Lila DiPasqua

Find Lila Online: Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter
A MIDNIGHT DANCE—a Cinderella story that is as steamy and exciting as it is romantic. (FIERY TALES SERIES, Berkley Sensation, Historical Romance)
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Funky Red Tree Mr.DiPasqua Got |
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Read My Review: here |
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Read My Review: here |
LD: I’m thrilled to be back! Thanks for having me!
LD: I always want to turn out quality books! :) I strive to give the reader pure entertainment, romance with sizzling sexual tension and scorching hot love scenes. However, you never know how any book will be received and I’m over the moon with the reactions to both books! The reviews have been fabulous. And I’ve been getting fan email—globally. It’s knocked my socks off. I just so thrilled how much readers are enjoying my Fiery Tales series.
Lila's debut book
"He’s always been a player.Dashing Lord Harry Traemore is perfectly content to live out his days in the pursuit of pleasure. But when he’s named by the Prince Regent as one of society’s “Impossible Bachelors,” Harry is drafted into a ribald romantic wager. The rules of engagement are scandalously simple: The bachelor whose mistress wins the title of “Most Delectable Companion” gets to remain unmarried. Harry is utterly unconcerned about his status…until his latest lightskirt abandons him.Who will win this game of love?Enter Lady Molly Fairbanks. Harry’s childhood friend—actually, “foe” is more like it—is the most unlikely companion of all. She’s attractive but hot-headed, and in no mood for games. Besides, what could the self-indulgent Harry possibly know about what makes a woman delectable? It’s time for Molly to teach him a lesson once and for all…but will it lead to “happily ever after?”"Source[Read an excerpt: here]
"Your first allegiance is to your heart…As a knight, Sir Rand Montague’s allegiance is to King Edward I. But when the king orders Rand to escort Rosalyn Harcourt to court in order to wed her off to Sir Golan—a crass knight Rand abhors—he’s torn between duty and desire. For Rand has never forgotten the woman he spent one unforgettable night of passion with…After suffering abuse at the hands of her deceased husband, Rose wishes to never wed again. But when Rand rescues her after Sir Golan attempts to compromise her, she agrees to marry Rand in name only. However, sharing such close quarters with Rand brings back memories of their torrid rendezvous—and tempts Rose to give in to an all-consuming desire…"Source[Read an excerpt: here]
"The Marquis’ New Clothes: To save her cousin, Aimee de Miran must retrieve a jeweled ring from the most sinfully seductive man at court, the Marquis de Nattes. But to search his considerable wardrobe she’ll have to get very close to the notorious rake…and soon she finds herself very close to him indeed, with his clothes—and hers—utterly forgotten…The Lovely Duckling: Reputed for his carnal skills, Joseph d’Alumbert prefers amorous encounters without emotional entanglement—until a quick-witted lady stirs tender feelings and hot desire. Emilie de Sarron suffered burns to her body as an infant, and keeps her scars—and her heart—well hidden. But Joseph is determined to peel away her inhibitions, one slow steamy kiss at a time, to reveal the beautiful swan inside…The Princess and the Diamonds: Princess Gabrielle can’t sleep at night. There is something hard in her bed. No, not just the stolen diamonds tucked under her mattress, but the handsome Marquis on it….whose carnal talents she can’t resist. But he threatens her secret mission, and worse, she stands to lose far more than the diamonds---her heart is at stake…."Source[Read an excerpt: here]
"When those around her begin meeting tragic fates, Kate Cameron knows she's next-until she's rescued by psychic Gavin Hepburn. But after a night of hiding together, Kate is branded a fallen woman and forced into marriage with Gavin-an arrangement that suits Gavin's purpose to do anything it takes to keep Kate safe from a killer haunting her past. For this enigmatic and lonely beauty has become the unexpected love of his life."Source[Read an excerpt: here]
"Samuel Charles Aubrey St. Aldwyn, Duke of Gravenhurst, is a radical rogue and champion of unpopular causes. No one would dream that he is also the author of a bestselling series of dark historical novels, a writer accused of corrupting the morals of the public, and a master seducer who counts among his passionate fans wellborn Miss Lily Boscastle. But Lily is no stranger to disrepute.
