Ramblings From This Chick

Guest Post with Author Chris Karlsen and Giveaway

2012-02-26T00:01:00.004-05:00

Today I would like to welcome to the blog author Chris Karlson. Chris is currently on tour celebrating the release of her book Journey In Time and has stopped by today to chat. But before we chat lets get to know a little about Chris.

Chris Karlsen is a retired police detective who spent twenty-five years in law enforcement with two different agencies. Her father was a history professor and her mother an avid reader. She grew up with a love of history and books.

She has always loved traveling and has traveled extensively throughout Europe, the Near East (especially Turkey and the Greek Islands), the Caribbean, and North Africa.

Born and raised in Chicago, Chris has also lived in Paris, Los Angeles, and currently resides in the Pacific Northwest with her husband and four rescue dogs.

Places to find Chris:

| Site | Facebook |

Transporting a reader

One of the best compliments a writer can get from a reader is: “I felt so close to the characters, I could hear their voices in my head,” or “I didn’t want the story to end.” When you’ve touched someone in that way with your words, you feel on top of the world. It makes all the rejection letters you received, all the hours spent struggling through a scene and the days where you can’t seem to string two sentences together worthwhile.

As story tellers, we strive to take the reader on a journey with us, to let us transport them to a different world. For me, my first novel, “Heroes Live Forever,” was a love story involving a mortal and a ghost. Does the reader have to believe in ghosts when they open the book to the first page? No. But as a writer, I would ask to let me weave this romance in a way that while you read those three-hundred plus pages, you start to believe. You want to believe.

In “Heroes Live Forever,” there’s a scene that made me choke up a little when I wrote it. A long, well-established author friend read the scene. This was before I belonged to a critique group and I needed feedback. My friend smiled at me when she finished and said, “You made me cry and I never cry reading books.” That made my day. Later, I joined a critique group who read the entire manuscript. They loved the humorous scenes and character’s lines. And every smiley emoticon they added gave me another shot of encouragement.

Excerpt:

A man stood a few feet away. At least what was visible looked like a man. He appeared to be a knight, similar to the one in her favorite painting, except semi-transparent. He wore mail and a dark blue surcoat with a leopard embroidered on it in bronze silk. Tall, with shoulder length hair, in the soft lamplight, his eyes were as black as his hair.

“Milady...”

In the sequel, “Journey in Time,” the hero and heroine are caught in a time portal while horseback riding and sent back to the 14th century. Does the reader need to believe in time-travel? Again, no. Is time-travel possible? Well, no one has done it yet—that we know of. But who’s to say it isn’t going to be possible someday?

Even if the reader doesn’t truly believe in time-travel, most have fun speculating whether they’d like to go back in time or forward in time. I get to elaborate on what might happen if they found themselves in England in the year 1355. I like to recreate the world through the senses. What the characters see, hear, smell, touch and taste becomes this different world for the reader. How the characters react makes you want to turn the page. Through the written word, I can put the question in the reader’s mind: What would I do?

It’s great to take a question you’ve given the reader and then keep throwing in twists and turns. It’s not simply a matter of what would I do without: running water, electricity, modern medicine, the list goes on and on. The medieval period, as times are now, was fraught with dangers, made far worse through superstition and political intrigue. To be fair to the time and place, memorable characters and beautiful settings can color those twists and turns.

Excerpt:

“Alex, what is going on?” she asked in a frenzied whisper.

“Shh.” After they mounted, Alex sidled over, so close their boots touched. “We’re riding into a very perilous situation. I’ll explain everything when we’re alone. Your life, my life,” he stressed, “depends on you being quiet until then.”

Confused, it took Shakira a few seconds before she nodded yes.

“Remember what I told you,” he warned and trotted ahead to chat with a knight he called Simon.

There’s a scene in “Journey in Time,” where Shakira is fighting off an attacker. A reviewer for Romance Radio Network, Desmond Haas, told me when he got to that scene he didn’t want to read more (it’s a fairly graphic scene) “but couldn’t stop reading.” What wonderful words to hear for an author. I was able to transport at least one person that day to a world I created. As a story teller, what more can I ask?

London attorney, Shakira Constantine finally agrees to spend the day with her handsome client, Alex Lancaster. While riding in the countryside, the couple finds themselves caught in a time warp and transported back to the 14th century- and an England preparing for war. Everyone believes Alex is the Baron Guy Guisard, a baron who died in the upcoming battle.

If they can't find a way to return to the 21st Century, Alex will have to sail with the army to certain death. Shakira will be left alone to survive in the alien and terrifying medieval world.

Places to Purchase:

| Amazon | Barnes & Noble |

**Giveaway**

Chris will be giving away 10 eBook sets of Journey in Time and Heroes Live Forever tour wide. Click here for your chance to win.

Good Luck =)

Deena Remiel Giveaway Winner

2012-02-25T19:01:00.000-05:00

Congratulations to

Terri M

On winning a copy of Ghost of a Chance by Deena Remiel

Winner has been contacted via email. Thank you to everyone that stopped by and entered.

Guest Post with Author Shilpa Mudiganti and Giveaway

2012-02-25T00:01:00.006-05:00

Today I would like to welcome to the blog author Shilpa Mudiganti. Shilpa is currently on tour promoting the release of her upcoming debut Always You and has stopped by to chat. First lets get to know a little about Shilpa.

Shilpa M Mirza grew up making up stories in her head. Starting with innocent babbling, genre of her stories changed with lessons growing up teaches us all. She thought life would be all about her stories until she completed her technical degree. Security of an IT job lured her leaving her stories to continue brew up in her head. Yet soon she had to fall in step with what fate had planned for her and she penned her first romance novella, Always You to be published by Inkspell Publishing. There has been no looking back since then. Juggling her day job as an IT geek, she has penned down her pet project, an exciting fantasy story of lions and wolves which, to her utter delight, is going to see the light of the day early next year. She says you would fall in love with her wonderful hero and heroine.

When she has time to breathe, she spends time blogging, connecting with her readers and spending time with her loving husband. She lives at Ridgefield Park, New Jersey.

Places to find Shilpa:

Second Chances

Life would be so much easier when you have the perfect partner with you, isn't it? But how many of us really have them? Even the sturdy of relationships we know crumble around us and we look on believing that would never happen to us. That's the trust that we place in our partner. What do you do when that trust is betrayed?

Something similar happened to Lyla as well in my debut novella, Always You. She had placed all her trust in Alexander Knight and that trust was betrayed in the worst way possible. It left her heart-broken and quite incapable of trusting men at all. That might sound a bit extreme but isn't that the way we usually react? Do you think that's the right way to do it?

I personally believe in second chances. Sometimes third and fourth too! The reason is pretty simple. We are all capable of making mistakes. We are as imperfect as our partner is and the mistake that he/she made might just have been made by you. I cannot impress more upon the fact that it is so important to hear your partner out when such situation arises. Often times, we are so enraged by the betrayal that we do not agree to see their side at all. Agreed, sometimes, what they did is so wrong that no reason makes sense. Yet, what would it cost you to just listen to their side of the tale and for once, see the way they look at the world? May be they had a bad day and just had the urge to let go. May be, they have been trying to tell you the truth since long but never found the right opportunity. May be, they just love you so much that they feared to see the hurt on your face and hence, never told you.

Lyla made this mistake. With prejudices blinding her, she never gave Alex a chance to explain which led to a five long painful years for both. If only, she had heard Alex's side of the story. If only, she had given Alex a second chance.

I hope when you read this debut novella of mine, it will help you believe in second chances a bit more than now. They can be life-changing experiences.

Thank you Dani for having me on your blog! I appreciate this a lot.

Lyla has to move on. She’s been stuck in a rut since her heart was broken five years ago. Trying to decide about life with her fiancé, Nick, she resolves to finish one last project before moving to Spain and starting a new life. That is until she is face to face with the one man who broke her heart all those years ago, Alexander Knight.

Five years ago, when Alex and Lyla meet at his friend, Andrew's grave, they fall deeply in love. But, Alex is hiding a secret that will destroy his relationship with Lyla and does. What Lyla doesn’t realize is that Alex has changed since their break-up, because of her love, only she still has hate in her heart towards him.

But now, fate has brought them together in such a way that they have no option but to remain dangerously close - dangerous enough for Lyla to fall in love with him again. How can she? Not after what she knows about Alex and what he did to Andrew.

It’s true that love can change people for the better. But is it enough? What will happen when two broken people with a past come together? Can they forgive and heal?

Available March 6th, 2012 from Inkspell Publishing.

**Giveaway**

Shilpa will be giving away an eBook copy of Always You to 1 lucky person. So make sure to fill out the Rafflecopter form for your chance to win.

Good Luck =)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Guest Post with Author Joan Swan and Giveaway

2012-02-24T00:01:00.047-05:00

Today I would like to welcome to the blog author Joan Swan. Joan is currently on tour promoting the release of her debut Fever and has stopped by with some of the characters from Fever to chat. But before we speak to everyone lets get to know Joan a little bit.

Joan Swan is a triple RWA® Golden Heart finalist and writes sexy romantic suspense with a paranormal twist. Her debut novel with Kensington Brava, FEVER, releases February 28, 2012. Her second novel, BLAZE, follows in October, 2012.

In her day job, she works as a sonographer for one of the top ten medical facilities in the nation and lives on the California central coast in beautiful wine country with her husband and two daughters.

Places to find Joan:

I sat down with my hero and heroine of FEVER, Teague and Alyssa, for an interview and dragged the heroine’s brother, Mitch, along because he has been such a favorite for readers. Though, true to form, Mitch, who was actually named and given many of his maddening characteristics by my critique partner, Elisabeth Naughton, behaved like the rogue he is and I had to act as wicked author to keep him from snapping the leash.

When will this boy learn?

Joan: “Mitch, can you come over here and sit down?”

Mitch: Peering out the window. “Where is that lousy firebug of yours, Lys?”

Alyssa: Crosses arms. Rolls eyes.

Mitch: “Shouldn’t surprise me the pyro can’t even tell time.” Looks over his shoulder at me. “Do we have to do this today? I’ve got a hot date.”

Joan: “What else is new? And I could change that with a few taps on the keyboard, boy wonder. Lose the attitude.”

Mitch: Turns from the window, hands on hips. “Resorting to threats now?”

Joan: “How the hell else can I keep you in line? Besides, this isn’t my idea. God only knows how or why, but you’ve become somewhat of a favorite to the readers.”

Snort from Alyssa. Mitch shoots her a glare.

Joan: “Hence, the necessary interview.”

Mitch: “Great, fine.” Pulls up a chair, sits next to Alyssa. Plants elbows on knees and clasps his hands, green eyes direct. “Let’s do this.”

Joan: I grin. Tap my pencil on the legal pad. “See, thing is, handsome…you’re not all that interesting without the team.”

Shock transforms Mitch’s face. Alyssa burst out laughing as Mitch slaps a hand to his heart and falls back in his chair. Alyssa and I high-five.

Door opens. Teague walks in.

Mitch: “What did I do to deserve this?”

Teague: “You were born, Foster.” Walks over to Alyssa and gives her a long kiss.

Mitch: Turns his head and dramatically covers his eyes. “Ah, the burn! The burn!”

Teague: To Alyssa as if Mitch doesn’t exist. “Hey, gorgeous.”

Alyssa: “Hey, yourself, handsome.”

Mitch: Gaze still averted, arms crossed. “Gag me.”

Teague: Without looking away from Alyssa. “That can be accomplished. Joan, can you write a toilet plunger into my hand? I promise not to complain next time you want me to do something out of character.”

Joan: “I’m annoyed.” Clenching my teeth even though my characters are being their cute-as-hell selves. “Fair warning.”

All eyes turn toward me. Teague slides into a chair.

Mitch: “Just what is your problem Miss Be-Positive-Its-Good-For-The-Karma?”

Joan: “Don’t push it Mister. I’m less than ten days away from release, trying to juggle eighty-four things at once and look one tenth as good as Alyssa does on her worst day doing it! And remember, I didn’t actually develop you, so killing you wouldn’t really be like killing my own child.”

Mitch: A brave lift of his chin. “Elisabeth would never speak to you again.”

Joan: “She’d get over it.” Shrug. “She’s a very understanding critique partner that way.”

Mitch: Shakes his head. “She’d save me like you saved that psycho warrior guy.”

Alyssa: “Gryphon. And he’s not a warrior, he’s a guardian. And he’s not psycho, he’s…well…sort of possessed.”

Teague: Pulls on Alyssa’s hand, frowning. “How do you know so much about this Gryphon guy?”

Alyssa: Laughs. “Hel-lo. I live in her head.”

Teague: “So do I.”

Alyssa: Looks at me. Shakes her head. Pats Teague’s hand. “Never mind, babe.”

Mitch: “Doesn’t matter. I believe in Elisabeth.”

Alyssa: Cringes. “Have you seen what she does to her characters?”

Teague: “Shhh, babe.” Nods at Mitch. “I’m with you, dude. Elisabeth sounds like a much safer bet for you.”

Alyssa: Grins at her brother. “I feel a turning point coming on, and since Teague and I already have our HEA and you’re the only other one in the room…”

Joan: “Since you brought it up, Lys…” I look at Alyssa. “Never too soon to plan. Who should be his heroine?”

Mitch: Sits forward in his chair, alarm in his eyes. “Why the hell are you asking her?”

Joan: “Because we all know you’ll lie.”

Mitch: Glares at Alyssa. “Don’t you dare.”

Alyssa: Threads her fingers through Teague’s. The teasing humor turns soft. “You really never should have left her in the first place. I told you that then.”

Joan: Raises brows in interest. “And who’s that?”

Mitch: “No one.” Growls through his teeth, “And I didn’t leave her.”

Alyssa: Tosses a thoughtful look at Teague. “He sounds just like—“

Teague: “Luke. Don’t even try that bullshit, Foster. Ransom sucks at denial, too.”

Joan: “I see.” I throw a wave at Teague and Alyssa. “You two can go.”

Mitch: Starts to push from the chair. “Finall—“

Joan: “Not you.”

Mitch: Scowls. “You said I wasn’t interesting without them.”

Joan: “Changed my mind.”

Teague: Winces, tugging Alyssa toward the door. “I hate it when she does that.”

Alyssa: “Teague, I think he’s giving me the death stare.”

Teague: “Don’t look, babe. Just don’t look.”

Mitch: “You are so going to pay for this.”

Alyssa: “I already do. That’s why I told her.” Blows him a kiss on the way out the door. “You’ll thank me. She writes great HEAs.”

Teague: Winks as he closes the door behind him, whispering, “But she writes even better sex.”

When Dr. Alyssa Foster is taken hostage by a prison inmate, she knows she's in deep trouble. Not just because Teague Creek is desperate for freedom, but because the moment his fingers brush against her skin, Alyssa feels a razor-sharp pang of need...

A man with a life sentence has nothing to lose. At least Teague doesn't, until his escape plan develops a fatal flaw: Alyssa. On the run from both the law and deadly undercover operatives, he can only give her lies, but every heated kiss tells him the fire between them could be just as devastating as the flames that changed him forever...

Places to Purchase:

**Giveaway**

Joan will be giving away a copy of Fever to 1 lucky person (US and Canada Shipping Only) so make sure to leave a comment and to fill out the Rafflecopter form for your chance to win.

All comments are eligible for the tour Grand Prize of either a Nook Color or Kindle Fire. Click here to enter.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Winners Galore

2012-02-23T19:01:00.004-05:00

Congratulations to:

Kristina P
On winning a copy of Changeling Dawn + Swag by Dani Harper

Stella Chen

On winning a book of choice from The Book Depository

Christina Bodden

On winning a $5.00 Gift Card to Amazon or Barnes & Noble

Heather Smiddie Robbins

On winning a Bag of Swag

Mrsshukra

On winning a copy of Blood Eternal by Marie Treanor

Jessica Edwards

On winning a copy of Firelight by Sophie Jordan

Tammy Darling

On winning a copy of No Proper Lady by Isabel Cooper

Ruth Mayer Hill

On winning a copy of The Iron King by Julie Kagawa

Guest Post with Author Stacey Kennedy and Giveaway

2012-02-23T00:01:00.041-05:00

Today I would like to welcome to the blog author Stacey Kennedy. Stacey is currently on tour promoting the release of her newest book Supernaturally Kissed and has stopped by today to chat with us. Before we hear from Stacey lets get to know her a bit.

Stacey Kennedy’s novels are lighthearted fantasy with heart squeezing, thigh-clenching romance, and even give a good chuckle every now and again. But within the stories you’ll find fast paced action, life threatening moments and a big bad villain that needs to be destroyed. Her urban fantasy/paranormal and erotic romance series have hit Amazon Kindle and All Romance Ebooks Bestseller lists. If she isn’t plugging away at her next novel, tending to her two little ones, she’s got her nose deep in a good book. She lives in Ontario, Canada with her husband.

Places to find Stacey:

WOOT! I’m so excited that I get to share a conversation that I had with Kipp McGowen from Supernaturally Kissed. Now seeing that he’s a ghost and I don’t have the gift, Tess Jennings helped us out relaying his responses to me, but knowing that Kipp sat in a chair next to me, I simply pretended he talked to me…alone! *grins*

Stacey: *clears throat* Okay, this is a bit strange talking to a ghost, but here goes. So, what was it like waking up to discover you were a ghost?

Kipp: Best day of my life.

Stacey: *scrunches up nose* Huh?

Tess: *rolls eyes* He’s being sarcastic.

Stacey: *chuckles* Right! It was a shock I take it?

Kipp: That’s putting it mildly. Once I got over the initial shock of finding out that I was now a ghost, I just so happened to discover Tess and then a plan formed. Off course, it wasn’t only her ability I was after.

Tess: *blushes*

Stacey: *dies of jealously* Well, that’s certainly nice that…um…you’ve found each other considering the fact that you’re…er….

Kipp: Screwed.

Stacey: *laughs* Something like that. So, Tess was telling me before that she usually helps ghosts crossover and find their peace. Is that what you’re looking for?

Tess: *squirms in her seat and her eyelids lower*

Kipp: No.

Stacey: *cringes at the awkwardness* If you’re not looking for that, then what exactly are you after?

Kipp: I haven’t figured that out yet. I knew the reasons at first involved the cold case of Hannah Reid. But my reasons for staying around have changed and even though, I don’t completely understand why I’m in this condition, all I know is that I don’t want to leave.

Tess: Me, neither.

Stacey: What’s your plan then, where will you go from here?

Kipp: Do you have your life all planned out?

Stacey: No.

Kipp: There’s your answer. Neither do I. I don’t pretend to have it all figured out and to understand why I’m a ghost and have no desire to crossover, but I’m here…for now. And that’s all that matters.

Tess: *tears well in her eyes* We have today and hopefully we’ll have tomorrow. In this situation, you just can’t think that far ahead.

Stacey: *gulps* Do you think eventually you’ll know more about why you’re in this…condition?

Kipp: Sure as hell hope so!

Tess: Who knows what’s going to happen next. Things just seem to be getting weirder and weird every day. Knowing my life, I’ll have a house full of ghosts irritating me and things will only become more bizarre.

Kipp: We’ll get through whatever is ahead of us just like we’ve gotten through everything in the past.

Tess: *smiles sweetly*

Stacey: *fiddles with her hair feeling like the third wheel* Well, I really hope it all works out for you two, regardless how the odds seem to be stacked against you.

Tess: *stares at the chair Kipp is sitting in with adoring eyes* We do, too.

Ghosts harass and annoy Tess Jennings to save their souls. Sometimes she helps them. Other times she ignores them. But one ghost will give her no choice.

Kipp McGowen, a cop with the Memphis Police Department, will stop at nothing to gain her help, including using his ghostly charms to seduce her.

Tess must help solve the five year old cold case of Hannah Reid, because solving the case will save Kipp. But a bigger problem presents itself. Tess is falling in love with a ghost. Now she must decide. Keep Kipp forever or find the killer…

Places to Purchase:

| Amazon | Barnes & Noble | All Romance |

**Excerpt**

An icy wisp of air swept in behind me, causing my heel to twist as I stumbled. To the other pedestrians striding along the downtown Memphis street, the sensation would be brushed off as a cold breeze.

They were wrong. A spirit lingered here.

“Can you hear me?”

From the intrigue rolling in his voice, he hadn’t expected me to acknowledge him. Shit! I’d already given myself away. A mistake I’d rectify.

Without hesitation, I righted my stance and strode forward with purpose, forcing myself to remain deaf to the voice. If I ignored ghosts long enough, they moved on and searched out someone else who held the same irritating ability, whom I had yet to meet.

Much to my annoyance, the ghost stayed right on my heels and his presence remained strong behind me. The cold air at my back remained a contrast to the warm morning air in front of me. Every hair on my neck stood up and goose bumps pimpled a trail along my skin. If only I could rub them away, but I didn’t dare. Ignoring him would make him go away.

“You can hear me, can’t you?” the ghost asked again.

Spirits were typically harmless, but annoying. I’m dead, what’s going on, why am I a ghost—yada, yada, yada. I quickened my steps and made my way down Peabody Place in hopes he’d leave me alone.

“Wait.”

He sounded desperate, which meant a big headache for me. If I hadn’t worn my damn slingbacks, I would’ve tried to run and hide. But the three-inch Manolos and the tight, tailored gray skirt restrained my movements.

I passed Miss Polly’s Soul Food Café, and the delicious aroma of bacon and eggs drifted along the air. My empty stomach complained. My only thought after I woke had been caffeine. Now I wished I’d grabbed a muffin with my latté at Starbucks. With ten minutes to get to my desk, I couldn’t worry about such things.

My boss, Event Manager Dylan Cobb, would hand me my ass if I stepped into the office a minute late. Sadly, there’d never been a day I didn’t cater to his every need.

I approached Beale Street and sighed in relief, relishing the warmth surrounding me. Not only from the sun above—the spirit’s cold presence at my back had vanished. Pleased my dodge of him had worked, I took a sip of my energy in a cup and smiled. Coffee’s fantastic, the ghost is gone—life is good.

Another block passed under my heels before I reached the historical red-brick building. Randall Marketing, written in black block letters, decorated the striped green-and-white awning.

I opened the door to the office and strode in, greeted by a bubbly voice. “Good morning, Tess.”

“Mornin’.”

“Give me a moment here.” Doris shuffled paperwork around her desk, her auburn curls bouncing on her shoulders. The receptionist had always been messy, yet somehow organized. “There were a few messages on the voicemail for you.” She raised her head and held out the pink slips of paper. “A lovely day today, is it not?”

“Sure is.” So I lied. The ghost hadn’t kicked off my day on a high note. Not as if I’d tell her about my interaction with spirits. My ability to converse with spirits remained on a need-to-know basis, and as far as it concerned me, no one needed to know. I grabbed the messages from her hand. “Did your weekend treat you good?”

“I spent the entire weekend knee-deep in my garden.” Her cocoa-colored eyes lit up. “My best year ever, I’m hoping. You’ll have to come out and have a look-see.”

“I’d love to.” Doris treasured her gardens, so I tried to appear interested, even though my green thumb looked black.

Her smile brightened, but when the phone rang, she waved a goodbye and answered the call. “It’s another beautiful day here at Randall Marketing, how may I direct your call?”

Leaving her behind, I strode down the hall toward my office and sipped my coffee. The warmth slid down my throat and provided an immediate rush to my energy levels. At the third door on the right, I entered my bleak workspace with its pale-blue walls, closed the door behind me and approached the desk. I dropped down into the black leather chair and flipped through the messages. None were urgent enough to worry about now.

I powered up my computer, but a knock at the door had me glancing up. Before I got a word out, the door swished open and I cringed, fully aware of the looming trouble.

Caley, the officer manager and my best friend since the age of four, looked like a typical Barbie. Perfect skin, long flowing blonde hair and a body men drooled over. I might have been jealous of her perfection since I couldn’t pull off her looks even with a makeover—so maybe a little envious—but her appearance had always been a front. She was the devil in disguise.

She scowled, shutting the door behind her with a slam. “Do you mind explaining where you were all weekend?”

“At home.” I batted my lashes. “Why? Did you try to call me?”

She pointed her finger, narrowing her eyes at me. “Don’t you try that shit on me. I called you all weekend and your phone went straight to voicemail.”

“Hmm…” I pretended to ponder. “The battery must have died.” She had enough gall to just come over, but the little hint had been a subtle way of telling Caley to leave me alone.

“Liar.” She plopped down in the seat across from my desk. “Where were you? I wanted to go out.”

“Nowhere. Honestly, I vegged on the couch.”

Caley snorted. “You lead such an exciting life.”

My mouth parted to offer a snappy retort, but a cold wisp of air brushed across my skin, causing my lips to snap shut. Damn! I thought I’d got rid of him.

“Hello.” Caley snapped her fingers in front of my face. “Leave the aliens behind and return to Mother Earth.”

I blinked, trying to force my attention back to her, yet failing. The ghost knelt right beside Caley—not kneeling, of course; more like floating, since ghosts were never able to obtain physical contact with the world around them—and my focus held strong on him, unable to stop myself from ogling. He stared intently, with one crystal-blue eye, while the other was a chocolate color. His strong jaw, the muscles clenching along his cheeks, all spoke of power. But as he ran his hand through his untidy sandy-colored hair, his expression showed playfulness. His black tank top left his arms exposed and muscles upon muscles layered those arms.

“Anyways,” she said, dragging my gaze back to her. “I had to go out with Susanne because you left me high and dry.”

I laughed. Caley’s horny, twenty-year-old stepsister had the body that men chased after. “You did have the option to stay home, you know.”

Her eyes widened. “On a Saturday night?”

“Yeah, you know, get some popcorn, watch a movie and relax.”

She frowned. “If you don’t stop your grandma behavior, your va-jay-jay is going to shrivel up and die.”

The ghost chuckled.

His smooth laugh hit me like a cup of warm cocoa, causing my insides to melt. Nothing amused me. First off, Caley had been so wrong—maybe a little right—but I’d never admit to her accuracy aloud. Second, reacting in such a heated way to a ghost definitely didn’t hit my to-do list today.

“Excuse me.” I spoke not only to Caley, but also to the irritating ghost. “My va-jay-jay is just fine.”

“Well, I’m glad to hear you’ve still got some spunk.” She stood and placed her hands on her hips. “Because we’ve got a double date tonight.”

“A what?” Dear God!

She grinned from ear to ear. “Yes, my dearest Grammy, we’re going out.”

“With who?”

“Two guys I met on Saturday night. You’re coming with me, either willingly or unwillingly, so suck up your hesitations, babe, because saying no isn’t an option.”

“But it’s a Monday night.” Not saying a date didn’t sound like fun. A month had passed since my last attempt at dating—which failed miserably—but a man Caley chose while drunk? No thanks. My sex life might have been as dead as the sexy ghost in front of me, but I’d still search for a way out. “I have to work tomorrow.”

She wagged her finger in classic Caley fashion. “You’re a grandma.”

Most times, I respected her persistent personality. She never backed down, always dreamed big and went for the gold, but her grit hadn’t been all rays of sunshine. Her determination made her annoyingly tenacious. I had to agree or she’d never give up, and getting her out of my office sounded all too good. “Fine. I’ll go with you.”

“Oh, stop looking so pissy. We’ll have fun. Promise. I’ll come to your place at eight.” She opened the door, glanced over her shoulder and winked. “Leave the granny panties at home.”

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**Giveaway**

Stacey will be giving away an eBook copy of Supernaturally Kissed to 1 lucky commenter. So don't forget to leave a comment and to fill out the Rafflecopter form for your chance to win.

Good Luck =)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Epic Book Giveaway Contest

2012-02-22T19:01:00.000-05:00

Don’t Miss the “Indulge in Our Favorite Authors” Epic Book Giveaway Contest!

If you haven’t already heard, five romance authors are holding an epic book giveaway contest of *their* five favorite romance authors’ books. But they’re not just giving away a few books—they’re giving away complete, SIGNED backlists of the following authors:

Julia Quinn (sponsored by Shana Galen)

Lisa Kleypas (sponsored by Elise Rome)

Julie Garwood (sponsored by Heather Snow)

Elizabeth Hoyt (sponsored by Lila DiPasqua)

Cynthia Eden (sponsored by Vanessa Kelly)

Yes, it’s an epic contest, and it’s being held on Facebook right now. All you have to do is visit the Facebook pages of Shana Galen, Lila DiPasqua, Vanessa Kelly, Heather Snow, and Elise Rome, and enter the favorite book (the hint is given on the contest tab) for each of these authors.

At the end of February the contest will be over—so hurry!—and five lucky winners will win a backlist of one of the amazing authors mentioned above. Elise has said that Lisa is even signing her books after the winner is chosen for her backlist, so if you win Lisa Kleypas’ books, they’ll be personally made out to you. Also, the five authors are giving away books of their own, too.

Good luck to everyone who enters, and don’t forget to tell your friends!

Interview with Author Heather Snow and Giveaway

2012-02-22T00:01:00.069-05:00

Today I would like to welcome back to the blog author Heather Snow. Heather is currently on tour promoting the release of her debut book Sweet Enemy. Heather was kind enough to let me ask her some questions and I would love to share them with you all. First lets get to know a little bit about Heather.

Heather Snow is a historical romance writer with a degree in Chemistry who found she much preferred creating chemistry on the page, rather than in the lab! She is forever trying to wrangle her left and right brain to work together (some days with more success than others!), but if her two sides had to duke it out, left would win every time--which can be a creative challenge. Luckily, she loves challenges...she just goes about solving them analytically.

She lives with her husband and two sons in the Midwest and truly hopes you find her stories have just the right chemistry...

Places to find Heather:

First off, can you tell us a bit about you?
Well, I’m a historical romance author with a chemistry degree who discovered I preferred creating chemistry on the page, rather than in the lab! I’m also a wife and mom of two boys, known affectionately on the web as The Heir and The Spare. This is, of course, some historical romance author humor, and not an actual reflection on how we view our children ;). The boys are 3 ½ years old, and 6 months. As you can imagine, that makes me a little crazy at times…I’m imagining that will pass…in 18 years or so…

I’m also a movie lover—a lake girl—I prefer water skiing over snow, despite my name—and I love solitude, though I rarely get it with young children.

Did you always want to be a writer?
No. My degree is actually in chemistry. In fact, I’d never really done much writing outside of homework assignments. I was always an avid reader, however, and always had a creative side to me—and one day my reading just spilled over to writing!

What kind of writer are you? Panster or Plotter?
The chemist in me is a HUGE plotter, a stubborn one who feels terrified if I don’t know exactly what is going to happen. However, the creative writer in me feels stifled if I over plot. So I guess I’m a plotser…I compromise and loosely plot the mystery, character arc, and romance arc, then discover the fun details about the characters and story during the writing process.

Why historicals? What about this era draws you in?
Historical romance is my very favorite for many reasons. To me, it’s more like a grown-up fairy tale than other genres. I love the language…I attribute a huge chunk of my vocabulary to reading historical romance growing up. I love that you get to learn bits and pieces of history as you read. I love the fantasy of glittering balls and palatial estates with manicured gardens, without the everyday worries of our modern world. It’s like another layer of escape, one more step removed from the life I live.

Where do your ideas come from?
Actually, all of the ideas for the three books in the Veiled Seduction series came in different ways. SWEET ENEMY was inspired by an exhibit I went to at a museum about a scientific event that happened in the Regency Period which sparked a “What if?” mystery in my mind. When I finished the book, featuring a science-savvy heroine, I knew I wanted to write an entire series about smart heroines who solve mysteries. The idea for SWEET DECEPTION, due out in August, came from the heroine’s ability and what I wanted her to do with it. Whereas the idea for SWEET MADNESS came totally from the title.

A la Twitter style, can you describe your book (or series) in 140 characters or less.
A lady chemist goes undercover as a husband-hunter at a house party to investigate the earl whose family she thinks murdered her father.

Out of any of your books, which one would you like to be a character in? And why?
Well, since I’ve only written two at this point, I’m going to say SWEET ENEMY. Since they are at a house party, there would be dancing, ball gowns, great food and people I could hide behind and observe everyone else. SWEET DECEPTION, on the other hand, is set in a more remote place with an active killer on the loose, and since I’m the author, I know who the villain is—which would make me a target. Nope, I’ll hang out in SWEET ENEMY, thank you very much!

What are some of your favorite kinds of stories to read?
You know, when I sat down to write SWEET ENEMY, I wanted to write the kind of book I loved to read...highly emotional, fast paced historical romance that has a mystery to it, yet makes you laugh. It’s not light and fluffy, but it has light moments. (Although I do love lighter stories—I devour Julia Quinn, for example!). I also write very sensual stories, which I love to read also—Lisa Kleypas has wonderful, sensuous love scenes!

Do you have a favorite book and if so what is it?
Being asked to pick a favorite book is not quite like being asked to pick which of your children you like better, but close! =). Hmmm…I’ll answer it more like “what books do you re-read from time to time because you loved them so much?” I love “Devil in Winter” by Lisa Kleypas, “Castles” by Julie Garwood, “Tender Rebel” by Johanna Lindsay, and “Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake” by Sarah MacLean, just to name a few.

Have you ever fallen for another author's hero? If so, who and why?
Snort! Um…yes. More than one! Let’s see, I LOVED Anthony Mallory from “Tender Rebel”, I loved Caine, the Marquess of Cainewood from Julie Garwood’s “Guardian Angel”, I loved Derek Craven from Lisa Kleypas’ “Dreaming of You”…all for different reasons, although come to think of it…they were all tall and dark and sinewy…love the dark-haired heroes (as opposed the to blond, bulging Fabio-types). Looking at these three men I loved, they are all different – Anthony is a rake about town with a wicked sense of humor, Caine is an ex-spy with a sense of duty and protectiveness, and Derek is a dark, dark character who doesn’t think he can be redeemed. Guess I’m fickle =)

Belle of the Ball, Wallflower, or Widow?
Can I be a Wallflower Widow? I would certainly crave the independence being a widow would afford, yet I would probably still be an observer. If I were a romance heroine, I’d probably be that chit who fakes a marriage so everyone would think I was a widow…

Describe the characteristics that make up your perfect hero.
Well, we already talked about the tall, dark, leanness…so let’s go for true characteristics. Honorable, even if only to his own personal code of honor versus what society considers honorable. Ambitious, and for a goal that helps others, not just himself. A willingness to change—I don’t care if he starts out an ass, as long as he learns and grows.

