Category: Interviews

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Interview & Giveaway with Grace Burrowes

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Grace Burrowes to the blog today. 

Grace, can you please share with us a little about yourself
GB: I didn’t start writing novels until I hit my late forties, when the offspring had flown the nest, the legal career was under control, and some unstructured time came my way. I pretty much haven’t stopped writing since.

Have you always wanted to be an author?
GB: I’ve always enjoyed writing, but it never occurred to me to pursue writing professionally. I had a couple dozen manuscripts completed, and enough friends had asked what I was going to DO with all those stories… THEN, I began to think about writing for publication.

Can you share with us your typical writing day.  Is there anything you have to have while writing?
GB: I have to have peace and quiet. I don’t think I could compose new material at a coffee shop, though I admire those who can. My typical day is get up early, deal with the household beasts, play a few games of solitaire, then start writing. I usually get only a scene or two done each day, and then go on to reading copy edits, proofing galleys, or doing research unless it’s a lawyer day. The last thing I do before turning in at night is read over what I wrote that morning, in hopes it will lodge in the old sleep brain and generate brilliant moves in tomorrow’s scenes.

Most challenging or rewarding part of writing?
GB: Most rewarding is when a reader lets me know that my books gave them some joy, some relief from life’s cares and woes. I read romance novels for 35 years before I started writing, and oh boy, do I know what a good read can do for a bad day. It’s also rewarding when a reader will let me know I’m wrong. There’s a hilarious Latin typo in Lady Louisa’s Christmas Knight, and I really like that my readers could let me know that, and do it in a genuinely helpful manner.

The challenging part I will try to phrase delicately. The pioneers in the romance field created and perpetuate a legacy of kindness, mutual support, and honorable behavior. With the advent of the internet, and the anonymity and lack of accountability that go with it, that ethic is being eroded in some spheres. This is sad, but this is by far a minority among romance writers and readers, and, I hope, a shrinking minority at that.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?
GB: Love to! Lady Eve’s Indiscretion is a story about the youngest Windham sibling, Eve, who ran off with a footman as an adolescent, and realized too late what a disastrous choice she’d made. Seven years later she’s trying to avoid a wedding night lest the extent of her folly become known to anybody else, but Lucas Denning, Marquis of Deene, has other plans for her. Eve has to get back on the horse, physically and emotionally, and a little bit at a time, with the help of a man who loves her, she accomplishes that goal spectacularly.

How did you come up with the idea for this story?
GB: I love horses, and while I’ve had my share of falls, none of them have been particularly bad for me or the horse. I’ve known people who’ve taken bad falls, though, and it’s a tough trauma to get past, particularly if your horse was also hurt. I was also a teenager once upon a time (my daughter is not convinced of this), and I made some stunningly awful choices, as most of us do. My imagination got hold of those two concepts and went to work on them, and Eve’s story was the result.

Can you share with us your current work in progress?

GB: Of course! I’m working on Book Three of a regency trilogy around the theme of captivity, and looking at all the things that can ensnare us, and keep us from the happiness we’re capable of. Love and courage are always part of the way out. My current heroine, Brenna, has to find the courage to trust the husband who spent ten years at war rather than come home and take his place at her side. Michael, her swain, has a lot of trust to rebuild with her, but he’s just the fellow to do it.

Who are some of your favorite authors?

GB: Joanna Bourne is at the top of the list. Her books stand ahead of chocolate on my list of guilty pleasures. Mary Balogh has gotten me through many a tough week, Judith Ivory is well represented on my keeper shelf. Love Jennifer Ashley’s Scottish Victorians, cannot get enough of Julie Anne Long’s Pennyroyal Green series, and adore Carolyn Jewel’s Regencies and her paranormals. Loretta Chase, Meredith Duran, Sherry Thomas, JR Ward… I could go on…

Do you feel that any of your favorite authors have inspired your writing style?
GB: Interesting question. My readers might be better able to answer that. I think I share with many authors the idea that the characters need an arc. They can be ordinary people at the beginning of the book, even not-so-endearing people, but love must give them the courage to be more than they thought they could be.

Open your book to a random page and tell us what’s happening.
GB: Lord Deene’s brother-in-law, Jonathan Dolan, is trying not to betray how smitten he is with his daughter’s governess (and succeeding only in his own mind).

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

GB:  As I write this, Jennifer Ashley’s Seduction of Elliot McBride is at the top of the TRP. Kristin Callihan’s third Darkest London story, Winterblaze, comes out at the end of this month, J.R. Ward’s, Lover at Last, is coming out in March.

Is there anything else you would like to add?
GB: Thank you so much for inviting me here!

 

LADY EVE’S INDISCRETION

BY GRACE BURROWES

IN STORES FEBRUARY 2013

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Books-a-Million | IndieBound | Indigo/Chapters | Sourcebooks | Discover a New Love

 Lady Eve’s Got The Perfect Plan…

Pretty, petite Evie Windham has been more indiscreet than her parents, the Duke and Duchess of Moreland, suspect. Fearing that a wedding night would reveal her past, she’s running out of excuses to dodge adoring swains. Lucas Denning, the newly titled Marquis of Deene, has reason of his own for avoiding marriage. So Evie and Deene strike a deal, each agreeing to be the other’s decoy. At this rate, matrimony could be avoided indefinitely…until the two are caught in a steamy kiss that no one was supposed to see.

 Praise for Lady Maggie’s Secret Scandal:

“Burrowes delivers red-hot chemistry with a masterful mix of playfulness and sensuality.”—Publishers Weekly Starred Review

“A tantalizing, delectably sexy story that is one of the best yet from an author on the way to the top.”—Library Journal Starred Review

“A delight…strikingly unique characters with realistic emotions and exciting antics.”—RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars

“Captivating…historical romance at its finest and rife with mystery and intrigue.”—Romance Fiction on Suite 101

A little more about Grace: 

Grace Burrowes is a bestselling and award-winning author of historical romances. Her debut, The Heir, was selected as a Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year for 2010 in the romance category, and Lady Louisa’s Christmas Wish won RT Book Reviews Reviewer’s Choice Award for Best Historical Romance of 2011 and was also nominated for the prestigious RWA RITA© award. The author of the bestsellers The Heir, The Soldier, Lady Maggie’s Secret Scandal, and Lady Sophie’s Christmas Wish, Grace is a practicing attorney and lives in rural Maryland. She’ll conclude to the Windham Family Series with Lady Jenny’s story in October 2013, and will begin a new regency series with Darius in April 2013. She also has a Scottish Victorian series as well, beginning with The Bridegroom Wore Plaid, which was a Publishers Weekly Best Book of 2012. Please visit http://www.graceburrowes.com/ or follow her on Twitter: @GraceBurrowes for more information.

 

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Interview & giveaway with Victoria Roberts

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Victoria Roberts to the blog for the first time to chat about her newest release X Marks the Scot.

Victoria, can you please share with us a little about yourself

First, it’s great to be here with you today at Books-n-Kisses to celebrate the release of the second book in the Bad Boys of the Highlands series, X Marks the Scot.

I’m a hard-working mother of two. Home is in western Pennsylvania, but my heart is in the Highlands.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Does it count when I didn’t even know it? Before picking up a single romance novel, I penned a young-adult novel at sixteen years old. I pounded out the words on an old typewriter with nothing but a stack of paper and a bottle of white out. I sat in that room for hours on end. I guess I’ve always had it in my blood, but I became serious several years ago and renewed that passion.

Who are some of your favorite writers? Who do you feel has influenced your writing?

There are so many wonderful authors out there. Some of my personal favorites are Lynn Kurland, Brenda Joyce, Janet Chapman and Karen Marie Moning, but there are loads more. They’ve all influenced me in one way or another.

How did you get into writing in this specific genre?  Have you ever thought about writing in a different genre?

Would you believe I had never read a single romance novel until my thirties? A friend/co-worker of mine read with her nose in these books constantly. I was under a huge misconception about the genre as a whole and used to tease her relentlessly that she read nothing but porn. One day she got really ticked at me and slapped one of these books down on my desk.

