Coffee Shop Conversations: Q&A and a Giveaway with author Tracy Anne Warren

Hello all you fabulous Dames, and welcome to Coffee Shop Conversations!

On this segment of the blog I will be conducting interviews with Authors, Bloggers and anyone else relative to the literary world and willing to answer my questions. Coffee Shops are great places to just relax, let the hair down and talk about life, love and good books! So without further adieu, let's get to chatting with my special guest:

 Author: Tracy Anne Warren

"Tracy Anne Warren is the New York Times Bestselling author of nine Regency historical romance novels, including At The Duke’s Pleasure and The Husband Trap. Her books have appeared on the USA Today Bestsellers’ list and the Borders’ Group List of Bestselling Single Title Romance Paperbacks. She has won numerous writing awards, including Romance Writers’ of America’s prestigious RITA® Award, the National Readers’ Choice Award, the HOLT Medallion, the Golden Quill, and others. Currently, Warren is at work on her new Regency historical Byrons of Braebourne series, which follows the sexy, scandalous goings-on of the tempestuous Byron siblings. At The Duke’s Pleasure is the newest release in the series with Wicked Delights Of A Bridal Bed arriving in stores in September 2010."Source

TAW on the web: Website | Facebook |  HarperCollins Author Page

Tracy's latest release:

'Wicked Delights Of A Bridal Bed'

available on 8.31.10

"A touching and romantic love-story about overcoming grief and allowing true love to take root. ['Wicked Delights Of A Bridal Bed' was] A stellar read that will leave you VERY satisfied, indeed!" quote from my review

 

"To her surprise, Lady Mallory Byron finds herself walking down the aisle with the last man she ever expected to ask for her hand...

Everyone knows the Byron brothers are “mad, bad, and dangerous.” Now their sister shockingly discovers she’s the newest talk of the Ton when she marries the scandalous Earl of Gresham. Faced with a tragic loss, she’d sought comfort from him as a family friend. But soon consolation turned to passion, scandal––and a wedding! In the bridal bed, she finds pleasure beyond her wildest dreams. But can nights of wicked delight change friendship into true love?

Charming rakehell Adam, Earl of Gresham, has secretly loved Mallory for years. He lost her once to another man, but now he has a second chance to win her love––and plans to do so by any means necessary. Will Mallory’s heart give him what he so dearly desires? Or is the past too much to overcome?"Source

-Read an excerpt from 'Wicked Delights Of A Bridal Bed': here
-My Review of 'Wicked Delights Of A Bridal Bed' can be found: here

Get Your Copy Today:

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Books-A-Million | Powell's

-Q&A-

RJ: Hey Tracy! Thanks for stopping by for a little chat! Congratulations on your latest novel, 'Wicked Delights Of A Bridal Bed', in stores August 31st, 2010 {Today!). What have the past few months been like with anticipating the release, and what have you experienced emotionally as well as professionally with the completion of this new book?

TAW: Hello, Rita, it’s great getting to take a few minutes away from my writing to chat with you and your readers! And thanks for the chance to talk about my latest Byrons of Braebourne novel, WICKED DELIGHTS OF A BRIDAL BED. It’s always hard waiting the last few months before the release of a new book. I get very excited with anticipation at the thought of seeing another of my novels hit the shelves.  And this book is a bit of a professional milestone, since it will be my tenth novel!  It just doesn’t seem that long ago that I was anticipating the release of my first novel, THE HUSBAND TRAP, back in 2006.

RJ: Why don't you tell the readers and I a little bit about your newest book from the author's point of view? This isn't your first book; how does it differ from your previous novels?  What were you trying to achieve with this book and do you feel like it's 'mission accomplished'?

TAW: As I mentioned, this is my tenth novel and the fourth installment in my Byrons of Braebourne series. When I start each new book I always strive to create distinctive characters and tell a unique, page-turning tale. WICKED DELIGHTS OF A BRIDAL BED is no different. As for how it differs from earlier novels, I’d have to say that it deals with some new themes and has a slightly darker tone. My goal for this latest addition to the series was to explore the strength of unconditional love and its healing powers, how friends can sometimes turn into lovers, and the possibilities for happiness that second chances can offer. I’m really pleased with the result and hope readers have as much fun with Mallory and Adam’s story as I had writing it.

RJ: What challenges or difficulties did you face with the writing of this particular novel?

TAW: The challenges I dealt with in writing WICKED DELIGHTS OF A BRIDAL BED are similar to those I usually face with each of my books: creating compelling, believable and sympathetic characters and storylines that will capture the interest of readers. In particular, I pushed my storytelling into new territory by exploring Mallory’s grief and her healing journey as she finds the strength and joy of new love.

RJ: Where did the inspirations for your plot, characters and setting come from? 

TAW: The story for WICKED DELIGHTS OF A BRIDAL BED grew out of secondary characters who appeared in the earlier books in the Byrons of Braebourne series, beginning with book one, TEMPTED BY HIS KISS. As one of two Byron sisters, Mallory had to have her own book, since her brothers couldn’t be the only ones getting all of the attention! In TEMPTED BY HIS KISS, I also introduced rakish earl, Adam Gresham, who is a good friend of the Byron family, and who happens to have been secretly in love with Mallory for years. With WICKED DELIGHTS OF A BRIDAL BED, readers will find out why he never pursued Mallory, despite his deep love for her, and the lengths he goes to not to let her slip through his fingers again.

RJ: 'Wicked Delights Of A Bridal Bed' is the fourth book in the Byrons of Braebourne Series. All I can say is: "Those Byrons, Those Byrons, Those Byrons!". What an enthralling family! How did this series come about and what do you believe makes this family so beloved among the readers?

pic of Lord Byron (quite the looker)

TAW: I’ve always loved the Caro Lamb quote about Lord Byron, the poet, where she said that he was “mad, bad and dangerous to know.” I also love sexy, devilish and dangerous heroes–and high-spirited heroines, so it seemed a natural fit to blend the bad, real-life reputation of an outrageous lord with the fictional antics of an entire family of scandal-making siblings. I think that readers respond to the all-too-human qualities of the Byrons, the familial interplay and the archetypal themes of courtship and finding true love.

RJ: Let's talk about the Hero and Heroine (Adam and Mallory). In your eyes, what are their flaws and what are their redeeming qualities? Also, what makes them attracted to one another (despite the obvious handsomeness and beauty)?

TAW: I don’t generally analyze the flaws and redeeming qualities of my characters, since their creation is far more organic than it is strategic. If pressed, I would say that Adam’s telling flaws would be his pride and the insecurity he feels and acts upon regarding his relationship with Mallory; his redeeming qualities are his loyalty, kindness, consideration of others, and his undying love and support of Mallory. As for Mallory, her flaws would be her naïveté and somewhat overindulged youth (she loves shopping, especially with her brother Edward’s money); her redeeming qualities are her sweet, generous nature, a practical, common sense wisdom and a steadfast devotion to those she loves–most especially Adam. Their attraction to each other grows from a deep liking and long-term friendship, which blossoms into a rich and enduring love.

RJ: The writing process differs from author to author. Some are planners while others just jump right in. Some consider themselves night writers, while others need daylight and a park bench or a coffee shop (wink) to set the mood for creativity. What's your writing process and atmosphere like?

picture of TAW's Cat: Christofur!

TAW: I have a home office where I always work; it’s rare that I write outside of my office. Typically, I try to deal with administrative matters during the day (you’d be amazed at all the emails and writing-related business things authors do). In the evenings, I write my books–generally well past midnight and into the wee hours. I work five days a week–unless I have a deadline that’s getting close, then you’ll find me pounding the keyboard at all hours, seven days a week, until the manuscript gets completed. For atmosphere, I turn on my ipod and listen to instrumental movie scores and classical music. I love tea, so there’s always a mug nearby to keep me adequately caffeinated. I also have three little feline assistants who like to “help” me create. So far they’ve staked out most of my printer table, part of my desk and the top of my filing cabinet for use as cat beds. (To see photos of my furry assistants, please visit my website at http://www.tracyannewarren.com/)

RJ: When did you first start writing, and what inspired you to pick up a pen in the first place? 

TAW: My journey as a writer started back when I was 17 and I wrote my first novel-a time travel romance, which was ahead of its time in more ways than one. (And no, that manuscript has never been published and never will be). For as long as I can remember, I’ve always made up stories, so it seemed only natural to finally start writing them down on paper. I chose to write historical, Regency-set romances because I love the era––the social rules, the clothes, the glamour and excitement of the last great era before the start of the industrial revolution and the modern world.

RJ: Romance has transcended so many different sectors of pop culture. I think the Beatles said it best, "All you need is Love". This being a Romance Blog and everything, I've got to ask: what are your favorite romance picks of the following: Favorite Love Song? Favorite Scent on a man? Favorite Romantic Comedy? and of course, Favorite Romance Novel?

TAW: I have lots of favorite love songs, but one I really adore is Celine Dion’s “Then You Look At Me.” My favorite scent on a man is no scent at all––just clean soap and water. Colognes and aftershave lotions are a real turn-off for me. My favorite romantic comedy is “Bridget Jones Diary” (the first movie, the second one is a disappointing mess). And you’re really cruel to make me choose just one favorite romance novel, but since you insist, I’d have to pick “His Lordship’s Mistress” by Joan Wolf. It was written years ago, but it’s a beautiful story.  

RJ: Do you have anything you would like to address to your fans and readers?

TAW: First, I’d like to thank all my fans for their wonderful support! It’s such a pleasure and blessing being able to write stories that people enjoy. I’d also like to let everyone know that I recently signed a new four-book contract with Avon Books. So for anyone wondering if there’s going to be a story for ALL the Byron siblings, the answer is yes! I’m busy writing Drake Byron’s book now, which will be in stores in 2011. After that, the irrepressible twins, Leo and Lawrence, and youngest daughter, Esme, will be all grown up and ready to find true loves of their own. I’m tremendously excited at the prospect of getting to share more Byron stories with my readers. To find out more about me and all my books, please visit my website at www.tracyannewarren.com. Look for me on Facebook as well.

RJ: Okay, (sad face) Final Question: Name something shocking or interesting about yourself that the readers may not know.

TAW: I lead a rather ordinary life these days (chained to the keyboard, remember?), but perhaps something most readers don’t know is that I was about 12 when I read my first romance novel…I’ve been reading them ever since.

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TAW: In closing, I’d like to thank you for a great interview, Rita. This was lots of fun!

RJ: I had a blast too, Tracy! Thanks for stopping by and telling the readers and I all about your newest book!

~*~Giveaway Details~*~

Tracy Anne Warren has generously offered to giveaway a copy of 'Wicked Delights Of A Bridal Bed' to (1) one lucky commenter! Follow the guidelines below and comment for your chance to win. The giveaway will end on Wednesday, September 15th, 2010 at 11:59:00 PM. The winner will be announced and contacted via email on Thursday, September 16th, 2010.

Giveaway Guidelines: To be entered in the giveaway all you have to do is leave a comment/question for Tracy and include your email address!
*(NO EMAIL= INVALID ENTRY)

For Extra Entries (do one or more of the following for extra shots at winning):
+2 'Like'  Tracy's Facebook Fan Page AND/or leave a nice message on her wall. (provide a link so I can check)
+2 'Like'  The 'Not Another Romance Blog' Blog on Facebook
+3  Leave a comment on My Review of 'Wicked Delights Of A Bridal Bed'
+4 Spread the word: Tweet on Twitter, Post a Facebook status, or blog about this interview and giveaway (provide a link so I can check)
+5 Become a Follower/ Be a Follower

(How-to guide for providing links to a specific facebook or twitter status': here)

-Tell me in your comment which extra entries you are entitled to and include the necessary links so I can check, or they will not count!

*Restricted to U.S. and Canada residents only! No P.O. Boxes.
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And make sure you enter the Swagilicious Giveaway for your chance to win 1 of 4 'Wicked Delights Of A Bridal Bed' swag prize packs. Includes: Signed Coverflat, Bookmark, Commemorative post-its, and two Magnets. Fill out the form: here. -ends on September 30th-
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To all the readers, be sure to make use of those 'on the web' links above to better acquaint yourself with this fabulous author! This has been great! Good luck to all of the giveaway contestants and I hope all of you have enjoyed this edition of: