Recommendation of the Week: 10/31/2010 - 11/07/2010

'After Midnight' by Teresa Medeiros

""Our sister is marrying a vampire."
When the ever practical Caroline Cabot first hears those words from the lips of her fanciful youngest sister, she accuses Portia of having a wild imagination.
But when she discovers their sister Vivienne is actually being courted by Adrian Kane, the mysterious viscount rumored to be a vampire, she decides to accept his invitation to a midnight supper and do some sleuthing of her own.
To both her delight and her dismay, she soon finds herself falling under Kane's bewitching spell. After all, what's a proper young lady to do when her sister's suitor arouses more than just her suspicions?"Source

[Read an excerpt: here]

My Thoughts: Sometimes, saying it simple is saying it best: This book was a great read! I enjoyed seeing the characters interact and battle with themselves as they tried to achieve separate goals while their paths kept mingling together. I LOVED reading about brother Julian (his book,'The Vampire Who Loved Me', is next in the series), who is gorgeous and has a secret all his own, as he fights his attraction to the drama queen younger sister, Portia. I also appreciated that Medeiros didn't go into TOO much 'fluff' about her world of Vampires. This didn't read like a paranormal romance with extra details and that other world feel. There wasn't any brotherhood of Vampires preforming meticulous rituals for ten pages or scenes that tried to convince us that this was some strange world we know nothing about. It felt like fact and really read like a historical with vampire elements; and since I wasn't looking to read a paranormal when I picked this up, I was pleased. It was light at times, had dark elements in others, and really showcase Medeiros' top quality writing style. Get spooked and fall in love with this vampire historical.

*Special thanks to Blog/Facebook fan page follower, Johanna, for suggesting this book to me! You're a doll, Jo! and I can always come to you when I am in need of a good read. Thanks!

Read a review of 'After Midnight' at The Best Reviews: here

This is your Recommendation for the Week of October 31st, 2010 thur November 7th, 2010

Until Next Post<3... 

Check Out CSN Stores: You'll find everything but the kitchen sink...Oh wait, they've got that, too!

Hey everybody,
   I hope you are all doing supercalifragilisticexpialidocious-ly! I know Halloween is only one days away, but that doesn't mean you can't start preparing for Thanksgiving and Christmas! I know I've been hard at work, planning lots of fun events and activities to help celebrate the holidays here on the blog.
   In all honesty, there isn't much I can think of for November other than more interviews, giveaways and book reviews. So, how about I suggest a great place to order any thing you need to dress up your house for the holidays? We're weeks away from Thanksgiving, and you'll want to impress the in-laws. Don't worry though, CSN Stores has got your back!

With over 200 online specialty stores, CSN Stores carries just about everything you need (and everything you don't, but will end up getting regardless!) Need a new dining room table for displaying that delicious Thanksgiving turkey? How about some stylish slip covers to makeover the old sofa in the living room? In desperate need of Pots, Pans,..or fireplaces?

All that and more is at your finger tips! Check out the Our Stores page on the CSN Stores website for a full listing of all the stores/sites in their arsenal. Any and everything you could need to make this year the best year for celebrating family, life, and love is only a click away!

-Stay tuned on the blog for more stuff on CSN Stores! I've found plenty of wish list items to bombard you guys with! How about visiting their site and telling me what you would pick out! I've got my eyes on those Paula Deen Cookware Sets!

Coffee Shop Conversations: Q&A with author Sarah MacLean

   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 Sarah MacLean

"As the daughter of a former British spy (yes...that kind of British spy) and a jet-setting Italian who met in Paris and lived, at one point or another, in Rome, London, San Francisco, and New York, I feel that I should tell you that I’m a real-life Lara Croft who spends her days haggling in the bazaars of Marrakech, shopping on the Champs-Élysées, riding a motorbike across the Gobi desert, and scaling ancient Mayan temples.
Unfortunately for all of us, however, that would be a gross untruth. My parents settled down in Lincoln, Rhode Island long before I was born and left me little choice but to turn to books to find my own romance and adventure.
By high school, thanks to my older (and much wiser) sister, I was thoroughly obsessed with historical fiction. I would become enamored of whole eras and read any- and everything I could get my hands on that related to them. I went through phases—Medieval England, the Vikings, the Italian Renaissance.[...]
My first book, a YA historical romance called The Season, is available in the YA section of your local bookstore. My adult historical romances are on their way...Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake is in bookstores now, and the sequel, Ten Ways to Be Adored When Landing a Lord is coming in October 2010 from Avon/HarperCollins."read full bio on author's site


Sarah MacLean on the Web: Website/Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Sarah's Latest Release:

'Ten Ways To Be Adored When Landing A Lord'

Released October 26th, 2010 (Today!)

"Since being named “London’s Lord to Land” by a popular ladies’ magazine, Nicholas St. John has been relentlessly pursued by every matrimony-minded female in the ton. So when an opportunity to escape fashionable society presents itself, he eagerly jumps—only to land in the path of the most determined, damnably delicious woman he’s ever met!

The daughter of a titled wastrel, Lady Isabel Townsend has too many secrets and too little money. Though she is used to taking care of herself quite handily, her father’s recent passing has left Isabel at sea and in need of outside help to protect her young brother’s birthright. The sinfully handsome, eminently eligible Lord Nicholas could be the very salvation she seeks.

But the lady must be wary and not do anything reckless and foolish…like falling madly, passionately in love."Source

[Read a review of 'Ten Ways To Be Adored...' on Book Binge: here]
 

Get Your Copy Today:

Barnes&Noble | Amazon | Borders

Indie Bound | Powell's

-Q&A-

RJ: Hey Sarah! Thanks so much for stopping by for a little chat. Firstly, congratulations on your new book, 'Ten Ways To Be Adored When Landing A Lord', which will be available for purchase as of 10.26.2010 (TODAY)!  What have the past few months been like; with having the book finished and anticipating it's release? What have you experienced emotionally as well as professionally with the completion of this new book?

SM: Thanks so much for having me! This is my third book, and I never feel entirely calm with the whole release process.  I don’t sleep leading up to the actual release day, and I spend a whole lot of time trying *not* to obsessively Google myself and the book to see if people like it! The good thing is, I had another book due this month, so that kept my mind off of the big release of Ten Ways!  

RJ: Why don't you tell me and the readers a little bit about 'Ten Ways To Be Adored When Landing A Lord' from the author's point of view? 

SM: Readers of Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake will recognize the hero of Ten Ways . . .  Lord Nicholas St. John is the twin brother of Ralston, the hero of Nine Rules.  Nick is named one of London’s Lords to Land by a popular Ladies’ Magazine (The People Magazine of his time), and he flees the city (and the throngs of single ladies) to the quiet country.  He lands himself in Yorkshire, at a house filled with women . . . that is not so quiet at all. The mistress of the house, Lady Isabel Townsend is compelling and mysterious . . . and Nick doesn’t have a chance!

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

SM: Even though I write historical romance, I draw a lot of inspiration from my own life . . . places I’ve been, people I’ve met, things I’ve done. A big part of my inspiration for Minerva House (the house filled with ladies where Nick ends up), was my time at Smith College, where I lived in a houseful of women!

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

SM: This novel was a particular challenge for me because it’s all set outside of London, in a single location.  So the interactions were really all about the characters rather than the places they went or the things they saw. I think the challenge turned the book into a much more character-driven story than Nine Rules . . . the adventure is all emotion!

RJ: This latest book is the second in the St. John siblings series—about the Marquess of Ralston, his twin brother, and their half-sister. Could you tell me a little about this trio of books and the siblings they follow? Who are they and what makes them special?

SM: The St. John siblings (how I refer to them even though Juliana is not a St. John in name) are a unique family . . . one that has really only fully come together in recent months.  Gabriel cut a wicked swath through London after school while Nick left England for the Continent for years, and Juliana grew up in Italy.  They’re all learning each other as much as they are learning themselves in these books.

RJ: I have to touch on your book titles real quick. They have certainly turned into a mouthful (which is not a bad thing). They went from a simple title like 'The Season' to the more lengthy 'Nine Rules To Break When Romancing a Rake' and now 'Ten Ways To Be Adored When Landing A Lord'. I think the longer titles are lots of fun and very cute! Is there anything you'd like to share about their conception, or did the idea just hit you & you ran with it?

SM: Nine Rules titled itself . . . and once the title arrived . . . there was no question that the other books would follow with long, elaborate titles.  People keep asking me if I’m going to continue them after Juliana’s story (Eleven Scandals to Start to Win a Duke’s Heart) . . . and unfortunately (or fortunately for the poor designers who have to squeeze all that text onto the covers), the answer is no . . . the next series has fun titles . . . but they’re much shorter! 

RJ: The writing process differs from author to author. Some are planners, and 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; whats your writing process and atmosphere like?

SM: I’m an outliner . . . I use index cards and a chalkboard-paint wall in my office to come up with the whole idea . . . and then I write beginning to end, in a very methodical, boring manner.  I work better in the afternoon, and write long hand as much as possible, because I think it makes for less fear! 

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

SM: Favorite love song: Ween’s Stay Forever

Favorite scent on a man: Tobacco flower (not to be confused with smoke . . . which is ick!)
Favorite romantic comedy: When Harry Met Sally
Favorite romance novel: Jude Deveraux’s The Black Lyon

RJ: What's coming up next for you (book-wise or otherwise)?

SM: Juliana’s story, Eleven Scandals to Start to Win a Duke’s Heart in April 2011, followed by a new series from Avon in Autumn of 2011!  

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

SM: I’m so grateful and humbled by the way readers have responded to Nine and Ten . . . thank you thank you thank you for making my publishing dreams come true! Please come over to my blog (www.macleanspace.com) and tell me what you think of the books . . . I love to hear from readers!

RJ: Final Question: Name something shocking or interesting about yourself that the readers may not know.

SM: I took two years of Icelandic in college . . . I’m terrible at speaking it, but I can actually read and write it pretty well! 

--
RJ: Thanks so much for stopping by, Sarah! I loved getting to know a bit more about you, your characters, and your newest release that is probably flying off the shelves as we speak!


--
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!  I hope all of you have enjoyed this edition of:  

Recommendation of the Week: 10/24/2010 - 10/31/2010

'Dreaming Of You' by Lisa Kleypas

"She stood at danger's threshold -- then love beckoned her in.

In the shelter of her country cottage, Sara Fielding puts pen to paper to create dreams. But curiosity has enticed the prim, well-bred gentlewoman out of her safe haven -- and into Derek Craven's dangerous world.

A handsome, tough and tenacious Cockney, he rose from poverty to become lord of London's most exclusive gambling house -- a struggle that has left Derek Craven fabulously wealthy, but hardened and suspicious. And now duty demands he allow Sara Fielding into his world -- with her impeccable manners and her infuriating innocence. But here, in a perilous shadow-realm of ever-shifting fortunes, even a proper "mouse" can be transformed into a breathtaking enchantress -- and a world-weary gambler can be shaken to his cynical core by the power of passion...and the promise of love."Source

My Thoughts: Depending on where you've started on your expedition through Lisa Kleypas' illustrious historical romance works, 'Dreaming Of You' is a title you are bound to hear about from any number of sources and is usually followed by a sigh or a full-on fan girl squeal of delight. I believe I was about 10 or so books into my personal expedition when I finally broke down and had to see what all the buzz was about. I can tell you one thing; The hype around this book barley scratches the surface. I feel HARD for this book and that hansom and dangerous Derek Craven is officially baby daddy #626 ;). This gem of a novel by Kleypas is sweet and tender, harsh and raw, and everything in between that reminds you what it's like to read damn good literature.

Read an Excerpt of 'Dreaming Of You' on HarperCollins Publishing website (Browse Inside): here

Read a Review of 'Dreaming Of You' on All About Romance: here

This is your Recommendation for the week of October 24th, 2010 thru October 31st, 2010

Until Next Post<3...

Recommendation of the Week: 10/17/2010 - 10/24/10

'Whitney, My Love' by Judith McNaught

"Under the dark, languorous eyes of Clayton Westmoreland, the Duke of Claymore, Whitney Stone grew from a saucy hoyden into a ravishingly sensual woman. Fresh from her triumphs in Paris society, she returned to England to win the heart of Paul, her childhood love...only to be bargained away by her bankrupt father to the handsome, arrogant Duke. Outraged, she defies her new lord.

But even as his smoldering passion seduces her into a gathering storm of desire, Whitney cannot, will not, relinquish her dream of perfect love."Source

My Thoughts: This book has been suggested to me ever since I first started interacting with other people in the reader's of romance novels community. To receive the level of praise and acclaim as 'Whitney, My Love' has achieved, it's no wonder I salivate whenever I come across it on yet another web page.
The length of this book might scare a few people off- Visiting Judith's website, and stopping by the book's info page, it features the 1985 first edition (Hardcover) which has 592 pages. On amazon.com, it lists a re-released 2000 edition of the book at 736 pages, and another 1991 re-release edition at an even 400 pages. But something tells me this is the kind of book that you take a chance on and get blown away.
I am sure to catch one of my seasonal colds any day now, and you better believe this book will be on transit to my doorstep just as quickly to help me past the solitary hours. With over 449 reviews on amazon.com (and scores of mentions all over the blogosphere), this is one beloved book! I can't wait to get my hands on it!

-Read an excerpt from 'Whitney, My Love' on the Author's website: here
-Read a review of 'Whitney, My Love' at Outlandish Dreaming: here

This is your Recommendation for the Week of October 17th, 2010 thru October 24th, 2010

Until Next Post<3...

Winner Announcement: Ashley March-'Seducing The Duchess' Giveaway

Congratulations to:

Danielle @ Romance Book Junkies

  

 

 Upon commenting and entering into the Ashley March-'Seducing The Duchess' Giveaway, all those who commented/entered were given specific slot numbers (if you followed the instructions to get extra entries, your extra slots were added and given numbers as well). Danielle's number was randomly selected by random.org, so that makes her our winner!

The winner has been sent an email to the address listed in their entry
-Please follow the instructions and send the necessary information to claim your prize.

If the current winners fails to respond in 48 hours (October 19th ,2010), a re-drawing will take place and another entry will be selected.

Again, thanks to all of you who participated!

Winner Announcement: The Swagilicious Giveaway- for 'Wicked Delights Of A Bridal Bed' Swag

Congratulations to:

Toni D.

Johanna J.

Tammy H.

and

Margaret M.

Upon filling out the form and entering into The Swagilicious Giveaway- for 'Wicked Delights Of A Bridal Bed' swag, all those who entered were given specific slot numbers (if you followed the instructions to get extra entries, your extra slots were added and given numbers as well). Toni D., Johanna J.,
Tammy H., and Margaret M.'s numbers were randomly selected by random.org, so that makes them our winner!

The winners have been sent an email to the address listed in their entry
-Please follow the instructions and send the necessary information to claim your prize.

If the current winners fails to respond in 48 hours (October 19th ,2010), a re-drawing will take place and another entry will be selected.

Again, thanks to all of you who participated!

Recommendation of the Week: 10/10/2010 - 10/17/2010

'The Secret Diaries of Miss Miranda Cheever' 
by Julia Quinn

"2 March 1810 . . .
Today, I fell in love.

At the age of ten, Miranda Cheever showed no signs of Great Beauty. And even at ten, Miranda learned to accept the expectations society held for her—until the afternoon when Nigel Bevelstoke, the handsome and dashing Viscount Turner, solemnly kissed her hand and promised her that one day she would grow into herself, that one day she would be as beautiful as she already was smart. And even at ten, Miranda knew she would love him forever.
But the years that followed were as cruel to Turner as they were kind to Miranda. She is as intriguing as the viscount boldly predicted on that memorable day—while he is a lonely, bitter man, crushed by a devastating loss. But Miranda has never forgotten the truth she set down on paper all those years earlier—and she will not allow the love that is her destiny to slip lightly through her fingers . . ."Source

My Thoughts- I ABSOLUTELY LOVE THIS BOOK! 'The Secret Diaries of Miranda Cheever' is one of my favorite Julia Quinn novels. Many reviewers pointed out the inconsistency of the characters and the annoying back-and-forth of the hero's feelings. I really hate books that go back-and-forth, but this JQ novel had plenty of high points and sweet moments to make this 'grievance' bearable. (Call me a sadistic) I loved the fall from grace and painful past the dashing Nigel Bevelstoke had to go through. And also appreciated how Miranda helped him back to the right path. So cute how she's always been in love with him and she finally gets her chance- or the opportunity to MAKE her chance. It was a beautiful story(with an ending that will make you want to cry), and I am planning to re-read soon! I can't bring myself to be too constructive or give any other reason why I recommend this book other than through the inadequacy of words like: Great. Super. AMAZING. It did it for me, and hopefully it will do it for you too. I'll get a review up soon. But in the meanwhile, do yourself a favor and check it out!

-Read an excerpt from 'The Secret Diaries of Miranda Cheever' : here
-Read a review of 'The Secret Diaries of Miranda Cheever' at The Romance Reader: here

There's your Recommendation for the Week of October 10th, 2010 thru October 17th, 2010

Until Next Post<3...

Coffee Shop Conversations: Q&A with author Jenny Brown

             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 Jenny Brown

"Jenny Brown studied history in graduate school and her very first professional sale as a writer was a biographical piece about Louisa May Alcott's childhood. Years later, her favorite hobby continues to be reading biographies of people who lived in the 18th and 19th century. She has earned her living in many different ways: performing as a singer-songwriter in Western Massachusetts and Nashville, writing nonfiction, and, for the past fifteen years, running a successful small press.
Jenny has been a student of astrology since her teens. This ancient art helps her make sense of her life and accept that the way she is, with all its oddities, is the way she's supposed to be. Though she has always loved reading love stories set in the past, what got her writing them was finding, at last, the Hero of Her Own Romance."Source

Jenny Brown on the web: Website | Blog | Facebook | Goodreads

Jenny's Latest Release:

'Lord Lightning'  

Releases 09.28.2010

"They call him Lord Lightning

...for his shocking behavior. An unrepentant rogue with a wicked reputation, his outrageous conduct ensures no woman will get close enough to hurt him.

But demure and lovely astrologer Eliza Farrell casts a chart that tells her Lord Hartwood is capable of great, passionate love. When Hartwood indulges in one of his famous pranks and invites Eliza to become his new mistress, the virginal country miss must meet her fate armed only with her knowledge that the cynical lord will become the tender lover she sees predicted in the stars.

Though Eliza is nothing like the brazen strumpets he prefers, the seemingly incorruptible seer excites Lord Lightning much more than the hard, calculating women he is accustomed to. Eliza's trusting spirit and quick mind touch his cold heart—and when the bewitching innocent surprisingly agrees to be seen on his arm, neither can predict the sparks that fly between them—or resist the electric passion that threatens to transform them both."

[Read an excerpt from 'Lord Lightning": here]
[Read a review of 'Lord Lightning' at Fresh Fiction :here]

Get Your Copy Today:
Barnes & Noble | Amazon | Borders
The Book Depository | Powell's

 

 -Q&A-

RJ: Hey Jenny! Thanks so much for stopping by for a little chat. Firstly, congratulations on your debut novel, 'Lord Lightning', which is available for purchase as of 09.28.2010!  What have the past few months been like; with finishing the book and anticipating it's release? What have you experienced emotionally as well as professionally with the completion of this new book?

JB: Thanks for having me!  Actually, because publishing moves so slowly, I finished Lord Lightning almost a year ago. So this past year has been spent writing the second novel in the series, the one with the Scorpio hero, and my main emotion for most of it was stress. My editor was so enthusiastic about Lord Lightning that the bar was set very high and it was a challenge to deliver a book that is even better than Lord Lightning on deadline--in half the time it took to write the first book. I did it, but there were some "interesting" moments along the way

RJ: Why don't you tell me and the readers a little bit about 'Lord Lightning' from the author's point of view?

JB: I've always loved two very different kinds of romances--the traditional "comedy of manners" Regencies that stem from those written by Georgette Heyer and the passionate emotionally wrenching historicals of writers like Laura Kinsale and Jo Beverley. What I do in Lord Lightning is start out with characters you might have encountered in a comedy of manners, a rake and a prim spinster lady astrologer, but I drag them into a situation that strips off the charming surfaces they've been hiding behind and forces them to confront the emotional problems that have kept them from seeking love. 

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

JB: I wish I knew. If I did, it would be a lot easier to write my novels I have under contract. But they only show up if I spend a lot of time sitting in front of blank pages and writing. 

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

JB: The biggest problem I faced with Lord Lightning was that because it was my first completed novel, I thought it was done when it still needed a lot more work. It took me three complete rewrites--one of which changed a major plot dynamic--to get it to where agents responded to it with enthusiasm. 

RJ:  'Lord Lightning' is your debut novel (major congrats!). What were you trying to achieve with this first book, and also, do you feel like it's "mission accomplished"?

JB: My original goal when I started writing it was to finish a novel--any novel. I'd written several attempts at fiction in the past that rambled on for 100 to 200 pages before I noticed there wasn't any plot.  So it was a huge achievement to make it all the way to the end. I had to write another novel after it, and then go back to get it really working, but I doubt I'll ever again be as proud of myself as I was when I finished Lord Lightning's first complete draft.  

RJ: Why/How does astrology tie into and play a role in the events which take place in 'Lord Lightning'?

JB: I've been a student of astrology since my teens, and I've always used charts to help me understand other people close to me. Astrology helped me see hidden strengths in the man with whom I've been lucky enough to share my life for the past fourteen years. So the idea that an amateur astrologer might be able to see good in a man everyone else dismissed as a hard hearted libertine appealed to me--especially when I realized how the man himself might have become trapped in having to live up to his bad reputation the way that  Lord Byron was.  

RJ: This latest novel will presumably be the first in a new series. What is/will be the premise for this series and what direction are you planning to take it?

JB: Lord Lightning was the first of three books sold as the "Lords of the Seventh House series." In astrology the Seventh House describes the life partner, so the title seemed appropriate for a Romance series where each book will feature a hero born with his Sun in a different sign. All I can say for now is that the feel of each book will be different, because I give each one something of the tone of the hero's astrological sign. What they will have in common is historical settings and deeply moving romances.   

RJ: Lets talk about your Hero and Heroine (Edward & Eliza). What are their flaws and what are their redeeming qualities? Also, why are they attracted to each other (aside from physical attraction)?

JB: Though part of me thinks my hero, Edward Neville, who society has nicknamed Lord Lightning for his propensity to shock--is almost flawless--since I am more than a little in love with him myself, at the start of the story his character has been sadly twisted by what Jane Austen calls "Implacable resentment."  He has good reasons for his resentment, but it has led him to do things he is secretly ashamed of, despite the role he plays in public of being a man who revels in his sins. His redeeming characteristic is his ability to face unpleasant truths about himself and do what it takes to grow out of the self-destructive habits that have almost destroyed him. 

Eliza, my heroine, has a very different flaw. She has been too influenced by the advice of others and has lived too much of her life  on the sidelines observing and advising others without taking risks, What Eliza has working for her is her courage and insight. It's also a very good thing that she's very self-confident and strong enough to withstand the assaults Edward makes on it as he struggles to prove she's wrong in seeing good in him. 

RJ: How did your writing journey begin and how did you get here?  What pit-stops, wrong turns, and perfect lane changes did you make on your road to publication?

JB: Writing nonfiction has been my day job since the middle 1980s. I couldn't stop writing if I wanted to. I always wanted to write novels, too, but it took a long time to learn how to turn off the analytical part of my brain, so useful for planning research-heavy nonfiction books and articles, and let my imagination take control.

RJ: The writing process differs from author to author. Some are planners, and 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; whats your writing process and atmosphere like?

JB: I like to curl up in bed--just as if I were reading--with a device like my Alphasmart or my netbook (not connected to the internet) close my eyes, and type. It's essential that I do not get drawn into revising when scenes are first surfacing in my mind. Once I have a big chunk of a book mapped out, then it's time to start working on phrasing, fleshing out the details, and putting in the missing scenes that make everything makes sense.

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

JB: My favorite love song is one I wrote--I used to have a career as a singer songwriter. I posted it on a classified dating service  years ago where the Hero of My Own Romance heard it, loved it, and called me up. Can any love song do more? My favorite scent on a man is "just out of the shower" matched only by  "just finished mowing our half acre of lawn--without needing to be nagged ." My favorite romance novel is Pride and Prejudice. It is my firm belief that anyone who studies it enough can figure out how to write a novel.

RJ: What's coming up next for you (book-wise or otherwise)?

JB: I'm working on the third book on my series, but it's at the phase where I dare not say anything about it for fear of scaring the characters away. Ask me about it in January!

RJ: Do you have anything that you would like to address to the readers?

JB: Though astrology plays a role in Lord Lightning's plot, no interest in or knowledge of astrology is needed to enjoy any of my romances. I look forward to hearing from readers and hope they will stop by my blog to keep up with what's new. 

RJ: Final Question: Name something shocking or interesting about yourself that the readers may not know.

JB: I'll leave the shocking stuff to Lord Lightning, who does it far better than I do. An interesting tidbit about me is this: I sent my first email in 1980 when I joined a development team at IBM that was working on a pre-release version of what became the very first commercial email program ever sold.That means I've been online for 30 years!

RJ: Thanks so much for stopping by, Jenny! Great answers and I can not wait to read 'Lord Lighting'!! I am sure the readers can't wait till they get their copies either!

--
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!  I hope all of you have enjoyed this edition of:  

Recommendation of the Week: 10/03/2010 - 10/10/2010

'The Abduction Of Julia' by Karen Hawkins

"What can a respectable Regency miss do when kidnapped by a nobleman intent on marriage? Why, marry him, of course.

Julia Frant has secretly loved Alec MacLean, the wild Viscount Hunterston from afar. So when he accidentally snatches her instead of her lovely, scheming cousin for an elopement to Gretna Green, Julia leaps at the chance to make her passionate dreams come true.

Alec's in no position to quibble: if he doesn't marry by midnight and live scandal-free for a year, he loses his inheritance. At least marriage with do-gooder Julia will guarantee his fortune. But as his plain brown wren transforms herself into an elegant swan, Alec suddenly can't stay away from his last-minute wife---and when he kisses her, the inheritance is the last thing on his mind. Unfortunately, scandal can occur from the best of intentions...and Julia is never short of good intentions!"Source

My Thoughts: This read was recommended to me by a very special friend and follower, Rhonda Jones. After reading the blurb, I can see why she offered this title up to me when I asked for some suggestions. Rhonda told me, "I liked this for the reasons of opposites attract.". Now I must scour every nook and cranny of my local library to find this read! Thanks for the Rec, Rhonda! And I think you should all check this book out as well!