“Read it. I don’t want to hear another word until you read it.”

Fair enough. It was a Scottish historical. Needless to say, I was hooked by the second page and didn’t stop there. I read every Scottish romance I could get my hands on. And that friend of mine? She’s my phenomenal critique partner. That woman has read my manuscripts so many times that she could probably recite most verbatim. Love her to death!

For right now, Scottish historical romance is where my heart lies. If I decide to try another genre, it would still be Scottish-based.

What are some of your writing rituals?

I strive to write 1k words/day or 5k words/week. Keep in mind that I still have a day job and have two kids under the age of twelve. I really push myself Monday-Friday so that I can spend time with the family. This also helps to prevent burn-out.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

X Marks the Scot is the second book in the trilogy. Declan MacGregor was Laird Ciaran MacGregor’s bad boy brother from Temptation in a Kilt. I think the back cover blurb says it best.

He was a Highland Rogue—Wicked with a Bow and Just as Wicked with the Ladies.

Declan MacGregor hadn’t a care in the world beyond finding a soft bed and a willing woman…until he had to escort Lady Liadain Campbell to the English court. The woman needles him at every turn, but he can’t just abandon her to that vipers’ nest without protection.

She Never Asked for a Bodyguard…

Liadain wasn’t thrilled to be left in the care of her clan’s archrival. It was as if the man never had a lady tell him no before! And yet as whispers of treason swirl through the court and the threat of danger grows even sharper, her bitter enemy soon becomes the only one she can trust…

How did you come with the idea for this story?

My wicked muse does not rest. The story formed in my mind as I wrote the first book. Since the series depicts the time of the reign of King James, I used the Gunpowder Plot with Guy Fawkes as a sub-plot. I tweaked and tweaked and it just snowballed from there.

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?

I’m currently working on a new series about a family of English spies. Nay worries. ʼTis still Scottish. You’ll have to wait and see.

Open your book to a random page and tell us what’s happening.

Lady Liadain Campbell just became acquainted with Lord Dunnehl. I’m not giving away any spoilers, but if you remember… Lord Dunnehl was that dastardly man who Lady Rosalia Armstrong was supposed to wed in Temptation in a Kilt.

What would you be if you were not an author?

The wife of a Scottish laird. My husband laughs since he’s 100% German.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

Maeve Greyson’s new one, A Highlander in Her Past and Lynn Kurland’s new one, Dreamspinner.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you so much for having me today. I hope you enjoy the series as much as I loved writing it.

*****

Sourcebooks  |Amazon | B&N

He was a Highland Rogue—Wicked with a Bow and Just as Wicked with the Ladies.

Declan MacGregor hadn’t a care in the world beyond finding a soft bed and a willing woman…until he had to escort Lady Liadain Campbell to the English court. The woman needles him at every turn, but he can’t just abandon her to that vipers’ nest without protection.

She Never Asked for a Bodyguard…

Liadain wasn’t thrilled to be left in the care of her clan’s archrival. It was as if the man never had a lady tell him no before! And yet as whispers of treason swirl through the court and the threat of danger grows even sharper, her bitter enemy soon becomes the only one she can trust..

Praise for X Marks the Scot:

5/5 – Reviewer Top Pick
“Enthralling Highlander romance. One of the best Highlander stories I’ve ever read. This is one author who just keeps on getting better.”

―Night Owl Reviews

“For a complex story brimming over with pride and passion, betrayal, trust and most of all the power to make a bad boy a hero, pick up this read.”

―RT Book Reviews/4 ½ Star Review

Book Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1M27gsMb4Ro

A little more about Victoria Roberts:

Victoria Roberts writes sexy, Scottish historical romances about kilted heroes and warriors from the past. She was named by RT Book Reviews as “one of the most promising debut authors across the genres” and is also a 2012 Reviewers Choice Nominee for Best First Historical novel for her debut, Temptation in a Kilt.

Her second novel, X Marks the Scot, is available February 2013 and the third, To Wed a Wicked Highlander, September 2013.

Victoria is a member of Romance Writers of America®, Celtic Hearts Romance Writers, Western Pennsylvania Romance Writers, as well as a contributing author to the online magazine, Celtic Guide.

Victoria lives in western Pennsylvania with her husband of nineteen years and their two beautiful children—not to mention one spoiled dog. When she is not plotting her next Scottish romp, she enjoys reading, nature, and antiques.

Learn more about Victoria here:  Website | Facebook |  Celtic Guid

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Interview with Rachell Nichole

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome first time guest Rachell Nichole to the blog today to chat about her new book

SPICY WITH A SIDE OF CRANBERRY SAUCE.

Rachell, can you please share with us a little about yourself. Sure. I’m an erotic romance author, living in New York with a mountain of books I could never possibly read, a loving family and an evil cat named Godiva that I adore.

Have you always wanted to be an author? Nope. From the second grade, I knew I was going to be a teacher. Nothing else was acceptable. It wasn’t until I was older, in my teens that I really considered being an author. Even then, it was a long road between that, changing my major from education to writing, and deciding I really wanted to do this.

Can you share with us your typical writing day.  Is there anything you have to have while writing? Food, and a drink. I’m constantly munching or drinking something. Sometimes it’s hard candy or gum, sometimes it’s grapes or popcorn, or any number of unhealthy snacks! My typical writing day starts at twelve after the kids go to nap and takes a long hiatus from 2:30 when the kids get up until 10:00 pm when the house is asleep. Then it continues from there until midnight or later. Any number of things are done – blogging, editing, drafting, research, revisions, cover design, book trailers – the list is almost endless.

Most challenging or rewarding part of writing?  Challenging – definitely revisions. Making the decision on whether or not to keep a suggested change and knowing the reasons behind the decision. Rewarding – hearing how much people enjoy my works. I read a five star review today that absolutely made me deliriously happy.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)? Spicy with a Side of Cranberry Sauce was a holiday book spanning the time from Thanksgiving through Christmas morning and came out last month, just in time for Christmas. Amy Easton’s idea for the perfect Thanksgiving doesn’t include giving up the last can of cranberry sauce to a stranger, no matter how sexy he is. She will make this holiday special for Dad even if it kills her. And that means getting everything on the shopping list.  Mason Rider is home to help his mom through her first postdivorce holiday, but when he finds the seductive blonde who body-checked his grocery cart standing in Mom’s kitchen, he doesn’t know what to do. Sharing Thanksgiving with this woman and her father wasn’t part of his damned plan. Who would’ve thought that a simple can of cranberry sauce could lead to holiday disaster? Or to happily ever after?

How did you come with the idea for this story? I didn’t. Not on my own anyways. I was on a train in France (sounds romantic doesn’t it?) with a bunch of friends, the day after Thanksgiving the year before last. Most of my fellow teaching assistants were sleeping, but one of them, Tyler, was up and we chatted a bit on the ride. We started talking about family trees and step-siblings and he says to me, “How terrible would that be… falling for the girl who would soon be your step-sister?” And the idea was born. We spent the next hour working out the plot of the book. I went home that night and wrote it all down. The finished product stayed pretty close to the original plot, amazingly!

Can you share with us your current work in progress? Of course. I’m always working on something. Right now it’s a draft for A Marietta Wedding, the sequel novella to my first book, An Affair Across Times Square. The novella follows the sister of Tyler, who was the hero of Times Square, on her journey to find herself in Paris. Instead, she finds a baby and a wedding proposal.

Who are some of your favorite authors? Christine Feehan, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Laurel K Hamilton, JR Ward, Tessa Adams and Suzanne Brockmann.