What are the scenes that are the hardest for you to write?
The really emotional ones. I have a chemistry degree, I am analytical by nature and act first with my mind, rather than my heart. Sometimes, I have to dig deep to let those emotions come first. I usually have to come at those over a period of a few days, and layer them on—give myself a bit of rest in between!

If you could have dinner with any three book characters, who would you choose and why?
I’m going to limit this to romance characters. Hmmm…wow…should I pick heroines who fascinate me, or men I would just sit and stare at in wonder? I’m going to pick heroines, because I would have a great time talking to them (and maybe they’d share juicy tidbits about their men who fascinate me!). I don’t think I’d invite Anthony Mallory’s wife, because she’s too much of a spitfire for me…I don’t think we’d have much in common—other than an appreciation for her hot husband! I’d DEFINITELY invite Caine’s wife, Jade, though—she was a pirate for many years, after all—she’d be fascinating to talk with! I’d also definitely invite Derek Craven’s wife, Sara—she’s a writer, you see—we’d have much to discuss. And then, I’d have to invite Dougless Montgomery from Jude Deveraux’s “A Knight In Shining Armor”—she did get to travel through time, after all. It would be awesome to hear about that!

If you could have dinner with any three authors, who would you choose and why?
Again, I’m going to limit my answers to romance. Lisa Kleypas, definitely. I’m a huge fan of her writing, first of all. Second, listening to a talk she gave at a Romance Writers of America® conference is what pushed me over the edge into writing historical romance when I was debating about leaving behind my career to write. I’d like to thank her for that. Next, Julie Garwood—she had young children and an outside job in the early days of her career—I’d love to talk with her about how she juggled it all and still created such amazing stories. Finally, Sabrina Jeffries—she’s an author on my auto-buy list and there are always one or two moments in her stories that I just stop and think “Wow…that part was awesome!”.

What do you like to do in your free time?
Free time? What is that? Between a toddler, a baby and a book contract, I haven’t had free time since 2008! I used to love to travel, read, watch movies, attend the theatre…okay, I still love those things, I just don’t get to do them often. I’m a lake girl, as I mentioned, so swimming, boating, playing cards and board games (no TV at the lake unless it’s raining—that’s the rule!) and singing songs around the campfire with friends is a perfect summer day.

Favorite movie?
I’m too fickle to have a favorite! I’ll just name the first 5 that come to mind, okay? The Princess Bride, Field of Dreams, The Awful Truth, Shawshank Redemption and Heart and Souls.

Favorite song?
You’re killing me! =) I can’t. I can’t choose. I can’t!

Favorite color?
Ah…one I can answer. Green. Not the bright, Kelly green, but a rich, dark green. Ask me tomorrow, however, and it might change…

Last question, are you working on anything right now?
Yes! I’m finishing up copy edits on SWEET DECEPTION and plotsing the third in the series, SWEET MADNESS.

Geoffrey Wentworth, a war hero and rising political star, never wanted to be the Earl, but when his brother dies, he knows his duty—take up the responsibility for his family’s estates. His mother’s definition of duty differs from his, however, and can be summed up in one word—heirs. When Geoffrey rushes home to answer her urgent summons, he finds himself host to a house full of women, all vying to become the next Countess of Stratford. But his love is Parliament, where he wields his influence and reputation to better the lives of ex-soldiers, until a tempting houseguest and a secret from his past threaten his freedom…and his heart.

Liliana Claremont, a brilliant chemist, doesn’t want to be any man’s wife, much less a Countess. If she had tuppence for every time she’d been told her place was filling the nursery, not experimenting in the laboratory, she could buy the Tower Bridge. However, when she receives a coveted invitation to the Earl’s house party, she trades in her beakers for ball gowns and gladly takes on the guise of husband hunter—for the chance to uncover what the Earl had to do with the murder of her father.

Liliana believes the best way to get the answers she needs is to keep her enemy close, though romance is not part of her formula. But it only takes one kiss to start a reaction she can't control...

Places to Purchase:

**Giveaway**

Heather will be giving away a super cool book safe to 1 lucky person (US Shipping Only). So make sure to leave Heather a comment and to fill out the Rafflecopter form.

Good Luck =)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Guest Post with Author Lois Greiman and Giveaway

2012-02-21T00:01:00.063-05:00

Today I would like to welcome to the blog author Lois Greiman. Lois is celebrating the release of her book Uncorked and has stopped by to chat, but first lets get to know a little about Lois, shall we.

Lois Greiman was born on a cattle ranch in central North Dakota where she learned to ride and spit with the best of them. After graduating from high school, she moved to Minnesota to train and show Arabian horses. But eventually she fell in love, became an aerobics instructor and gave birth to three of her best friends.

She sold her first novel in 1992 and has published more than thirty titles since then, including romantic comedy, historical romance, children’s stories, and her fun-loving Christina McMullen mysteries. A two-time Rita finalist, she has won such prestigious honors as Romantic Times Storyteller Of The Year, MFW’s Rising Star, RT’s Love and Laughter, the Toby Bromberg for most humorous mystery, and the LaVyrle Spencer Award. Her heroes have received K.I.S.S. recognition numerous times and her books have been seen regularly among the industries Top Picks!

With more than two million books printed worldwide, Ms Greiman currently lives on the Minnesota tundra with her family, some of whom are human. In her spare time she likes to ride some of her more hirsute companions in high speed events such as barrel racing and long distance endurance rides.

Places to find Lois:

| Site | Facebook | Chrissy McMullen Facebook Page |

I grew up in the hippy era. You know, braless, micro skirts, wire-rim glasses.

Are you old enough to remember Twiggy? She was…well…skinny as a twig. Maybe that’s when the craze to be super bony started. I’m not sure. But there were also a lot of other ‘nifty’ trends. Bell bottoms as wide as your hips, for instance. Funky head bands, beads of all sorts and lengths, and hair…the longer and straighter the better. It was an interesting time. But it moved on.

In the seventies I used to disco. I wore metallic pants. Swear to God I did. I had a Danskin skirt in every conceivable color and wore platform shoes that put me in constant danger of injuring myself and others.

The eighties had a love affair with shoulder pads and stirrup pants. I wore both of the above-mentioned catastrophes. Though I can’t exactly tell you why.

I’m not saying that the modern trends are any better. I mean…who decided we should go bare-legged in skirts? I’ll readily admit that pantyhose aren’t the most comfortable torture devises ever invented, but I’m Scandinavian AND Minnesotan. Do you have any idea what that does to one’s skin pigment? If I don’t want to be translucent I have to PAINT on a tan.

As you may have divined, I’m not crazy about any of the aforementioned trends, but I know what I DO like: Halter tops, for instance. I can’t help it. I like ‘em. They’re comfortable, and there’s something about the design that is relatively flattering for my figure type. My mother bought me one about 100,000 years ago that I still wear. Long sculpted jackets that (not coincidently) fully cover my hips. Boot cut jeans. I mean seriously, it just makes sense that I put a little more width on the bottom to make my middle look smaller, right?

There are other things I like, and consequently stick with, also. One of them is my Chrissy McMullen mystery series. I just released Uncorked, the 7th in my series about a crazy LA psychologist. Chrissy is intelligent, fun, and irreverent. Her nemesis/love interest, Lieutenant Jack Rivera, is dark, brooding, and sexy as hell. Together, they keep me coming back for more.

So how about you? What are your favorite fashion and/or fiction trends? I’m giving away an Amazon Gift card to one much-appreciated commenter.

The romance between LA psychologist Christina McMullen and Lieutenant Jack Rivera is finally sizzling...until Chrissy catches the lieutenant in a compromising position. Still, when a vicious criminal from their past is released from prison, Rivera is willing to do whatever it takes to keep Chrissy safe--but does that include murder?

Despite sound advice from her best friend, Brainy Laney Butterfield, Chrissy is determined to clear Rivera's name. But first she'll have to tango with a quintet of sexy suitors and her own current beau, Doctor...what was his name again? And when Chrissy is attacked, the stakes become more dangerous than ever, for she's about to pop the lid on the most lucrative criminal enterprise in LA--and to the surprise of this shrink, more than one deep, dark secret is about to become uncorked.

Places to Purchase:

| Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords |

**Giveaway**

Lois will be giving away a special Amazon gift card to 1 lucky person. So make sure to leave her a comment and to fill out the Rafflecopter form.

Good Luck =)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Sealed With a Kiss: Winners and Wrap-Up

2012-02-20T09:00:00.073-05:00

We have lots of winners to announce but first I wanted to take the time to say a SUPER BIG THANK YOU to all of the authors that participated and donated books for the Sealed With a Kiss Event. This event was a blast and you better believe that it will become a yearly fixture here at the blog. Thank you to everyone that stopped by everyday and commented and showed all the authors love. I hope you all enjoyed yourselves as much as Rita and I did.

And now for the winners.

Names in pink are winners from Ramblings From This Chick and the names in purple were the winners from Not Another Romance Blog.

Lila DiPasqua:

Susie B

Jenni

Beverley Kendall:

Diane S

Patricia P

Kate Noble:

Yadira A

Tina B

Manda Collins:

June M

Lora P

Elise Rome:

Sharon DC

June M

Vicky Dreiling:

Yadira A

Julia

Maggie Robinson:

Joanne B

Gisele A

Heather Snow:

Beebs

Cindy H

Jenna Petersen:

Lisa W

Yadira A

Theresa Romain:

Yadira A

Eli Y

Maya Rodale:

Mary R

Lisa W

Shana Galen:

June M

Diane S

Caroline Linden:

Mary R

Gail N

Jenn LeBlanc:

Jen B

Mary R

And without further ado, the winner of the Grand Prize is...
Joanne B

All winners have been contacted via email. Thank you so much to everyone that participated. =)

Man Candy Monday-Glasses and Sweaters

2012-02-20T00:01:00.082-05:00

Welcome everyone. It's Manday and you know what that means...Man Candy Monday! This week's theme is Glasses and Sweaters. Love it. I don't know about you but I think guys in glasses and sweaters are hot. I think it's because I find intelligence sexy and those are two items that seem to go hand in hand with it. What about you? Do you think glasses and sweaters are sexy? Here are some pictures I found of some hotties in glasses and sweaters. Tell me what you think.

Here's a video of Channing Tatum wearing lots of sweaters.

So what do you think? Are glasses and sweaters sexy? Who are some of your favorite glasses or sweater wearing men? Don't forget tonight's Twitter chat. Use the hashtag #mancandymonday to find all of the pictures easily. See ya next week!

ARC Review: The Rogue Pirate's Bride by Shana Galen

2012-02-19T19:01:00.008-05:00

It's not often when a book can make me cry. To be honest, it usually never happens, but I admit to weeping like a baby on more than one occasion while reading The Rogue Pirate's Bride. Oh my, this book was so good. Full of action, suspense, mystery and some pretty steamy love scenes it had me turning the pages in an attempt to keep up with everything.

I'll admit, this book started off a bit slow for me. Not that the story was slow, it's just that I'm usually not the biggest fan of books with pirates so it took me a few chapters to get into the swing of things. But once I did, I was hooked. The chemistry between Raeven and Bastien is immediate and electric. It literally jumps off the page and smacks you in the face but all in a good way. They are both so right for each other and I loved watching them both match wits with one another.

Raeven is the type of heroine that I love to read about and she captured my attention from the first page. As soon as she came on the scene with her plan to kill Bastien in an attempt to avenge the death of her fiance' I was hooked. She was just so feisty. She takes care of herself and isn't the type of heroine to sit back and let others do everything for her. She wants something, she pretty much grabs it by the balls and goes for it. I loved her tenacity and her spunk. I love that deep down she just wants to love and be loved and she doesn't do anything half way.

Bastien is everything you want to love about an Alpha hero. He's cocky, sexy, witty and intelligent. He fights for what he wants and isn't ashamed of anything. At the same time, Bastien broke my heart. He believes his entire family has died and it's heartbreaking to watch him trying to overcome the guilt he feels about their deaths. He refuses to speak about the event with anyone and when he finally does break down and talks about it, it's heartbreaking. Even though as the reader I know that his family is alive, my heart still weeps for him. It was gut wrenching to read, but it made their reunion all the more sweeter.

I'm sad to say goodbye to the Valere' family. This book just went by so quickly for me and I want more. Why can't there be more? Seriously though, this book along with the others in the Sons of the Revolution trilogy have quickly become some of my favorite reads in a long time. These are books that are definite keepers and I will be re-reading them all in the future. Shana Galen is amazing, and I bow down to her for this amazing series. It's definitely not one to be missed.

**ARC copy provided by Author**

RATING:

Guest Post with Author Tamara Morgan

2012-02-19T00:01:00.044-05:00

Today I would like to welcome to the blog author Tamara Morgan. Tamara is currently on tour promoting the release of her book Love is a Battlefield and has stopped by today to share it with us. First lets get to know Tamara a little bit.

Tamara Morgan is a romance writer and unabashed lover of historical reenactments—the more elaborate and geeky the costume requirements, the better. In her quest for modern-day history and intrigue, she has taken fencing classes, forced her child into Highland dancing, and, of course, journeyed annually to the local Renaissance Fair. These feats are matched by a universal love of men in tights, of both the superhero and codpiece variety.

Places to find Tamara:

Where’s My Invitation? Historical-Themed Weddings

We’ve all seen them on television and in the movies. In 27 Dresses, Katherine Heigl rocks a cotton candy colored Civil War bridesmaid dress. On Say Yes to the Dress, there’s an episode where a woman finds the perfect wedding gown to go with her ethereal fairy wings. And on A Wedding Story, there are two or three shows that highlight men in kilts and full-on Renaissance gear. (I like to watch happy, sentimental things often aired on TLC and Lifetime, okay?)

I adore these weddings. Not just because of the costumes—which are awesome, if not always historically accurate—but because of how many people participate in the celebration, and how perfectly suited those couples are to one another. In most cases, we’re talking about people who met on the Civil War re-enactment battlefield, or who have a long Scottish lineage and a family plaid they wear to go grab a coffee with friends.

In other words, the kind of people I want to be friends with.

But more importantly, these are the kind people who have something very integral in common with the person they’re about to marry. We’re not talking about tolerating your husband’s baseball obsession or buying your wife romance novels instead of flowers on Valentine’s Day (which is an excellent suggestion, by the way). We’re talking about putting on a suit of armor and jousting in hundred degree weather. We’re talking about setting up a month-long encampment of LARPers and rocking the land like its 1399.

And it’s not just them. Parents, grandparents, friends, and cousins all come to these weddings—and they dress up. Not always because they want to, but because they love the bride and/or groom and want to give them the magical day they’ve always dreamed of.

I can only imagine how cool their gift registry must be.

Sadly, I’ve never been invited to one of these weddings. I’m not sure if it’s because they don’t happen as often as TLC would like me to believe, or if I’m just friends with the wrong people, but the countless parade of wedding invitations in my mailbox are all traditional, black-tie affairs with nary a tartan in sight. The closest I ever got was when my brother got married a few years ago and his new mother-in-law hired a bagpiper to play the first dance song.

For now, I’ll put Attend Historical-Themed Wedding on my bucket list and eagerly await the day I get to purchase a set of Bavarian-style beer steins as a wedding gift.

Oh, and I’ll also write about the kinds of couples who would happily don a kilt as they walk down the aisle—because I honestly believe their love is going to last.

It takes a real man to wear a kilt. And a real woman to charm him out of it.

It might be modern times, but Kate Simmons isn’t willing to live a life without at least the illusion of the perfect English romance. A proud member of the Jane Austen Regency Re-Enactment Society, Kate fulfills her passion for courtliness and high-waisted gowns in the company of a few women who share her love of all things heaving.

Then she encounters Julian Wallace, a professional Highland Games athlete who could have stepped right off the covers of her favorite novels. He’s everything brooding, masculine, and, well, heaving. The perfect example of a man who knows just how to wear his high sense of honor—and his kilt.

Confronted with a beautiful woman with a tongue as sharp as his sgian dubh, Julian and his band of merry men aren’t about to simply step aside and let Kate and her gaggle of tea-sippers use his land for their annual convention. Never mind that “his land” is a state park—Julian was here first, and he never backs down from a challenge.

Unless that challenge is a woman unafraid to fight for what she wants...and whose wants are suddenly the only thing he can think about.

Warning: The historical re-enactments in this story contain very little actual history. Battle chess and ninja stars may apply.

Places to Purchase:

ARC Review: Undeniably Yours by Shannon Stacey

2012-02-18T19:30:00.000-05:00

I really enjoyed reading this book, in fact I found it hard to put down. I was just so engrossed with what was happening in the story and I just wanted to see how everything turned out that I found myself quickly turning the pages. I just enjoyed getting to know the characters so much. I found myself completely in love with Kevin and I can only hope that if I were to become pregnant my boyfriend would be as kind and understanding as he is.

Kevin is a bar owner and lately hasn't been all that interested in hooking up with the random women that throw themselves at him. When a chance encounter with Beth doesn't go all that well he's left with regret. Luckily, fate is on his side and while at a family wedding he encounters Beth again. Kevin hasn't been able to stop thinking about Beth and is determined to spend some time with her.

