Elsa Black
Golden Flogger Award nominee
Big Beautiful Little
Why did you begin writing BDSM novels?
I started writing spanking fiction over twenty years ago. At that time I wrote D/s stories for myself because there was a shortage of them. I’d say at that time, writing stories featuring elements of dominance and submission was my way of sorting through my personal feelings on what my repressive southern upbringing told me was curious and abnormal. Later, I shared my stories online and then because published. At that point, I was comfortable with my inclinations and happy to share my writings with others who found it enjoyable.
Do you participate in D/s activities or merely write about them?
I do not participate in public activities (parties, munches, etc.) I have enjoyed D/s elements in my personal relationships to varying degrees.
Where did you get your information on this lifestyle?
Although this answer is not required for the fiction category, I’m going to answer it anyway since I’ve written quite a few books on age play under my pen names Ava Sinclair (historical) and Elsa Black (contemporary).
I am not an age player, but I can appreciate the attraction to the lifestyle and was inspired to write by several friends who are into the lifestyle. I always consult people who live the lifestyle or engage in activities I personally don’t when penning my books. It expands the knowledge I lack. Also, the people I’ve met through writing these books are lovely.
What does being nominated for the Golden Flogger Award mean to you?
I’m very excited about this nomination because it brings exposure to what is my favorite book. “Big Beautiful Little” features a main character that is not a size two. She deals with body image issues and thinks this disqualifies her for the lifestyle she’s attracted to. My hope is that more people will read Tiffany’s story and realize that there is no obstacle to living the life you want.
Do you conduct any advocacy work in this lifestyle or is it strictly fiction base for you? If so, what?
Not as of yet, although I would love to advocate for those who perhaps feel their size or disability disqualifies them for BDSM. I’m not sure that I would be an effective advocate, however, since I am not an active participate in the lifestyle. I consider my writing a form of advocacy, I suppose.
Where would you like to see the BDSM genre head? How will it get there?
This is an excellent question. I’d like to see it continue to trend towards inclusivity. I’m guilty of writing “perfect” characters with perfect bodies. I think Tiffany was the first “real” woman I’ve written about. I suppose I’d like to see more stories with real women and men who aren’t physically perfect, or who aren’t the perfect submissive or perfect doms. I love stories where people find their way.
What is the hardest part of writing your novel?
Dredging up old memories. This was the only book I’ve written that made me cry. I used to be a hundred pounds heavier, and had to lose the weight for my health. Everything that Tiffany struggled with, I struggled with. It was hard to recall so many raw memories.
Tell us a little about yourself and your writing works.
I reside in Virginia. I love writing, and consider myself exceedingly fortunate to make my living doing what I love. I’ve written for twenty years. Early in my career, I wrote romantic D/s books under the pen names of Fiona Wilde and Sullivan Clarke. I currently publish with Stormy Night Publications under the pen names Elsa Black and Ava Sinclair.
Will you be attending BDSM Writers Con or other events we can meet you at?
I think I would like that very much. I’ve been to RWA twice, but that was such a general conference. I think I’d like to go to one that’s more specialized and would like to learn more about your event.
A little about the author:
Elsa Black is an author of contemporary age play erotic who also writes across the genre under the pen name Ava Sinclair (historical age play).
She lives in the green hills of Virginia with her family an assortment of over-indulged felines and a fractious owl named Lucius. She enjoys attending antique auctions, antiquarian bookshops and hosting traditional afternoon teas for her friends.
She’s been writing erotica for nearly twenty years, and will be forever grateful for the opportunity this career has afforded her to meet some of the warmest, most candid people on the planet.