Do you feel that any of your favorite authors have inspired your writing style?  All of them. At one point or another, I’ve absorbed writing styles from these wonderful women and from many other authors over the year. With each book, workshop, or conference, my writing changes and improves. I sometimes go back to reread passages that I know I loved to figure out why and if I can do that in my own books.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for? Oh, that TBR pile is ever growing. I just picked up Bed, Breakfast, & Bondage from fellow Loose Id author Riley Shane. I adore the title, so I’m excited for that one. Also, Magnificent Devices by Shelley Adina – the fourth Steampunk novel in her series. Can’t wait to read it

Is there anything else you would like to add? I love words, and I’m happy to share a little bit about myself and my works.

 

Thanks so much for having me by, Kelly..

You can learn more about Rachell here:

www.RachellNichole.com

www.Facebook.com/RachellNichole

www.DivasofDesire.blogspot.com

www.goodreads.com/RachellNichole

@RachellNichole


 

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Interview with Honey Jans

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome back Honey Jans to the blog to talk about her latest release Ride A Cowboy, Save a Horse

Honey for those who missed you the first time can you please share with us a little about yourself.   I’m romance author Honey Jans. I’m a small town girl from Wisconsin with a big imagination. I guess you could say that I’m a natural born romantic who tends to daydream. Sometimes it gets me into trouble. But on the plus side it sparks my vivid and sometimes kinky imagination. I love writing erotic romance and it’s my fervent hope that readers will enjoy my books. So stick around. Check out my red hot covers…some of those cover models are truly drool worthy. Read my excerpts, and enter my giveaways. I hope well be friends. I’d love to hear from all my readers. Feel free to post on my blog.

Have you always wanted to be an author?  Actually I’m a late bloomer.  I’ve always loved to read but never thought to write until my sister gave me two bags full of her cast off romances.  Well after wading through the stack I thought maybe I could write one.  Of course it wasn’t that easy but there isn’t anything else I’d rather be doing.

Can you share with us your typical writing day.  Is there anything you have to have while writing? I typically write in the mornings and edit in the afternoons.  And I love to start my sessions with a steaming cup of my favorite coffee.

Most challenging or rewarding part of writing? The challenging part is staring at that blank screen and wondering what comes next.  The rewarding part is feedback from my readers through my blog, emails, or at book signings and tours.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?  I actually have several.

RIDE A COWBOY; SAVE A HORSE from Red Rose Publishing –Savanna Brown returns to Wyoming to save the reputation of the cowboy she ran away from on their wedding night. She makes the ranch owner an offer he can’t refuse if he wants to hang onto his ranch. She’ll pretend to come back to him until the talk dies down, then she’ll be on her way. Rafe Halliday is thrilled that his plan to lure his bride back to his place has worked. Now all he has to do is focus on getting sexy Savanna back into his bed where he figured their links of passion, love, and sex will complete their bond. But will love happen with evil forces trying to tear them apart? To find out lasso a copy of, “Save a Horse; Ride a Cowboy,” today. It’s sure to singe your lariat.

How did you come with the idea for this story? Ride a Cowboy; Save a Horse came from the opening line that popped in my head one day at work.  It just pestered me until I had to write it down and build a story around it.

Can you share with us your current work in progress? I have an upcoming release with three of my colleagues, Debi Wilder, Shari Dare, Lynn Crain.  This paranormal erotic romance series was inspired by the Beast of Bray Road a myth that lives in the Kettle Moraine Forest of Wisconsin.  It’s really special and I hope you’ll give it a try.

BLUE MOON MAGIC

One father.  Two mothers.  Four siblings.  One incredible night that will change them all forever.

I also have another work in progress that’s a bit of a departure for me.  The working title is Bayou Heat and it’s a ménage with a suspense twist.  When this story came to me I just had to write it.  In hoping my readers will enjoy coming along for the ride.

Who are some of your favorite authors?  I have so many it’s hard to narrow it down.  I love Ann Rice, Sherylinn Kenyon, JA Konrath, and Jayne Ann Krentz for starters.

Do you feel that any of your favorite authors have inspired your writing style?  They may have inspired me but my voice is all me.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?  My To Be Read Pile consists of anything by my favorite authors.  I’m constantly looking for new releases.  One thing I really would love is another book by Bob Mayor and Jennifer Cruise like Agnes and the Hitman.  It loved that book and hope there will be more from them.  I also loved Toni Marie Causeys Bobby Faye series and hope for some sequels.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Simply that I’m pleased to be here and I’d like to thank everyone for stopping by.

my website is www.honeyjans.com

my blog is http://atasteofhoneyjans.blogspot.com

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Interview & giveaway with Nana Malone

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Nana Malone to the blog today

Nana, can you please share with us a little about yourself

Oh I’m just your average Ghanaian/American girl who lives in sunny San Diego with an American husband who thinks my family is crazy.  My Big Fat Greek Wedding has nothing on us.  In my infinite spare time, I chase around my two year old trying to tame her wild mane of hair, try and corral my spunky Scottie and occasionally let my hubby pamper me.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Nope.  Way back when I wanted to be an MTV  VJ.  It wasn’t’ until 12 years ago that I actually thought that I could do this as a profession.

Who are some of your favorite writers? Who do you feel has influenced your writing?

Right now Sylvia Day and JR Ward. I love their use of language and description that has you sucked in right from the start.

How did you get into writing in this specific genre?  Have you ever thought about writing in a different genre?

Well, there’s just something about sassy contemporary romance.  It’s the world I live in.  Or used to live in several years ago.  Lol.  It’s Witty comments between friends and lovers.  It’s Sex and the City if done well.  But the geek girl in me also loves paranormal, because who doesn’t’ love a shifter?

What are some of your writing rituals?

I wake up and write 1000 words first thing in the morning.  This is before coffee, before brushed teeth, before I even run off to use the bathroom.  It helps set the pace for the rest of the day.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

Sultry in Stilettos is the second in my In Stilettos series.  It stars best friends Ricca Munroe and Becket Mills, who just can’t seem to get it together.

Shy, Fantasy Event Planner, Ricca Munroe has never been lucky in love, so when the latest in a long line of Mr. Oh So Wrongs publicly dumps her, she focuses on her career. All she has to do to land the job of a lifetime is work side-by-side with the one man who can break her heart.

Beckett Mills has never been in love. Personal entanglements are a recipe for disaster—that is until one kiss from Ricca Munroe changes everything. Beckett needs this job to fulfill a promise he made. All he has to do is resist the seductive charms of his best friend.

Can Ricca come out of her shell to land her dream job and the love of her life? Can Beckett trust himself enough to actually fall in love and still keep the promise he made?

Warning: Sexy, sass talking women will make you laugh, cry and want a pair of killer footwear.
How did you come with the idea for this story?

I got the idea for the first in the series for Sexy in Stilettos while sitting around with my girlfriends one night getting some drinks. I wondered under what scenario I would abandon my list making ways and out of that, the hero, Alec was born.  Ricca and Beckett were so fun they deserved their own story.

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?

Right now I’m working on the follow up to my first published novel, Game, Set, Match, called MisMatch.  It’s not exactly a sequel, but it stars the plucky Jessica, who stole the show in GSM. After that comes Sassy in Stilettos, the final in the In Stilettos trilogy.

What would you be if you were not an author?

A Project Manager.  I’m apparently very bossy.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

Nothing stays in my TBR pile for too long.  But I’m anxiously waiting for the next Crossfire novel by Sylvia Day.  May seems too far away.  Lol.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Just a thank you for having me today and a reminder that In addition to ebook and print, many of my books are available in audio too.  Readers(listeners) can find them here

I just love to chat with readers.  You can all find me here:

Email:nana@nanamaloneromance.com

Facebook:www.facebook.com/nanamaloneromance

Twitter:www.twitter.com/nanamalone

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/4341612.Nana_Malone

Sultry in Stilettos

Nana Malone

 

Barnes & Noble /Amazon

Shy, Fantasy Event Planner, Ricca Munroe has never been lucky in love, so when the latest in a long line of Mr. Oh So Wrongs publicly dumps her, she focuses on her career.  All she has to do to land the job of a lifetime is work side-by-side with the one man who can break her heart.

