Thank you to everyone who came out to Book Junkie and entered to win Knight of Passion by Margaret Mallory. The 5 winners are .......
Stuff Rhys Likes
Mary
LilMissMolly
Anita Yancey
Kimberly H.
She is here to talk a little about her latest release DESTINY, you can read all about it in my review HERE. So please give Victoria a warm welcome, enjoy the interview and don't forget to enter the giveaway!!!!
Can you tell us a little about your newest release DESTINY?
Destiny is a Civil War-era historical that blends romance with adventure. Emma Davenport, the sheltered daughter of a powerful Northern senator, runs away to marry Christopher Staton, a charismatic businessman – a traitor with his own ruthless reasons for wanting Emma as his bride. Traveling to her rendezvous with Staton, she’s abducted by a daring train robber with a bitter grudge against the man she plans to marry. Unknown to Emma, Jack Travis isn’t what he seems – he’s a cavalry officer tasked with keeping Emma out of Staton’s clutches. Driven by duty and a deep-seated hatred of Staton, Jack risks his life to protect Emma, even as he falls in love with his spirited, challenging captive. She’s forbidden to him, but sometimes, even a man on a mission has to follow his heart.
What do you qualities were a must when creating your Major Jack Travis?
When I created Jack Travis, I saw him as a by-the-the-book soldier who’s known for his responsible, no-nonsense manner, duty driven with a highly developed sense of honor. His commitment to duty leads him to accept a mission that goes against his grain. In the beginning, he defends Emma because it’s his duty, but it isn’t long before he falls for her courage and spirit.
Major Jack Travis is a man who doesn’t love easily, but when he does, it’s a complete commitment. He’s courageous and would die to protect the woman he loves. He’s also intelligent, sensual, physically powerful, and confident. He’d never shrink from a challenge – that quality is one of the things that draws him to Emma. It was very important to me that Jack isn’t threatened by a woman who’s his equal in intelligence and resourcefulness.
What was your favorite scene to write?
There are so many scenes that I enjoyed writing, this is a difficult question to answer. I loved the initial abduction scene. Jack’s outlaw persona is anything but a gentleman, but his protectiveness and decency show through. And what woman wouldn’t enjoy the fantasy of being carried off by a handsome train robber? Later, as they’re getting to know each other, he’s had a bit too much to drink, breaking down his determined reserve, and he kisses her – the power of their attraction is a revelation to both Emma and Jack. But I’d have to say my favorite scene takes place right after he’s taken her captive. After Jack abducts Emma, they’re pursued by the villain’s henchmen, and Jack takes a bullet to the arm. He fixes a crude bandage on the wound, but her compassionate nature leads her to redress his injury. In the process of ripping strips of her petticoat to cover his wound, she accidentally cuts her own finger. When Jack bandages her small wound, his gentleness and care stun Emma. She doesn’t expect tenderness from an outlaw, while she’s nothing like the spoiled, sheltered girl he’d been told to expect. I love this scene because it’s the first in which Jack and Emma begin to fall in love.
When reading a book I often imagine the characters in my head as thought I am watching a movie play out. If you could cast Emma & Jack for a movie who would play them on screen?
Jake Gyllenhaal would make a perfect Jack, and Rachel McAdams from The Notebook and The Wedding Crashers would be a wonderful Emma.
If you could trade places with one of your characters, would you want to?
Absolutely, I’d love to trade places with Emma. Jack Travis is the kind of man I’ve always dreamed of…I’d be his captive any day of the week.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve done in the name of research?
Hmmmm…I’ve certainly tested some scenes with my husband…
What is it about writing Romance that appeals to you?
I love writing Romance because I love reading Romance. Love is a powerful emotion that empowers you. There’s nothing like the wonderful feeling of being in love, but the paths that lead two people to love are often far from straight and easy roads. Often, lovers have to overcome many conflicts, both external and internal, to find their love and make it last. This is the basis of a love story.
What are you currently working on?
I’ve recently completed the copyedits for Destiny’s sequel, Angel in My Arms, the story of a ring of beautiful female spies operating out of Richmond during the Civil War. I enjoyed creating Jack’s partner, Steve, so much, I had to give him his own book. Steve is very different from Jack, with a more lighthearted, Owen Wilson persona, but he shares Jack’s fundamental values of conviction, courage, and honor. Angel in My Arms is due to be released in November.
I’m now writing the third book in the Destiny trilogy. Against All Odds features characters introduced in Angel in My Arms and a new contemporary romantic comedy. I expect to complete both books by the end of the summer.
What was the first romance book you read and how did it effect you?
Sons of the Wolf, a Gothic by Barbara Michaels. I was moved by the romance between the hero and heroine, and the heroine’s selfless courage, though honestly, upon a recent rereading, I found myself frustrated by the heroine’s essential helplessness and the hero’s uselessness. Circumstances, not the hero or heroine, defeat the villain. I’m sure in a similar circumstance, Emma Davenport wouldn’t have waited around for a convenient rescue – she would have found a way out from under her evil guardian’s control with the hero by her side.
If you could ask readers any one question, what would it be?
What quality makes a book a “keeper” for you?
How can the readers stay in touch with you online?
I have a website located at http://www.victoriagrayromance.com/, and I have a Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/profile.php?id=1819636616. I welcome their friendship. Oh, and I’m on Twitter, VictoriaGray115.
I’m also a monthly contributor to the Seduced by History blog at http://www.seducedbyhistory.blogspot.com/ and maintain my own blog at http://www.victoriagrayromance.blogspot.com/. Hope to hear from readers soon!
***GIVEAWAY***
Victoria has been gracious enough to offer one lucky reader a signed copy of DESTINY. Follow the instructions below to enter.
MUST be a follower or become one
MUST answer Victoria's question above
Winner chosen 06/05
Open to all
A big thanks to everyone who came out and entered to win Dangerous by Diana Palmer! The winner is ..........
Simply Stacie
During this visit out west she meets Sam, who despite her attraction to the sexy and sweet man she is faithful to her husband. But Kelly wishes for a better life.
The abuse with her husband gets ugly and the next beatings are severe and deadly as Jack tried to murder his wife and slices her up with a knife.
Survival is key, especially since Kelly knows this is no way to raise her daughters, in fear. Leaving Jack is the only way and starting a new life is what she and the girls need. The the support of Jack's cousin and Sam she is able to do just that. But the terror of her past isn't quite over, there is a long road ahead, one that she will travel with Sam at her side.
I was simply blown away at the depth of all of the characters in this book and so engrossed that I still think about the events as though I lived through them with Kelly and her girls. An absolute must read, dynamic and troubling, but Kelly's inner strength and will to live for her girls made me cheer her on step by step. FABULOUS!
Kelly Mullins seemed like a happy, All-American housewife. Two beautiful children and a successful husband should make anyone happy, right? But Kelly lives her life in constant fear of her abusive husband, Jack. Any father seemed better for her children than having none at all. After all, Jack never hit the girls and she always made sure they weren’t around when he got into one of his moods.
On a rare vacation to San Diego, Kelly sees there is so much more to life than what she has. She meets Sam and begins to wonder what life would be like without Jack. Does she have the strength to break away from her brutal husband? In one horrific night, the decision is made that will forever change her life.
Sam is instantly attracted to Kelly. He is horrified to see the pain in her eyes and to learn of the terror in her life. No man should treat a woman like that. Once Kelly finally ends her marriage, Sam makes it his business to give Kelly the love she deserves. Can Kelly learn to trust another man? Can love conquer all?
ISBN eBook: 971419912214
Release Date: September 26, 2008
I am a fly on your wall today, what would I see in the day of Sarah-Jane Lehoux?
My day starts early. I’m up at 5:30, off to my day job by 6:30 and I don’t get home until around 4. So throughout the day, all you’d see around here is a bunch of sleeping cats. Once I get home, I relax until after dinner, and then I haul myself over to the computer to start writing. I try to get in at least a couple hours every day, but it can be hard to motivate myself. The most frustrating thing is that I tend to get flashes of inspiration while I’m commuting to work, but I don’t have an opportunity to write them down until nearly 12 hours later!
Can you tell us a little about your newest release book one in the Sevy series, Thief ?
The main character of Thief is Sevy, who has survived the mean streets of Eloria since being orphaned by a pirate raid. Described by her friends as a brat and by her enemies as a bitch, Sevy, in a desperate attempt to convince her friend, Trena, that they need not resort to prostitution to survive, picks the wrong pocket and is caught red-handed by the leader of an organized gang. Jarro, as he introduces himself, is not your everyday criminal. With a wink of his startlingly blue eyes, he becomes the living embodiment of Sevy’s innermost desires. This fateful meeting sets off a chain of events that will affect not only Sevy and Jarro’s destinies, but those of a free-spirited rogue named Revik, and an icy seductress named Irea.
Sevy is reckless, ruthless, and obsessive, and when the only bit of happiness she has is ripped away from her, she is sent into a deadly spiral of violence and suicidal ambition. When she gets a chance to reclaim that happiness, there is nothing she won’t resort to. Murder, black magic, necromancy, and demonic pacts are of little consequence to her, but she soon learns that nothing comes without a price and she is forced to choose between her imagined happily ever after and what she knows is right.
What's your favorite scene in the book to write?
Hmm, I’m torn between two scenes. The first is when Revik tries to teach a young Sevy how to use a sword, and she is too busy being a cocky brat to pay attention to him. I actually love any scene with Revik. His devil-may-care attitude is a lot of fun to write, and when you pair that with Sevy’s cheek, it makes for some great moments.
My second favourite scene features an older Sevy and Jarro out traveling together. The sexual tension between them is thick as thieves, and made even better by Sevy’s obliviousness and Jarro’s reluctance.
How do you come up with your ideas for writing your story?
Most of my ideas start with dreams. I have always had very vivid, often lucid dreams. On top of that, I often experience sleep paralysis, which makes for some creepy hallucinations. I pick singular images from my more extreme dreams, and use them as the basis for characters or plot lines. In Thief’s case, I had a dream where I watched a woman rushing into the room where her lover had just been murdered. I remember the sights, and sounds, and even smells of that dream so clearly that I couldn’t help but write a story around it.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve done in the name of research?
I have a very short attention span, which makes research sort of like a treasure hunt. I’ll google one thing, and twenty minutes and ten topics later, I’ll arrive at another topic I want to write about more than the first. This is one of the instances where my procrastination comes in handy. I discover possible story elements that had never even crossed my mind before.
What is the hardest part about creating and continuing a series?
Keeping myself motivated to keep writing, even though I haven’t received any feedback yet. I finished Shades of War, the sequel to Thief, long before Thief was ever accepted for publication. It was hard to know if I was on the right track. I felt like I was investing a ton of time and energy into a huge project without knowing whether or not anyone would ever read them. But because I loved the characters, I kept going with them, and I’m glad that I persisted.
Have you written a book you love that you have not been able to get published?
No, but I have two short stories that I am have been submitting for awhile with no luck. One is about a murderer confessing his crime, and the other is a peek into the life of a man who is holding a vigil by the deathbed of his abusive mother. I think each of these stories has merit, and I hope that they will get published one day.
What are you currently working on?
Right now I’m working on two novels. Masquerade is the third in the Sevy series, and is set in the tropics of Belakarta, a kingdom neighbouring Axlun (where the first two books were set). This time, Sevy has to face some exotic new foes and new lovers.
The other novel I’m working on is called Red Rover. It’s a comedic fantasy about Lydia, a woman who’s bored with her 9 to 5 life, and longs for excitement. Her wish comes true, but not exactly how she had imagined. Nikki, an immortal trickster pulls Lydia into what she calls a “fairy land insane asylum” in order to alleviate his own boredom. Red Rover is sort of a mash up of Alice in Wonderland and The Office, and I’m really enjoying writing such silliness. It’s quite the departure from the darker themes of the Sevy series.
If you could ask readers any one question, what would it be?
I guess I’d ask them how they learned about Thief. I’m still new to this whole marketing and promotion thing, and I need all the help I can get. I’d like to know what sorts of promotion work better than others, and how to get my books into the hands of more readers.
How can readers follow/find you online?
If they visit my website at http://www.sarah-janelehoux.com/, they can find a list of links to contact me via email, facebook, twitter, myspace, or my blog. I’d love to hear from anyone who’s read Thief, or who’s interested in reading Thief, or just anyone who enjoys reading and writing.
Thanks very much for this opportunity!
That is until she picks the wrong pocket and ends up at the mercy of Jarro. He is a leader of a gang, but with a heart of gold. Something that could possibly be his downfall. But when he captures Sevy trying to pick his pockets he realizes that she needs his help.
This sets off a chain of events that neither Jarro or Sevy are prepared for. Testing who Sevy really is as a person and to what lengths she will go to, just to get what she wants. Without consequences to others she can be ruthless, but at other times her vulnerability shines through where the reader can really see how lonely and desperate Sevy is for love.
An amazing adventure through the world of Eloria and through Sevy's eyes. I can't wait for the sequel to come out and read about lies ahead for Sevy!
In the crumbling city of Eloria, there are two indisputable facts. First, everyone has a dream. Secret, seemingly unattainable, altogether irresistible, it is the kind of dream that aches and, at times, burns. For most, it will forever remain a teasing enigma, but there are those for whom dreams grow into obsession. Which brings us to the second indisputable fact: everyone has a price. Protestations of morality have little meaning when confronted with the all-consuming passion of the soul. Better judgment is pushed aside for the chance to obtain the unobtainable. The only question remaining is just how much a person is willing to sacrifice in order to get what they want.
Sevy has always been a quick study in the wicked ways of Eloria. Since childhood, she has eked out a living for herself with the help of her sticky fingers and her indomitable spirit. She has no qualms about taking what she desires, and when the unrequited love of her life is mysteriously murdered, Sevy will stop at nothing to get him back. Elvish black magic, necromancy and demonic pacts are of little consequence if it means she can once again have her beloved at her side. But is she willing to murder her only friend to get the job done? Is there a line that even this selfish, self-proclaimed bitch is not prepared to cross?
Aloof and dangerous was Julius Zern, alone and lonely as well. But she needed him to buy her friends paintings, and keeping her eyes off him isn’t something she can do. Julius has been so alone for a long time, never carrying on a relationship that required any bit of commitment. That way he didn’t get hurt. But something about Deanne has Julius putting all his defenses down. Their affair is wild and hot and heavy…..and short. One night, but in all honesty he was frank with Deanne and let her know he didn’t stick around. Short and sweet. And sad really.
Deanne was just a breath of fresh air, her desire to get her own head on straight and be a happy person was high on her priorities. Just to show what a sweetheart Deanne is Julius is overwhelmed how she can be so kind and trusting of her fifteen year old neighbor. He barges in, treats her place like it’s home, spies on her as well. Although she knows deep down sometime is quite disturbing about Kurt.
Not just him to worry about but someone has been mutilating the dogs around town. A lot of creepy events are about to happen, just what Deanne doesn’t need as she fears that she has lost Julius forever. .
Deanne jumps into relationships heart-first.
Eager to start fresh after her nasty divorce, Deanne Moore adopts a stray dog and begins the healing process. She has learned—the hard way—to take chances and just enjoy life. The one thing she isn't expecting, though, is to get a second chance with her first crush.
Julius won't let lust burn away the last of his brain cells.
After losing his entire family in one blinding instant, Julius Zern has learned to steer clear of happily-ever-after scenarios. Meeting Deanne stirs something tender within him. So he stays. Overnight. And falls...hard.
But just as he begins to follow his instincts—and his desire for Deanne—trouble arrives and threatens to destroy their fragile bond.
Now re-united the flame still burn in both their hearts. Young, stupid and out of control Tim is no longer that guy. He has stayed away from all the "puck bunnies" since that incident and learned his lesson. But it has been fifteen years and now that he has run into Cassie again he realizes he might just have a second chance.
Never really able to let Tim go Cassie is hesitant, what sensible woman wouldn't be after what happened, but she wants Tim again. Even if it is for one night. Which is what happens. Taken away with emotion she can't help but give herself to him again.
But Cassie is troubled and struggles to overcome her confusion over what she wants. A smart woman, successful and sleeping with Tim was just stupid, stupid, stupid. Now she knows her heart can't take not having him in her life. She wants to trust him but 15 years is a long time. She is vulnerable, but in all honesty so is Tim. He made a dump mistake and paid for it, but with Cassie within his grasp again he will do everything he needs to do to prove it to her that he is her's for life.
Sweet and romantic Tupelo Honey is a winner, definitely turning up the heat and adding the spice with charming Tim and sweet Cassie finding their love again.
Cassie Evans never got over her high school sweetheart, Tim O’Brien. She thought they had the perfect relationship and even when he received a professional hockey contract, she believed things would be okay…until she decided to surprise him one weekend on the road and got the surprise of her life. She found him in his hotel room being serviced by a “puck bunny”.
Fifteen years later, Tim gets traded to his hometown team and has made it clear he still has the hots for Cassie. She tries to stay strong, but it’s hard to resist a hottie hockey player who has love on his mind, especially when she still has feelings for him.
Pub Date: June, 2010
Publisher: Phaze Books
ISBN 978-1-60659-955-6
So brave and feisty Emma is even her most insecure and desperate of moments she can't help but think that there is something deeper going on. All she knows in her heart is that Jack is a kind man and wouldn't hurt a hair on her head. So she is ultimately confused why he took her.
Christopher her fiance doesn't hold her heart, but she is 23 and feels she will die and old maid, so when he first pays attention to her, she is overwhelmed and ensnared by his plot for revenge against her father. Unbeknownst to her of course at the time.
Naive and desperate for love, Emma is just lonely. At every turn she surprises Jack, she is not the spoiled little rich girl he was expecting. Their attraction is electric and confusing for both, Jack has never felt this way with any woman and Emma, well she is an innocent. Jack makes her heart beat out of her chest, he is gentle and caring with her and the ultimate gentleman. His mission is a secret and Jack is a good man, not the outlaw that Emma assumes he is. But it is a secret he must keep from her for her own safety.
Their love grows and Emma must come to terms with the facts that have been given to her, Christopher is a traitor, a murderer who does not, nor will he ever lover her. In her heart she will learn the truth. Christopher will not give up, he wants Emma and he will die trying to get her no matter the cost. He was involved in the death of Jack's brother and bit by bit Jack reveals more about Christopher than Emma is willing to accept.
Their love grows and Emma must come to terms with the facts that have been given to her, Christopher is a traitor, a murderer who does not, nor will he ever lover her. In her heart she will learn the truth. Christopher will not give up, he wants Emma and he will die trying to get her no matter the cost. He was involved in the death of Jack's brother and bit by bit Jack reveals more about Christopher than Emma is willing to accept.
There are so many twist and turns I couldn't read fast enough just to see what was waiting around the corner. Just when you think the lovers are safe and all is well, you breath will be stolen right from your lungs at the next challenge they must face.
This book has it all, just enough drama and adventure to keep the reader guessing, a seductive and sinfully delectable love story that will hijack your heart and not let go and the perfect evil villain who you will love to hate. Wickedly charming are all the characters throughout the story that you can't help wanting to know more about them as well. Emma and Jack will risk everything for love in this touching and delicious addictive Civil War Historical Romance. I promise you won't be sorry!
Emma Davenport was going to be a bride, and no one was going to stop her, not even an outlaw. Bound for a forbidden marriage, her scheme shatters when she is abducted and spirited away to a remote hideout. Any proper young woman would be frightened out of her wits, but she challenges her daring, seductive captor at every turn.
Major Jack Travis was used to the battlefield, not stealing spoiled, sheltered women from trains, but his orders have come from one of the most powerful men in Washington. The by-the-book soldier never doubted his ability to carry out orders until he laid eyes on Emma. His captive is intelligent, headstrong, beautiful – and forbidden. He risks his neck to protect her from the treacherous rake she’d planned to marry. But how can he protect her from himself?
*** Victoria Gray will be back here at Book Junkie on Wed, June 30th for an author interview. She will be giving away a signed copy of DESTINY to one Lucky winner! So don't forget to check back!!! ****
Congrats to my two winners for Ann Bruce's latest release from Carina Press, PARKER'S PRICE. The Winners are..............
Tore
Valerie in Germany
Thank you to everyone who came out and entered to win a copy of Marie Force's latest from Carina Press, FATAL AFFAIR. The winner is......
Christine H
A Gentleman Always Remembers by Candace Camp is book two the in her Willowmere series. This continues with the story of Eve Hawthorne who is now a widow who has agreed to be the guardian of two American girls. They are the cousins of the Earl of Stewkesbury and as a widow Eve thinks she really has no other place in society but as a guardian. That is until the desirable and single Fitzhugh "Fitz" Talbot who just happens to be the Earl's brother. Their first encounter is really what drew me in. Eve has a horrible step mother, but adores her young step brother to pieces, taking in out daily to learn about nature and get him away from his suffocating and ridged mother. She loves this time with him and you can really see apart of who Eve is. Having to swallow her pride and return back into your father's house after the death of her husband, taking this job is her only out in becoming independent.
Fitz also sees this spark of life that Eve shows while she is barefoot in the stream having fun and flirting, even letting Fitz steal a kiss. That is until she realizes who he is and pretty much freaks out. She can't afford even for her own sanity to not be taken seriously and be considered a proper influence for her wards.
It doesn't help that the two have such an attraction to each other and Fitz will really stop at nothing in persuading Eve to become his. But not forever, as a lover. He only wants a lover and not a wife, and Eve isn't going to settle and it is really all of noting for her.
As much as I really liked the spark between Eve and Fitz it sizzled out for me towards the end, there was a great cast of supporting characters, especially the two American ladies. Always a form of entertainment they provided. A sweet story, but lost it's flair half way through.
Married young to a charming but improvident army officer, Eve Hawthorne was widowed with little left except for a few extravagant trifles. Desperate to avoid her domineering stepmother, she accepts employment as chaperone to the Earl of Stewkesbury's American cousins. Who better than a levelheaded widow to remind these young girls that they no longer live on a frontier? But when she flirts with a handsome stranger who turns out to be the earl's brother Fitz, Eve worries she's given the wrong impression.
Trying to prove herself responsible-with Fitz challenging her at every turn-is hard enough, but a blackmailer with an interest in Eve's prior marriage proves far more troubling. With the earl away, Eve can turn only to Fitz for help. But dare she confide in him, when getting too close to this confirmed bachelor might risk her heart to his alluring ways?
BROKEN BIRDS The Story of my Momila by Jeannette Katzir was a hard read for me. Not in the since that it wasn't a beautifully haunting book, but it hit a lot of sore spots in my own relationship with my mother and sister that I like to keep buried.
And hauntingly beautiful it was, the true story or memoir if you will of Jeanette Katzir who grew up with parents who both survived the Holocaust, her father in the concentration camp Dachau and a mother who helped in the resistance.
The crux of the issue is that Jeannette's mother dies years later leaving everything to just one of her children, leaving her husband and other children out in the cold wondering why. Channa Poltzer is known as Mamila to her children, a woman who never really seemed at peace ever after the horrible years of war were over and her family grew. But with her death, she inadvertently caused the death of her family as well. Tearing the children apart forever. The emotional trials they go through will break your heart and force you to reevaluate the cost of bitterness and forgiveness and what being a family really means in your heart. Not everything will end well for Channa's children, their lives forever changed and broken as the emotional imprint she left of her family lives on without her.
World War II has long since ended, and yet Jaclyn and her brothers and sisters grow up learning to survive it. Having lived through the Holocaust on the principle of constant distrust, their mother, Channa, dutifully teaches her children to cling to one another while casting a suspicious eye to the outside world. When Channa dies, the unexpected contents of her will force her adult children to confront years of suppressed indignation. For Jaclyn and her siblings, the greatest war will not be against strangers, but against each other.
Broken Birds, The Story of My Momila, is Jeannette Katzir's achingly honest memoir of the enduring effects of war. From her parents' harrowing experience during the Holocaust to her own personal battles, Katzir exposes the maladies of heart and mind that those broken by war inevitably and unintentionally pass down to the generations that follow.
The third book in Lydia Dare's series THE WOLF NEXT DOOR is just as exciting and charming as the first two Tall Dark and Wolfish and A Certain Wolfish Charm, all of which are about the Westfield Brothers!
This is is about Prisca and Lord William two would be lovers who now hate each other. Well, that isn't exactly true, that is just the illusion they give to everyone else. But Prisca's isn't pulling the wool over her brother's eyes. They have plotted to see her married as soon as possible and to non other that to William Westfield. William is so taken with Prisca even if she is downright ugly to him on most occasions, she is just protecting her heart which William broke years ago. But when William lets Prisca and her brother's believe that they have slept together, even catching them or her rather naked in bed with him they are married.
Prisca is ornery and downright stubborn, she won't give Will an inch and part of me at times felt really bad for the guy. He tired so hard to please her and only wanted to make her happy. Will so so fearful of Prisca knowing who and what he really is and all that entails. Especially bonding with her on the full moon.
That's that the only issue Will has, he has a nemesis of sorts who will test Will as well as Prisca. Party of me felt sorry for him, I felt his loneliness and I am not one to lean towards the villain in any case.
With Will's utter patience and understanding of Prisca's heartbreak and just wanting to officially make her his for all time, I had a hard time off and on taking Prisca in. Her resistance and constant barrage of sarcasm towards will got tiresome. Although I was desperate for their story to have it's happy ending I felt that the author left the readers hanging a little too long for just that.
They can’t even be in the same room together…
Ever since their failed elopement years ago, Prisca Hawthorne has taunted, insulted, and in every way tried to push him away. If only her heart didn’t break every time Lord William Westfield left her…
But staying apart is even worse…
Lord William throws himself into drinking, gambling, and debauchery and pretends not to care about Prisca at all. But when he returns to find a rival werewolf vying for her hand, he’ll stop at nothing to claim the woman who should have been his all along.
Can Prisca forgive the unforgivable, or are the moon-crossed lovers going to be forced into a battle of wills that could be fatal?
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca
Published Date: June 1, 2010
ISBN-13: 978-1402236969
Use code 35JUN10 to get 35% off!
Thank you everyone for soming out and all your great comments! Per Random.org I have picked two winners for I LOVE THIS BAR by Carolyn Brown. And they are ...............
dor
Shirley
In Bekki Lynn's Jewel of the Sun's BLOOD DESTINY the reader is swept away into the world of Cassandra and Elan. Two of the most unlikely of characters to have an attraction are destined to meet and fall in love. Unbeknownst to them their grandfathers have set in motion events that will change both of their lives forever bonding the two together with passion, erotic love and a little intrigue.
One thing that I loved is that Elan was so determined not to fall in love with Cassandra, thinking that he would be able to break the curse by just one night making love to her. And by the way, the intensity of experience is highly erotic and not for the faint of heart.
The plot is entertaining and gripping as well as the cast of supporting characters. They are soul mates, two halves of one and can only be fully complete with they are together. Connected by the spirits and a power beyond their control.
Cassandra's ex-fiance plays an important part that I will hold back from any details as I don't want to give away any spoilers! But I wish I could have kicked the man in the skins! He was a bully and a cheater to boot!
There are some really sad events that happen in the story that bummed me out, but I feel that there story wouldn't have been complete without them as well. And the connection between Elan and Cassandra and those beautiful jewels from Elan's grandfather hold the secrets to their future that will bond their souls together for an eternity. If only they would believe and not fight destiny.
Bekki Lynn will leave you leaving them breathless and longing for more. It will seriously steam up your windows, so turn on the AC for this hot, sexy and sweet story of love and destiny.
Cassandra Jones’ nights become filled with realistic exploits of passion with a man she’s barely met. It all began the night she dumped her two-timing fiancée and Elan Takoda accused her of a federal offense when she had open a package of peridot gems intended for him. Months later, miserable, and clueless as to how to stop fantasies, she went along with a plan he had to free them both. When it didn’t work, what she then learned would bring her both uncertainty and sorrow.
Elan Takoda recognized his grandfather’s hand when he began to envision himself with the granddaughter of his friend. He searched for an end to nightly hours of scorching sex, because he wanted no woman in his life. A shaman told him he must spend a night with her and part when morning came to break the ritual. When the opportunity landed in his lap, he convinced her it was the only way to free them. That is, until they learned the rest of the story.
Published By: Excessica Publishing
ISBN # 9781609823009
Then there is the sweet and fragile Sarah Smith, who believed all her life to be an orphan and unwanted, she became a governess. There in lies her fate, she is persuaded or rather told that she will become a spy, her alias will be Serafina de Greyene a displaced noble Frenchwoman who will capture the heart of the duc de Valère and learn his secrets proving that he is a traitor and a French loyalist.
Their attraction is hot and instant and poor Sarah isn't sure she can pull it off. And for some time she does. That is until she discovers and believes that Julian is no such spy for the French, he is only returning to France in search of his brothers!
There is a more sinister plot in the works and Sarah learns that she too is now at risk of being murdered if she doesn't not give her contact exactly what he wants.
The story's concept will draw you in, then the love story begins and you are hooked. A wonderful and exciting start, hold onto your seats thrill ride middle and a lack-luster end.
A very dangerous attraction…
Julien Harcourt, duc de Valère, is more than willing to marry the lovely young lady his mother has chosen. Little does he know, she’s been sent to prove him a spy and a traitor…
And an even more dangerous secret…
Sarah Smith’s mission is to find out whether the Duc’s trips to the Continent are as innocent as he claims, but the way he looks at her is far from innocent…
Their risky game of cat and mouse propels them from the ballrooms of London to the prisons of Paris, and into a fragile love that may not survive their deceptions…
Publisher: Source Books
Product ISBN: 9781402238659
Publication Date: June 2010
I just think that the entire story dragged on and on for way too long, there were several chapters in a row that were completely unnecessary in the entire scheme of the book. And the constant cat and mouse game seemed a bit too tedious.
There was such potential in their hidden attraction for each other but it just all feel flat for me.
The fourth novel in the Pennistan series ...
In Courtesan's Kiss an independent woman is determined to make her way in the world—even if it’s a scandalous one. But first she must escape a nobleman with plans of his own.
After Mia Castellano’s fiancé breaks their engagement, the ton shuns her. Hardly scandalized, Mia sees her chance to finally free herself from society’s restraints — by becoming a courtesan. After all, a courtesan is in full control of her destiny: she manages her money, has her own house, and can choose her lovers. There’s only one obstacle standing in her way — Lord David Pennistan.
Lord Pennistan has been assigned the challenging task of seeing Mia safely to her new home in Derbyshire where her guardian awaits. The woman attracts nothing but trouble from the outset of their journey. Although with every adventure they share, David’s desire for Mia grows. And when they’re caught in a compromising situation, David insists she marry him. But there’s only one thing Mia wants from David and it isn’t his charity or his title. Can he convince her before it’s too late that the love she wants is already hers — to take or to lose forever?
Release Date: June 22, 2010
Publisher: Bantam Books
ISBN: 978-0-553-59313-6
Ann Bruce has been gracious enough to offer two readers a copy of her latest book from Carina Press PARKER'S PRICE. You can read my review HERE!!!! This is a sexy romantic read that I know you will love.
To enter:
MUST be a follower or become one
Open to ALL!!
Winner chosen 06/23
This was my second Dehart book and I was not disappointed. Filled with adventure, witty dialog and so much drama that will keep any reader turning the pages just to find out what is going to happen next. Let's not forget the steamy romance between the two lead characters, Legend Hunter Max and the beautiful and feisty Sabine. Sabine has an elixir and just two days being parted from it will mean a great and terribly painful death. She has scene it before, so she much so what she must to get her hands on the Map of Atlantis. The map that hangs in Max's house. To decipher the ancient prophecy before they all parish and are killed by the chosen one. They come together as a likely duo and time is running out as the bodies are adding up.
Such humor and a wonderfully refreshing plot I am desperate for the third book.
Years ago, Maxwell Barrett found a map to Atlantis and dedicated his life to the search for the mystical lost continent. But when an alluring woman makes a wager for the priceless artifact, he may have discovered an even greater treasure.
A descendant of Atlantis, Sabine Tobias needs the map to decipher an ancient prophecy. What she doesn't need are the sparks flying between her and Max. He's too devilishly charming to be trusted: The fate of her people is at stake as well as her heart. Yet a ruthless killer also covets the map. Now Max and Sabine must race to decode the prophecy's riddle before this criminal fulfills his deadly mission.
Where can I purchase this book? Book Extras
The Legend Behind Desire Me
Five Fun Facts
Hmmm....I'm not sure there's much about me that's book worthy. Don't get me wrong, I love my life, I have a wonderful husband and great family and friends, but my life is fairly ordinary. Maybe that could be a title for a book about me: Wonderfully Ordinary.
Can you tell the readers a little about Desire Me?
Desire Me is the second in my Legend Hunters trilogy. It's about Max and Sabine and the legendary lost continent of Atlantis. There's also a nasty villain who racks up quite an impressive body count, a deliciously wicked villainess who is simply too fun for words. And I can't talk about the book without mentioning the ancient prophecy. It's full of lots of adventure and secret clues and sexy fun.
What was your favorite scene to write?
Oh, I don't know if I can pick just one. I really loved the scavenger hunt that Max and Sabine end up on. It was great fun coming up with the challenges they'd have to face. I suppose if I *had* to pick, I'd choose the underground Bath ruins scene. In my research for the book, I ran across this Roman Bath that they discovered in the last few years (beneath Kent) when they went to develop some apartments. Only my characters found it first.
What accent is guaranteed to make you do naughty things?
Oh man if you knew how terrible my husband was at imitating accents, then you would know why I burst into laughter upon reading this particular question. I have to admit, I'm a sucker for a basic English accent. I do love those British men.
Do you remember writing stories as a child or did the writing bug come later?
I've always been a story creator. I think it started early for me with my Barbies - I always had these elaborate things for my Barbies to do. Masked balls, huge mansions (and not the one you bought at the store, that wasn't big enough for me!), and plenty of moonlight kisses. Aside from that I was always spinning tales for my friends, and yes, they were always romantic. I guess it's safe to say that growing up to be a romance novelist was destined to happen for me.
What do you do when your Muse won’t speak to you?
I'm not a big believer in a muse. I'm a working novelist with real deadlines and I don't have time to wait for inspiration. Luckily I love what I do and while writing is certainly not easy, it's my first choice and I'm never out of ideas for stories or characters. But for those particularly stubborn days, sometimes I need a change of scenery so I'll pack up my laptop and head off to the coffee shop to work for a while.
What inspired you to write your first book?
Wow, I'm not sure I remember that. I sold the 5th book I wrote, so my very fist novel (which remains under my bed) was a long time ago. It was a western historical set in my home state of Texas and it was about a young mother who had two kids, one of whom was deaf. I suppose that inspiration came from the fact that I took several years of American Sign Language while in college and had spent time in the deaf community. I became fascinated by the origination of sign language in our country and the start of Gallaudet university and I had a lot of that tied into the book.
What is the hardest part for you in creating and continuing on with a series?
Trying to maintain the feel and tone of the book while not repeating myself. It's quite difficult to write original action sequences without feeling like I'm copying myself. So coming up with new challenges for the characters has been, well, challenging.
Did you ever draw your characters from the personalities in your life?
No, I can't say that I ever do this though I know writers certainly do. My characters come to life during my first draft, or discovery draft. This is when the book starts to take shape, but still has lots of holes in it. By the time I'm done with this draft though the characters feel real to me and I know who would say what and how they'd say it and what they'd do in each scene. All that being said, I'm sure that I have subconsciously pulled from people I know and I haven't realized it. Writing is incredibly personal so it would be silly for me to think that people that I love (or don't love :-) ) might find their way into my writing.
Have you ever encountered someone who said, “You write what!!! “?
Well, sure. I'm confident that every romance novelist under the sun has experienced that at least once, but more than likely it's a pretty standard reaction. It's not always meant offensively, though of course that happens too. But more often than not, people are simply shocked that I'm a published author with actual books in a real bookstore. That's the most common reaction.
If you could ask your readers one question, what would it be?
Great question! When you're in a bookstore, what makes you pick up a book by an unknown-to-you author? Is it simply the cover? Do you look at cover quotes or the title or the back cover blurb? What is that makes you walk out of the store with a book by someone you've never read before? (okay maybe I cheated and asked several questions)
Thanks so much for having me!
***GIVEAWAY***
Thanks to Anna @ Hachette I have 5 copies of Desire ME to give away.
(us and canada only please, no PO boxes)
To enter you MUST:
+1 Answer Robyn's question above
+3 Be a Follower or become one.
+5 Pimp this contest out (leave link or it won't count)
Winners Chosen 06/30
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