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Welcome to another day of the Battle of the Sexies! Today I'm happy to introduce you all to a wonderful urban fantasy author. She's got a series that is definitely worth checking out!
The author has over 5 years freelance experience in technical writing, editing and screenplays. More recently, this repertoire has expanded to include short stories and a series of urban fantasy novels in progress.
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What Makes an Alpha Male?
By Jess Haines
Hello there! Jess Haines here. I’m the author of the urban fantasy novel HUNTED BY THE OTHERS and its sequel, TAKEN BY THE OTHERS (coming January, 2011). I’d like to take a moment to introduce you to some of the cast—Shiarra Waynest, the lead character, Chaz, her werewolf boyfriend, and Alec Royce, a vampire Shiarra meets in the course of her adventures.
Shiarra and the gang are going to talk about what makes an alpha male, well… alpha. You might want to duck and cover, there’s going to be a bit of testosterone flying around.
Take the floor, Shia!
____________________
Shiarra: Umm. I don’t know what makes an alpha. Most of the Others I know are alphas. Aren’t they…?
Chaz: Well, if you’re an alpha, you’ve got to have a really big—
Shiarra: Chaz!
Chaz: …ego.
Royce: I suppose I can’t argue with that.
Shiarra: Wait a sec. Is this supposed to be a literal question? Chaz, you’re the alpha of your pack, right?
Chaz: Yep. I lead the Sunstrikers, third largest werewolf pack in New York.
Royce: I think what’s being asked for is a deeper definition than who is leading some third-rate pack of mongrels. The term refers to one who is a natural leader, which takes more than brute strength. Your dog there leads by force, not skill.
Chaz: I could eat you, ya know.
Royce: Try it, cur. You just made my point.
Shiarra: Hey! Play nice.
Chaz: No promises. If he starts something, I’m going to finish it.
Shiarra: Both of you, behave. Okay, so alphas are natural leaders. Much as I don’t like agreeing with the vampire, I think he’s right. A title isn’t all that defines an alpha.
Royce: Correct. It takes finesse, drive, and a certain savoir-faire to truly pull one’s weight as a leader of men.
Chaz: Fancy talk is not the same thing as the ability to muster passions and drive in others. You can talk all you want about winning the World Series, but you won’t take any trophies home without putting in hard work and building a team.
Royce: I hardly think that your analogy is appropriate to what we are discussing.
Shiarra: Whatever. Chaz is right—an alpha is supposed to be tough, strong, and inspires others to follow him. They’re not dominant by force, they’re dominant by nature.
Royce: That may be the case, but without tempering that strength, you don’t have a hero—you have a bully. Being alpha is synonymous with being dominant, not abusive.
Shiarra: That’s really funny coming from you.
Royce: I will remind you that I never did take advantage of that contract, Ms. Waynest.
Shiarra: Oh, hey, that’s right! Gee, I wonder why. Oh! I know! Maybe it was because I was wearing armor when you did try to bite me. Let me guess, for your next trick, you’ll try convincing us that those fangs are caps, you don’t really drink blood, and, hey, maybe you’re an avid church-goer on Sundays, too.
Royce: There’s no need to get snippy. I may be an opportunist, but I don’t go out of my way to be cruel. At the time, I saw no other way to ensure you would operate within my interests. I wouldn’t have harmed you too badly had I succeeded.
Shiarra: You son of a—
Chaz: Shia!
Shiarra: …sorry.
Chaz: If you bring it up again, I’ll stake you and leave you to fry in the sun. Don’t touch her, you leech.
Royce: Don’t threaten me, dog.
Shiarra: Okay, creepy factor aside, both of you shut up. Especially you.
Royce: The contract, Ms. Waynest. Remember it.
Shiarra: Okay, ew. Just be quiet a sec!
Chaz: When this interview is over, we’re gonna have a chat, pal. Just you and me.
Royce: Oh, I look forward to it. It’s been ages since I’ve tasted the blood of a Were.
Shiarra: Uh, ew? Ew!
Chaz: You bite me, and I’ll tear you apart!
Shiarra: Yeah, don’t make me get my stakes.
Royce: Ms. Waynest, I suggest you stay out of this.
Shiarra: He’s going to kick your Armani-wearing ass, you know.
Royce: Does my exterior deceive you? You truly believe I cannot defend myself when I have need? That is quite amusing, Ms. Waynest. You should say your goodbyes—I won’t make the mistake of underestimating him.
Chaz: I’m not sure if I should be thankful about that or not.
Shiarra: Okay, whatever. Both of you make valid points. Both of you are being gross. I think we’ve made it clear that putting two alpha males in close proximity is a bad, bad idea. I’m done with this interview.
Chaz: Dark alley. Out back. Fifteen minutes.
Royce: Bring it on, furball.
Shiarra: I can’t take you guys anywhere.