Beckett Mills has never been in love. Personal entanglements are a recipe for disaster—that is until one kiss from Ricca Munroe changes everything.  Beckett needs this job to fulfill a promise he made.  All he has to do is resist the seductive charms of his best friend.

Can Ricca come out of her shell to land her dream job and the love of her life? Can Beckett trust himself enough to actually fall in love and still keep the promise he made?

Warning: Sexy, sass talking women will make you laugh, cry and want a pair of killer footwear.

 

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Interview with Carla Caruso

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Carla Caruso to the blog today to chat about her new book CITY GLITTER.

 

Carla, can you please share with us a little about yourself.
Hello, I’m an Australian-based writer (with Italian ancestry!). My background is in journalism, but writing novels has always been a little pipedream for me, which has finally come true. I’m married, a star-sign junkie, running fanatic, sometimes vegetarian – and have a tabby with ‘tood called Luca.

Have you always wanted to be an author?
Yes! I used to annoy my kindergarten teachers by dictating long, detailed stories to them. As a teen, I used to hand-write 100-page stories (for fun) in my school holidays. And Mum always kindly took me to the library to sate my bookworm tendencies. It just took me a while to realize my childhood dream – journalism seemed a more practical course!

What is your most interesting writing quirk?
I have a mini notepad that I carry around in my handbag and scrawl notes in constantly. Everything goes in there, from hearing an actor’s name I like to throwaway lines I hear. It all inspires my writing. My family thinks I’m mad!

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?
Cityglitter (Destiny Romance) is about a gorgeous fairy living a glam life in the big city who does the one thing she promised herself she’d never do: fall in love with a human! The fairies in the story all look like Victoria’s Secret Angels – with actual wings. http://www.destinyromance.com/

How did you come with the idea for this story?
The book is based in the big city of Sydney, Australia, where I worked for three years in the magazine world (now back in my smaller hometown of Adelaide). The idea came about because I got to attend a ton of fabulous media parties through my work there and never felt so frumpy in my life! Night after night, manicured socialites and celebs would be on parade and I used to joke to my hubby that maybe they used magic to look so polished all the time. The idea was born! Oh, and we used to go cycling in the Centennial Parklands a lot on the weekend, which had a fairy-like feel – at least to my mind!

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?
I’ve just had a ‘90s time-warp novel accepted – another romantic comedy. A friend called it “Hot Tub Time Machine for girls”! I’m also working on a suspense-style one involving zodiacs and another that’s a rural romance in a coastal setting – featuring a ghost. Plus, I have a short story out with AlfieDog.com. It’s about young illustrator Frankie who accidentally discovers an ‘alter’ version of herself when she follows her wandering cat through a hedge hole. Her alter-ego seems to have the perfect life, including a big house and a gorgeous husband… but does she really?

Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?
Definitely Sophie Kinsella behind the Shopaholic series (and the resulting Confessions of a Shopaholic film starring Isla Fisher). I’m such a fan of her work – and am hanging out for her new book, Wedding Night! I think I’d be a tad terrified if I met her, though, and would clam up, not knowing what to say.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?
It will happen when the time is right. Just keep at it, enjoy it, learn from the critiques, keep polishing your work and learning – and join a writers’ group (or two) to hone your skills, keep you motivated and abreast of the industry.

Can you share with us something off your bucket list.
I’ve always wanted to (properly) learn Italian – that’s my family’s background. I know a few words here and there – and plenty of swear words – but I’d love to be fluent one day! It would definitely help when I’m travelling over there.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?
I’m looking forward to the new book from the very funny Lisa Walker, Sex, Lies and Bonsai, and Maggie Alderson’s latest, Everything Changes But You. Can’t wait!

Is there anything else you would like to add?
Please find me at www.carlacaruso.com.au, @CarlaCaruso79, and http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/6541142. And thanks kindly for your time!

Christelle is like any other 20-something living in Sydney, Australia – except for one huge secret. She enjoys cocktails with girlfriends, luxury brand launches, gossip and shopping. For an added touch of spice, there’s also the sizzling connection with her new boss, the gorgeous Jasper.

Then Christelle’s younger sister, the hapless and naïve Trixie Fifi Panache, arrives unannounced, and things begin to fall apart. Not only does Christelle have to deal with her sister’s exploits and embarrassing mistakes, but she also has to live with the fear that her escapades will reveal the truth: Christelle and Trixie are half fairy, half human, and hidden beneath their clothes are a pair of gorgeous wings. To make matters worse, Christelle has fallen for Jasper, but knows that taking the relationship any further threatens exposure. And no love could survive that, could it?

Cityglitter is a charming, magical romance that leaves in its wake a glitter of fairy dust. With inner-city fabulousness and sophistication, this fun celebration of love will add more than a touch of sparkle to your life.

 

 Buy Link

Christelle is like any other 20-something living in Sydney, Australia – except for one huge secret. She enjoys cocktails with girlfriends, luxury brand launches, gossip and shopping. For an added touch of spice, there’s also the sizzling connection with her new boss, the gorgeous Jasper.

Then Christelle’s younger sister, the hapless and naïve Trixie Fifi Panache, arrives unannounced, and things begin to fall apart. Not only does Christelle have to deal with her sister’s exploits and embarrassing mistakes, but she also has to live with the fear that her escapades will reveal the truth: Christelle and Trixie are half fairy, half human, and hidden beneath their clothes are a pair of gorgeous wings. To make matters worse, Christelle has fallen for Jasper, but knows that taking the relationship any further threatens exposure. And no love could survive that, could it?

Cityglitter is a charming, magical romance that leaves in its wake a glitter of fairy dust. With inner-city fabulousness and sophistication, this fun celebration of love will add more than a touch of sparkle to your life.

Excerpt:

I look back at Mr Butterscotch Eyes, who looks a little bemused. Perhaps it’s my seven-second delay to his greeting. I think fast.

‘Hello again!’ I gush, like we’re long-lost friends, not virtual strangers.

Without thinking, I stand up on tippy-toe, leaning forward, intending to air kiss his cheek. Somehow, like a paperclip drawn to a magnet, I’m pulled askew, my lips brushing his.

The effect on my body is like switching on an electrical grid, as every pore starts to buzz. His lips, so soft, moist, kissable; his musky scent, spinning a web around me; my body, pinging like a microwave with his strong physique mere centimetres away.

Suddenly, though, the sensual warmth, the heavenly breath, has been pried away and my lips are cold, bare. I flutter my eyelids open, honing in on his gaze, detecting a flicker of something in those liquid gold-like orbs before it dies.

He clears his throat, playing with a tortoiseshell cufflink. ‘That’s certainly not the kind of greeting I’m used to – especially from someone I barely know.’

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Interview & giveaway with Cindy Gerard

Books-n-Kisses is super excited to have Cindy Gerard on the blog today to chat about life, her new book KILLING TIME and a bonus to the One-Eyed Jacks series.

Cindy, can you please share with us a little about yourself 

As I’ve told other interviewers. I’m pretty boring and lead a fairly uneventful life.  I’m a home body.  Nothing makes me happier than being with family and friends.  I love the water and treasure our family trips to our cabin in northern Minnesota where I’m generally either on the water or on the dock or in the water every day.  I love to read but rarely have time for it any more .  Adore our 2 cats and our dog who usually keep me company in my office when I work and I’ve recently added a 90 gallon fresh water aquarium to my office for those times when I need some really zen moments LOL

Have you always wanted to be an author?

No.  I was a reader.  I love to read but one day the bug to write hit me and I’ve been going full steam ever since.

Can you share with us your typical writing day.  Is there anything you have to have while writing?

I write best in my office or our screened porch.  So winter finds me inside and at my desk around 8:00 every morning until after 5:00 every day.  Weekends too if a deadline is looming.  And if I’m on a crash deadline, I’ll work 16 – 17 hours a day for several weeks and live basically on chocolate and cheetos LOL to get the job done.

Most challenging or rewarding part of writing?

Always coming up with something fresh and exciting is the most challenging.  I feel I owe it to my readers to make each book as good as or better than the last one.  And I worry, all that time, that, for whatever reason, I won’t make that happen.

Can you please tell us about your latest book, KILLING TIME?

For the seven years after Operation Slam Dunk went south, Mike Brown got drunk on each anniversary. The eighth year was no different-until he was drugged by a woman and woke up to her questions about what had happened eight years ago in Afghanistan. CIA attorney Eva Salinas has her own theory behind what happened to Mike’s team-which included her husband-in Afghanistan eight years ago, and she’s determined to prove foul play. Though she doesn’t trust him, Mike is the only person she can turn to for help. Under an assumed name, Eva convinces Mike to assemble a new team and go after the traitor who screwed up both their lives. As they track down the rogue who started it all, Eva and Mike discover they can’t live without each other. But can they stay alive while an enemy is still on the loose?  KILLING TIME is a redemption story for both the hero and the heroine.  I had so much fun writing this book  While the subject matter is grave and of a serious nature, the by play between Mike and Eva had me grinning.  I hope everyone enjoys it.

Check out Kelly’s review of Killing Time HERE

How did you come with the idea for this story?

As always, it was a process. I thought I wanted Mike to have his own story when he showed up in WITH NO REMORSE, Book 6 of my Black Ops series.  When he wheedled his way into Book 7 – LAST MAN STANDING –  too, I knew he had to have a book.  So it was all about building a story around him.  He was so irreverent and funny … and, I suspected, wounded.  And boy, was he.

Can you share with us your current work in progress?

Gladly!  I had initially planned 2 more books in the series – RUNNING BLIND and TAKING FIRE.  I’ve since been given the opportunity to write a 4th book, one that will come out next December (just in time for Christmas!!) that’s a bonus book in the series.  I’m so excited about THE WAY HOME, which is what I’m working on now.  It’s a homecoming story featuring Tyler Brown (Mike’s brother) and is a little different book than I usually write.  Still romance, still suspense, still features our black ops warriors, but THE WAY HOME has a little something extra … something that  is leading me on  a very special journey as I write it.

 Who are some of your favorite authors?

That’s an impossible question to answer as I have so many, some in the romance genre, some not.  I cut my teeth on LaVryle Spencer and Sandra Brown and they remain among my favorites.

Do you feel that any of your favorite authors have inspired your writing style?

Absolutely.  I’ve read and reread many of my favorites so many times both for pleasure and to study how they did what they did so beautifully.

Open your book to a random page and tell us what’s happening.  KILLING TIME: Mike Brown (HERO) and Eva Salinas (Heroine) are racing away from a hotel where there had been an attempt to assassinate them and heading for the airport in Lima Peru to, hopefully out run the bad guys and catch a flight for the US where they hope they can figure out who is after them and why.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?  

I’m always waiting for the next Debra Webb FACES OF EVIL book!

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I really appreciate the invitation to visit today and hope everyone will give this book a try.  Of all the books I’ve written (almost 50) this might possibly be my personal favorite.  Of course, I say that (and mean it) every time I finish a book LOL

Killing Time

 (One Eyed Jacks #1)

Publisher:  Pocket Books
Publication date:  January 22, 2013

Amazon | B&N | Simon & Shuster

An exciting new series featuring Mike “Primetown” Brown, a character from her popular

“Black Ops, Inc.” series.

For the seven years after Operation Slam Dunk went south, Mike Brown got drunk on each anniversary. The eighth year was no different–until he was drugged by a woman and woke up to her questions about what had happened eight years ago in Afghanistan. CIA attorney Eva Salinas has her own theory behind what happened to Mike’s team–which included her husband–in Afghanistan eight years ago, and she’s determined to prove foul play. Though she doesn’t trust him, Mike is the only person she can turn to for help. Under an assumed name, Eva convinces Mike to assemble a new team and go after the traitor who screwed up both their lives. As they track down the rogue who started it all, Eva and Mike discover they can’t live without each other. But can they stay alive while an enemy is still on the loose?

Read an Excerpt

Giveaway Time: 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

 

Grand Prize: 

There is also a Grand Prize drawing of a $25.00 Gift Card (Amazon or B&N) and an autographed copy of KILLING TIME for one lucky winner that follows the tour and leaves a comment at every stop.

To enter the Grand Prize drawing CLICK HERE!

Want more chances to win?  
Check out the other stops on Cindy’s book tour here

KILLING TIME Blog Tour Schedule

 1/14 – Books-n-Kisses

1/15 –  Under the Covers

1/16 –  Just Romantic Suspense

1/17 –  United by Books

1/18  – Reading Between the Wines

1/19 –  – Book Monster Reviews / Literal Addiction

1/20 –  Book Lovin Mamas

1/21 – The Reading Café

1/22 – Cocktails and Books

1/23 – Romancing the Book

1/24 – Ramblings From This Chick

1/25 – Sizzling Hot Books

1/26 – Bookworm 2 Bookworm (Review)

1/27 – Bookworm 2 Bookworm (Interview)

1/28 – All Things Books

1/29 – RR@H Novel Thoughts

1/30 – Romance Crush Junkies

1/31 –  Pimpin’ Reads

2/01 –  The Book Nympho

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Interview & giveaway with Shona Husk

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Shona Husk to the blog today to talk about For the Love of a Goblin Warrior

Shona, can you please share with us a little about yourself?

SH: I was an avid reader before I was a writer. I love anything paranormal or otherworldly and I eat more chocolate than I should—which means I also have to do more exercise than I’d like.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

SH: I always wrote as a child, but it wasn’t until I was on maternity leave that I decided to pursue it as a career. While I still have a day job eventually I would like to make the switch to full time author.

Can you share with us your typical writing day.  Is there anything you have to have while writing?
SH: I do social media and answer emails in the morning. Then I either go to the day job or I write. In the afternoon and evening it’s family time, although once the kids are in bed I sometimes do some more writing. I don’t need anything special when I sit down to write—just something to write on 🙂

Most challenging or rewarding part of writing?
SH: The most challenging bit is any bit that isn’t working on the day. Sometimes a first draft can be a grind, other times it flows. Sometimes it’s a tricky edit that needs to ferment before being applied. The most rewarding part is seeing my stories in the hands of readers.
Can you please tell us about your latest book, For the Love of a Goblin Warrior?
SH: This is the last of the Shadowlands series. It’s a story of redemption and facing up to hard truths. But also healing for both the hero and heroine, and they are the perfect people to help each other because no one else knows goblins like they do.

How did you come with the idea for this story?
SH: Meryn’s story came out of the events of book one (The Goblin King). Once I knew one of the men had given into the curse I knew that at some point I was going to have to save him and see what he’d become.

 

Can you share with us your current work in progress?
SH: I’m working on book 2 in my new series about fairies. The first book is The Outcast Prince (July 2013). The series flits between the Court of Annwyn and our world and explores the way the two are intertwined through the power struggle for the throne of Annwyn and the heroes who are trying to prevent damage to both worlds.

Who are some of your favorite authors?
SH: Katherine Kerr; I grew up reading her Deverry series and I’ve been enjoying her UF series as well. Jim Butcher; I love the Dresden files, but I am behind on the series.

Do you feel that any of your favorite authors have inspired your writing style?
SH: I think growing up reading fantasy novels (and that was all I read for the longest time) certainly gave me a love for creating other worlds, and an appreciation for how complex they need to be to feel real.

Open your book to a random page and tell us what’s happening.
SH: P118. Meryn is dreaming he’s being chased by Goblins in the Shadowlands. He’s running towards a castle hoping to find sanctuary. What he finds is Nadine, the person he least expected to appear in his nightmares.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

SH: My TBR pile is massive. I’m looking forward to reading Shadowy Horses by Susanna Kearsley and Double Time by Olivia Cunning. I’m still working my way through the Dresden Files by Jim Butcher and I’ve also started the Iron Druid Chronicles by Kevin Hearne.

