months later, when you get an email from your publisher with a contract—comes the incredible sensation of being suspended in air—then the screams of excitement, jumping up and down, cupcakes and champagne happen. Ok, maybe there aren’t cupcakes and champagne on a roller coaster, but you get the idea.

Also, I’ve never had a job like writing, where I constantly smile while I’m working—except when someone interrupts me, then I growl like a rabid badger, the drool isn’t attractive.

I love to write and one day I hope to turn writing into my full time career. For me, and I think many people, being an author is my dream job. Starting to write and then finishing the first book was a huge first step. Most people who dream of being an author find it so intimidating they never even start. I was like them, until I couldn’t stand the voices any longer. Once I published my first book, I was hooked. I’m so glad I took the first step, and now I’m on my way.

Danica: Great answer! I can't wait to read your books, and I promise, I'll be careful to not interrupt you :)