Beth should be furious with Kevin, because of him she lost her job. Too bad she can't stop thinking about him. When she encounters him again she knows she should keep her distance but she can't and when Kevin invites her up to his rooms she can't resist. After a steamy night spent together, Beth leaves the next morning without a note or a goodbye. When Beth becomes pregnant she knows she must tell Kevin even though she knows he probably won't be happy about the circumstances.

Kevin is still reeling from Beth's dismissal. He hasn't been able to stop thinking about her and can't believe she would just leave while he was sleeping. When Beth shows up at the bar weeks later and breaks the news that she's pregnant he quickly warms up to the idea of being a father. He even tries to convince Beth that they should try to date.

I really enjoyed this book and I loved seeing Kevin's perspective on things. He quickly warms up to the idea of being a father and wants to take care of Beth and their unborn baby. He was kind, caring and an all-around lovable guy. The patience he had with Beth was astounding.

I'll be honest and say Beth wasn't my favorite throughout the story. I just found her to be so standoffish. I understand that she is a loner and doesn't like to rely on other, but seriously, did she have to be like that throughout the whole book? I just found it took her so long to finally see all the great things in front of her. She just kept trying to push Kevin away and poor Kevin would just tolerate it because he just wanted to be with her. I find that so commendable.

I also enjoyed being able to 'meet' the rest of the Kowalski's. They reminded me a lot of my extended family. Another favorite of mine was Paulie. I absolutely adored her and I was so happy to see how things turned out with her.

After reading this book I will definitely be adding Shannon Stacey to my auto buy list. I really enjoyed her voice along with her cast of characters and I would love to read more from her. I especially hope to read more about the Kowalski's in the future.

**ARC copy provided by NetGalley**

RATING:

Guest Post with Author Deena Remiel and Giveaway

2012-02-18T07:01:00.002-05:00

Today I would like to welcome author Deena Remiel to the blog. Deena is currently on tour promoting the release of her newest book RELIC and has stopped by today to share with us. Before I give the floor to Deena lets get to know her a bit.

My name is Deena Remiel, and I am an author of paranormal romance and poetry. I also teach language arts to middle schoolers. Curiously, I find myself writing all sorts of correspondence for my family and friends, but they are everything to me, and frequently serve as fodder for elements of my novels, poems, and posts. They take it all in stride, though, and with good humor. So, it's really a perfect give and take relationship! I belong to RWA national and the Desert Rose Chapter of RWA, where there are outstanding people writing fabulous stories.

I grew up in Philadelphia, home of the most amazing soft pretzels, oh and the Liberty Bell. It was incredible to be living there during its Bicentennial celebration. My husband and I began our own family in New Jersey, and just a few short years ago, Arizona called to my spirit and tempted my husband with much better weather! We moved our family, and the rest is history, or the present, as the case may be!

These are a few of my favorite things: writing and reading of course, chocolate, music with lyrics or melodies that speak to me, soaking baths, singing in the shower, dancing with my buds, romantic dancing with my hubbie, scrapbooking, watching my girls enjoy what they love to do, and laughing at jokes.

Places to find Deena:

How Do You Talk To An Angel?

Besides Jamie Walters having a sexy, smooth as silk voice to sing the song of the same name, he asks a valid question. How DO you talk to an angel? Well, lucky for me, I create them in my paranormal series, The Brethren, and I’ve been talking to them for quite a while now. Let me give you some pointers so the next time you need one or run across one in your travels, you’ll be prepared.

First, say hello! They’re just like us, you know. Okay, that isn’t exactly true. They tower head and shoulders above most of us and are extremely hunkalicious, with wings that reach from their shoulders down to their ankles and bodies that rival the Greek gods. Back to the greeting. They are a friendly lot, and if you’re talking to one, dollars to doughnuts, you’ve needed and called for him. So, say hello and thank you.

They’re never at a loss during a conversation since they’ve been around for a couple of millennia. Some topics the Brethren enjoy more than others. For example, they love to talk about the latest in security technology, healing practices, and self-defense techniques. Not quite your thing? Any topic you can think of, they can discuss with more than a modicum of expertise. That’s not meant to intimidate, mind you, only to say there isn’t a topic you need to stay away from. So take your angel by the hand and find a nice quiet place to sit and talk for a while.

Honesty is very important to the Brethren. They can’t lie, so they expect others to have the same level of integrity. If you’ve done something you’re not proud of, even if you screwed up royally, tell them the truth. They’ll be pissed as hell, but they’ll respect you for stepping up.

Most importantly, to all the romance fans out there… Talk sexy to them in bed! I did NOT just say that, did I? Oh yes I did! And even better… talk with your HANDS! They are quite versed in nonverbal communication as well. *wink, wink*

Now that you know the ins and outs of talking to angels, I invite you to explore the Brethren’s world! TRINITY is the first book in the paranormal romance series, but I’d love to tell you about the latest book… RELIC. It’s the second book in the series, and I’m thrilled to tell you that it’s now available at only $0.99!

**Practice talking to an angel right here! I’ve got my Brethren angels on standby, so say something to Michael, Raphael, Gabriel, Nathanael, or Cassiel. The most creative comment will score a copy of Ghost of a Chance, my paranormal short story for the 1-Night Stand Series of Decadent Publishing!**

Raphael, a Brethren Savior, an angel with a forgotten past, has lost his power to heal and is on a self-imposed guilt trip to get it back. If he can’t, his tour of eternal duty as Brethren Savior will be revoked. On his journey, he winds up enmeshed in a web of attempted murder and resurrection all thanks to a woman he’s only seen in a photograph and by chance on an Arizona desert hiking trail.

Serena Sikes is a wanted woman. Desired by “undesirables” for a gift her brother gave her- a stolen relic with suspected healing powers. Hunted down in the Arizona desert and left for dead, she is found by none other than the angel who cannot heal.

Raphael and Serena are inexorably bound together, for locked deep within the relic’s heart had lived the soul of his long lost wife. Now, it resides inside Serena. Evil lurks around every corner as Raphael tries to keep both Serena and his dead wife’s soul alive and lustful temptation at bay.

Three souls bound together by an ancient relic, bound by a timeless gift, and bound by a love that is eternal.

Places to Purchase:

| Decadent Publishing | Amazon |

**Excerpt**

Serena lay asleep in her hospital bed, a small, seemingly fragile wisp of a woman. The way the setting sun cast a glow about her face, she looked enchanting and more like a delicate flower. He could almost smell the sweet scent of a Lily of the Valley in the air. He shook himself free of his musings as he moved into her room and quietly took a seat next to her.

Glancing around the room, he found the sweet-smelling culprit that had captivated him—a small bottle of perfume. Returning to gaze upon his enchantress, he noticed the bruising along her jaw line much more pronounced since he’d first come upon her. A cold, steel anger welled within him. His eyes trailed down to her slender arm outfitted with an IV, and to all the machines with their bells and beeps.

“I’m sorry, Serena,” he whispered. “You wouldn’t have needed all of this if I could’ve done my job properly.” He bristled in frustration and leaned his head against his arms resting on the bedrail. He noticed her stirring in her sleep. She seemed agitated and surprised him by blindly reaching out to grab hold of his hand.

“Mmm…I cannot die. I am immortal. An feidir le heinne cuidiu liom? Can anyone help me? Graim thu, Raphael, anam chara. I love you, my soul mate.” Serena whimpered and fell silent once again.

The chair screeched across the floor as Raphael sprung out of it like a Jack-in-the-box. Her hand stayed firmly gripped around his, and a flood of memories—well-hidden for centuries—came crashing through unbidden. Sirona, Goddess of Healing—the love of his immortal life, his wife—smiled at him as they walked in the mountains. She bathed him in the hot roman baths. She made love with him under the stars. She was lifeless in his arms as he carried her to her temple. He was asking E.L. to wipe his memory clean of all remembrances of her and to harden his heart.

Raphael wrenched his hand away from Serena’s tight grasp, involuntarily backing up to the door. He clutched his chest over his racing heart, now filled with centuries of unresolved anguish, his mind buzzed with too many questions.

Serena’s eyes fluttered open. He must have had a look of utter horror on his face because she raised her hand to her face shielding the bruise. “It appears worse than it feels,” she stated quietly. “Really. Have you come to fix the TV? They told me someone would be coming by this afternoon to fix it.”

“Uh…no,” Raphael croaked. “I, uh…I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable. I’ll be on my way.” I have to get out of here. Who the hell is she, some kind of witch? Why is this happening now? And where do I begin to process what I just experienced?

“But wait. Who are you? Why did you come to my room?”

Now she doesn’t know who I am? What gives? “I’m the one who found you and brought you here to the hospital, actually. I was checking to see how you were doing. Now I see you’re doing much better, so I’m going to leave you to your rest.” Raphael headed to the exit.

“Wait! Please, before you go I’d like to say something.” He turned around slowly and stood transfixed by her glittering emerald eyes. “Thank you. You saved my life, and I’m forever grateful.” She smiled, and her eyes brimmed with unshed tears.

“Make no mistake,” he grumbled. “I didn’t save you. The doctors did. But you’re welcome for bringing you here. Now, I really must go.”

“Hey,” Serena shouted as he walked out the door, “what did you say your name was?”

He stopped but couldn’t face her again. “I didn’t.”

###

**Giveaway**

Deena will be giving away a copy of her book Ghost of a Chance to 1 lucky person. Make sure to leave a comment for Deena or her Brethren Angels and to fill out the Rafflecopter form.

Good Luck =)

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Corsets, Kisses & Kleypas Blog Hop

2012-02-18T00:01:00.154-05:00

Welcome to my stop on the Corsets, Kisses & Kleypas Blog Hop. Like most romance readers, I ADORE Lisa Kleypas and I'm happy to be part of this blog hop. This blog hop was organized by Under The Covers Book Blog and Lisa's Divas and will run from February 18th - 28th.

Up for grabs:

I will be giving away a copy of Christmas Eve at Friday Harbor to 2 lucky winners (US ONLY). In addition to the book, 1 lucky person will win a "Lisa's Diva's" black tank top (size L).

Don't forget to check out the other stops in the blog hop. Lots of chances to win some great Lisa Kleypas goodies. For a list of the blogs participating go here.

Good Luck =)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Review: The Making of a Gentleman by Shana Galen

2012-02-17T18:00:00.001-05:00

Oh my goodness how I loved this book. If you haven't read this book stop what you are doing and run out and get a copy. It was so good and I am now officially obsessed with Armand! I was captivated with this story from the first page. I just couldn't put this book down. I just had to know what was going to happen with Armand and Felicity.

Armand is a scarred and damaged man. After being imprisoned for twelve years he doesn't know how to cope with everyday life. He doesn't speak and the gentlest touch brings him pain. His family insists on hiring him a tutor to help him with polite society. When Armand first meets Felicity, he is instantly entranced by her beauty. She awakens something in him he has never felt before, passion. All he wants is to be close to her regardless of society's rules and with Felicity's help, Armand knows that he can face the demons of his past.

Felicity is calm, understanding and wants nothing more than to help Armand heal and forget his past. She knows that she shouldn't have feeling for Armand but the more time she spends with him, the harder she begins to fall. From the first moment between Felicity and Armand, you could feel the electricity between the two. The passion they both possess towards the other is instant and I loved reading to see how things would turn out.

I know I've already said it, but I loved Armand. I loved that he doesn't beat around the bush. He's upfront and in your face with what he wants, and he wants Felicity. And I love that he is never ashamed of it. The passion between these two just jumps off the page, but what I love most, is that it's not only passion between these two. Both care deeply for one another and will do anything they can to keep the other one safe.

After finishing The Making of a Gentleman, I definitely can't wait to start reading the next book in this series, The Rogue Pirate's Bride. This book was just so good and I am dying to see how The Sons of the Revolution trilogy ends.

RATING:

Random Acts of Kindness Giveaway Hop

2012-02-16T23:16:00.000-05:00

Welcome to the Random Acts of Kindness Giveaway Hop. This hop was organized by I Am A Reader, Not A Writer and Read For Your Future and will run from February 17th - 21st.

I will be having 2 different giveaways. One will be for US entries only and another will be of International entries only. Please, enter the correct giveaway.

Up for grabs:

US Giveaway

Firelight - Sophie Jordan
The Iron King - Julie Kagawa
No Proper Lady - Isabel Cooper
Blood Eternal - Marie Treanor
1 $5 Gift Card from either Amazon or Barnes and Noble
1 Bag of Swag

International Giveaway

1 $10 book of choice from The Book Depository

There are more than 180 different blogs participating, so there are plenty of chances to win something. So make sure to check out the blog hop list and hop over to some of the other blogs.

Good Luck =)

**US ENTRIES ONLY**

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**INTERNATIONAL ENTRIES ONLY**

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Interview with Author Dani Harper and Giveaway

2012-02-16T00:01:00.115-05:00

Today I would like to welcome to the blog author Dani Harper. Dani is the author of the Changeling series, a super hot series about the Macleod's, a family of shapeshifter wolves and their friends. Dani let me ask her some questions and I would love share them with you all, but first lets meet Dani.

Dani Harper is a newspaper editor turned paranormal author. There isn't anything she likes better than exploring the supernatural -- unless it's writing sizzling and suspenseful romance. Of course, all of her stories have at least one foot in the netherworld.

A Canadian who spent many years in northern Alberta, Dani now lives on an island in southeast Alaska! She and her husband operate a commercial fishing boat, and her stories are written on land or at sea, with the help of her executive secretary, Fiona the Pug.

Dani currently has a hot new shapeshifter series published by Kensington Brava. Look for Changeling Moon, Changeling Dream and Changeling Dawn wherever books are sold.

Places to find Dani:

First off, can you tell us a bit about you?
Hi, I’m Dani and I love to read and write about werewolves. And faeries. And ghosts. And pretty much anything supernatural. I spent most of my adult life in northern Canada and now I live on an island in Alaska. I’ve been a farmer and a fisherman, a newspaper editor and a magazine writer, but my favorite occupation is what I’m doing now: writing paranormal novels! I’m grateful for the love and support of my husband and four daughters in this endeavor, and the assistance of my two pugs.

Did you always want to be a writer?
Always, always, always. I loved books before I knew how to read and I knew I wanted to be the person who made up the stories.

What kind of writer are you? Pantster or Plotter?
Both. I always start off as a plotter, then the characters disagree. They have their own ideas about what should happen – and usually don’t share in advance. We argue a lot. It usually ends with them taking off in a completely different direction, leaving me trying to catch up.

Why paranormal? What about this genre pulls you in?
I think it’s a rogue gene. I’ve been more excited about Halloween than Christmas my whole life, and naturally drawn to anything that goes bump in the night. I was a dedicated Stephen King fan before I discovered paranormal romance and urban fantasy. Once I did, I was totally hooked. I love the concept that anything can happen, that there is much more to the world than we know, that mythical creatures could be living right here among us!

Where do your ideas come from?
I wish I knew! Usually it’s a case of suddenly “hearing” a conversation between two characters. I can always “see” the characters in my mind, and even know their names! As far as the plot goes, I rely on the characters to tell me what’s going on. This can be frustrating at times if they’re not telling…

A la Twitter style, describe your newest book, Changeling Dawn, in 140 characters or less.
Never judge a man by his species. Love, danger and archeology combine as human Josh and werewolf Kenzie work to rescue a shapeshifter child.

Out of any of your books, which one would you like to be a character in? And why?
I’d love to be part of my Changeling series and have the ability to turn into a wolf at will. I like the characters, naturally, and I’d love to be friends with them in real life; I’d like to be part of the Pack too. I admire the sense of belonging, and the love and loyalty between the characters.

What are your favorite kinds of stories to read?
Paranormal romance and urban fantasy, horror (I LOVE monster stories) and science fiction.

Do you have a favorite book and if so, what is it?
Omigosh, I could never have just one fav book! I have several favorite book SERIES. Karen Chance writes the Cassie Palmer series and also the Dorina Basarab series – they’re my “favorite favorites” right now! Adore the Mercy Thompson series and Alpha + Omega series by Patricia Briggs. JR Ward’s Black Dagger Brotherhood is also a must-buy for me. Kevin Hearne writes the incredible Iron Druid series, and I can’t read them fast enough! And then there’s the Dresden Files by Jim Butcher and the Night Huntress series (Cat and Bones) by Jeaniene Frost. The list goes on and on, but these are tops on my list.

Have you ever fallen for another author's hero? If so, who and why?
Oh yes! Bones from the Night Huntress series by Jeaniene Frost really sets me to sighing. I think he reminds me of all that was good about Spike in the Buffy the Vampire Slayer TV series – and I still think Buffy should have chosen him over Angel, hands down.

Human, Vampires, Demons, werewolves, witches or Shifters, which are your favorite and why?
Shapeshifters tend to be my favorite. I think it’s because that’s what I’d like to BE if I could. I’ve always adored animals and there’s much to admire about wolves. To see the world through their eyes would be incredible!

Describe the characteristics that make up your perfect hero.
Heroes are strong but it’s not their physical strength that’s admirable. I think real strength lies within, and it’s synonymous with integrity. It comes from keeping your word if it kills you. Real strength is taking responsibility for your actions. And being strong has to be balanced with compassion and fairness. A strong hero will stand up for himself and also protect others – he never starts a fight, but he’ll finish it!

So why are these inner qualities so vital to a hero? Easy. Readers might admire a hero’s good looks, but they’re going to lose interest if he hasn’t got any substance. Same with the heroine – there has to be a lot more to her than appearance. Speaking of which, real strength isn’t threatened by the strength of others; truly strong men LIKE strong women!

What are the scenes that are the hardest for you to write?
Sex scenes are the toughest, mostly because I need quiet, uninterrupted time to get into the right mindset. I can write anything else in the middle of Grand Central Station with Martians landing and fireworks going off, but I’m very easily distracted when I’m trying to write a sex scene.

If you could have dinner with any three book characters, who would you choose and why?
I would actually choose 3 characters from my own Changeling series. Birkie Peterson, who is a friend and mentor to most of my characters, tops the list. I’d love to swap gardening info with her, plus she’s a hoot to be around. Jessie Watson, the woman who leads the Changeling Pack, is extremely wise and I think I’d learn a lot from her. And Connor Macleod, the hero from the first book, Changeling Moon. A veterinarian, he’s much chattier than his brothers and I’d enjoy talking about animals with him.

What do you like to do in your free time?
Between writing and writing-related activities, I don’t have much free time. Hiking with my pugs is at the top of my “love to do” list, along with swimming – I adore the water! I can never get enough of gardening either. I like loom knitting, sewing and beadwork, as well as drawing and painting. I’d need a 48-hour day to be able to do all the things that I enjoy!

Favorite movie?
Can’t pick just one. I have fond feelings for superhero comics and graphic novels because I grew up reading those, and the kid in me loves to see them made into movies. Some of my favs are Hellboy, Thor, Ironman I and II, The Dark Knight, etc. I’m REALLY looking forward to the Avengers!

Favorite song?
Tough to choose because I like a LOT of songs. For now I’ll say anything by Pink, Bif Naked, Coldplay, Staind, Red Hot Chili Peppers or Our Lady Peace.

Favorite color?
I really connect with any shade of turquoise. I can live, eat and breathe that color! I feel my best when I’m wearing it. I painted my bedroom with it, and it’s now my favorite room in the house. Great energy!

Favorite food?
Anything from one of the four basic food groups: Coffee, Chocolate, Mexican and Chinese. Especially if somebody else makes it.

Last question, are you working on anything right now?
Definitely! I’m always working on something and usually several somethings! Right now my projects include the creation of a new Changeling trilogy as well as the continuation of the Macleod family Changeling series.

Changeling Series Book 1

He roams the moonlit wilderness, his every sense and instinct on high alert. Changeling wolf Connor Macleod and his Pack have never feared anything — until the night human Zoey Tyler barely escapes a rogue werewolf’s vicious attack.

As the full moon approaches, Zoey has no idea of the changes that are coming, and only Connor can show her what she is, and help her master the wildness inside. With her initiation into the Pack just days away and a terrifying predator on the loose, the tentative bonds of trust and tenderness are their only weapons against a force red in tooth, claw … and ultimate evil.

Places to Purchase:

| Amazon | Kindle | Barnes & Noble |

Changeling Series Book 2

In times of stress Jillian Descharme has always found calm in her dream of a great white wolf with haunting blue eyes. But she is startled when the visions return and this time seem so real. Late at night he comes to her, speaks to her, touches her. It's almost as if he's alive...

Thirty years ago James Macleod lost his wife and unborn child to a killer bent on destroying the Changelings. Though he longed for death, his animal instinct fought for survival and James has been a wolf ever since. Yet now a woman has reawakened the man in him, taming wild instincts but arousing still wilder needs. With his ancient enemy hunting the legendary white wolf, James must fight for new life, new hope, new love.

Places to Purchase:

| Amazon | Kindle | Barnes & Noble |

Changeling Series Book 3

RUN

Shadow and moonlight merge beneath her bare feet, the forest floor blurring as she flees the dogs and torches. Werewolf, monster -- those are the names given her kind by the humans who hate them.

HUNT

Kenzie Macleod has spent her whole life hiding what she is, and she’s not about to open up to any man, even one as powerfully attractive as wildlife expert Josh Talarkoteen. But legend says that a Changeling cannot escape the call of her true mate, even in the wilderness of backcountry Alaska.

MATE

An isolated archeological site, a terrified Changeling cub, a secretive research center -- as Kenzie and Josh face the ultimate betrayal, his obsidian eyes promise untold pleasure and hint at dark secrets of his own.

Places to Purchase:

| Amazon | Kindle | Barnes & Noble |

**Giveaway**

Dani will be giving away a copy of Changeling Dawn + swag to 1 lucky person (International Shipping availble). So make sure to answer Dani's question-What books are you reading right now? And fill out the Rafflecopter form for your chance to win.

Good Luck =)

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Review: Lothaire by Kresley Cole

2012-02-15T00:47:00.000-05:00

When I received my long-awaited copy of Lothaire in the mail, I was ecstatic. Kresley Cole is definitely one of my favorite books and I might not have been super keen to read a book about Lothaire, I do love all of her books. I have many conflicting emotions now that I've finished this book. I actually put this book down a few times in the past week out of frustration and as of last night when I still had about 100 pages to go, this book was a firm 3 star rating. But now that I've finished the book it has definitely gone up to a solid 4 stars. In those last 100 pages I was finally able to understand Lothaire and I even began to like him a bit.

Lothaire is a jackass! There I said it. I just figured I'd get that out there. I actually spent most of the book really not liking him at all. For me what saved this book was Elizabeth. She saved this book for me. I loved her and she has quickly become one of my favorite heroines from Kresley Cole. She is spunky, loyal, smart, funny, caring and she stands up for herself. She doesn't back down when it comes to Lothaire and I loved that. I feel that she really was the perfect match for Lothaire. He needed someone to bring him down a notch and make him realize that he doesn't know everything and he isn't always right. I love that even though Lothaire thought she was so wrong for him, she was just so right.

I seriously wanted to slap Lothaire quite a few times. But I have to give credit to Kresley, Lothaire stayed true to who he was and the type of person we have all come to know from the previous books. I think that if he would have had a complete transformation and redemption it wouldn't have been believable. The way everything went down worked so well and made me a fan. Lothaire still might not be my favorite hero in this series but there are a few moments in the book that his actions tug at my heart strings. Though it was also hard to read some scenes with him and Elizabeth together. He really doesn't know how to treat others correctly and I know it's because he was never shown warmth and love but it was still hard to see him treat Elizabeth as if she's a pet.

I could try to summarize this book, but I really don't want to. What stands out the most to me is Lothaire. I might not have enjoyed him so much, but I did enjoy being a viewer of his 'world'. I liked being able to see what he is like in his element and what he cares about. In previous books he was such an enigma to me. I didn't really know what his plans were or what he was after or even who he really was. I get him now and I look forward to seeing more of him in future books.

RATING:

Sealed With a Kiss: Jenn LeBlanc and Giveaway

2012-02-14T00:01:00.101-05:00

Jenn is a novelist and photographer born, raised and living in the lee of the great Rocky Mountains. Her illustrated Novel THE RAKE AND THE RECLUSE was originally released in February of 2011 to rave reviews and snarky comments. She recently revised the entire novel, turning it into a six-part serial with all new material and the never before released story of Perry, The Rake.

Places to find Jenn:

Hello all and HAPPY VALENTINES DAY!!

I’m not sure what to say but what I already said because I’m not sure you’ll start here or there!! ;) So here we go again...feel free to skip my maundering and get to the love if you like.

I have to say my holidays have changed over the years, of course as a kid it was Christmas, and then when I first had my girls it was Easter because it’s spring and the egg hunt and pretty dresses and the rest.

But these days my favorite holiday is Valentine’s Day because I just love LOVE. And it isn’t just a couples day, it’s a day to celebrate everyone you love, we’re taught that in elementary school when we make little fancy bags and boxes and are told by our teachers to bring Valentines for everyone in the class, even the boys that pull your pigtails on the playground.

Well, the tables are turned as you grow up and while nobody is pulling my pigtails, I do still love sharing Valentines with everyone. So here is my Valentine for all of you. A very special one, from Perry to his lady love. I can’t tell you her name, it has been a closely guarded secret, but TODAY that secret is out in SUBMISSION: The Rake And The Recluse: Part Five!!!

I’m very excited because this has been a long road to SUBMISSION. I won’t talk about it too much, but my novel THE RAKE AND THE RECLUSE came out last February, and now it has been completely re edited, with all new content and images (it is illustrated) and the final chapters including Perry’s Story.

You will find links and fun stuff...later, let’s get to the letter!!

My dearest, my sweet, my wife,

You know how you tempt me with your formality.

Your endearing letter has moved me to respond. I loved every word, and you have no idea how it excites me to learn you wish to polish me, until I shine. I quite look forward to that.

I feel so blessed every day to wake up with you in my arms. That you have changed my life would be an understatement. Today, of all days, let us celebrate who we are together, and never leave the comfort of each other’s arms.

Today I will worship your body and your soul with all that I am and all that you have helped me to become. A man most deserving of the woman you have always been.

I cannot begin to express in words what it is you have done to me, to find you hiding in my carriage, to have you demand I teach you what it meant to be loved, to have your sweet and pure innocence wash over me like warm satin water, cleansing the deepest parts of my soul, to have you...to simply HAVE you.

I am quite sincerely the luckiest man on earth.

My sweet you have learned every lesson presented you with enthusiasm and passion, you have outdone yourself on many occasions and even, at times, outdone me. This is something I never would have conceived of. In two short weeks you had me, you simply had me.

Whatever it is in you that draws me, that holds me, that takes me away, I wish for it to never fade. You have taken what was my life and turned me inside out. You have seen the worst of me and not turned away, you have seen the best of me and not turned away.

The way I fill you, the way you slide against me, the inherent quality to your movement; that took no lessons, but is simply you. You have turned this on me, taken my lessons and thrown them back at me perforce. I am lost within you...within you...within you. And would never choose to be without.

Your body is on my mind and my heart is in your hands. The way your mind wraps around my senses and pulls tight, stroking ever so gently with your words until I cannot possibly hold on for more. You undo me with a look, a simply touch, the pink of your tongue.

Though I have professed many, there are no words for what you truly mean to me, and so I intend to show you, as often as possible. In as many ways as I am able, I will endeavor to to speak to the very heart of you. I told you once that when I set my mind to something there would be no doubt of when it happened. So let me set my mind to this, a task I fear (with the greatest of hope) will be never ending. It is time we discussed these talents you would prefer I not be without.

Put down this letter, and come join me in the bath.

I want to put my mouth on you.

Ever yours,

Perry

Check out the Perry and Perry's Lady love story in SUBMISSION: The Rake And The Recluse: Part Five

THE RAKE AND THE RECLUSE REDUX

FREEDOM: The Rake And The Recluse: Part One

Part one brings Francine to the world of the Duke of Roxleigh, clashing worlds in first installment of the completely revised novel, with all new material.

Available now from these ebook retailers:

| Amazon | Barnes & Noble | All Romance |

FOUND: The Rake And The Recluse: Part Two

Part two finds Francine in the world of the Duke of Roxleigh. The clashing of worlds in first installment of the completely revised novel continues as Francine finds her footing, discovers secrets about her elusive host, and learns more about herself than she ever thought possible.

Available now from these ebook retailers:

| Amazon | Barnes & Noble | All Romance |

TAKEN: The Rake And The Recluse: Part Three

Part THREE brings Francine and Gideon closer than they ever imagined possible, until the unimaginable tears them apart. What will Gideon do if he loses her, this time, forever?

Available now from these ebook retailers:

| Amazon | Barnes & Noble | All Romance |

RUINATION: The Rake And The Recluse: Part Four

Part FOUR is full of revelations, celebrations, protestations and one surprise that will have you holding your breath for the final chapters. What has Perry done?

Available now at these ebook retailers:

| Amazon | Barnes & Noble | All Romance |

SUBMISSION: The Rake And The Recluse: Part Five

Perry leaves Roxleigh House without a backward glance only to be tossed headlong into one of the most difficult trials of his life. How will he protect the very thing he is dedicated to pursuing? How will a man dedicated to the pursuit of pleasure survive a woman who refuses to relent, when he knows he cannot have her.

Available now at these ebook retailers:

| Amazon | Barnes & Noble | All Romance |

RETRIBUTION: The Rake And The Recluse: Part Six

Perry must find the woman who has managed to capture his heart, then he must find a way to keep her. Someone else is on the hunt, someone from her past who doesn’t appreciate that she still lives and breaths.

Coming February 28, 2012

**Giveaway**

Jenn will be giving away an eBook copy of The Rake and The Recluse: Redux to 1 lucky person. ALSO, anyone that leaves a comment with an email address with have a chance to be entered in the grand prize #WICKEDblog tour, which will be given away on March 1, 2012. DON'T forget to include your email address in your comment or you CAN'T BE ENTERED into the grand prize drawing. So make sure to fill out the Rafflecopter form and to leave an email address with your comment for your chance to win.

Rules can be found HERE. A full list of all the posts in the tour can be found HERE.

Don't forget to head over to Not Another Romance Blog to check out the love letter from Perry's Lady to Perry.

**Don't forget to enter the Big Grand Prize Giveaway. Enter here.**

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Secrets of an Accidental Duchess Winners

2012-02-13T20:00:00.006-05:00

Congratulations to:

Jamie M

June M

Diane S

On winning a copy of Secrets of an Accidental Duchess by Jennifer Haymore courtesy Forever Romance

All winners have been contacted via email. Thanks to everyone that has entered.

Sealed With a Kiss: Caroline Linden and Giveaway

2012-02-13T02:01:00.038-05:00

Caroline Linden knew from an early age she was a reader, but not a writer. Despite an addiction to Trixie Belden and Nancy Drew, she studied physics and dreamed of being an astronaut. She earned a math degree from Harvard College and then wrote software for a financial services firm, all the while reading everything in sight, but especially romance. Only after she had children, and found herself with only picture books to read, did she begin to make up a story of her own. To her immense surprise, it turned out to be an entire novel--and it was much more fun than writing computer code. Seven years, eight books, two Red Sox championships, and on dog later, she has never been happier with her decision. She lives with her family in New England.

Place to find Caroline:

| Site | Facebook | Goodreads |

Darling Edward-

I am writing this to you on the morning after our wedding, when we have been man and wife a full day. You have only gone so far away as Holborn, but already I miss you. I feel as giddy as a girl and can only claim an excess of joy as justification. It is still incredible to me that we can be so happy together—and after the way we met! You are too good for me, to overlook my fit of temper then—but perhaps I should have known from that moment, when you proved yourself understanding and patient and so very, very good to me, that I would lose my heart to you.

My darling, my dearest, I want to make you happy, so happy you will ever overlook my faults. You fill my heart til I think it shall burst. Yesterday I pledged my love and fidelity; but I should never need the ring on my finger to remind me. I am yours for eternity.

There is a carriage below—I hope it is yours, bringing you home to me again. Oh Edward, sometimes it amazes me how desperately I long for you when we are apart. It is as if I am no longer complete on my own.

I will leave this in your dressing room for a surprise, and so that you may see how deeply your wife loves you on this first day of our life together, and for evermore.

Yours always,
Francesca

Check out Francesca and Edward's love story in ONE NIGHT IN LONDON

A bargain that was all business . . . and pure passion.

Neither wealth nor beauty will help Lady Francesca Gordon win custody of her young niece Georgina, saving the girl from a cruel stepmother; she needs London’s top solicitor for that. But when Edward de Lacey, son of the powerful Duke of Durham, hires away the one man who can do the job, Francesca decides Edward himself must champion her case . . . if only she can melt the dashing lord’s stony heart.

Edward has reason to be guarded, though. London’s tabloids have just exposed a secret that could ruin his entire family. When Francesca offers a unique chance to undo the damage, Edward is forced to agree to a partnership . . . and now, each moment together feeds the flames of his scandalous longing for the passionate widow. But when Georgina disappears, fate will test them both . . . and leave their love hanging in the balance.

Places to Purchase:

Check out Caroline's newest release out February 28, 2012

Gerard de Lacey is determined to find the man who tried to blackmail his late father, both to stop the blackmail and to discover—and dispose of—any evidence the villain has about his father’s clandestine first marriage. If that proof is made public, it could prove Gerard and his brothers illegitimate, and strip them of their inheritance. And just in case, Gerard intends to find himself a wealthy bride. One way or another, he’s not going to be left destitute. But he’s not expecting a rich widow to find him and ask him to marry her. Katherine Howe’s first marriage was one of dreary duty, arranged by her wealthy father to a penniless lord. Now that she’s being pressured to marry her late husband’s heir, she’s desperately in search of a better option. Gerard de Lacey, with his sinful good looks, charming manner, and looming scandal fits her needs perfectly. The fact that she’s nursed a secret affection for him for years only makes it better—and worse. Because Gerard will marry her, for her fortune—but will he love her for herself, as she loves him?

Places to Pre-Order:

**Giveaway**

Caroline will be giving away a copy of One Night in London to 1 lucky person (International Shipping Available). Make sure to leave a comment and to fill out the Rafflecopter form for your chance to win.

Don't forget to head over to Not Another Romance Blog to check out Edward's letter to Francesca.