Is there anything else you would like to add?
SH: I had a lot of fun writing my cursed Celtic heroes, and while it’s kind of sad to say goodbye to them I think they really deserve their happily ever after 🙂

 

FOR THE LOVE OF A GOBLIN WARRIOR

BY SHONA HUSK
IN STORES JANUARY 2013

 

Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Books-a-Million | Chapters/Indigo | IndieBound |  Discover a New Love | Sourcebooks

In a Faraway Land…

There lived a man who was trapped—his only companions a horde of goblins consumed by their lust for gold. He thought he was lost forever, thought that no one would ever remember he’d been noble.

A Fearless Warrior…

Now he has been thrust into the human world once again, but so much has changed. How can he ever be rid of the darkness after so long in the Shadowlands?

It Starts with Dreams of a Castle…

And a woman who takes his breath away and makes him forget the pain of his past. He knows he must protect her at all costs. And perhaps in saving her, he can finally learn to love again.

 

Praise for The Goblin King:

“Steamy, sensual, and dangerous…Dark and delicious.” —Fresh Fiction

“Shona Husk put together an amazing story about loss, love, redemption, and discovery.” —Night Owl Reviews Top Pick

“A wonderfully dark and sensual fairy tale.” —Jessa Slade, author of Seduced by Shadows

 

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A civil designer by day and an author by night, Shona Husk lives in Western Australia at the edge of the Indian Ocean. Drawing on history, myth, and imagination, she writes about heroes who are armed and dangerous but have a heart of gold–sometimes literally. Look for the other books in the Shadowlands Series, The Goblin King and Kiss of the Goblin Prince, available now. In July 2013, Shona will begin another dark paranormal series with The Outcast Prince! For more information, please visit www.shonahusk.com.

 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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Interview with Hanna Martine

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Hanna Marine to the blog today to chat about her newest release A TASTE OF ICE.

Hanna, can you please share with us a little about yourself

Sure! Some random tidbits … I do not like practical jokes or pranks. I was on a competitive college dance team. I can’t stand mixing crunchy foods with soft (granola in yogurt and chocolate chips in ice cream are the worst offenders). I think Before Sunrise and Before Sunset are two of the most romantic movies ever made. I met my husband in a bar.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Always! I remember writing stories and plays in grade school–as early as third grade–and thinking that the only career that would ever make me happy would be a writer. I thought it would be so easy to accomplish. How little did I know! But the sweat and (literal) tears have been worth it.

What is your most interesting writing quirk?

Hmmm. I edit on paper and I have to use a really, really sharp pencil to do it. It’s labor intensive and takes a long time, but it’s the best way for me to really examine the structure of the story, to see where I’ve made all my changes, and to concentrate best on the prose.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

My newest book is A Taste of Ice, the second in my paranormal romance series, The Elementals. Xavier is the last of his race left on Earth. He wants nothing more than to fit into the human world, and to do that he has sworn off magic and women. Enter Cat, a gorgeous artist, who tests his resolve and ignites a desire he never thought he would feel. Only he suspects her of being a water elemental, the very race that held him in slavery before he escaped. Just when they begin to trust each other, a new threat emerges, one that hunts them both and puts their entire secret world at risk.

It’s an emotionally intense story that, at times, wrung me out while writing it. I’m very proud of it.

You can read more about it here (including the first two chapters): http://www.hannamartine.com/taste-of-ice.php

How did you come with the idea for this story?

The world of the Elementals is based on classic elemental magic (earth, air, fire, water), which has always fascinated me. I wanted to write about subversive cultures and hidden worlds mixed in with our own. With Xavier, I challenged myself to write a paranormal hero who wasn’t all muscled out and whose biggest battles were not fought with his fists. For A Taste of Ice, my goal was to heal a man who seemed impossible to reach. I love when opposites attract, find common ground, and lift each other up, so I knew I had to make Xavier’s true love wear the face of his former enemy.

For each Elementals novel, I switch locales and make the story self-contained. A Taste of Ice is set in a snowy mountain town during a big film festival. The setting (ice, snow, etc.) really helped push the plot into areas I might not have considered before.

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?

I am writing my first contemporary romance, Long Shot, which is set against the backdrop of the Scottish Highland Games in the mountains of New Hampshire. It releases October 2013 and I’m really excited about it! It’s about Jen, a big-time event planner in New York City who is called back to the New Hampshire town of her youth to save the local Highland Games. When she returns, she finds Leith, the boy she left ten years earlier to chase her dreams, is still there. A local hero and former athletic champion of the games (throwing giant stones and hammers and long tree trunks carved into cabers), he is finally leaving his hometown to start a new life elsewhere, until the love of his life suddenly reappears, begging him to compete again and kickstarting his heart.

I know I’m not supposed to play favorites with my fictional men, but Leith MacDougall might be up at the top of my list of heroes. It’s all about the kilt, baby.

Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?

This is actually a funny story. I did, sort of, meet my favorite author. I adore Jacqueline Carey–her Kushiel series pretty much changed my life–so when I learned she was going to be at WorldCon this past Labor Day (as was I), I got giddy. The day I was set to sign my first book, Liquid Lies, I was approaching the table where the previous signing authors were vacating their spots. Ms. Carey was getting up from her chair right in front of me. She looked right at me, smiled and said hi … and I just said hi back, ducked my head, and shuffled on. Completely starstruck. Completely humiliating. My one good chance and I squandered it. I can laugh about it now. Sort of.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?

Find amazing critique partners. This can take some time, but it is so, so worth it to find those precious few fellow writers who not only get you and what you want to do with your writing, but who aren’t petty, who genuinely want to help you, and who are smart as hell. It is important you learn how to take constructive criticism, how to step back and apply it to your writing, and not automatically get defensive.

Can you share with us something off your bucket list.

Go on an African safari! It just seems so incredibly exotic.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

I can’t believe I haven’t yet read Endgame, the final Sirantha Jax book, by Ann Aguirre. It downloaded on my Kindle the day it came out and I have yet to read it. I think I’m scared to finish the series. I don’t want it to end. I want to savor it.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I also dabble in erotic romance, and I have a short story out next week in the Cleis Press anthology Only You: Erotic Romance for Women.

Thank you so much for having me! I love hearing from readers.

Website | Facebook |  Twitter |   Goodreads

 


Amazon | B&N

There is an untapped world of magic that any man would covet… 

Five years ago, Xavier escaped from the Ofarian Plant. Today he calls a Colorado mountain town home. It’s there he buries himself in his work, swearing off magic and relationships—until a woman threatens every promise he’s made to himself.

Cat has always known she is different. Water speaks to her on an uncanny level, and she channels this gift into beautiful painted waterscapes. Now, a gallery is debuting her work in Colorado—and it’ll reveal far more about her than she imagined.

The spark between Cat and Xavier is enough to throw both of them off balance. Every tantalizing moment sends them dangerously close to a rising flood of desire. Dangerous because Xavier comes to suspect that Cat is an Ofarian—his people’s enemy. But they’re both about to discover a far greater, more malicious power at play.

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Interview & Giveaway with Carly Phillips

Books-n-Kisses is super excited to have first time guest Carly Phillips on the blog today…  We are chatting about life, her new book PERFECT FIT and page 89!!!!

Carly, can you please share with us a little about yourself

I’m a stay at home mom who used to be a lawyer, who turned into a romance writer and never looked back! I have 2 daughters, age (almost) 21 and 16, a husband, and two dogs (Wheaten Terrier and Havanese).  I love love love to read, I’m always online, I occasionally knit, and enjoy shopping and being with close friends!

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Not always.  I was a lawyer for a (short) time, and always a huge reader.  Once I found the Romance genre as a reader, I knew what was missing from my life, somehow I decided to try my hand at writing, and from that day forward, I KNEW that was what I was meant to do! Looking back, I did make up stories in my head when I was younger, so the tendencies were there all along.  I just didn’t know it!

Can you share with us your typical writing day.  Is there anything you have to have while writing?

