Bondage Celebration is the second book in the Desired Discipline series. It follows Bondage Anniversary, where we met our characters, Nick and Laura Branson. In Bondage Anniversary, they were just beginning to explore a Dominant/submissive relationship. In Bondage Celebration, Nick has tasted Laura’s submission and now, he wants it all. Nick is determined to collar his headstrong wife. Laura struggles to find a balance between her independent nature and the joy she finds in submitting to Nick. Along the way, a bit of intrigue which first appears in Bondage Anniversary resurfaces with a vengeance, and it shakes their marriage to the core. If they are going to save their relationship, Laura will have to fight for what she wants.
You live in the beautiful Sonoran Desert, so how inspirational is this setting for you?
It is incredibly inspirational. Our home is nestled on the edge of the Tonto National Forest, so we wake to chirping songbirds and the vibrant colours of the sunrise streaking across the sky. It’s hard not to feel energized and creative after such a display. The desert truly has a beauty all of its own. That being said, the heat and limited water supply create many obstacles for the flora and fauna. To me, their struggle mirrors a budding romance. At times, it seems the whole world is working to crush them, but in face of all that opposition, they overcome and thrive.
Why do you love your stories to be so scorching hot?
Subtlety has its place in the world, but my characters feel a burning passion for each other that doesn’t lend itself to veiled innuendos. Besides, I’m about as subtle as a bulldozer; it would be contrary to my nature.
Why are fire and passion so important for your characters?
Love isn’t a lackluster emotion; it’s exhilarating! When two people are in love, sparks fly, tempers flare, and sexual excitement arcs between them. I want to portray that rare and exciting side of life in my stories.
How much has being in love for 30 years contributed to your success as a romance writer?
My relationship with my husband has played a huge part in my journey as a romance writer. We were high school sweethearts, both with older siblings who had married young and were since divorced. Our friends and family thought we were crazy for getting married right out of school. Some were very vocal in their protests, others refused to attend the ceremony, but it didn’t matter. We knew we shared something special, and we went with our hearts. Much like the characters in my stories, we’ve faced numerous challenges. Each new obstacle life throws our way is another opportunity to learn and grow as a couple. From that perspective, no matter what hurdles my characters must overcome, I know it’s possible because in many ways, I live a romance story every day of my life.
What is next for you with Totally Bound?
The Desired Discipline series has six books currently planned. Bondage Wedding hits the market on March 21, 2014. The lead characters, James and Amanda, were first introduced in Bondage Celebration. I had such fun writing this one. I’m really excited to see if my readers enjoy it as much as I did. In May, Bondage Seduction, will be available for pre-order. The last two books are still in the works, but Bondage Included is nearly finished. I hope to ship it off to Totally Bound very soon.
You can purchase Bondage Celebration from Totally Bound today!