**Don't forget to enter the Big Grand Prize Giveaway. Enter here.**

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Man Candy Monday-Men in Jeans

2012-02-13T00:00:00.061-05:00

Hey all. It's Manday again and let me tell you that this weeks Man Candy Monday theme is a real goody-Men in Jeans. See I told ya it was a good one. Here are some of the pictures I found of hotties in jeans. Let me know what you think.

So how'd I do? Honestly there were a lot more I wanted to add but I figured I'd save them for tonight's Twitter chat. Don't forget 9PM EDT and use the hashtag #mancandymonday.

Sealed With a Kiss: Shana Galen and Giveaway

2012-02-12T00:01:00.057-05:00

Shana Galen is the author of numerous fast-paced adventurous Regency historical romances, including the Rita-nominated Blackthorne’s Bride. Her books have been sold worldwide, including Japan, Brazil, Russia, Spain, Turkey, and the Netherlands, and have been featured in the Rhapsody and Doubleday Book Clubs. A former English teacher in Houston’s inner city, Shana now writes full time. She’s a wife, a mother, and an expert multi-tasker.

Places to find Shana:

Happy Valentine’s Day! I hope you’ve made your plans and are looking forward to the big day. But if you are not, if you hate Valentine’s Day, know you are not alone. The heroine from my new book, The Rogue Pirate’s Bride, is not a fan of Valentine’s Day either. In fact, Raeven isn’t much of a fan of Bastien, my hero. She’s an admiral’s daughter and hates pirates, Bastien in particular. She’d rather kill him than kiss him, and she has good reason. Bastien wouldn’t mind kissing Raeven, and he has been known to take a liberty or two. But what do you expect from a rogue pirate? I managed to turn up some scraps of “love” letters between these two. I hope you enjoy!

Violets are blue.

Roses are pink.

I could not read your letter,

I spilt rum on the ink.

Ma cherie, I can guess what you say,

You wish to kiss me all night and all day.

I did catch a mention of your dear sword.

If you want it back, please climb aboard.

Your father will rail, your friends be appalled,

But I assure you, ma belle, sated you will be sprawled.

Check out Raeven and Bastien's love story in THE ROGUE PIRATE'S BRIDE.

Revenge should be sweet, but it may cost him everything…

The marquis de Valère escaped certain death in the French Revolution and is now an infamous privateer. Out to avenge the death of his mentor, Bastien discovers himself astonishingly out of his depth when confronted with a beautiful, daring young woman who is out for his blood…

Forgiveness is unthinkable, but it may be her only hope…

British Admiral’s daughter Raeven Russell believes Bastien responsible for her fiancé’s death. But once the fiery beauty crosses swords with Bastien, she’s not so sure she really wants him to change his wicked ways…

Places to Purchase:

**Giveaway**

Shana will be giving away a copy of The Rogue Pirate's Bride to 1 lucky winner (US & Canda shipping ONLY). So make sure to leave a comment and to fill out the Rafflecopter form for your chance to win.

Also, don't forget to head over to Not Another Romance Blog and check out Raeven's letter to Bastien.

**Don't forget to enter the Big Grand Prize Giveaway. Enter here.**

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ARC Review: Firelight by Kristen Callihan

2012-02-11T19:01:00.000-05:00

I really don't know what I'm feeling now that I finished Firelight. I feel a bit upset and a pretty disappointed. I had such high expectations for this book, especially since I had since all I have heard good things about it. This book could have been great, but it just annoyed me and seemed to drag on.

In the beginning I found myself really interested in both Archer and Miranda. I loved the little snippets we are shown of them in the past and I was curious to see how things progressed between the two. Archer has been in love with Miranda for years and essentially paid Miranda's father handsomely for her hand in marriage. Miranda doesn't want to marry Archer. She doesn't know him and he's essentially a social pariah. He has a disfigurement on his face and has taken to wearing a carnival mask when out and about the ton. Ladies swoon in fear in his presence and she doesn't understand when Archer a noble, would want to marry her a third daughter of a business man. Miranda doesn't realize at first that she has actually met Archer, years prior and he happens to be the man she can never stop thinking about. When people who were once close to Archer start to turn up dead, Miranda quickly places her faith in Archer and believes in his innocence. She sets out on a mission to find out who may is trying to set him up.

This is where things start to go south for me. The mystery of the book. It goes on for forever. So long in fact that when the mystery is revealed I couldn't have cared less. It seems like the romance aspect of this book take a backseat and I hate when that happens. Also, when Archer finally does reveal himself to Miranda, I found that I didn't really care. I was so bored with their relationship and everything that was taking place. Both Miranda and Archer after awhile just became so annoying by the end. Neither is completely honest with the other and both are constantly running around and doing things in secret. I really don't understand how they both seemed to fall so in love with one another when they are both keep so many secrets.

With Miranda especially, I just never understood how she came to love Archer. She just wakes up one morning and all of a sudden she's in love. Neither had really spent anytime with the other at that point so it just didn't make sense to me. And if she loves him and trusts him why does it take so long for her to share her secret with Archer? As for Archer, I liked him a bit more than Miranda he just frustrated me a bit. I just wanted him to open up with her more. I understood why he loved he so much but I just wanted him to be honest with her. It frustrated me so much that these two just wouldn't open up with the other. Every time there's a problem Archer runs off. Why couldn't these two just ever talk?

All in all, this book was just okay for me. With completing Firelight, I'm not a hundred percent sure if I would read the next book in this series. I loved the world Kristen created with the mix of historical and paranormal, I just don't know if it's enough for me. I pick up a book because I want to be blown away by the romance and with Firelight there just wasn't enough romance to keep me interested.

**ARC copy provided by NetGalley**

RATING:

Sealed With a Kiss: Maya Rodale and Giveaway

2012-02-11T00:01:00.014-05:00

Maya Rodale began reading romance novels in college at her mother’s insistence and it wasn’t long before she was writing her own. Maya is now the author of multiple Regency historical romances. She lives in New York City with her darling dog and a rogue of her own.

Places to find Maya:

| Site | Facebook | Twitter |

From the file of love letters that were never sent:
Miss Eliza Fielding to The Duke of Wycliff

From the charred embers of a fireplace in the servant’s quarters...

Your Grace,

Dare I put our intimacy in print and call you Sebastian? Or shall I address you as The Tattooed Duke, as all of London does? Dare I confess that I am the one who have named you thus? So many questions, so many mysteries, so many things I cannot say.

Yet I write this letter anyway and with thoughts of confessing my deception and speaking of the heart wrenching truths that keep us apart...in spite of kisses at midnight and late nights on the roof, looking up at the stars from the warmth of your arms.

The marble floor in the foyer needs to be mopped. Yet another edition of The Tattooed Duke must be written from my humble little bedchamber under your roof. I must go...and I will be thinking of you.

Lovingly, longingly, yours,
--Eliza

Check out Eliza and Sebastian's love story in THE TATTOOED DUKE-Coming in March!

Breaking news, scandal fans:

You thought you knew the dangerous Duke of Wycliff, London’s globe-trotting adventure addict. Here’s what you don’t know: he’s penniless. Sebastian Digby’s dukely lifestyle is over forever unless he finds a rich bride. But thanks to The London Weekly, everyone knows better than to tangle with this lothario. Besides (as one writer can testify), it seems that Sebastian has been unable to keep his hands of his own lowly housemaid…

And that’s a problem. A big one.

Because that housemaid just happens to be me. Eliza Fielding. The same undercover Writing Girl who’s been exposing the Duke’s most intimate secrets to the world. And now I’ve gone and complicated everything by falling love with him. Passion and deception have never been so delicious, but now the truth could destroy everything. This is more than a conflict of interest. It’s a seduction where love itself hangs in the balance.

Places to Pre-Order:

**Giveaway**

Maya will be giving away a copy of A Tale of Two Lovers to 1 lucky person (US Shipping ONLY). So make sure to leave a comment and to fill out the Rafflecopter form for your chance to win.

Don't forget to head over to Not Another Romance Blog to check out Sebastian's letter to Eliza.

**Don't forget to enter the Big Grand Prize Giveaway. Enter here.**

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Sealed With a Kiss: Theresa Romain and Giveaway

2012-02-10T00:01:00.045-05:00

Theresa Romain holds degrees in psychology, English literature, and history, an impractical education that allowed her to read everything she could get her hands on. She has worked, interned, and translated for libraries and universities, all of which fed her love of books and her fascination with the past. She lives with her family in the Midwest.

Places to find Theresa:

In my historical romance debut, SEASON FOR TEMPTATION, a viscount seeks a marriage of convenience to help his family overcome a recent scandal. What he never expected to find was a most inconvenient love.

These letters are exchanged by the hero and heroine, James and Julia, two months after their marriage at the end of SEASON FOR TEMPTATION.

Letter from James, Viscount Matheson, to Julia, Viscountess Matheson. Folded somewhat untidily and hidden behind an embroidered cushion on the lady’s favorite chair.

My dear Julia--

Since we’ve now been married for two months, I owe you two presents. No, three. In all the hurry over our wedding—I’m going to imagine you blushing as you read that, because you always blush, and it is delightful—I never gave you a wedding present.

All right. Three gifts.

The first time we met, in your parents’ drawing room, I learned several things about you. You have unshakeable good humor, you are devoted to family, and you dislike watercress. In all of these qualities, I thought you perfectly correct.

You require no help with humor and devotion, but when the kitchen sent out watercress sandwiches yesterday and you looked positively ill, I realized I needed to become high-handed and interfering. Therefore, I told the steward to tell the housekeeper to tell the cook that we don’t wish to have it served anymore. I believe that’s the right chain of communication. Isn’t it? You know I’m still working out the intricacies of country house staffing.

Onward. Second gift. Your sister has found a book in the library that she and I both thought you would like. It’s the Dictionary of the Vulgar Tongue, published in 1811. Considering you won my heart when you said “hell”—very demurely, of course—in the middle of a crowded ballroom, this seemed essential reading.

Third, I promise I shall never stop courting you. To that end, please join me in the drawing room immediately after dinner. A month ago, I asked the cook to make you a plum pudding, and it should be aged to perfection now. It shall be served to you tonight, and you don’t have to share a bite of it. Not even the plummiest bits.

All my love,
James

Check out James and Julia's love story in SEASON FOR TEMPTATION

TWO SISTERS…

Julia Herington is overjoyed when her stepsister, Louisa, becomes engaged—to a viscount, no less. Louisa’s only hesitation is living a life under the ton’s critical gaze. But with his wry wit and unconventional ideas, Julia feels James is perfect for Louisa. She can only hope to find a man like him for herself. Exactly like him, in fact…

ONE CHOICE…

As the new Viscount Matheson, James wished to marry quickly and secure his title. Kind, intelligent Louisa seemed a suitable bride… Until he met her stepsister. Julia is impetuous—and irresistible. Pledged to one sister, yet captivated by another, what is he to do? As Christmas and the whirl of the London season approach, James may be caught in a most scandalous conundrum, one that only true love, a bit of spiritous punch—and a twist of fate—will solve…

Places to Purchase:

**Giveaway**

Theresa will be giving away a copy of Season For Temptation to 1 lucky person (International Shipping Available). So make sure to leave a comment and to fill out the Rafflecopter form for your chance to win.

Don't forget to head over to Not Another Romance Blog to check out Julia's letter to James.

**Don't forget to enter the Big Grand Prize Giveaway. Enter here.**

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ARC Review: Ember by Kristen Callihan

2012-02-09T19:01:00.000-05:00

This was a super quick read by Kristen Callihan and it introduces us the reader, to Miranda and Archer the hero and heroine of her upcoming novel Firelight. I haven't read Firelight yet, but I assume that this takes place directly before the events of Firelight begin. I thought that this was a nice introduction to both Archer and Miranda. I am now super curious to see how and where things end up with the two of them.

Already I am finding myself completely intrigued by Archer and I want to know more about him then what we were shown in Ember. In Ember we meet a man that is scarred and is attempting to find his way. He is plagued by his longing for Miranda. He wants to find a cure for himself and then return home to claim Miranda as his own.

I felt that in Ember I got a lot more insight into the character of Miranda. We meet a woman who has been dealt a rotten hand of cards in life and she is just trying to make amends for past mistakes. I felt for her and her plight and if I were her I would have already crumpled to the floor in tears and not gotten up.

I can't wait to pick up Firelight to see how things progress between Archer and Miranda and hopefully I'll get some answers as to what is plaguing Archer.

**ARC copy provided by NetGalley**

RATING:

Sealed With a Kiss: Jenna Petersen and Giveaway

2012-02-09T00:01:00.054-05:00

Jenna Petersen knew she wanted to be a writer at a very young age and had a very specific image of what that meant. In her mind, she would live in Los Angeles (why not New York… who knows?), attend book signings, drive a very expensive car and date endlessly (and apparently, unsuccessfully). There was little actual writing involved in the fantasy.

Instead, she got a degree in Psychology from the University of Washington, married her high school sweetheart and moved to Central Illinois. There was much actual writing involved in the reality and she learned a lot in the years she waited to hear she sold a book.

Jenna enjoys travel, history, live baseball, Bears and Eagles football, and of course, all things related to reading and writing. She runs a website for aspiring authors called The Passionate Pen, which has become a popular resource in the romance writing community. She also writes erotic romance under the pseudonym Jess Michaels and zombie comedy under the pseudonym Jesse Petersen.

Places to find Jenna:

My 2008 release, LESSONS FROM A COURTESAN was one of my very favorite books to write, so revisiting the main characters after several years of marriage and the birth of a baby they both longed for was a lot of fun. I pictured them being separated by a poorly timed storm and each writing a letter on the same day, like ships passing in the night. I hope you enjoy this revisit of Victoria and Justin as much as I did.

February 14, 1819
Baybary

My Dearest Justin,

I am writing this letter and I must laugh as it is meant to be the sweetest day, but we are apart thanks to, of all things, the weather. Of course, I feel that every day we are together is the sweetest day, so I do not lament the parting too much. Especially when I think of our reunion in a few days. I do miss you, my dearest, and I hope your work with Caleb and his half-brothers on the building projects in London is going well, despite the rain and gales.

As I write this, our son is sleeping in the room adjoining mine. Landon misses you, as well. Today at tea, he continually repeated “Dada, Dada”, pointing to your empty chair with a forlorn expression that I’m certain matched my own. His tiny grief at your absence put me to mind, once again, of how lucky we are to have him.

But it is more than that, I suppose. His desire to see you made me think about how lucky I am to have a man such as you for his father. Your love for him is so plain, so tangible, that it fills me a swell of joy every time I see the two of you together. There is nothing better than seeing you clutching him to your chest when he’s warm and sweet from a bath, or rolling around on the floor with him in our parlor, as if you are no longer my very serious Marquis, but simply a loving, generous man who is more concerned with his child than his dignity.

If I have not made it clear with my gushing praise, I am trying to tell you that you are the love of my life. My Valentine on every day of the year, not just this one. I love you with all my heart and I cannot wait until you are back in my arms. Travel safely, my love. I count the days to your return.

With much love,
Victoria

Check out Victoria and Justin's love story in LESSONS FROM A COURTESAN.

Blackmailed into a marriage five years ago, and forced by their overbearing families to consummate that union so it could never be legally questioned, Victoria and Justin Talbot have been more than happy to live apart ever since, although neither one has quite forgotten the one night they shared.

But now Victoria has been forced to come to London in the disguise of London’s most talented and sought after courtesan. Invading Justin’s world, she is on a desperate search to find a missing friend and stay clear of her very angry, suddenly possessive husband. Only this time, one taste is not going to be enough for Justin. He is determined not only to uncover Victoria’s secrets, but to claim her, body and soul.

Places to Purchase:

**Giveaway**

Jenna will be giving away a copy of Lessons From A Courtesan to 1 lucky person (US Shipping Only). Make sure to leave a comment and to fill out the Rafflecopter form to be entered in to win.

Don't forget to head over to Not Another Romance Blog to check out Justin's letter to Victoria.

**Don't forget to enter the Big Grand Prize Giveaway. Enter here.**

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Sealed With a Kiss: Heather Snow and Giveaway

2012-02-08T00:01:00.017-05:00

Heather Snow is a historical romance writer with a degree in Chemistry who found she much preferred creating chemistry on the page, rather than in the lab! She is forever trying to wrangle her left and right brain to work together (some days with more success than others!), but if her two sides had to duke it out, left would win every time--which can be a creative challenge. Luckily, she loves challenges...she just goes about solving them analytically.

She lives with her husband and two sons in the Midwest and truly hopes you find her stories have just the right chemistry...

Places to find Heather:

Written by Geoffrey Wentworth, Earl of Stratford, to his wife—upon the birth of their daughter, some seven and one half months after the Epilogue…

My love,

How amazing you are. I’ve always thought so, from the moment you stepped into my drawing room and changed my life irrevocably. Even in our darkest days, when the breaking of our hearts was a palpable thing that could be felt and heard like a rending, my awe and appreciation for you never waned. Indeed, it was the very fear of losing such a woman as yourself that made the torment that much more acute.

You’ve taught me how to love, and how to be loved. I’d never have known it without you. All I knew then was that if I lost you, I would never love again, and I would be miserable for the rest of my days.

Thank God that didn’t happen.

For today, my beautiful wife, you introduced me to an entirely new and all-encompassing love. Our daughter. I can admit now that when you told me you were increasing, my heart prayed for a little girl. My mother would be appalled, of course—fixated as she is upon heirs. But it was a daughter I wanted, one who would have your intellect, your heart and your passion for discovery. I look forward to watching her grow and become as incredible of a young woman as you are.