When her engagement to another man ends in a tarnished image and public disgrace, Lily is forced to seek employment outside London - as housekeeper for Gravenhurst himself. Her sharp wit and sensuality appeal to his wicked instincts - and she’s a perfect match for every beguiling move he makes. Yet there’s more to him than Lily imagined - a secret known to few living souls, ghosts from the past that haunt both of their futures in ways too dangerous for even the duke to have invented."Source[Read an excerpt: here]
"Destitute after her father's death, Rose Marlowe has debts to settle and a younger brother to support. But she also possesses a matchless beauty-one that could command quite a price. Now, every month, Rose spends one week at a decadent London brothel, where she's become a sought-after prize.
Then one night she meets a wealthy merchant. Handsome, kind and compassionate, with a lonely soul that matches her own, James Archer is not her typical client. Falling in love with a client, never mind a married one, is unthinkable. Yet Rose can't help but lose herself as one night becomes seven-and seven nights leads to a chance at forever."Source
[Read an excerpt: here] [Read My Review (posted on Romance Novel News): here]
"Strong and independent, she dreams of him in secret.
Fierce, yet world-weary, he's always desired her.
Neither considers marriage an option.
But when a single kiss has unforeseen consequences, and wedding bells follow, they'll both learn the power of passion. Desire can change everything. "Source
"Most women would not be pleased to be labeled a spinster. But Lady Poppy Smith-Barnes isn’t most women. In fact, Poppy has invented an imaginary fiancé, the Duke of Drummond, to deter unwanted suitors. A very useful fellow, this duke, until the real Drummond turns up and uses Poppy’s ploy to trap her in a betrothal.A good spy flies below the radar. Which is why being named one of the Prince Regent’s “Impossible Bachelors” is so inconvenient for Nicholas Staunton. Every society female will be out to ensnare him. Nicholas needs a fiancée—and Poppy’s ruse is the answer. How could he have known she’d be a brazen, sensual siren with an irresistible taste for adventure? Now nothing less will do than to convince his fiery Poppy to revoke her spinster status…for good."Source[Read an excerpt: here]
"As the black sheep second son of an Earl, Stephen Lyons has gained a reputation in the art of seduction, but when his wicked ways result in scandal, he joins the army to redeem himself. On the battlefield, he proves courageous . . . until he is seriously wounded. Returning home to recover, he discovers he can't remember the angelic beauty who arrives at his doorstep, his babe nestled in her arms.Mercy Dawson will risk everything to protect the son of the dashing soldier she once knew and admired. When Stephen offers to do the honorable thing, she is determined that London's most notorious gentleman will desire her and no other. But Mercy fears that what began as an innocent deception could destroy her dreams and their blossoming love if Stephen ever learns the scandalous truth . . .They are masters of seduction, London's greatest lovers. Living for pleasure, they will give their hearts to no one . . . until love takes them by surprise."Source
"A sin he cannot forgetThe Duke of Exeter knows it's time to find a bride, and he's determined to locate the passionate minx who enticed him in a pitch-black library. But how can you find someone you've never really seen? Then, while supervising his young ward's education, he is irresistibly attracted to her exquisite new teacher. He keeps wondering if they've met somewhere before, never suspecting she's the woman he's never forgotten after his one night of sin.A wicked secretAs a beloved instructress at an exclusive school for young ladies, Lady Siusan Sinclair is a model of deportment. But no one knows her secret—that she fled London for Bath, her reputation on the verge of tatters, her fortune lost. Still, no matter how hard she tries, she can't forget the knee-weakening kiss of the man who led her astray . . ."Source[Read an excerpt: here]
--"Anything can happen at Christmas!When her father threatens to marry Abigail Montross off to a man twice her age (and with thirteen children!), she decides to elope instead with the irresistibly handsome BarÓn de Vasconia. She knows all about his notorious reputation. He is the most seductive man in all of London, but he's vowed to protect her, so she allows herself to be tempted into his bed, promising to guard her heart at all costs.Andres believes he's entered into nothing more than a marriage of convenience with a charming and very wealthy young woman. But the days—and nights—Abigail spends in his arms soon reform this rogue. He'll do anything to gain her love—until they each discover the truth about the other and old wounds are revealed.It's the season of miracles and passion—when love not only awakens the senses but delivers the greatest gift of all . . ."Source[Read an excerpt: here]
LD: It’s my pleasure! Thanks for having me!-Firstly, congratulations on your debut book 'Awakened By A Kiss' (released August 3rd, 2010).
LD:Thanks so much!RJ: What have the past few months been like; with anticipating the release and the feedback you've received thus far? What have you experienced emotionally as well as professionally with the completion of this new book?
LD: The entire experience has been like a wonderful exhilarating ride! I’ve learned so much about how a manuscript becomes a book. And I’ve delighted in every step. It was such a thrill when my editor told me she was going to keep the title I gave the manuscript (AWAKENED BY A KISS: FIERY TALES). That isn’t usually the case. Most of the time an author’s title is changed. Then there was the moment I got to see my cover for the first time. I was so blown away. It looks even lovelier in person. That raised gold lettering against the dark background is stunning!RJ: Why don't you tell me and the readers a little bit about 'Awakened By A Kiss' from the author's point of view. What were you trying to achieve with this book, and do you feel like it's 'mission accomplished'?
This has been a dream come true, and I’m so excited AWAKENED BY A KISS is finally out for readers to enjoy. The feedback on the book has been the cream on this awesome cake. :)
LD: AWAKENED BY A KISS is the first in my Fiery Tales series. It’s a collection --- steamy retellings of three classic fairy tales. It was inspired by Charles Perrault’s famous tales – Sleeping Beauty, Little Red Riding Hood and Puss in Boots.RJ: What challenges or difficulties did you face with the writing of this particular book?
I took all the familiar elements of each tale and gave them my own twists, injecting them with doses of heat and romance.
LD: There are easy books and there are difficult books, ones you struggle over each chapter. I’ve got to say, AWAKENED BY A KISS, just flowed and flowed. As I was writing Sleeping Beau, the characters and plot of Little Red Writing jumped into my mind. And as I wrote Little Red Writing, Bewitching in Boots came to me. I wish they all came to me this easily!RJ: Where did the inspiration for the plot, characters and setting come from?
LD: It came from my love of the time period this book is set in! I know a lot about it. I’ve read voraciously and with great passion about it. I’d love to see more romances set in this time period. It will surely appeal to anyone who loves Regency set historicals.RJ: Many authors of historicals choose to tell stories about English nobility with an English backdrop. In 'Awakened By A Kiss', the characters were from the French nobility and you choose seventeenth-century France as your backdrop. What is it about that specific period in history that appeals to you and what made you want to write about the French nobility as appose to the English?
RJ: Let's talk about your Hero's and Heroine's (Catherine & Adrien, Nicolas & Anne, and Tristan & Elisabeth). What are their flaws and what are their redeeming qualities? Also, what attracts them to each other?LD: I picked this setting because I was writing about fairy tales. We have seventeenth century French lawyer/writer Charles Perrault to thank for those fairy tales that are near and dear to our hearts. He was the first to write down folklore and put morals to his stories---long before the Brothers Grimm and Hans Christian Andersen. Perrault was the creator of The Tales of Mother Goose. And since the fairy tales in AWAKENED BY A KISS are based on his famous tales, I set the book in his lifetime. I just love how elegant and opulent it was. There were lord and ladies and magnificent masquerade balls. There were weekly salons where the aristocracy gathered with the literati, (dramatists, writers, poets and grammarians) to discuss and debate politics, religion and literature. And there was plenty of scandalous behavior. I wanted to write something that would still feel familiar to historical romance readers, yet at the same time bring them something different and fresh.
Charles Perrault
LD: I think Catherine’s flaw at the beginning of the story is that she’s given up on having any kind of happiness. She has a quiet strength about her but has stopped dreaming and wishing for things. Adrien is privileged, treated as royalty, and has hardened his heart--- that is until he meets up with Catherine again. Her problems with her father resonate with Adrien and remind him of his own troubles with his powerful sire. They are attracted to each other because they are similar and are able to open each other’s hearts.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?
Nicolas is a pretty ambitious guy. He’s is singularly focused on promotion in the King’s Guard. Anne is singularly focused on writing her volumes. I believe what attracts them (besides the physical attraction) is that they have the ability to bring out the best in each other.
Tristan is strong. A leader. The former commander of the most prestigious corps in the realm. Elisabeth is strong. A leader. The favorite daughter of the King. These two develop a mutual respect for each other by the end. They not only love each other, but they have a high regard for each other, too.
LD: I wish I could write in a coffee shop, but I can’t! I love coffee, but I’d be so distracted in a coffee shop. I write when the kids are in school – with either classical music or new age music playing in the background. I do most of my writing during the day. Depending on the deadline, I might write late at night and on weekends, too. As to whether I plot or just write and let my muse take me where it wants to go----I’d say I do a little of both! I write a general outline before I start a book. I’ll know the characters, and I’ll have some scenes drafted out. Then I dive into the book.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?
LD: Favorite Love Song – I have so many favorites! But there is one love song that totally melts me. It’s soooo beautiful. WHEN I’M WITH YOU, by Sheriff. The lead singer is Freddie Curci. His voice is *incredible* and I think he still has the record for holding that final note the longest in recording history. I’ve no idea how he does it! As an interesting tidbit, I’m sort of related to him (though I doubt he remembers me!) Years ago, his sister married one of my cousins. But I’m not in any way selecting this song for that reason! I just absolutely love it. Check it out on youtube. Make sure you hear the version that plays his final note to the end. *swoon* I had the privilege of meeting him in person at the wedding. And yup, incase you’re wondering, he wrote a magnificent song for his sister’s wedding and sang it like an angel. *sighs*
Favorite Romantic Comedy - Again, too many favorites to list, but I do have a new favorite to add to my long list – Leap Year. Such a cute movie!Favorite Romance Novel – No way could I ever select just one!
LD: Thank you for the good wishes! In November 2010, my next Fiery Tales collection will hit the shelves – THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED – with three more hot historical heroes who find their perfect match. Inspired by —“The Emperor’s New Clothes,” “The Ugly Duckling, and “The Princess and the Pea”, I put my own sensual spin on these classic fairy tales written by Hans Christian Andersen. They are retold and renamed, “The Marquis’ New Clothes”, “The Lovely Duckling” and “The Princess and the Diamonds”.
RJ: Do you have anything you would like to address to your fans and the readers?[Read an excerpt for 'The Princess In His Bed: here]
LD: Since I’m a debut author, readers don’t know what to expect from my books.RJ: Okay, Final Question: Name something shocking or interesting about yourself that the readers may not know.
I’ve taken my love of fairy tales, history and passionate love stories, and blended them intoone steamy yet romantic anthology in AWAKENED BY A KISS. In my books, you can always expect to find a sinfully seductive rake, a strong smart heroine who will make him lose his heart and scorching-hot love scenes that will leave you breathless.Author’s website: www.LilaDiPasqua.com
LD: I was named after my paternal grandmother – Lila DiPasqua. She was strong, independent, smart and fiercely devoted to her family. And she had a great laugh. I’m honored to share her name.Lila's Question: Hey readers, what's your favorite fairytale movie and why?
As for my paternal grandfather, Nicola DiPasqua, he was a career soldier and had a soft spot for all his grandchildren. I have many wonderful memories of him – including him sitting in a small kiddie chair, sipping pretend tea with me and my dolls. He was a true hero in every sense of the word. And the best grandpa. I’m honored that we shared the same birthday, and for the first 17 years of my life, we celebrated our birthdays together and shared the same birthday cake, too. Both my grandparents are gone now. I wish they had lived to see all this. I know they’d be very proud.
My Favorite Part of the Book: There were many! This book had 3 separate stories within it and I have my favorite moments for each. Bewitching in Boots was my favorite story out of the three and my favorite moment is when Tristan starts questioning Elisabeth's motive for seeking him out. He tries to scare her away by saying that if she isn't out of his home by tomorrow she will be tied up to his bed and he will have his way with her. At first, in the morning, Elisabeth and her entourage are no where to be found, but not only do they come back with reinforcements (to help fix up Tristan's house) but Elisabeth presents Tristan with a box of scarves for him to tie her up with later that night.What it boils down to is this: Miss DiPasqua is probably one of the most promising debut authors to hit the scene so far in 2010. Her short stories were well-written, well-paced and flavored with an insane amount of heat and spice. I think many short-stories are prone to accelerated plots where the love is unconvincing and the character development lacks; that is not the case with 'Awakened By A Kiss'. It's a little different from the classic historicals I am use to, but it has set a new precedence in my reading exploration and I look forward to reading more from this author!
"Living in a gray world of silhouette, Lord Taris Wellingham conceals his fading eyesight from society. He has long protected himself from any intimate relationships.
Plain twenty-eight-year-old Beatrice-Maude Bassingstoke does not expect to attract any man, especially not one as good-looking as her remote traveling companion.
Forced by a snowstorm to spend the night together, these two lonely people seek solace in each other's arms. The passion they unleash surprises them both. Then a new day dawns…."Source[Read an excerpt: here]
"Few women can resist a man like Gabriel “Reign” Housely, the Earl of Rainecourt. With divine good looks, delectable charms, and delicious wealth, he would seem to be every marriage-minded mother’s dream match for their daughters. But not so, given the mysterious death of his first wife. Fortunately for Gabriel, he has no plans to seriously court any of the London ladies ever again. That is, until he shares one unforgettable dance with a mysterious stranger…
Exquisitely beautiful though decidedly modest, Lady Sophia usually shuns the festive ballrooms of London society. But when a man who calls himself “Reign” enters her life—seemingly from out of nowhere—and shows her true kindness, her wary young heart begins to melt. Of course, Sophia would be shocked to learn the truth about Reign’s past. But when scandal strikes, this devilish stranger may be her only salvation…"Source
"Three classic fairytales--"Sleeping Beauty," "Puss in Boots," and "Little Red Riding Hood"--cleverly retold with enough sensual twists to prove wickedly ever after does exist...Once upon a wicked time...Sleeping Beau: Five years ago, notorious rake Adrien d'Aspe, Marquis de Beaulain, was awakened by a sensuous kiss-and experienced a night of raw ecstasy that was branded into his memory. Years later, he spots his mysterious seductress-and this time, he has no intention of letting her go...Little Red Writing: Nicolas de Savignac, Comte de Lambelle, has been assigned by the King to uncover the secret identity of the author writing scandalous stories about powerful courtiers. He never expected his investigation would lead to his grandmother's house, or to a ravishing woman who would stir his deepest hunger...Bewitching in Boots: Elisabeth de Roussel, daughter of the King, is accustomed to getting what she wants-and she wants Tristan de Tiersonnier, Comte de Saint-Marcel, an ex-commander of the King's private Guard. A recent injury has forced Tristan to leave his distinguished position, but Elisabeth is determined to make him see he's every bit the man he once was-and more than man enough for her..."Source[Read an excerpt: here]
"Jude Bertrand is not an excellent dancer. Nor does he wear the most fashionable coats. But when Marissa York's brother approaches him, desperate to preserve Marissa's tenuous reputation, Jude does prove heroic enough to offer to marry the girl. In fact, the union should more than make up for his lack of social graces - and his own scandalous past...Marissa knows that betrothal to the son of a duke - even one as raw and masculine as Jude - will save her from ruin, but that doesn't mean she's happy about it. Soon, though, she finds that Jude has a surprisingly gentle touch - and plans to use it to persuade Marissa that their wedding day cannot come soon enough..."Source[Read an excerpt: here]
"AN INNOCENT WOMAN
Emmaline Marlow is about to wed the ancient patriarch of the Hepburn clan to save her father from debtor's prison when the Hepburn's sworn enemy Jamie Sinclair bursts into the abbey on a magnificent black horse and whisks her away. Jamie is everything her bridegroom is not--young, handsome, virile...and a perilous temptation for her yearning heart.
A DANGEROUS MAN
Jamie expects Emma to be some milksop English miss, not a spirited beauty who will defy him at every turn. All of his plans to use her as a pawn in the centuries old Highland feud begin to go awry when irresistible passion flares between the two of them. A man can kidnap a bride, but is it possible for him to steal her innocence without losing his own heart?"Source
"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 :here]
"The life of a duchess has its ups and downs.
Betrothed at birth to the heir of one of England's loftiest titles, Lady Anne Danvers has been raised to run grand estates and host glittering parties. Which leaves her ill-prepared when her husband of one week rides off without a word, with no intention of returning.
Rhys Carlisle, Duke of Waverly, never wanted a love match—but he never dreamed he'd be abandoning his beautiful bride right after their blissful honeymoon. Alas, a terrible secret has shattered his world and he cannot face the truth . . . or the people he cares about most.
To entice back the husband she's long desired but barely knows, Anne will employ any means necessary—a surprisingly pleasurable proposition for them both. But the dangerous swirl of lies, deceits, and blackmail surrounding them merely grows stronger as their hearts grow closer, threatening to tear apart the passionate love affair they've only just begun . . ."Source
[Read an excerpt: here]
"It has been prophesied that four men, raised as brothers, will bring Scotland back to her rightful glory. The first is running for his life.Charged with the restoration of Scotland's one true king, Duncan MacAlpin isn't surprised to find himself fleeing an army across the verdant hills of his homeland. But having to do so while shackled to a woman . . . that is a true challenge to Duncan's ingenuity and self-control. For the lovely, untouched maiden he's chained to is far too captivating to resist.
Despite her innocence, Mercy guards her own dangerous secrets. Proud and unafraid—hunted and imperiled for who she is and what she knows—she is determined to regain her freedom and never let it be taken from her again. Yet locked so tightly to her imposed escort, tempted by the warmth of the powerful Highlander's body, she aches to give herself over completely to desire . . . and risk the heart she has fought so hard to protect."Source
"The most dangerous pursuit . . . is passion.
Devilishly handsome and absolutely fearless, Nate Avery is in London on an important mission—and paired with an English spy, who is meant to watch him as much as aid him. But much to his surprise, that spy turns out to be an alluring and enigmatic temptress.
Angelique Martand may be a beauty, but she's also the most dangerous agent in England—and this job is far beneath her. She doesn't like the way the dashing American looks at her, or the way he makes her feel—like a woman, not like a spy. She can't afford to fall under Nate's spell and indulge her desires, no matter how desperately she wants to. But soon it becomes clear that there's more to this job than either of them knows . . . and the secret they uncover could cost them their lives as well as the once-in-a-lifetime passion that burns between them."Source
[Read an excerpt: here]
"The wealthiest heiress of the season, Miss Lindsey Crompton finds detective work far more fascinating than social engagements—at least until she meets Thane Parker, the Earl of Mansfield. Thane is a paradox: a war hero and a cad, a wicked scoundrel and an indulgent guardian of his young ward. When Lindsey sneaks into his house to investigate his role in a series of murders, he blackmails her into a betrothal.Thane has a secret life he keeps hidden from everyone, especially the infernally curious—and curiously alluring—Miss Crompton. Working with the Bow Street Runners, Thane is tracking a killer who may be one of Lindsey’s suitors. Even if their engagement is a ruse, the heat between Thane and Lindsey is undeniably real. And with a murderer on the loose, desire has never been so dangerous…"Source