I wake up at 6 and my youngest leaves for high school at 7.  I try to get on the treadmill for 30 minutes, then shower and sit down to write … errands after 11/11:30, a boring lunch at home, usually peanut butter and jelly on whole wheat, unless I go out with a friend for lunch, then home to try and write some more.  My schedule has been really messed up lately because my dad passed away and I’m having trouble getting my mind back on work.  But my daughter drives now, so I don’t have to run around for school pickup, so dinner, and hanging out w/my husband …we watch TV, DVR’s of shows we missed, then when he falls asleep I like to hang out with my daughter for a little before she goes to bed.  I need to be asleep between 10 and 11 or I’m nasty the next day.  All that’s an ideal schedule for me but like I said, life can get in the way and all bets are off.  I’m looking to find my routine and mojo again.

I’m usually on the computer all the time, so always working in one way or another!    I love my Macbook Air and I really can only write on that but luckily that means I can work anywhere!

Most challenging or rewarding part of writing?

When a story clicks and I finally nail something I’ve been struggling with, then all the angst is worth it! That’s really rewarding.  The most challenging for me is usually the first half of the book.  I find getting all the elements together the hardest.

Can you please tell us about your latest book?

Perfect Fit is a part of the town of Serendipity.  It’s the first book where you meet Mike, but you’ve met his brother Sam in Karma, along with Mike’s heroine, Cara Hartley.  Cara spoke to me and needed a hero.  In Perfect Fit, you’re introduced to the entire Marsden Clan, the “cops of Serendipity” hence the subtitle Serendipity’s Finest.  Mike feels like the odd man in his family, the only one who doesn’t fit in because he’s been adopted by the man who raised him and never felt good enough because his own dad abandoned him.  Despite his feelings, he’s close with his parents and siblings and though he left home to make his own way as a cop, he returns when his adoptive father needs him, never expecting to stay long.  But Mike didn’t count on Cara.  She’s a Serendipity cop with whom he had a one night stand, and she’s his brother’s best friend. She’s also a small town girl and Mike’s a wanderer, or so he thinks.  But when they can’t ignore the sexual tension between them, they figure an affair is the answer – until an unexpected emotional connection continues to grow.  Then Mike’s real father’s secrets come back to haunt him and he has to confront who he really is – and wants to be – or lose Cara for good.

How did you come with the idea for this story?

Luckily for me, readers really seemed to like the town of Serendipity, where I set the first three books about the Barron Brothers in Serendipity, Destiny and Karma, so I got to write Mike and Cara’s story! Next we’ll get Mike and Sam’s sister Erin in Perfect Fling (8/2013) and then Sam himself in Perfect Together (2/2014).

Can you share with us your current work in progress?

I’m currently writing Perfect Fling, which is the story of Erin Marsden and her hero, Cole Sanders.  There’s an excerpt in the back of Perfect Fit for this story which is out in August 2013 and I can say it’s another one night stand, this one with far reaching consequences!  Then I write Perfect Together, Sam’s story.  After that, we’ll see! I’m as curious as you 🙂

Who are some of your favorite authors?

My current fav author is Kristen Ashley – I’ve read everything she’s written and would devour anything she writes in the future!  I also have my staple authors, my plotmonkey partners – Janelle Denison, Leslie Kelly, Julie Leto.  And I’ve been on an erotic romance kick – so Raine Miller and Cheri Lynn.

Do you feel that any of your favorite authors have inspired your writing style? 

Wow. Good question! “Growing up” I really aspired to write along the lines of authors I admired in the contemporary romance genre.  These days, I think I’ve found my voice and do what I do – however I do find my heroes like to be a little more dominating lately … could be my reading influencing things? J

Open your book to a random page and tell us what’s happening.

I opened to page 89 –

Cara was coming out of her skin, every exposed body part needing something more.  But the further she writhed beneath him, the harder he held her down in one place, pressing into her with his taut, hard body.  The man did like his control, she thought, twisting her hips against him in search of relief.

Ummm … I think the passage speaks for itself 🙂

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

Hmmmm …. I have to say you stumped me.  I’m currently not finding much to read, waiting (im)patiently for something I’ve preordered and probably forgotten to pop onto my iPad Kindle app! LOL.  I have a bad memory J  But on Saturdays on my Facebook Fan Page, I ask people what they’re reading and we share books – I can get upwards of 200 ideas that way! So I urge people who love to read romance to join us there! www.facebook.com/carlyphillipsfanpage

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Thank you for having me! I really enjoyed your questions!

 

A little about Carly:

Carly Phillips has written over 35 romance novels with contemporary characters and small town settings that today’s readers identify with and enjoy.  She’s currently focused on the New York Times bestselling Serendipity series set in the small fictional town in upstate, New York.  Carly is a writer, a knitter of sorts, a wife, and a mom to two daughters (16 and 20!) and two crazy dogs (a 1 year old Havanese named Brady and a 5 year old wheaten terrier named Bailey).  In addition, she’s a Twitter, Facebook and Internet junkie and is always around to interact with her readers.   Carly lives in Purchase, New York and would love for you to like and follow her on the web.

Where to find Carly:

Carly’s Website |  Carly on Twitter |  Carly on Facebook 

 

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Interview & Giveaway with Stacey Kennedy

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to have our pal Stacey Kennedy on the blog today to chat about her newest release The Cat’s Meow.  

Stacey, can you please share with us a little about yourself.

I live in Southwestern Ontario with my husband who gave me my happily ever after. We have two small children who keep me on my toes and can always make me smile. But we also have basically a zoo at our house with one dog and three cats. I love the outdoors, camping, curling up with the latest flick, and Sons of Anarchy, Games of Thrones, Supernatural and Dexter.

My urban fantasy romance novels are lighthearted fantasy with heart squeezing, thigh-clenching romance, and even give a good chuckle every now and again. But within the stories you’ll find fast paced action, emotions we can all relate to, life threatening moments and a big bad villain that needs to be destroyed.

My erotic romance novels are just that…erotic. There is nothing better than taking the dominant men I love and watching them do wicked things to their women. I make the stories as hot as I possibly can and usually the characters take it a step further to even make my cheeks blush. But I just can’t write without a little humor added into the mix so that’s always a must have in my stories. And of course, what’s a story without a big dose of emotional characters, too.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

Nope. My journey as a writer all began as a way to keep my brain alive since being a stay at home mom can be a little let’s say―numbing. It was an escape from screaming kids, dirty diapers and plain old mom duty.  It started as a hobby, but as the stories progressed it became a passion, especially when it comes down to the juicy bits. Every mom needs a good thrill!

Who are some of your favorite writers? Who do you feel has influenced your writing?

I adore Katie MacAlister’s dragon series and Sylvia Day’s Crossfire novels. I love Jennifer L. Armentrout’s Lux series. Jeaniene Frost is an auto-buy for me and I adore the Night Huntress world, especially Vlad. But Keri Arthur is, by far, my favorite author and who inspires me the most. I love everything about her books; the mystery, the sexual tension and the fantasy elements. Her Riley Jenson Guardian novels were the books that made me fall in love with the genre. Now, I’m totally obsessed with her Dark Angels novels and just can’t get enough!

How did you get into writing in this specific genre?  Have you ever thought about writing in a different genre?

I write in the urban fantasy romance genre, because I adore it. It’s my favorite genre to read and I honestly have a total blast writing it. I’m totally one of those authors who write because I have fun doing it. All of my books are written for my own personal enjoyment and it just makes me so happy that other people enjoy them, too.

The other genre I write in is BDSM erotic romance. What can I say, I have a thing for the Alpha male!  I wouldn’t even attempt to write in any other genre…right now. Who knows what will happen down the road and if my interests will change, but right now, these genres are my addiction.

What are some of your writing rituals?

Coffee. That’s it, that’s all. I always need either a plain old coffee, or a yummy treat from Starbucks, before I can even think of writing a word. Once I have a coffee, I’m ready to get those words written.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

My newest release is The Cat’s Meow. It’s an urban fantasy romance, which means it has a mystery at the core of the book and lots of those fun twists and turns. Of course, I need a little romance in there, too.

Here’s a peek at it:

Libby is an Enchantress—a witch gifted by the Goddess to conjure spells. When a magical presence is detected around a recent string of feline slayings, Libby takes the case to uncover the reasons behind the odd deaths. Much to her displeasure, the coven also sends a sexy warlock, Kale, to assist her.

While having the muscle around proves to be useful, fighting the attraction between them is worse than a hex, especially considering Kale is keeping secrets. But soon, Libby has bigger problems than the elusive warlock when her spells turn up clues that point to something far more sinister than slaughtered cats.

Now Libby has landed herself in the midst of an uprising. She trusts no one and isn’t safe—not from the warlocks stirring up trouble. Not from the worrisome rebellion she can’t escape. And certainly not from Kale, who is weaving a very dangerous spell over her heart.

Check out BnK’s review of The Cat’s Meow HERE

How did you come with the idea for this story?

Libby came to me first. To be honest, I thought the idea of having a witch, who uses magical spells and hunts the bad guys would just be a really fun book to write. And I was right—I had a total blast writing Libby and Kale.

After I figured Libby out, Kale came to me…and then he took over! The plot, all the little twists to the story, just fell into place after Kale’s first appearance in the book.

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?

I have an insanely busy schedule over the next few months. I’m nearly finished the third book in The Pact of Seduction series (Loose Id). Once I get that off to my editor, I plan to write the second book in Witch’s Brew series (Entangled), then I’ll get down to starting the second book in the Club Sin series (Random House/Loveswept). So, yes, busy times ahead, but oh so fun!

Open your book to a random page and tell us what’s happening.

 

“Why do you keep looking at me like…that?”

His eyebrow arched. “Like what?”

“All curious like.”

He smiled. “Because I am curious why we are walking around a cemetery with a dead cat in your hand.”

Libby has been hurt…and hurt badly, this leaves her very cautious and judgmental. In this part of the book, Libby begins to realize that Kale isn’t who he says he is and she’s trying to figure out his game. Only problem? He’s very good at keeping secrets!

What would you be if you were not an author?

I would continue to do the other job I love, being a stay-at-home-mom, who would likely read a lot. Maybe I’d even be a book blogger, since when it comes right down to it, I simply love books.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

Right now, I have Keri Arthur’s, Darkness Hunts and Beneath a Rising Moon, and Jennifer L. Armentrout’s, Opal.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

As always, a big thank you to all my readers—you guys always know how to make a girl feel good! And thank you to Books-n-Kisses for letting me spend some time with you all today!

 

THE CAT’S MEOW

Entangled Publishing  |  Amazon  |   B&N  |   Books on Board  |  iTunes

 EXCERPT LINK: http://www.staceykennedy.com/the-cats-meow/

 

BIO:

Stacey Kennedy’s novels are lighthearted fantasy with heart-squeezing, thigh-clenching romance, and even give a good chuckle every now and again. But within the stories you’ll also find fast-paced action, life-threatening moments, and a big bad villain who needs to be destroyed. She lives in Southwestern Ontario with her husband and two children. If she’s not plugging away at a new story—which is rare because her muse is annoying—you’ll find her camping, curling up with the latest flick, or obsessing over Sons of Anarchy, Games of Thrones, Supernatural and Dexter.

Stacey welcomes comments from readers. You can find her at:

Website | Blog | Facebook  |  Facebook Fan Page |  Twitter  |  Goodreads  | Amazon Author Page

Want to see more of Stacey?
Check out her book tour HERE

 

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Interview with Destiny Wallace

 

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Destiny Wallace to the blog today.

Destiny, can you please share with us a little about yourself?

I grew up in North Carolina.  As an only child, I spent a lot of time in my imagination.  I learned to read when I was four and never stopped.  I wrote my first story when I was in the first grade.  It was about my classmate, his lost textbook, and how I helped him find it.  That story was put in the writing folder that followed me through school.  I got it back when I graduated from high school and every now and then, I pull that story out, read it, and I resolve that seven-year-old me should definitely grow up to be a writer.

I spent four years in the Air Force where I met my husband.  We have two children.  We’ve lived in Florida for the past eight years. In addition to my job, I do volunteer work, I help at my kids’ school, and I love to cook.

Have you always wanted to be an author?

I have wanted to write since I was in Elementary school.  I wrote stories and drew comic strips all through high school.  I even helped my friend write a comic book starring me as one of the heroes.

What is your most interesting writing quirk?

I have at least ten stories started at any given time.  I start them, get as far as I can, then leave them until I get another dose of inspiration.  Then, I return to the story.  Sometimes it take weeks for me to finish a story, sometimes it takes years.

Can you please tell us about your latest book(s)?

My latest releases:

Believe: A Halloween Anthology: This is a collection of stories about four women and the ways they found love with the help of some supernatural beings and abilities.

House Sitting:  The story centers on recent college graduate, Leah moves back home, but gets a job house sitting for the summer.  She jumps at the chance to live alone for the first time ever and work on jump-starting her adult life.  Then she meets Jaysen, the boy next door, and struggles not to fall for him.

Joy’s Christmas:  Joy thinks her Christmas is ruined after she storms out on her family and finds herself in a rundown motel for the holiday.  Then, she meets Eli and her holiday gets much, much better.

How did you come with the idea for this story?

Believe: A Halloween Anthology:  Halloween is one of my favorite holidays.  For the first story, I was inspired by the idea of a haunted Halloween costume.  The sequels include a haunted diary, a very bothered medium, and a woman in need of something or someone to pull her out of the guilt and grief caused by the death of her older sister.  Each heroine is connected to the one from the previous story, as are their male counterparts.

House Sitting: I dreamt about Jaysen and Leah.  It was one scene: the two of them were making out in a lavish kitchen.  There was a large pool visible through the window behind them.  A sweet, little old lady walked in.  They jumped apart, guilt written all over their faces.  The old lady smiled at them, said a few reassuring words, and walked out of the kitchen.

The dream was so vivid, when I woke up the next morning, I knew I had to figure out who they were and write about them.

Joy’s Christmas:  This story is very loosely based on actual events!  When my family was on Christmas vacation in New Jersey, we were thrown into the same situation as Joy…not with the same results, of course.

Can you share with us your current work(s) in progress?

I am currently working on Joy’s New Year.  It is a sequel to Joy’s Christmas and a prequel to Joy’s Valentine.

Who is the one author that you would love to meet someday and why?

I would love to meet Mary Janice Davidson.  I was on vacation in England in 2006 and picked up Undead and Unwed at a book store.  They were having a buy 2, get 1 free sale, so I bought the next two in the series.  I told my husband I would have them to read on the flights home in 3 days.  I was done with all 3 books before we even left for the airport!  Then, when we got back to the States, I went to the nearest bookstore to buy the next book!

Her Undead series inspired me to realize my dream of being a published author.

What is the best piece of advice you would give to someone that wants to get into writing?

Just do it.  I spent too much time doubting myself and questioning whether or not anyone would be interested in my work.  It took a lot of encouragement for me to submit my work to publishers, but after I did, I wish I’d done it earlier.

Can you share with us something off your bucket list.

I want to travel the world, but I have always wanted to visit Australia specifically.

What is in your To Read Pile that you are dying to start or upcoming release you can’t wait for?

My To-Be-Read-Pile is enormous.  However, I am excited for the next book in  Charlaine Harris’ Southern Vampire series (aka Sookie Stackhouse aka True Blood).  I am also intent on reading all the Jane Austen Heroes books by Amanda Grange.  I only have Colonel Brandon’s Diary and Henry Tilney’s Diary left to read…until she writes another.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I would just like to say that I am grateful to everyone who buys my books!  I love writing and knowing that people enjoy my work is priceless.  Thanks especially to everyone who takes the time contact me.

Facebook:  https://m.facebook.com/destiny.wallace.940?refid=70

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/11140344-destiny

Twitter:  @destinycallzu