Golden Flogger Award nominee
Heidi Cullinan speaks out
Why did you begin writing BDSM novels?
I enjoy writing about sex both as a vehicle to romantic & interpersonal connection and as a way to explore and overcome societal taboos. Since BDSM is so often misunderstood and misrepresented but also insists on an intensely personal relationship between those involved, it’s a natural fit for me. I love most of all writing books which are both highly kinky and intensely romantic.
Do you participate in D/s activities or merely write about them?
I actually only write about them…so far. I’ve been battling health issues for a decade, so my most physical and sensual activities have been taking place in my mind for quite some time. I never miss an opportunity to receive a demonstration though, and a few times I’ve been able to, very casually, receive the demonstration on myself. I’ll admit it has me curious to explore.
Where did you get your information on this lifestyle?
I’ve interviewed friends and other members of the community, and I’ve read on the subject extensively.
What is the hardest part of writing your novel?
For BDSM novels, I always want to make sure I haven’t misrepresented the community above all. For all novels in general, the hardest part is the middle bit when I feel like I have fifty plot and character strings leading into the sky and they’re all tangled on my fingers.
Tell us a little about yourself and your writing works.
I’ve been writing novels since I can remember, seriously pursuing publishing since 1999, and I’ve been published in LGBT romance since 2009. I have over twenty novels and novellas in print and have won several awards, particularly for my BDSM-themed works. I identify as bisexual, though I came out to myself very late in life. I have a husband, daughter, and too many cats.
Heidi Cullinan has always loved a good love story, provided it has a happy ending. She enjoys writing across many genres but loves above all to write happy, romantic endings for LGBT characters because there just aren’t enough of those stories out there. When Heidi isn’t writing, she enjoys cooking, reading, knitting, listening to music, and watching television with her husband and teenaged daughter. Heidi is a vocal advocate for LGBT rights and is proud to be from the first Midwestern state with full marriage equality. Find out more about Heidi, including her social networks, at www.heidicullinan.com.