-Read a review of 'The Abduction Of Julia' at The Romance Reader: here

This is your Recommendations for the Week of October 03th, 200 thru October 10th, 2010

Until next Pots<3...

Coffee Shop Conversations: Q&A and a Giveaway with author Ashley March

        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 Ashley March

"After spending countless hours memorizing both traditional and simplified Chinese characters, perfecting her tones, and practicing her speaking with any Chinese native she could find, Ashley successfully graduated with a degree in Mandarin Chinese. She was determined to be the next best Chinese translator in the world... Then she discovered writing historical romances was as much fun as reading them, and her Chinese capabilities have never been the same. When she isn't writing about sexy, untamed heroes and intelligent, independent heroines in Victorian Britain, Ashley stays busy chasing around her 1-year old daughter, attempting to do housework, and hiking in the beautiful foothills of Colorado."Source

Ashley March on the web: Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

Ashley's Latest Release:

'Seducing The Duchess'

Released 10.05.10

"It was just another scandalous night…
Gambling. Carousing. Flirting. Charlotte, Duchess of Rutherford, will do anything to create a scandal large enough to force her husband to finally petition for a divorce. Once madly in love with Philip, she is now determined to escape from their less than civil marriage and the reminders of his betrayal.
Until he stole her away… 
Philip Burgess, Duke of Rutherford, is not a man to tolerate regrets. He wed Charlotte for revenge, not for love or convenience, knowing she would come to hate him. But he never expected he would one day find himself craving her attention or desiring her company….
And gave her something more…
Philip is no longer the cold, deceitful man she married years ago. And when he promises Charlotte a divorce if she will help him become a better husband for another woman, she wonders if she truly wants to lose him—and if Philip may still possess her heart after all…"Source

*Read an Excerpt from 'Seducing The Duchess': here
*Read My Review of 'Seducing The Duchess': here

Get Your Copy Today:

Barnes&Noble | Amazon | Borders

Books-A-Million | Powell's

-Q&A Questions-

RJ: Hey Ashley! Thanks so much for stopping by for a little chat. Firstly, congratulations on your debut book, 'Seducing The Duchess',  available for purchase as of October 5th, 2010!  What have the past few months been like; with having the book finished and anticipating it's release? What have you experienced emotionally as well as professionally with the completion of this novel?

AM: Thank you for inviting me, Rita!  I will admit, the whole process has been a bit surreal.  I've received my ARCs, my own author copies, and have even gotten some great reviews for SEDUCING, but it's hard to believe my dream has finally come true.  Hopefully when I see the book on the shelves for the first time it'll become more real.  Regardless, I've been staying very busy with promotion for SEDUCING THE DUCHESS, as well as working on my next book.  And I'm happy to say that I've also been working on getting the launch for the Denver Lady Jane's Salon ready, and I'm very excited about that.  I think the best moment emotionally and professionally, however, will come when my husband finally reads my book and I can take a picture of him reading a romance novel. =)

RJ: Why don't you tell me and the readers a little bit about 'Seducing The Duchess' from the author's point of view?

AM: I don't know why, but I've always liked the idea of challenging myself.  I suppose that's why I chose Mandarin Chinese instead of Spanish for my major in college.  With SEDUCING THE DUCHESS, I wanted to write about a hero who seemed entirely unredeemable--a villain at first, in fact--and show how he could be redeemed by his love for the heroine.  The story starts out three years after their wedding, after Philip revealed he only married her for revenge against her brother.  Since their marriage, Philip has fallen in love with Charlotte, and when his subtle attempts at wooing her fail, he determines to do anything necessary to win her back--even if that means first stealing her away from London and her admirers so he can have her all to himself at his country estate.  This book was a lot of fun to write, not only because I was able to explore Philip's character and redeem him in both the eyes of Charlotte and the reader, but because Charlotte gives as good as she gets.

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

AM: Both Philip and Charlotte were actually secondary characters in a previous manuscript I wrote (which will never see the light of day).  In it, Charlotte was being pursued by the hero (who thought he was in love with her), and Philip coerced the heroine to intervene.  That was also a fun story to write, and even thought I'm not sure it will ever be good enough for publication, I'm grateful for the idea it sparked for Charlotte and Philip.  I love writing about early-to-mid Victorian England because there's still a transition between the mores of the Regency and the Victorian era.  Although the lower and middle classes of Victorian England were becoming more religious and moral in general, the aristocracy was still inclined toward self-indulgence.  Although that contrast isn't directly seen in SEDUCING, there is a similar contrast between Philip (who is very self-controlled) and Charlotte (who loves to provoke him by acting outrageously).  In terms of the characters themselves, I have to give credit to Scarlett and Rhett from Gone with the Wind.  It's one of my favorite books, if only for the romance between them (although I had to read Alexandra Ripley's Scarlett to get my HEA).  Because the character of Charlotte is so different from my own personality, I drew on Scarlett for inspiration--namely, her rebellious attitude and her overt sexuality.  I don't think Philip is actually very much like Rhett, but I did take Rhett's passion for Scarlett as my inspiration for Philip's love for Charlotte.

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

AM: From a personal standpoint, the first answer that comes to mind was being pregnant.  I didn't want to do anything, let alone write!  Luckily, though, I have a couple of fabulous critique partners who saw the potential in the story, and kept encouraging me throughout the entire nine months.  I didn't learn my lesson, though--I'm pregnant again, and this time on a deadline!

RJ:  'Seducing The Duchess' is your debut novel (Congrats!). What were you trying to achieve with this book, and also, do you feel like it's "mission accomplished"?

AM: Thanks again!  Besides showing how an unlikeable hero could be redeemed, I really wanted to make the relationship between Philip and Charlotte believable to the reader.  This meant that nothing for Philip was easy, and Charlotte does have a difficult time in learning to trust him again.  While I feel like I achieved this, I regret that I didn't write an epilogue.  I tried, but nothing ever felt right.  However (you've inspired me!), I think I just might try to write one again and put it on my website in the near future. =)

RJ: Lets talk about your Hero and Heroine (Philip & Charlotte). What are their flaws and what are their redeeming qualities? Also, why are they attracted to one another (aside from physical attraction)?

AM: Ooh, I love this question.  Writing for me is all about the characters.  Let's start with Philip.  He's manipulative, selfish, controlling, arrogant, and ruthless.  However, he also has a sense of humor (which Charlotte brings out), and he's not in denial of his flaws.  Still, he has no motivation to change until he falls in love with Charlotte and realizes that the only way he can have her is if he becomes a different man.  Charlotte is more of a free spirit.  Although she was somewhat rebellious as a child, the situation with Philip pushes her into accepting this part of herself wholeheartedly as she tries to force him to petition for a divorce.  She is exquisitely beautiful, and both understands and uses her power over men (thus, in a way, she can also be manipulative).  But she has a good heart, and overall is kind and down-to-earth.  Philip is attracted to Charlotte because, in a way, she represents the freedom he never had as a child growing up, or as the duke he's now become.  She does whatever she pleases, without regard for the consequences, and he envies her ability to be so carefree.  Charlotte is attracted to Philip because he sees more in her than her beauty.  He's a strong man; even though she tries to tempt him through seduction, he refuses and surprises her by digging deeper for her heart.  He wants to know her, the person she never reveals to anyone else, and although she fears her own vulnerability, she can't help wanting to surrender to him.

RJ: I am a sucker for a good 'winning back the spouse' plot. How did you put your own spin on it in 'Seducing The Duchess'?

AM:  I hope I made it different through my voice, or rather, Philip's voice.  For example, the first line of the book is "She was exquisite, a sin to be indulged in and never repented."  This is from Philip's POV as he watches Charlotte, and I wanted it to convey his passion and craving for her.  I've read a lot of reconciliation stories, but most of the ones I've read feature heroes who fall in love with the heroine over the course of the story, not ones that are already in love at the beginning.  Or, if they are in love, they aren't actively trying to get back together with the heroine.  In that way, I think Philip is very unique.  Another way I tried to make the reconciliation plot device fresh was by using different scenes that I haven't read much in other historicals.  For example, Philip has a tutor come to give Charlotte harp lessons, they go to a village fair, they gamble together (alone, not in a gambling den)...as much as I could, I tried to make each scene something new and different to the reader.

RJ: How did your writing journey begin and how did you get here?  What pit-stops, wrong turns, and perfect lane changes did you make on your road to publication?

AM:  Honestly, I never thought I would be a writer.  I've always loved words, and reading, but I was much more interested in become a translator.  It was only after my husband decided he didn't want me to go to China for a year during college (and he didn't want to go with me, either!) that I began to think of something else.  I've always felt like I needed more than a typical 9-5 day job, and I wanted the ability to be a SAHM when I had kids.  I began my first manuscript in 2006, just to see what would happen.  It was awful.  Really, nausea-inducing awful.  I pretty much gave up.  (So much for persistence, eh?)  But two years later, a romance novel I was reading--and I don't remember which one it was--was so wonderful that it inspired me to write again.  I finished my second manuscript in June 2008 (the unpublished prequel to SEDUCING mentioned above), got some great input from critique partners, entered contests and figured out what I was doing right and wrong from judges, and went right on with the next manuscript (SEDUCING)  in July 2008.  As mentioned before, I became pregnant, so I took my time in writing it, finished it in September 2009, was very fortunate to find an agent who loved my work, and sold 3 books to NAL Penguin in December 2009.  I'm very, very blessed to have my dream become true, and I realize that every day.  If I could pick out what I did wrong on my writing journey, it was to a) quit and b) not establish a regular writing routine.  The best things I did were to find two amazing critique partners through an online romance critique group (RomCritters), and to submit my work to RWA chapter contests for feedback.

RJ: What do you value in a good romance novel and what sort of characteristics do you like to find in the protagonists?

AM: I am a sucker for characterization and the developing relationship between the hero and heroine.  I don't really care about murders or mysteries or secondary character love stories, but give me a romance novel where I can fall in love right along with the hero and heroine and feel everything they do, where the focus is on their relationship throughout most of the story, and I'm sold.  As far as characteristics in my protagonists, I love reading (and writing about) characters who are very self-aware.  Not necessarily that they analyze and think about themselves all the time, but that they're strong and intelligent and know what they want.  I used to love reading about rakes, but recently I've realized most of them aren't really bad boys at all, but men who haven't quite grown up and don't know where they're going in life.  With that being said, I do have a plan for writing my own historical playboy soon, and we'll see if I can stick to my own creed. =)

RJ: The writing process differs from author to author. Some are planners, and 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; whats your writing process and atmosphere like?

AM:  Argh, the writing process!  I groan because I'm in the middle of trying to change the way I write.  Until now, I've been a writing perfectionist--meaning I edit as I write.  I could spend two hours on one page, just trying to find the right word or phrase.  But now that I have deadlines, I have to simply pound the word count out first, then allow myself to go back to edit later.  It's really hard for me, but I'm slowly getting there.  I try to have a general idea of the plot line before I start, i.e. the major conflicts and a few snippets of future scenes, but for the most part, I don't know exactly where the next chapter is going until I finish the current one.  And I like writing like that; otherwise, I think my creativity would suffer.  In terms of the physical process of writing, the best time for me is at night.  Ideally I write from 8:00-12:00 each night, after my daughter has gone to sleep and I've had at least a few minutes to spend time with my husband.  I don't drink coffee (can't stand the taste, no matter how much sugar or whip cream there is), so until noon I'm a zombie.  And I usually get distracted during the afternoon.  But at night, everything's quiet and I can spend a few hours uninterrupted in front of the computer, and that's perfect for me.  Note: I sit in front of a blank wall, and my desk is mostly bare.  This is because I've discovered that I get too easily distracted. =)

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

AM: This is hard!  Hmm.  I honestly don't know if I can choose favorites.  Okay, first ones that come to my mind: Song-When a Man Loves a Woman by Percy Sledge; Scent-Drakkar Noir (the cologne my husband wore when we first met); Romantic Comedy-(definitely have to choose two) the newer version of Sabrina with Julia Ormond and Harrison Ford, and Two Weeks Notice with Sandra Bullock and Hugh Grant; Romance Novel-(with a note that I haven't read many of the typical reader favorites such as Judith McNaught, etc.) Teresa Medeiros' Yours Until Dawn.  It's a book I could read over and over and over.

RJ: What's coming up next for you (book-wise or otherwise)?

AM:  I'm having a baby in November!  =)  Besides that, my next book ROMANCING THE COUNTESS is scheduled to be released in Fall 2011.  (Although I hope to write much faster in the future).  I thought that SEDUCING THE DUCHESS was a difficult book to write, but this one has been even tougher.  Although the titles are similar, the characters are completely unrelated.  The basic plot line for ROMANCING THE COUNTESS is about an earl and his best friend's wife who are brought together after their spouses die in a carriage accident, and they realize the spouses were having an affair.  I say it's difficult to write because, unlike a lot of romance novels, there's not an instant attraction; instead, I have to maintain a delicate balance between their responses to their spouses' betrayal and their blooming awareness of each other.  I'm really looking forward to what readers think about it next year, because it does seem to be very different.

RJ: Do you have anything that you would like to address to the readers?

AM: I just want to say that I know how risky it is to take a chance on a debut author.  I'm usually the type of reader that sticks to a handful of authors who have proven themselves to me over and over again, and will only buy a new author based on tons of recommendations.  So thank you for taking that chance with me and SEDUCING THE DUCHESS.  I would truly love to hear what you think.

RJ: Final Question: Name something shocking or interesting about yourself that the readers may not know.

AM:  =)  I actually asked my husband to tell me something shocking or interesting about myself.  His conclusion?  Nothing.  I'm boring. =)  I'll give you my answer, though, because I think it's interesting coming from a personal and author perspective.  My characters cuss.  Usually only depending on the situation, or if it has to do with their character.  I don't cuss at all.  (Exception: perhaps three or four times a year when I'm really, really angry.)  I'm sure there's something psychological at work there as to why I allow my characters to cuss when I don't, but all I know is that it's a lot of fun to write "bloody hell."  =)

Ashley's Question: "As you can see, I had a really difficult time choosing only one romantic comedy, because I LOVE them.  And I'm always looking for good recommendations for the few hours I can sit and relax away from my daughter and writing.  So please tell me, what is your favorite romantic comedy of all time?  And if you're like me and you can't choose just one, that's okay, too. =)"
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RJ: Thanks for a fabulous chat today, Ashley. Your answers were interesting and funny, and I had a ball checking them all out! Also, I really enjoyed reading 'Seducing...'. I am just bursting at the seams to see what everyone else thought! Best of luck!

~*~Giveaway Details~*~

Ashley March has generously offered to giveaway a copy of 'Seducing The Duchess' to (1) one lucky commenter! Follow the guidelines below and comment for your chance to win. The giveaway will end on Thursday, October 14th, 2010 at 11:59:00 PM. The winner will be announced and contacted via email on Friday, October 15th, 2010. (International)

Giveaway Guidelines: To be entered in the giveaway all you have to do is either answer Ashley's Question or leave a comment/question for Ashley. Please include your email address!

(NO EMAIL= INVALID ENTRY)

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For Extra Entries (do one or more of the following for extra shots at winning):
+2 'Like'  Ashley'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 'Seducing The Duchess'
+4 Spread the word: Tweet on Twitter, Post a Facebook status, or Blog about this interview and giveaway (provide a link where you did it so I can check)
+5 Become a Follower/ Be a Follower
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*No Restrictions, Author will ship just about anywhere! =D

(Easy instructions on how-to find and share direct 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!

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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: