When you first started writing, did you have any idea you’d be writing BDSM/kinky books? Do you write any other genre?

I started writing Historical Romance, because I like reading it so much. My work was always rather sensual though, so I suppose developing the erotic aspect seemed natural. I have already married the two genre by writing Historical Erotic Romance (as well as my currently published contemporary) – but I still have to speak to my publishers about that!

Do you use a pen name? If yes (or no), why?

I DO use a pen name. That is partly because I still intend to write other genre romance as well and don’t want to mix the two ‘brands’ up. I’m not sure every publisher can cope with that (although mine, Xcite Books, has a mainstream imprint too). Also, I still have a professional day-job and although I can keep my two worlds entirely separate, I’m not sure my bosses would be so cool about it! Many people that live the BDSM lifestyle would understand that. It’s personal. (When I finally resign, I’ll gift-wrap my erotic romances for them – I still have a wicked sense of fun!!)

Are you actively involved in BDSM? If so how do you identify yourself? Dom(me)/sub? Top/bottom? Switch?

Yes and no! I have a distinct interest in the lifestyle, follow many committed BDSM bloggers and have an awareness of a natural submissive side. However, I explore it only in my mind and my writing. I don’t think I could ‘punish’ someone else but I think I might lash out, if they ‘punished’ me and it hurt! I know I would not be the ideal sub or domme.

At what point did you decide you wanted to write BDSM/kinky-themed erotica?

I only started writing erotica as a result of a competition run by Xcite Books. They wanted the first chapter of an erotic romance, so I wrote one. I didn’t win. However, once the idea for the novel was there, I was hooked and just kept writing it. That was lucky because the publisher contacted me to tell me that although I didn’t win, I had made the final cut and they liked the chapter a lot. They asked if they could read the rest and bought it. The BDSM subject matter just seemed a natural theme to me (see answer to 3)

Do you write BDSM/kink erotica based on what you find interesting or sexy, or do you write more for your audience?

I definitely explore what interests me. Writing ‘for an audience’ seems a bit too bloodless to me. I need to feel the emotion. It’s probably why there’s often a bit of switching and a happy ending too. I’m exploring. But I want it to feel natural and genuinely sexy.

Do you do any “hands-on” research when you’re writing BDSM/kinky themed erotica?

The more I write, the more I delve into the reality (via people, blogs & websites). I realize it is a multi-layered experience, unique for everyone and I try to make it as realistic as possible, within the confines of my plot/characters etc…). It remains fantasy though. I create my own experiences/scenarios.

At this point in your career, do you think you’ll write more BDSM/kinky erotica?

Definitely! I love it. I love the wonderful people I’ve met whilst writing it. I love reading about it too – both fact and fiction. I have a bit of a fantasy that by writing about these experiences, more people develop understanding and tolerance of others’ lifestyle choices.

What is your favorite flavor ice cream? And since this interview is for BDSM Book Reviews, vanilla is not an option!

A sundae with a strawberry red bottom and plenty of whipped cream!

 Website, links info:

Come over and read some of my debut novel FREE by using the buy links or going to my blog. Let me know what you think too!

Title: PA Exposé                    Author:  Kristal Baird

Amazon US        Amazon UK        Xcite Books

 Blurb:

Aspiring journalist, Cally Hammond, believes she is undercover to expose dominating company executive, Jake Stone. However, she has been duped by her real boss, into undergoing training to become sexually submissive.

Jake is an enthusiastic master who exposes Cally to bondage, correction, and submission to his will. The shocking experience re-awakens a dormant side of Cally’s personality which Jake can’t help reacting to.

But both have a mission to fulfil. Will they succeed, and what secrets will be exposed in the process? 

http://kristalbaird.blogspot.co.uk/

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