Besides, I have no worries than an heir won’t be forthcoming, and soon...not with my curious lady chemist wife. There is so much more to share on that front, you know. I look forward to our future “experiments” with great relish.

Yours,

Geoffrey

Check out Geoffrey and Liliana's love story in SWEET ENEMY.

Places to Purchase:

**Giveaway**

Heather will be giving away a copy of Sweet Enemy to 1 lucky person (International Shipping Available). Make sure to leave a comment and to fill out the Rafflecopter form for your chance to win.

Don't forget to head over to Not Another Romance Blog and check out Liliana's letter to Geoffrey.

**Don't forget to enter the Big Grand Prize Giveaway. Enter here.**

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ARC Review: Sweet Enemy by Heather Snow

2012-02-07T19:01:00.000-05:00

I admit, it took me a bit to get into the groove of this book. The beginning was a bit slow for me but once Geoffrey and Liliana started to interact with one another I was hooked. I just couldn't stop reading this book. What was frustrating is my life kept getting in the way, making me put the book down. But oh my goodness, how I loved this book. Seriously, as everyone else was watching the Superbowl, I was devouring the remainder of Sweet Enemy. It was just so good!

I loved the chemistry between both Liliana and Geoffrey. I liked that it was a slow build to a relationship. They didn't just hop into bed with each other within moments of meeting one another. In fact, they both try to stay away from the one another and in doing so they start to realize that there may be more to the other. Geoffrey and Liliana are both able to be themselves while around each other and it was refreshing to watch them slowly grow closer and then eventually to love one another.

Geoffrey was such a great leading man. He isn't a pushover and he truly cares about doing good with his title. He doesn't just want to sit back and reap the benefits of being and Earl. He actually wants to use his title to help his fellow soldiers. He knows he should eventually marry someone that could help him with is aspirations, someone that would make him look good in the eyes of his political adversaries, but once he meets Liliana he's just not willing to enter into a marriage only for political gain.

Liliana might not be everyone's ideal candidate for a potential countess and that is more than fine with her. She is happy being able to live on her own while working in her laboratory. Chemistry is her life's passion and she knows if she were to marry any husband of hers would make her give it all up. I love that Liliana is willing to stand up for herself and doesn't care about what others think of her. She speaks her mind and definitely doesn't back down from a challenge. I found she was a perfect match for Geoffrey.

The passion between both Geoffrey and Liliana just jumps off of the page. It grabs you and pulls you in. I found myself quickly turning the pages just so I could see more of their interactions. I liked that despite the fact that neither want to fall in love and get married that they both were able to find a confidant in the other. Someone they could truly be themselves with and have a real connection. I honestly LOVED these two.

Heather Snow's debut of Sweet Enemy is definitely well worth the time and money. This is a book that will definitely be going on my keeper shelf and I will be re-reading it in the future. I can't wait to see what's next from her.

**ARC copy provided by author**

RATING:

Sealed With a Kiss: Maggie Robinson and Giveaway

2012-02-07T00:01:00.031-05:00

Maggie Robinson is a former teacher, library clerk and mother of four who woke up in the middle of the night, absolutely compelled to create the perfect man and use as many adverbs as possible doing so. A transplanted New Yorker, she lives with her not-quite perfect husband in Maine, where the cold winters are ideal for staying inside and writing hot historical romances.

Maggie Robinson also writes under the name Margaret Rowe. Margaret is an RT Reviewers Choice nominee in the best erotic fiction category for Any Wicked Thing and will be going to the RT convention in Chicago in April.

Maggie's Master of Sin comes out March 27, 2012 and hope's to be signing both books. Margaret has a short story in Agony/Ecstasy that releases this month.

Places to find Maggie/Margaret

Love letters have definitely gone out of fashion. Somehow love emails just don’t have the same zing. In Regency times, people spent hours writing letters. Several of my couples communicated by letter with each other in my books, but I decided to pick a couple that didn’t write to each other. Couldn’t. For the hero Desmond Ryland, Marquess of Conover was married to someone else and wandering the globe to escape from his miserable marriage. His true love Laurette was attempting to live a virtuous life without him. Here’s what they might have written when their hearts were full of longing.

Dear Con,

I wonder where you are. Everyone was shocked when you simply disappeared. Walked out on your new son. How could you? A child is a gift, a treasure. The Con I loved valued responsibility above all—you married to save your people, did you not? Yet you have deserted James, and Marianna too. If you were here, I would dunk you in the river to wake some sense into you.

And then, God help me, I would kiss you.

But we must not go further. I know that, have known since Marianna and her father came to Ryland Grove. What we did that summer was so very foolish. ~~and if you knew the consequences~~—

Someday I hope you will come home. But not to me. You have a wonderful boy. I see him often. He even calls me “Aunt Laurette.” You would be horrified, perhaps, but Marianna and I have become friends. I have watched James grow and see you in him, all elbows and knees and wild dark hair. Marianna is raising him to be a gentleman, worthy of the marquessate he will one day inherit. But pray God, not too soon. I hope you are keeping yourself safe in your travels, and that you discover whatever you are searching for is right here, in the eyes of your child. He needs his father to teach him to fish in the Piddle and climb trees and how to kiss girls. He’s such a sober little boy, and I know you could make him laugh.

It would be enough for me to pass you on the street in the village and nod, to know you are well, living the life you were meant to. ~~It will have to be enough, for I will never have what I want, a future with you, our own child with us~~. You are the Marquess of Conover, and your people still need you, though Marianna manages very well.

I think of you often, and wish things had been otherwise. But they are not, and we go on. Please come home, Con. For James. ~~For me~~.

Your affectionate friend,

Laurette Vincent

Check out Laurette and Con's love story in Mistress by Midnight!

First comes seduction…

As children, Desmond Ryland, Marquess of Conover, and Laurette Vincent were inseparable. As young adults, their friendship blossomed into love. But then fate intervened, sending them down different paths. Years later, Con still can’t forget his beautiful Laurette. Now he’s determined to make her his forever. There’s just one problem. Laurette keeps refusing his marriage proposals. Throwing honor to the wind, Con decides that the only way Laurette will wed him is if he thoroughly seduces her…

Then comes marriage…

Laurette’s pulse still quickens every time she thinks of Con and the scorching passion they once shared. She aches to taste the pleasure Con offers her. But she knows she can’t. For so much has happened since they were last lovers. But how long can she resist the consuming desire that demands to be obeyed?

Places to Purchase:

**Giveaway**

Maggie will be giving away a copy of Mistress by Midnight to 1 lucky person (International Shipping Available). So make sure to leave a comment for Maggie and fill out the Rafflecopter form.

Also, don't forget to head over to Not Another Romance Blog and read Con's letter to Laurette.

**Don't forget to enter the Big Grand Prize Giveaway. Enter here.**

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Sealed With a Kiss: Vicky Dreiling and Giveaway

2012-02-06T02:01:00.003-05:00

Vicky Dreiling is a confirmed historical romance junkie and Anglophile. Frequent business trips to the UK allowed her to indulge her passion for all things Regency England. Bath, Stonehenge, and Spencer House are among her favorite places. She is, however, truly sorry for accidentally setting off a security alarm in Windsor Castle. That unfortunate incident led her British colleagues to nickname her “Trouble.” When she’s not writing, Vicky enjoys reading, films, concerts, and most of all, long lunches with friends. A native Texan, she holds degrees in English literature and marketing.

Places to find Vicky:

Shy Amy Hardwick is determined to overcome her wallflower reputation, but the last man she wishes to dance with is the worst rake in London: Will ‘the devil’ Darcett. Her encounter with him goes awry when Will attempts to lead her into temptation …..

My Dear Miss Hardwick,

May I call you Amy? I realize you are miffed at me after we took a little scenic tour at the ball last night, but I do beg your pardon. May I plead a poor sense of direction? Truly, I’d no idea you would have such an aversion to music rooms. Perhaps it was the lack of candlelight that disturbed you. Are you afraid of the dark, Amy?

By the by, I had meant to send you a bouquet of roses from my mother’s hot house, but unfortunately my mischievous nephew Peter watered them, but not in the way you might imagine. He’s rather like a dog, but perhaps I should say no more on that topic.

Since Valentine’s Day is just round the corner, I rather hope my gift of sweetmeats will turn you up sweet. We did share a rather exciting dance last night. I look forward to another….

Yours truly,
William Darcett

Check out William and Amy's love story in HOW TO RAVISH A RAKE-Coming in April!

SCANDALOUS DESIRES . . .

Amy Hardwick has one last Season to shake off her wallflower image and make a love match. If she can’t, she’ll set aside her dreams of romance and return home to a suitor who can provide security—if little else. What she doesn’t count on is the inappropriate—and irresistible—attention lavished on her in a darkened library by rake extraordinaire Will “The Devil” Darcett . . .

DEVILISH DELIGHT

When Will is caught in a tryst with the ton’s shyest miss, he knows he must offer for her hand. Yet Amy is not the shrinking violet she seems to be. Passion lies beneath her prim exterior and Will is eager to release it. But winning Amy isn’t simply a matter of seduction; first, Will must convince her that he’s mended his wicked ways . . .

Places to Pre-Order:

**Giveaway**

Vicky will be giving away an ARC copy of How To Ravish a Rake to 1 lucky person (US and Canada ONLY). Make sure to leave a comment and to fill out the Rafflecopter form for your chance to win

Don't forget to head over to Not Another Romance Blog to check out Amy's letter to William.

**Don't forget to enter the Big Grand Prize Giveaway. Enter here.**

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Man Candy Monday-Hawt Cuisine

2012-02-06T01:01:00.013-05:00

Hey All! Another week has gone by and once again it's Manday! This weeks Man Candy Monday theme is Hawt Cuisine. I tried to find pictures of either hot chefs, people eating or pictures that have some kind of food item in them. This was not easy to find. I hope you guys like the pictures I found. Let me know.

So whatcha think? Let me know how I did and if you have any favorites. Don't forget to check out tonight Man Candy Monday Twitter chat. I'm sure it'll be a good one! Remember it's tonight at 9PM EDT and use the hashtag #mancandymonday so everyone can find your pictures.

Blog Tour Giveaway: Secrets of an Accidental Duchess by Jennifer Haymore

2012-02-06T00:00:00.003-05:00

Please note that this giveaway is open to US residents only.

Check out my review for Secrets of an Accidental Duchess here.

With her pale hair and slim figure, Olivia Donovan looks as fragile as fine china, and has been treated as such by her sisters ever since a childhood bout with malaria. But beneath her delicate facade, Olivia guards a bold, independent spirit and the kind of passionate desires proper young ladies must never confess...

It was a reckless wager, and one Max couldn't resist: seduce the alluring Olivia or forfeit part of his fortune. Yet the wild, soon-to-be Duke never imagined he'd fall in love with this innocent beauty. Nor could he have guessed that a dangerously unpredictable rival would set out to destroy them both. Now, Max must beat a madman at his own twisted game-or forever lose the only woman to have ever won his heart.

Places to Purchase:

| Amazon | Kindle | Barnes & Noble |

**Giveaway**

On behalf of Forever Romance, 3 lucky winners will win a copy of Secrets of an Accidental Duchess (US shipping only, no PO boxes). To enter, please fill out the Rafflecopter form.

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ARC Review: Secrets of an Accidental Duchess by Jennifer Haymore

2012-02-05T21:00:00.001-05:00

I just finished Secrets of an Accidental Duchess and I'm just all over the place. I'm feeling so many different emotions now that I've finished this book. I really enjoyed this book but there were a few times I had to put this book down because it became a little rough to get through. It wasn't bad at all but this book was definitely not a light read. In fact, the villain of this story is so heinous and brutal and some of his actions made me shudder. Besides my hatred of the villain, I really enjoyed the story and all of the characters that are in it.

Let me just start off by saying that I love Max. I love Max so freaking much! Watching him and Olivia both fall in love with each other was great to watch. Their interactions with each other and just the way they both opened up to one another was great. There really weren't any games between them and I liked that. I liked that they both fell and fell hard.

I'll admit that the first couple of chapters kind of dragged for me a bit, but once Olivia and Max started interacting with each other the story just picked up and I found myself unable to stop reading. I loved getting to know who both Olivia and Max were. The type of people they were inside and out. Both are caring and so full of love. I was worried that I might not like Olivia based off of reading the back of the book. I'm not the biggest fan of heroines that always need saving and are helpless. That wasn't the case at all with Olivia. Everyone may try to baby her and shelter her but she definitely doesn't need it. She is strong and if given the chance, independent. She is also selfless. She willingly put others first to save them even if it costs her so much more. She doesn't back down when times get hard and I loved that about her.

With Max, in the beginning he's portrayed as a womanizing rake that doesn't have a care in the world and could care less about another feelings. That was not the case at all. Max is so caring and considerate. He fights for what he believes in and the ones he loves and cares about. He is truly good even though it takes him a while to realize it.

As I said before, I really enjoyed this story. I loved meeting the rest of the Donovans and I am eagerly awaiting the next book from Jennifer Haymore. I can't wait to see how things end up for the rest of the Donovans. I also will be checking out the first book in this series, Confessions of an Improper Bride. I loved seeing the little tidbits of Serena/Meg and her husband and I am very curious about their book.

**ARC copy provided by NetGalley/Forever Romance Publishing**

RATING:

Sealed With a Kiss: Elise Rome and Giveaway

2012-02-05T00:01:00.046-05:00

Elise Rome has never forgiven Margaret Mitchell for making her fall in love with Scarlett and Rhett in Gone with the Wind and then not giving them a happy ending. She likes to think that she makes up for the injustice done to them with each romance novel she writes. When she isn't telling stories about sexy, headstrong heroes and intelligent, independent heroines, Elise stays busy chasing after her two young daughters, semi-attempting to do housework, and hiking in the beautiful foothills of Colorado.

Places to find Elise:

Happy early Valentine’s Day! I’m so thrilled to have been invited to be a part of the Sealed with a Kiss event (thank you, Dani and Rita!), and am also excited to share with you the love letters from the hero and heroine of my upcoming novella, THE SINNING HOUR (which will, incidentally, first be published on Valentine’s Day).

Although the story of THE SINNING HOUR novella takes place after the heroine leaves the hero’s employ, the following love letters—or lust letters, as the case may be—were written during the time she served him as maid.

Simon Astley and Miranda Post are from two different worlds, although they both live in 1851 London. Distantly related to the aristocracy, Simon has made a name and career for himself as not merely a portraitist, but a nude portraitist. In an era when the comparative moral freedom of the Regency has waned, Simon’s work is highly esteemed among some; most, however, view him with the sober, disdainful eye of the overly righteous. Simon, of course, does as he pleases and, as long as he is being paid for his work, cares not what anyone else thinks. Until, that is, Miranda Post comes along…

Though born of the middle class, Miranda is forced by circumstances to find work as a maid in Simon’s small household. She knows her role and duties well and, unlike Simon, safeguards her reputation carefully. He is her employer, she is his maid. She knows there can never be anything between them. And yet…

Miranda’s Letter to Simon

Written in her head as she worked
Two weeks before he fires her

Dear Mr. Astley,

Please, I beg of you, please stop staring at me.

I wish on my very first day you had never paid me the compliment on what you declared to be the perfect symmetry of my features. Now when you look at me, I cannot decide whether you do it as an assessment of another potential subject or because you are drawn to me. And if it is an assessment of me as a potential subject, does that mean that you picture me naked as the ladies in your studio?

I cannot bear for you to think of me that way, to compare me—whether unfavorably or otherwise—to them. Not when you are unlike any man I have ever known.

My father calls me wicked because I work for you, because I am in the same house of a nude portraitist. But he would call me even worse if he knew how much I envied those women, not because of their interactions with you, but because they are of your station. Whether you ever choose one as your lover or not doesn’t matter. They can dream of you, and know that there is a possibility that one day their dreams might come true.

I envy them—because I cannot even dream. And it is cruel of you to look at me so and make me wonder what could be. It is cruel of you to pay me more attention that you should and smile at me as though we share secrets, when the greatest secret I hold from you is this:

Even though I know I cannot dream, I do.

Ended with a sigh and a rather ferocious dusting of a vase

I hope you enjoyed Miranda’s letter to Simon! I personally think this part of Miranda and Simon’s relationship about unrequited love deserves a love song of its own. Do you have any favorite love songs?

Check out Miranda and Simon's love story in THE SINNING HOUR-Out February 14th!

A man accustomed to having whatever he wishes…

A year ago, the last thing portraitist Simon Astley expected was to become fascinated with his new housemaid. Although Miranda Post was no great beauty, he found his attraction for her continuing to grow until—rather than giving in to his wicked inclinations—he sent her away. No man could have regretted this momentary indulgence of conscience more.

A woman whose wishes have never come true…

Now a maid at London’s most exclusive gaming hell, Miranda has no time for either bitterness or the soothing of her bruised heart. She works hard and struggles to care for her dependent father, forbidding herself to dwell on either her dreams of the future or her memories of Simon.

