Interview with LEE STRAUSS and why she writes the past and the future

It's my unique pleasure to have Lee Strauss with me today, author of the sci-fi/romance/mystery PERCEPTION series (link) and the soon to be released Ancient Rome/romance novellas, JARS OF CLAY and BROKEN VESSELS.

Some people say we look alike (but I don't see it), though she is kind of short, so maybe that's why.

Not only has Lee Strauss agreed to this interview, but she has offered to give away early copies of Jars of Clay (link) to everyone who leaves a comment--just make sure you include an email address so she knows where to send it.

Check out these cool covers!

Coming Soon!

Jars of Clay (volume 1) and Broken Vessels (volume 2) contain strong religious themes and scenes of sensuality and violence. Recommended for ages 15 and up.

In JARS OF CLAY, Helena Vibius, daughter of a wealthy and respected Roman citizen, is only sixteen when she falls for Lucius, a servant in her father's house. 

Ambitious, Lucius wants to seek his fortune in Rome and asks Helena to tutor him. She agrees—against her better judgment—and through a series of secret lessons, the two fall in love, knowing if they're caught, Lucius will pay the penalty with his life. 

And then there’s the unfortunate matter of Helena's pending arranged marriage to an unpleasant man from Carthage. 

As her wedding day approaches, will Helena follow Lucius to Rome (risking both their lives), or keep her duty to her father?

Let's get on with the interview:

ELLE: Your book Perception takes place in the future and your new novellas take place in ancient history--what's up with that?

LEE: Ya, it's odd. I've yet to write in the here and now, and probably never will. I guess I like the challenge of researching a book beyond what I can experience myself.

ELLE: I like researching, too. What is more challenging to write, history or science fiction?

LEE: You know, I'd have to say science fiction. Especially nowadays, it's hard to stay ahead of the science. Technology just moves so fast.

ELLE: The ComRing is a pretty neat gadget in your book. People have told me they'd love to have one!

LEE: lol. I wouldn't be surprised if they were developed one day.  The ring/phone/computer is a concept I came across while surfing futuristic stuff online.

ELLE: Tell us about your novellas.

LEE: Sure. Jars of Clay was the oldest WIP I had sitting in a "drawer." I started the first draft over eleven years ago.

ELLE: Eleven years? Wow, that's a long time. 

LEE: Ya, it was pretty dusty. After much research and many, many re-writes it developed into the 2 book novella set it is now.

ELLE: Can you tell us what the novellas are about, in a nutshell?

LEE: Jars of Clay + Broken Vessels = Romeo and Juliet in Ancient Rome.

ELLE: Clever equation. I love Romeo and Juliet stories. So, I take it, it's not a happy, light read, you know, the kind I'm known to write?

LEE: Compelling, thought provoking, romantic, but no, not light. It deals with some heavy subject matter, so I recommend it for mature readers.

ELLE: ooh, heavy subject matter?

LEE: Elle, it's Ancient Rome. Have you ever read a happy book or watched a happy movie that was set in Ancient Rome? GLADIATOR anyone?

ELLE: Point taken. Well, I for one, can't wait to read your books! Thanks so much for stopping by!!

LEE: My pleasure. Anytime.

Do you have any questions for Lee? Leave them in the comments.

Also, don't forget to comment with your email and Lee will send you an early release copy (via smashwords) of Jars of Clay.