Err, right! You can learn more about Shiarra and the rest of her friends in HUNTED BY THE OTHERS (Need a link?). If you'd like a chance to win a signed copy of the book, leave a comment below telling us what you think makes an alpha hero!
Thanks again for having me and the gang over, Tori!
Interested in winning a signed copy of HUNTED BY THE OTHERS?
READ MY REVIEW
They are the Others—the vampires, mages, and werewolves once thought to exist only in our imaginations. Now they’re stepping out of the shadows, and nothing in our world will ever be the same again…
In a Town Like This, Being A P.I. Can Be Murder
Shiarra Waynest’s detective work was dangerous enough when her client base was strictly mortal. But ailing finances have forced her to accept a lucrative case that could save her firm—if it doesn’t kill her first. Shiarra has signed on to work for a high-level mage to recover an ancient artifact owned by one of New York’s most powerful vampires.As soon as Shiarra meets sexy, mesmerizing vamp Alec Royce, she knows her assignment is even more complicated than she thought. With a clandestine anti-Other group trying to recruit her, and magi being eliminated, Shiarra needs back-up and enlists her ex-boyfriend—a werewolf whose non-furry form is disarmingly appealing—and a nerdy mage with surprising talents. But it may not be enough. In a city where the undead roam, magic rules, and even the Others aren’t always what they seem, Shiarra has just become the secret weapon in a battle between good and evil—whether she likes it or not…
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About the Author
Not entering as I'm not from the US, but loved the interview!!
ReplyDeleteGreat post. I just took part in over two hours of chatting as one of my novel characters with two other writers and their characters, so this is one I enjoyed reading. Having the characters do the talking makes for an interesting point of view in a blog post. Both characters made some good points on the topic at hand, though what is with characters getting together like this and leading to a fight? I've seen it a number of times, no matter the species of character. Quite a curious element.
ReplyDeleteOh yeah. Guess I could post my email for that contest part. lol
ReplyDeleteDawnEmbers(at)ymail.com
Awesome interview it was hilarious! I think all the point made in the interview make up an alpha, and also how they have the ability to love others even though they're badasses.
ReplyDeleteI think an alpha hero is a man that doesn't always follow rules, is very loyal to his friends and family. He takes charge, can be a little stubborn and is willing to do just about anything for the people he cares about.
ReplyDeletetwoofakind12@yahoo.com
I am a follower and email subscriber. What makes an alpha a hero? The fact that he takes charge and does whatever is necessary to protect the ones he loves including breaking the rules and his his stubborness whick keeps him going and his love for the individual he is protecting. The fact that he will go anything to protect the ones he loves including sacrificing his own life. Please enter me in contest. Tore923@aol.com
ReplyDeleteA take charge take no crap attitude!
ReplyDeleteTweeted : http://twitter.com/readingangel002/status/21911187215
dukesangel002 AT yahoo DOT com
The responsibility over his pack's safety.
ReplyDeletehttp://twitter.com/aikchien/status/21911525689
aikychien at yahoo dot com
An alpha hero is one who takes the lead and is brave and in command.
ReplyDeletejuliecookies(at)gmail.com
An alpha hero to me is someone who takes charge, can sometimes steamroll over those he/she loves with intentions of protecting them.
ReplyDeleteminnchica(dot)bookpusher(at)gmail.com
This was a cool interpretation =) I think she nailed it quite nicely. I feel the Alpha always feels he has to win which means he needs to be a badass but they need a woman to tame them when they get all spurred up, keep them from going over the edge. that's why I love reading my paranormal books. They're always badass and protect their woman and it's a turn on.
ReplyDeleteTanyah1224@yahoo.com
An alpha is all about the attitude. Protective and fierce
ReplyDeleteI think it's important for an alpha to command respect, but not through cruelty, although a healthy dose of fear doesn't hurt. Usually. And he has to be willing to get dirty (i.e. kill) if a situation should warrant, like if his family/pack is attacked.
ReplyDeleteb(dot)cardone(at)hotmail
tweeted- http://twitter.com/bcardoo79/status/21916697588
Really great interview:) In response to the question I would say that Royce really hit the nail on the head with his definition. To me it does take a certain amount of "finesse, drive, and a certain savoir-faire" but I like Shiarra's definition as well... "an alpha is supposed to be tough, strong, and inspires others to follow him. They’re not dominant by force, they’re dominant by nature." Put those 2 together and I think that would be my response.
ReplyDeleteThe book sounds great and it's definitely going in my TBR list. Thanks for the opportunity to win!
yadkny@hotmail.com
An alpha is someone who's brave, knows how to be a leader, strong, protective of their friends and family.
ReplyDeleteopps forgot my email: littopandaxpress(at)yahoo(dot)com
ReplyDeleteAn Alpha is a hero because he is looking out for everyone, not just himself. He is a protector, and enforcer, and usually really hot ;)
ReplyDeleteemail: terilhack(@) gmail.com
Loved the post--so creative! Okay, characteristics of alphas: intelligent, stubborn, protective, loyal, strong, capable.
ReplyDelete(Email in profile.)
Alpha heroes are dominant, leaders, intelligent and strong. They can be rough, but never with their lady.
ReplyDeletejax1204[at]gmail[dot]com
An alpha hero is a protector, stong leader and dominant. This can make it difficult for him to play well with others.
ReplyDeleteTweeted http://twitter.com/lillieblue613/status/21944626540
andrea.infinger@gmail.com
An alpha male is someone who can inspire and motivate others to follow him through hell itself, but has the strength and intelligence to back it up. Otherwise, he is just a creepy snake oil salesman.
ReplyDeletestephaniesuesansmith@gmail.com
http://blog.stephaniesuesansmith.com
An Alpha is smart, strong, loyal, protective of those he cares about and are responsible for, and, of course, he's HOT!
ReplyDeletelinaramz at yahoo dot com
An alpha male is loyal, protective, and supportive.
ReplyDeletemarlenebreakfield(at)yahoo(dot)com
Favorite male characters tend to be pretty alpha in personality, sexy inside and out, have a sense of humor, adores the woman that he loves, and knows how to be a partner (or can be trained, lol), in love and life.
ReplyDeletecaity_mack at yahoo dot com
An alpha male knows how to get what he wants in live and in love.
ReplyDeleteTweeted:
http://twitter.com/beckerjo/status/21961344461
beckerjo(at)verizon(dot)net
A alpha hero is smart, strong, open minded, understanding and loyal.
ReplyDeleteTweeted: https://twitter.com/IntenseWhisper/status/21962870690
robin [at] intensewhisper [dot] com
Strong, caring, loyal, protective, understanding and smart all combined together. Great eyes and body never hurt either.
ReplyDeletetweet - http://twitter.com/DonnaS1/statuses/21972900103
bacchus76 at myself dot com
alpha males are those guys who give an order and expect to be followed. They're naturally inclined to be in charge and others are naturally inclined to follow their orders. ^_^
ReplyDeleteEllaanabeth@yahoo.com
Bring up the good times the two of you spent together in the past. When he thinks of the fond memories of the relationship, he might consider taking you back.
ReplyDeleteI may not have a clue who these characters are but I loved this interview! "I could eat you, ya know." and "Bring it on, furball." Lol!!! Oh you made my day.
ReplyDeleteAn alpha hero is someone who exudes leadership like a perfume and can back it up without being a bully. They're fair but ruthless.
Ladytink_534(at)yahoo(dot)com
I love this interview.
ReplyDeleteAn alpha hero is many things, he must be a strong leader, a tender lover and loyal
I think confidence makes an alpha hero
ReplyDeletehttp://twitter.com/bridget3420/status/22135161189
bjhopper(at)me(dot)com
For an alpha hero, you need someone who commands respect and can work well under pressure. He needs to be willing to sacrifice for the good of those he is protecting. Having lots of muscles and being good looking helps too. :)
ReplyDeleteheatwave96(at)hotmail.com
tweeted - http://twitter.com/Heatwave316/status/22141796964
An alpha is someone who doesn't back down and is a natural born leader.
ReplyDeletejen at delux dot com
Well they have to be able to act quick and be strong thats what makes them a hero
ReplyDeleteelizabethcerna2011@gmail.com
My idea of an alpha hero is someone who is strong, smart, caring, and willing to fight for whats right.
ReplyDeleteseriousreader at live dot com
omg! the interview was a riot - well done!
ReplyDeletei would have to say a take-charge kinda guy who has an attractive hard-headedness about him...
k_sunshine1977 at yahoo dot com
Alpha heroes. They can be good. I mean they're usually very loyal to their mates, pack members/friends and family. They're reliable. He or she is usually the strong type too, he/she is the hero.
ReplyDeleteThey can be very enjoyable, yet at the same time they can be a little overbearing and demanding. Wanting things to go their way and whatnot. There's always a good side and a bad one to the alphas.
jessbess2505[at]yahoo[dot]com
An alpha is very loyal and willing to do anything to help.
ReplyDeletelovemybabysquid@yahoo.com
http://twitter.com/greatmasteryoda/status/22490217749
An alpha can be very protective and devoted to his chosen mate. I wouldn't mind one myself! ;)
ReplyDeleteAn alpha always thinks about his family, pack, clan. He is honorable and strong, but in truth, they tend to be a little arrogant...
ReplyDeleteladyrogue(at)ymail(dot)
lol! funny interview:D
ReplyDeleteI think it takes intelligence, good leadership/management skills, a strength of character, and love of the unit/pack/family to be a great alpha. bells DOT franco AT gmail DOT com
An Alpha male will always be first in, last out - and he'll never admit it, but he's owned by his Alpha female :)
ReplyDeletekatiealtman(at)hotmail(dot)com
Tall, sexy, strong, with confidence.
ReplyDeletemeredithfl at gmail dot com