At night all they need is one another…

Yet both her dreams and memories collide when Simon is commissioned to paint the portraits of the hell’s owners. Determined to right his mistakes, he offers to pay Miranda for the pleasure of painting her, too—but only in the privacy of his studio. She agrees to take his coin, even while knowing that every moment in his presence once again decimates her defenses…and threatens her heart.

**Giveaway**

Elise will be giving away a digital copy of The Sinning Hour to 1 lucky person. Make sure to leave a comment answering Elise's question and make sure to fill out the Rafflecopter form for your chance to win.

Don't forget to head over to Not Another Romance Blog to check out Simon's letter to Miranda.

**Don't forget to enter the Big Grand Prize Giveaway. Enter here.**

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Winners

2012-02-04T21:00:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to

BN100

On winning the ARC copy of How To Ravish a Rake by Vicky Dreiling

Beebs

On winning an eBook copy of With This Kiss by Victoria Lynne

Both winners have been contacted via email. Thank you to everyone that entered.

Sealed With a Kiss: Manda Collins and Giveaway

2012-02-04T00:01:00.016-05:00

Manda Collins spent her teen years wishing she’d been born a couple of centuries earlier, preferably in the English countryside. Time travel being what it is, she resigned herself to life with electricity and indoor plumbing, and read lots of books. An affinity for books led to a graduate degree in English, followed by another in Librarianship. By day, she works as an academic librarian at a small liberal arts college, where she teaches college students how to navigate the tangled world of academic research. A native of coastal Alabama, Manda lives in the house her mother grew up in with three cats, sometimes a dog, sometimes her sister, and more books than strictly necessary.

Places to find Manda:

My Dear Cecily,

I know this will find you well. I’ve been watching you from afar since you got back to London, and have assured myself daily of your safety.

I wish that I could tell you that I am here as well, but my fears for you make it impossible for me to do so. So I watch, and wait. And do what I can to ensure that whoever wishes to do you harm is caught at last.

Can it have been only a few short weeks since we met, there on the steps of the Egyptian Club, which has come to be such a special place for us? Who would have guessed that the Club that denied both of us entrance would host the most pivotal moments in our relationship? Not I. And I daresay not you either. Especially given the way you kicked at the locked door of it that day. I still chuckle to remember it.

There will be more memories for us. More laughter. And I hope that once this business with the expedition is behind us, we will be able to be frank with one another. I know that you were hurt by that bastard who broke your heart. But I am a different man. A man who knows your worth, who knows that you are more valuable than any of the artifacts you are so familiar with. And I hope that once you have seen how much I love you that you will open your heart to me as well.

I must go now and meet with the man from Bow Street. I hope to see you soon.

Ever yours,

Winterson

Check out Cecily and Lucas' love story in HOW TO DANCE WITH A DUKE.

What’s a wallflower to do when she’s suddenly in need of a husband? Use all the pluck and moxie she can muster to get what she wants…

SHE’S IN NEED OF A PARTNER

Miss Cecily Hurston would much rather explore the antiquities of Egypt than the uncharted territory of marriage. But the rules of her father’s exclusive academic society forbid her entrance unless she weds one of its members. To clear her ailing father’s name of a scandalous rumor, Cecily needs to gain admission into the Egyptian Club—and is willing to marry any old dullard to do it.

AND HE HAS ALL THE RIGHT MOVES

Lucas Dalton, Duke of Winterson, is anything but dull. He’s a dashing and decorated war hero determined to help Cecily—even if that means looking the other way when she claims the dance card of Amelia Snow, this season’s most sought-after beauty. But Lucas has a reason for wanting Cecily to join the Egyptian Club: His brother went missing during one of Lord Hurston’s expeditions to Egypt. An alliance with the explorer’s bluestocking daughter could bring Lucas closer to the truth about what happened…or it could lead him to a more dangerous love than either he or Cecily could have imagined….

Places to Purchase:

**Giveaway**

Manda will be giving away a copy of How To Dance With a Duke to 1 lucky person (open to US and Canada Only). Make sure to leave a comment and to fill out the Rafflecopter form for your chance to win.

Don't forget to head over to Not Another Romance Blog and check out Cecily's letter to Lucas.

**Don't forget to enter the Big Grand Prize Giveaway. Enter here.**

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Winners

2012-02-03T22:01:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to

Jennifer K

On winning her choice of any of the Charley Davidson books from Darynda Jones

Rizka

On winning a copy of The Rake and The Recluse Redux by Jenn LeBlanc

All winners have been contacted via email. Thank you to everyone that entered the giveaways.

Sealed With a Kiss: Kate Noble and Giveaway

2012-02-03T00:01:00.051-05:00

Kate Noble love books. Romances especially. But, being born into a family of doctors, scientists, and mathematicians, she didn’t discover she was adept at writing until, oh, about junior year of high school. Which came as something of a relief, as she was hopeless at memorizing the Latin names for all the bones in the human body. The Heisenberg Uncertainty Principle eludes her to this day.

Places to find Kate:

If I Fall is one of my favorite romances I’ve written. It has everything I adore – swashbuckling, secret identities, a mystery, a murder, and true love saving the day. But the trip my characters Jack and Sarah take to get there – well, it’s bit crooked.

When Sarah Forrester was a child, she was not in love with Jackson Fletcher. Oh, they were friends of course, and she likely trusted him more than any other person. After all, she trusted him with the secret of who she really was in love with: The Blue Raven, the mysterious spy of the Peninsular War, whose heroic exploits filled the newspapers, and Sarah’s young impressionable imagination.

She even wrote the Blue Raven a letter once, long ago.

Dear Mr. Blue Raven –

I did not know whether to call you “Mr. Raven” or “Mr. Blue Raven,” so if I have erred, it is on the side of caution. I also did not think that you would be “Sir Blue Raven”, although considering all the amazing deeds your have performed on behalf of your country, I can only assume it is a matter of time before the crown bequeaths you as such. (That is, if you are not already a Lord, a circumstance which would make you more appealing in the eyes of my mother, I think.)

Even though I do not know your real name, or proper form of address, I feel like I know you, Mr. Blue Raven. Because, you see, you have been in my daydreams ever since your exploits in Peninsula first appeared in the Times. I know you may think me rather too young to read the Times, and my mother would agree with you. Luckily, my father does not and he sneaks me the paper.

I love you. Is that too forward? I imagine so, and yet it does not matter to me. I’ve admired you so long – I’ve been reading about you since I was eight, such is my devotion. You are truly marvelous. My particular favorite story is how you ducked behind enemy lines and found the opposing army general’s orders in the pocket of a soldier’s uniform on the floor of a house of ill repute. Although, no one would tell me what about this house made it of such ill reputation. Was it badly constructed? That is not important, however.

Even though we have never met, and my name has never been in the papers, I feel as if you know me, too. And dare I hope, my feelings would be returned? You don’t have to answer – and if you did I would likely die of embarrassment – but if some reason brings you to Portsmouth, I invite you to visit my family at Primrose Manor, just outside of the city. I’ll be the one in the tricorn hat, saving my little sisters from pirates.

With all my heart –
Sarah Forrester
Age 10

But now grown up, what will Jack do with this information – and how can it help him turn the brittle and beautiful Golden Lady back into the Sarah Forrester he knew as a child? The answer can only be found in If I Fall, coming April 3rd!

Check out Sarah and Jackson's love story in IF I FELL-Coming April 3rd!

Every great romance comes with a risk...

After a duke's betrayal, the resilient Sarah Forrester reinvents herself as the Golden Lady: society's leading light, the beautiful and witty life of the party. It's all a façade of course-one that protects her from another intimate disloyalty. When her old friend, Lieutenant Jackson Fletcher, returns to London, he is determined to rediscover the true and trusting Sarah he once knew. It'll take more than a kiss and a promise. It might even call for an innocent and necessary deception.

Then Jackson is enlisted to help capture the lead suspect in a murder— a man who happens to be Sarah's most ardent suitor. Jack must continue the deception, and weathering this newest and gravest betrayal will be Sarah's ultimate test. But as Jack's passion for her grows, he must also reveal his own secrets. And as the killer turns his attention to his pursuers, more than love and trust is put at risk.

Places to Pre-Order:

| Amazon | Kindle | Barnes & Noble |

**Giveaway**

Kate will be giving away winner's choice of one of her back-listed books to 1 lucky person (US Shipping ONLY). So make sure to leave a comment for Kate and to fill out the Rafflecopter form for your chance to win.

Don't forget to head over to Not Another Romance Blog and check out Jackson's letter to Sarah.

**Don't forget to enter the Big Grand Prize Giveaway. Enter here.**

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Darker After Midnight Prize Pack Winner

2012-02-02T22:01:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to

Victoria S

On winning the Darker After Midnight Prize Pack from Lara Adrian

Winner has been contacted. Thank you so much to everyone that entered.

Sealed With a Kiss: Beverely Kendall and Giveaway

2012-02-02T00:01:00.071-05:00

Beverley discovered her love of books while growing up in, the then, small city of Barrie, Ontario Canada. With her love of books and romance, she always wished that everyone would find their happily ever after. Add in her love of London, England set in a period when ladies strived to be genteel and dresses could barely fit through doors, and it was obvious she could write nothing but historical romances.

As the mother of one too bright and mischievous young boy, she pulls full-time duty on all fronts. When she's not working full-time, mothering, writing or reading, she's probably sleeping and dreaming of a time when she'll have time for her favorite hobbies: knitting, crocheting and sewing.

Beverley has lived on two continents, in three countries, two provinces, and four states. She stopped her nomadic existence and settled in the southeast. All things artistic feed her creative passion, but none more than writing.

Places to find Beverley:

My Dearest Charlotte,

Today saw exactly two years since you been gone. It is also the day we should have celebrated two years as husband and wife.

I passed the day walking through the house I bought for us in London. Your bedchamber is exactly as you last saw it except for your wedding present. Three days after you left, it arrived. It was the wardrobe you saw at the cabin maker’s shop in Reading. You know the one with the roses painted on the doors. I thought of refusing it when it arrived or giving it away but I couldn’t bring myself to do either. It would have been like giving away a part of you and that, I simply could not bear.

Since you left, the nights have become nigh on intolerable. It’s when I miss you most, beside me in my bed. Sometimes I think I need you more than I need my next breath. And when I close my eyes and fall asleep, I dream of you and it is only in my dreams that I can breathe easy. That I can smile again because it is there I can hold you and kiss you…and make love to you.

But more than the nights, the mornings are by far the worse because I wake to the knowledge that you are still gone and I am still alone missing you desperately.

Your Devoted Servant,
A

Check out Charlotte and Alex's love story in An HEIR OF DECEPTION-Coming in April 2012!

A man devastated by love

After three years of carousing and debauchery, Alex Cartwright, heir to the Duke of Hastings, has put his life back in order. Having embraced sobriety for two years, he has no intention of revisiting the past or risking his heart again. But the return of the very woman who introduced him to the darkest side of hell brings not only the painful, haunting memories of bittersweet love and abandonment, but the son he never knew he had...

A woman silenced by secrets

Threatened by the revelation of a secret that could destroy her family’s place in society and forever tarnish a dukedom, Charlotte fled England on her wedding day five years ago. Now, although it appears that secret is safe, when Alex discovers her other secret—their son—Charlotte has an altogether different battle ahead. She must now fight one love to hold onto the other—the man whose touch still makes her burn, for the child who is her very world.

Check out Beverley's Novella All's Fair in Love & Seduction which is currently available for FREE.

She hopes to gain his affections

For Miss Elizabeth Smith, sharing her first kiss with the charming Lord Derek Creswell is nothing short of a dream come true...that is, until she is spotted by one of the most influential gossips of the ton. With scandal nipping at her heels, to avoid total social ruin, Elizabeth must present a fiancé by the end of the Season. But when the viscount proves reluctant, Elizabeth is forced to employ a seduction of a different sort...

He is determined to ruin her

Viscount Derek Creswell believes Elizabeth set out to trap him into marriage. After all, her sister attempted the very same thing with his brother six years before. Now the delectable Miss Smith expects a betrothal and a ring, while Derek finds her ruination infinitely more appealing...

But as Derek sets out to seduce only her body, Elizabeth is intent on claiming his jaded heart.

**Giveaway**

Beverley will be giving away a copy of her book Sinful Surrender to 1 lucky person (International Shipping). So make sure to leave a comment for Beverley and to fill out the Rafflecopter form for your chance to win.

Also, don't forget to head over to Not Another Romance Blog and check out Charlotte's letter to Alex.

**Don't forget to enter the Big Grand Prize Giveaway. Enter here.**

a Rafflecopter giveaway

How To Dance With a Duke Winner

2012-02-01T22:01:00.003-05:00

Congratulations to

Chris B

On winning a copy of How To Dance With a Duke by Manda Collins

Winner has been contacted via email. Thank you to everyone that entered.

Sealed With a Kiss: Lila DiPasqua and Giveaway

2012-02-01T00:01:00.058-05:00

At age fourteen, Lila’s best friend sneaked a romance novel out of her grandmother’s house. After devouring it, Lila was hooked on romance novels for life. Today she lives with her real-life hero husband and three children and is a firm believer in the happily-ever-after. She loves history and enjoys traveling. She has been to four continents so far. Weaving in interesting historical facts she discovers during her travels, Lila writes stories about historical alpha-heroes and the heroines who make them lose their hearts.

Places to find Lila:

A MIDNIGHT DANCE ( from the Fiery Tales series—steamy, romantic retellings of classic fairy tales, Berkley Sensation, Historical Romance) is a retelling of my favorite fairy tale of them all—Cinderella.

Our cinder-girl, Sabine Laurent has had a mad crush on the gorgeous heir of the Marquis de Blainville, Jules de Moutier, since she was fifteen and first spotted him at her father’s prestigious theatre. She’d dubbed him her “Dark Prince” because at nineteen he was tall, dark and oh so handsome.

Years later, her opinion of him as soured. The problem is, when they meet again as adults, Jules’s even more devastating to behold.

You see, Sabine blames her family’s ruin and dire straits on Jules and his family now. All she has to do is pose as a courtesan named Elise and feed him the tainted wine. She plans to use her acting skills in this seduction, and has enlisted the help of her eclectic blended family—which includes the balance of her late father’s acting troupe, and a “fairy godmother” in the form of a loveable, yet highly opinionated apothecary.

If only Jules’s tantalizing touch didn’t wreak such havoc on her senses. With a devilishly seductive “Prince Charming” like Jules, it’s not going to be easy for Sabine to snatch the silver. Add a healthy dose of intrigue, surprising twists, scandalous behavior, and a couple destined to be together, and you have A MIDNIGHT DANCE—a Cinderella story that is as steamy and exciting as it is romantic. Let the seduction begin!

This letter below is one Sabine would have written to Jules during the time she was a teen—when she was writing countless entries in her journal with about her beloved Dark Prince. (By the way, Jules does stumble across her journals years later. And he does read the touchingly tender entries about the Dark Prince she wrote so long ago. He just doesn’t know it’s about him. ;)

To my dearest Dark Prince,

I first beheld you when you attended Father’s comedy two weeks ago. I haven’t been able to stop thinking about you since. I will admit here, on these pages alone, that I was completely aquiver and hopelessly enthralled by your every moment.

Your smile shines brighter than the sun! Yet you looked through me, as one would the wind. I brushed past, but you did not see or feel me. How I ache for a look or a touch. Oh, heaven would be a kiss from your lips! Nothing on this side of the stars would be finer.

I must admit, I have never felt this way. Not ever! I have seen enough stolen kisses at the theatre. I am confident I can do it well. I am told you are beyond my reach. That I dream too grand. But aren’t dreams supposed to be grand? Alas, I am afflicted with a heart that won’t be reined in. It reaches out to you, my Dark Prince. I cannot wait until I am formally introduced to society. I have dreamed of that ball. And our dance. I will be the one in the golden-colored gown.

Yours forever,
Sabine Laurent

Check out Sabine and Jules love story in A MIDNIGHT DANCE.

Born into wealth, Sabine Laurent and her twin sister lived a life of luxury, their father’s prestigious theater frequented by royalty and aristocracy alike. And Sabine dreamed of her own prince charming—the devastatingly handsome Jules de Moutier.

That was before the loss of her sister and her family’s fall from grace—a disaster Sabine blames on the Moutier family. Now, with her father’s death, she’s inherited his sizable debt and the responsibility of caring for his spoiled long-time mistress and her two wastrel daughters. But with the help of Sabine’s eccentric friends—the balance of her father’s acting troupe—she plans to get very close to her old infatuation, seduce the rake—and make away with a fortune.

Resisting Jules’s skillful mouth and tantalizing touch is not as easy as Sabine supposed. And soon she must decide whether her desire for vengeance is greater than her desire for her one and only prince…

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I’m excited to announce—Coming in April . . . UNDONE!

The next in the Fiery Tales series!

Inspired by the tale of Rapunzel, Lila DiPasqua offers a new steamy, emotionally charged historical romance in the acclaimed Fiery Tales Series . . . Rescuing this beauty from the ‘tower’ is only the beginning . . .

**Giveaway**

Lila will be giving away a copy of A Midnight Dance to 1 lucky person (open to US and Canada). Make sure to leave a comment for Lila and fill out the Rafflecopter form to enter to win.
Also, don't forget to head over to Not Another Romance Blog and check out Jules letter to Sabine.
**Don't forget to enter the Big Grand Prize Giveaway. Enter here.**

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