Kelly reviews Three Reckless Wishes by Lila DiPasqua

TITLE: Three Reckless Wishes
SERIES #: Fiery Tales #10
CHARACTERS: Luc de Moutier & Isabelle Laurent
AUTHOR: Lila DiPasqua
PUBLICATION DATE: October 10, 2018
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Inspired by Charles Perrault’s classic fairy tale, “Three Wishes”, the erotically charged finale in the acclaimed Fiery Tales Series…
Luc de Moutier, Marquis of Fontenay, is haunted by the writings of a dead woman. He is the subject of her romantic interest. Obsessed with her journals, he can’t stop thinking about the sweetly sensual words of the late Isabelle Laurent. Though he’d never noticed her watching him from afar, he now compares every woman to the innocent enchantress who invades his thoughts and most erotic dreams…
The old Isabelle is dead. Sought after by the most powerful men in the realm, Isabelle has her choice of wealthy lovers. Her only goals are to provide for her young son, and to maintain the ruse of her demise. Three reckless wishes led her down the path she now walks. And there is no turning back. Only in her anonymously published books and with her son does she let down her guard. Charming and witty, she dons her social mask each day, her performance flawless until the very man of her long-held private fantasies walks into her life—and shakes the foundations of her carefully crafted world.
When Luc meets the beautiful courtesan, she captures his fascination and ignites an untamable hunger. He’s determined to know the woman behind the façade. To deliciously decimate her defenses, show her true passion and the pleasure of complete abandon and surrender. Soon he discovers books written in a style all too familiar to him…and that the past and dark secrets can’t stay hidden forever.
Warning: The book is a full length historical, with a carnally-gifted hero, and the woman he can’t get enough of

REVIEW:
Isabelle Laurent only goals are to keep her son and her secret safe. With that she has transformed herself into Courtesan Juliette Carre. Juliette will never let anyone take advantage her they way they did of Isabelle.

Luc de Moutier has finally regained his place in society by getting his money back, his title back and his reputation back. But there is one thing missing from his life. But it is something out of reach because the thing he desires has passed on.
I enjoyed Isabelle and Luc’s. They are so perfect for each other. It is a little sad that it took so long for them to finally find their happy ending but so worth the journey!
Another wonderful story from Ms. DiPasqua! Sadly this looks like the end of the Fiery Tales Series! This has been such a wonder series filled with wonderful stories of love, loss and redemption.

I can’t wait to see what Ms. DiPasqua has store for us in her next series.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Lila DiPasqua in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

January 3, 2017January 1, 2017

Kelly reviews The Lovely Duckling by Lila DiPasqua

TITLE: The Lovely Duckling
SERIES #: Fiery Tales #8
CHARACTERS: Joseph d’Alumbert & Emilie de Sarron
AUTHOR: Lila DiPasqua
PUBLICATION DATE: December 9, 2016
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Inspired by the tale of The Ugly Duckling, a hot historical romance novella from the acclaimed Fiery Tales series.

Reputed for his carnal skills, notorious rake, Joseph d’Alumbert, prefers amorous encounters without any sort of emotional entanglement—until a most unique 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, sensuous kiss at a time, to reveal the beautiful swan inside…

***Can be enjoyed as a stand-alone.

Originally published in THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED anthology.

REVIEW:
As always Ms. DiPasqua does a wonderful job of taking a fairytale that we all know & love and turning & twisting into a Fiery Tale!! I enjoyed this story of Joseph and Emilie. It was so sweet to see the lengths that Joseph went to for Emilie. I would have like to see Emilie make Joseph grovel just a tad bit more. But this was still a great story. And always I love the history lesson that Lila gives us with each book.

The Ugly Duckling can easily be read as a stand alone, but you should check out all of the other Fiery Tale stories.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Lila DiPasqua in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

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October 18, 2016October 17, 2016

Kelly reviews The Marquis New Clothes by Lila DiPasqua

TITLE: The Marquis New Clothes (Originally published in THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED anthology.)
SERIES #: Fiery Tales #7
CHARACTERS: Adam de Vay, Marquis de Nattes & Amiee De Miran
AUTHOR: Lila DiPasqua
PUBLICATION DATE: October 14, 2016
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Inspired by the tale of The Emperor’s New Clothes, an erotically charged historical romance novella from the acclaimed Fiery Tales series that would have made Hans Christian Andersen blush.

There is a certain gorgeous lord who is quite difficult to resist…

To save her cousin, Aimee de Miran must retrieve a jeweled ring from the most sinfully seductive man at court, the unsuspecting Marquis de Nattes. But to search his considerable wardrobe she’ll have to get very close to the notorious rake…and remain immune to his intoxicating charm.

But without his clothes—well, that’s simply impossible.

Adam de Vey, Marquis de Nattes, has secretly burned for his best friend’s wife for years. Now that Aimee is a widow, now that he’s discovered her in his bedchambers, he intends to get very close to her indeed—with his clothes—and hers—utterly forgotten…

***Originally published in THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED anthology.

REVIEW:
Another wonderful Fiery Tale story!! I always enjoy picking up one of Ms. Pasqua’s stories. Not only do we get a wonderfully written love story but we get a history lesson too.
Aimee has had her share of heartache over the years. Dealing with a cheating husband. Then said cheating husband is killed in a dual. Now Aimee has gone to save her cousin. But saving her cousin means she will have to face one of her late husband’s best friends.
Adam is pleased to learn the lovely Aimee de Miran is going to be at the King’s court for an extend stay. This is his chance to finally get her out of his system. But first he has to figure out how to get her into bed.
I really enjoyed Adam & Aimee’s story. Both have been looking for something for so long. Neither were totally prepared to find that something in each other.
I can’t wait to see what Ms. Pasqua has in story for us next in the Fiery Tales series.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Lila DiPasqua in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

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July 7, 2016July 4, 2016

Kelly reviews Bewitching In Boots by Lila DiPasqua

TITLE: Bewitching in Boots
SERIES #: Fiery Tales #6
CHARACTERS: Tristan de Tiersonnier & Elisabeth de Roussel
AUTHOR: Lila DiPasqua
PUBLICATION DATE: June 21, 2016
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:

**NOTE: Originally published in the AWAKENED BY A KISS anthology.

Inspired by the tale of Puss in Boots—an erotically charged historical romance novella from the acclaimed Fiery Tales series.

Elisabeth de Roussel, daughter of the King, is accustomed to getting what she wants–and she wants gorgeous Tristan de Tiersonnier, Count of Saint-Marcel, the 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.

REVIEW:
As always Ms. Di Pasqua writes an amazing story that draws you in and make you fall in love with her stories while giving you a history lesson all at the same time. If you have not read any of the other Fiery Tales don’t worry Bewitching in Boots (while connected to Little Red Writing) can easily be read as a stand alone.
Tristan the ex-commander of the Musketeers and has sequestered himself off in his home and is broody about all he has lost. Elisabeth is a woman determined to get what she wants no matter what she has to do. What does she want you ask? She wants Tristan to be reinstated as commander of the Musketeers. Oh and she wants him in her bed.
Tristan and Elisabeth were really fun to read. It was great fun to watch these two dance around each other and try to avoid what they both want. Can’t wait for the next installment in this series.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Lila DiPasqua in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

June 24, 2016June 23, 2016

Spotlight feature of Lila DiPasqua’s Bewitching in Boots + a giveaway

Bewitching in Boots

Fiery Tales #6

by Lila DiPasqua

Amazon | B&N

**NOTE: Originally published in the AWAKENED BY A KISS anthology.

Inspired by the tale of Puss in Boots—an erotically charged historical romance novella from the acclaimed Fiery Tales series.

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.

REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Kelly

NUMBER OF HEARTS: 4

As always Ms. Di Pasqua writes an amazing story that draws you in and make you fall in love with her stories while giving you a history lesson all at the same time. If you have not read any of the other Fiery Tales don’t worry Bewitching in Boots (while connected to Little Red Writing) can easily be read as a stand alone.

Tristan the ex-commander of the Musketeers and has sequestered himself off in his home and is broody about all he has lost. Elisabeth is a woman determined to get what she wants no matter what she has to do. What does she want you ask? She wants Tristan to be reinstated as commander of the Musketeers. Oh and she wants him in her bed.

Tristan and Elisabeth were really fun to read. It was great fun to watch these two dance around each other and try to avoid what they both want. Can’t wait for the next installment in this series.

Disclaimer:

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Lila DiPasqua in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

Giveaway Time

Lila is giving away 2 signed copies of LITTLE RED WRITING.

To enter please leave a comment of question for Lila.

April 6, 2016April 2, 2016

Kelly reviews Little Red Writing by Lila DiPasqua

TITLE: Little Red Writing
SERIES #: Fiery Tales #6
CHARACTERS: Nicolas de Savignac & Anne
AUTHOR: Lila DiPasqua
PUBLICATION DATE: April 4, 2016
ORDER LINKS: Amazon
BOOK SYNOPSIS:
**NOTE: Originally published in the AWAKENED BY A KISS anthology.

Inspired by the tale of Little Red Riding Hood—an erotically charged historical romance novella from the acclaimed Fiery Tales series.

Nicolas de Savignac, Count of Lambelle, is on a mission. A member of the King’s elite private Guard, Nicolas has been assigned by the Crown 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 ignite an untamable desire…

WARNING: This tale may scandalize you. Keep the smelling salts nearby.

**Can be enjoyed as a standalone story.

REVIEW:
4.75 Hearts Another great Fiery Tale story by Ms. DiPasqua. I love Ms. DiPasqua’s ability to take a story that we all know and love and twist it, turn it and turn up the heat. I really enjoyed Nicolas and Anne’s story. I loved that the Wolf in this story is fierce, determined and will do anything to complete his mission. Red is equally as fierce, yet she is witty, kind and able to out fox the Wolf.
I don’t want to tell too much or give too much away. But if you like your stories hawt, you hero hotter and your heroines strong and brave you need to pick up this story and find out why they are called Fiery Tales.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley & Lila DiPasqua in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

February 26, 2016February 20, 2016

Kelly reviews A Midnight Dance by Lila DiPasqua

TITLE: A Midnight Dance
SERIES #: Fiery Tales #3
CHARACTERS: Jules deMoutier & Sabine Laurent
AUTHOR: Lila DiPasqua
PUBLICATION DATE: August 2, 2011
ORDER LINKS: Amazon

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Inspired by the tale of Cinderella, Lila DiPasqua weaves a steamy historical romance that offers a glass slipper, a dangerous deception, and an impoverished beauty determined to find her handsome prince…and make him pay.

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

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

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

REVIEW:
In A Midnight Dance we meet Sabine Laurent, who is in dire straits. Sabine is a woman on a mission to save her family. But in order to do that she must be willing to make the ultimate sacrifice in order to gain the trust of those she plans to deceive. But as with all good plans not all goes right. The last person Sabine ever expected to find in this camp is the one man she blames for the fall of her family. Jules deMoutier.

Jules deMoutier has been stripped of everything, his money, his title, and his pride. But after 5 long years he is so close to getting everything back. Back to the way his life should be. But Jules never planned for one small blond woman to come into his camp and steal his treasure out from under his nose.

Sabine is a great heroine. She is smart, funny, determined and really doesn’t take people’s crap very well. Her only weakness seems to be her heart. Sabine cares too much sometimes.
Jules, aahhh, sweet, handsome, suborn, wouldn’t know when a woman is lying to him Jules.. Jules is HOT… He his Dream…. He really is a prince charming under all that holier than thou attitude.
OH, Lila is wicked good. There was not one moment that I didn’t love this story. Lila doesn’t wait very long for there to be a very hot forest sex scene *wiggle eyebrows* Lila does a great job of taking the Cinderella story and telling it in a way I would have never thought about. This is truly a riches to rags to riches story.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley & Lila DiPasqua in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

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December 18, 2015December 14, 2015

Kelly reviews Sleeping Beau by Lila DiPasqua

TITLE: Sleeping Beau
SERIES #: Fiery Tales #4
CHARACTERS: Adrien d’Aspe & Catherine de Villecourt
AUTHOR: Lila DiPasqua
PUBLICATION DATE: Release December 14, 2015
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N-Coming soon

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Inspired by the tale of Sleeping Beauty—an erotically charged historical romance novella from the acclaimed Fiery Tales series. One sleeping rake, one scorching kiss, one night of unforgettable passion…

Five years ago, the 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…

**NOTE: Originally published in the AWAKENED BY A KISS anthology.

REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts
***Sleeping Beau is the re-release of Awakened by A Kiss***

Sleeping Beau was a sweet twist on Sleeping Beauty!! Ms. DiPasqua always does an amazing job of taking a classic fairy tale and turns and twists it into a Fiery Tale with a great historical twist and a little bit of truth.
I really loved the journey of Adrien & Catherine. Adrien is out to prove to everyone that he needs and cares about no one. Catherine on the other hand only want someone to love her. Adrien and Catherine’s banter is a lot of fun. Adrien is not a man who is use to woman turning him down, but Catherine does everything in her power to resist him. But unfortunately for Catherine and fortunately for Adrien resists is futile.
If you are looking for a fun Fiery Tale about a rakish bad boy and a sweet, feisty female you need to pick up a copy of Sleeping Beau and find out why waking up to true loves morning kiss is the only way to go.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

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September 26, 2014September 26, 2014

Writer’s Tips & Tricks Day 20: Sex scenes….by Lila DiPasqua

Sex scenes….Key elements to writing a love scene that readers won’t want to skip by Lila DiPasqua

Let’s face it—writing a sex scene isn’t easy.

First, you’ve got to forget about what your friends, family, or neighbors are going to think. There’s no way you can even begin to write a solid sex scene if you’re censoring yourself out of fear of what people may say.

A love scene between your protagonists doesn’t mean you’re giving people a peek into your own bedroom window. You’ve created a work of fiction with sympathetic characters, their world, and a gripping plot. Your main characters are behaving in a way that’s in keeping with your storyline and their personalities.

And writing a sex scene that your readers will love and won’t skip is all you need to worry about. 😉

A MOTH TO A FLAME…The irresistible buildup!

You know how the saying goes, “Like a moth to a flame.” The moth is irresistibly attracted to the flame. It knows the flame is dangerous. Get too close and you could be burned. But oh, my God…There’s just no resisting that alluring heat. 😉 You want your characters to be anxious for that love scene to happen! You want to build anticipation. The most erotic part of the body to stroke is the brain. In building the anticipation in the minds of your characters, you build the anticipation for the reader, too.

They’ll want to read that upcoming love scene!

So, how do you go about building anticipation? Through sexual tension.

Even if your protagonists are going to have sex the first night they meet, you still need a buildup of sexual tension. Sexual tension is created by the characters having a strong awareness of each other. That means, when you’re in a character’s Point Of View (POV), go deep.

For instance, if we’re in the hero’s POV and he sees the heroine for the first time as she walks into the boardroom, describing how good she looks in her business attire isn’t going to cut it. Go deeper. Show the reader that he’s not only aware of her, but also what it does to him having her in that boardroom. She’s pure distraction. And she’s wreaking havoc on his concentration, and his body. There are natural physical reactions that occur in the body when we zero in on someone whom we have a physical attraction to.

Describe for the reader those very same reactions happening in your characters.

And, with every interaction between your protagonists, that sexual tension must heighten. More awareness. And more physical reactions.

You’ll have everyone anxious for that love scene to happen!

ADVANCING THE PLOT: It’s not just sex! Sex moves the story forward!

So, now that you have everyone breathless with anticipation, and your characters are in the bedroom, ready to begin….What makes one love scene sizzle? While another falls flat?

The answer: A generic sex scene.

It’s the kiss of death.

Believe it or not, no sex scene should be just about sex acts and sexual positions. Though you can make the scene as titillating as you like, the love scene must have a purpose and that purpose is the same as for any other scene in your book—to move the story forward.

Either it advances the plot. Or it contributes to the character arc (growth) of one or more of the protagonists. Or it ratchets up the conflict in the story. (Or all of the above). If all you’re doing is describing the sex act in the scene—right hand here, left hand there—you’ve got a gratuitous scene. And chances are you’ve written a generic sex scene.

Here’s the test: if you can swap out the names of your main characters and insert any other names of, say, the characters of your favorite romance novel, and the love scene still works—that’s a generic love scene.

Each and every love scene you write should be unique to that story and those characters. And it must move the story forward. Or you should skip writing it.

Your readers may very well skip reading it. So, keep it interesting! Hold your readers’ attention by making the love scene multi-faceted—where far more than sex is going on!

DIALOGUE: No silent protagonists, please!

Yup, they should talk during a sex scene. Not about the weather. But there should be relevant dialogue—relevant to the characters’ personalities, the plot, and the stage in the story they’re in.

You have many scenes in your book full of dialogue. You’ve worked hard to create your protagonists’ personalities. So, don’t let their personalities fall away with their clothes. I’m a big fan of bedroom talk. I think it’s very sexy. But you don’t have to write a ton of sex talk. Just make sure that your protagonists’ personalities still come through, even during intimacy. Do you have a funny hero? That should come through in the dialogue during sex, too. Does your heroine have some kind of quirk or habit? Yup, that should be present there, as well.

Maintain your characters’ character even during sex. And dialogue always makes any scene more interesting.

THE ROUND UP!

Sensations, sensations, sensations. Did I mention sensations? 🙂 Don’t miss a single opportunity to describe the sensations your characters are feeling during sex. That means every brush of the lips, every graze of the hand, every…er…well, nuff said.

Each time your characters have sex, they should grow a little more vulnerable to each other. Soft feelings should strengthen each time and become more and more intermixed with raw desire. Use your sex scene to show how these characters feel about each other. If you’ve done it right, your love scene has relevance. It’s unique to the story. And meaningful. It won’t feel like any other sex scene others have written. And readers won’t skip your much-anticipated love scene. Not when those engaging story developments are occurring that they just don’t want to miss. 🙂

*****

Let’s take a look at Lila’s

The Duke’s Match Girl – A Fiery Tale Novella

Fiery Tales #4.5

From bestselling author Lila DiPasqua comes a scorching new historical romance novella in the acclaimed Fiery Tales series! An emotional, erotically charged retelling of Hans Christian Andersen’s The Little Match Girl.As childhood friends, Leopold d’Ermart and Suzanne Matchet were inseparable. One unforgettable Christmas Eve, their relationship changed from the best of friends…to lovers. But the heir of the Duke of Mont-Marly isn’t supposed to fall in love with the daughter of his family’s physician. Or vice versa.Is this a second chance at first love?Years later, Suzanne is dreading her first Christmas without her father. The heartbreak Leo caused when he left seven years ago is a distant memory. And she prefers to keep it that way. The last thing Suzanne expects is for tall, dark, and sinfully seductive Leo d’Ermart to show up at her door and announce he wants her back in his life. And in his bed. Worse, the now celebrated libertine is even more devastating to a woman’s senses than ever before…

Or are they playing with fire?

The only woman Leo, Duke of Mont-Marly, has ever yearned for is the adorably unconventional, intelligent beauty who got away. He discovers Suzanne creating and selling matchsticks, elixirs for the ill…and is still so damned alluring. Leo is determined to show her the depth of his desire, win back Suzanne’s heart. And give her a Christmas beyond her wildest imagination…

Warning: Explicit language and love scenes. 32,000 word novella.

A little about Lila:

Lila DiPasqua is a USA TODAY bestselling author of historical romance with heat. (Best known for her critically acclaimed (erotically charged) Fiery Tales series.) She’s published by Penguin/Berkley, as well as having self-published works. She lives with her husband, three children and two rescue dogs and is a firm believer in the happily-ever-after. Find Lila at www.LilaDiPasqua.com. And on Facebook & Twitter.

*****

To Enter for a chance to win.

GIVEAWAY QUESTION: What’s the last book that had you totally hooked and kept you up reading late into the night? One lucky commenter will win their choice of one of my Berkley published Fiery Tales novels: AWAKENED BY A KISS, THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED, or A MIDNIGHT DANCE (retail value $15). Winner’s choice! Open to the US/Canada.

Along with your email

(please use (AT) and (DOT) we don’t want any spam)

*this giveaway is sponsored by the author*

*****

Make sure to check out all of the other stops on this month long tour HERE and enter the grand prize giveaway.

All winner’s will be picked at the end of the month and announce the 1st week of October.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

July 31, 2014July 30, 2014

Spotlight feature of Tempted by His Touch box set

A boxed set with ten sizzling historical romances from ten bestselling historical romance authors. Fall in love with fabulous tales of intrigue, suspense, wit, and passion featuring dukes, rogues, alpha heroes…and the women who can’t resist them. JUST 99 CENTS from July 27 – Sept. 21—then it disappears FOREVER!

Scoundrel Ever After by Darcy Burke – Once upon a time there was a very bad boy who met a very nice girl….

Lady of Pleasure by Delilah Marvelle – Educating a man in the art of love takes time. Lots of it.

Sonata for a Scoundrel by Anthea Lawson – Passion and secrets simmer against the glittering backdrop of 19th century musical celebrity.

To Dare the Duke of Dangerfield by Bronwen Evans – What’s a lady to do when a notorious rake wins her estate in a game of cards?

Undone by Lila DiPasqua – One steamy, emotionally charged retelling of Rapunzel…Rescuing this beauty from the ‘tower’ is only the beginning…

The Problem with Seduction by Emma Locke – Elizabeth Spencer needs a man. She doesn’t need to like him—because while she needs a man, she doesn’t particularly want one.

A Dangerous Invitation by Erica Monroe – Daniel O’Reilly returns to win back Kate Morgan’s heart and prove he’s innocent of murder.

Once Upon a Duke by Eva Devon – A widow looking to get seduced. A duke more than willing to oblige.

Great & Unfortunate Desires by Gina Danna – A marquis with a guilty past takes a bride in a world where love is fatal.

Dark Surrender By Erica Ridley – Trapped in darkness…. Their passion burns bright!

How about a little peek into ONCE UPON A DUKE

Everything is going swimmingly for Kathryn Darrell. She’s got an annuity of a hundred thousand a year, her lecherous-heart breaking husband has had the good graces to pop off, and best of all, she has her freedom—something she has every intention of reveling in to the fullest. And who better to revel with than Ryder Blake, the infamous Duke of Darkwell?

Excerpt from Eva Devon’s ONCE UPON A DUKE (Used with permission © Eva Devon 2014)

If she could only get him alone, perhaps they could truly talk again and more. It was so strange. There were many men here tonight, but only the duke’s presence awakened her excitement.

She glanced towards the hallway. “Your touch is quite provocative,” she said, in a low tone. “Particularly your mouth,” she added, amazed at her own wanton words.

Her comment met with stony silence, and she took a small step forward, determined not to let him send her off again. “This time, I intend to return the favor.”

About Darcy Burke:

A native Oregonian, Darcy lives on the edge of wine country with her devoted husband, their two great kids, and two Bengal cats. In her “spare” time Darcy is a serial volunteer enrolled in a 12-step program where one learns to say “no,” but she keeps having to start over. She’s also a fair-weather runner, and her happy places are Disneyland and Labor Day weekend at the Gorge.

Find out more about Darcy and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Newsletter

About Bronwen Evans:

USA Today Bestselling Author Bronwen Evans grew up loving books. She writes both historical and contemporary sexy romances for the modern woman who likes intelligent, spirited heroines, and compassionate alpha heroes.

Her debut Regency romance, Invitation to Ruin won the RomCon Readers’ Crown Best Historical 2012, and was an RT Reviewers’ Choice Nominee Best First Historical 2011. Her first self-published novella, To Dare the Duke of Dangerfield, was a FINALIST in the Kindle Book Review Indie Romance Book of the Year 201,2 and a finalist in the RomCon Readers’ Crown Best Historical 2013. Her first contemporary released December 2012, The Reluctant Wife, won the RomCon Readers’ Crown Best Category 2013.

Find out more about Bronwen and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads| Newsletter: sign up at the top of Bronwen’s website

About Lila DiPasqua:

Lila DiPasqua is a multi-published, national bestselling author of historical romance with heat. Her novels are published by Penguin/Berkley, as well as having self-published works.

She is best known for her critically acclaimed Fiery Tales series. Her books have been featured on Doubleday and Rhapsody Book Clubs.

She lives with her husband and three children in Canada and is a firm believer in the happily-ever-after.

Find out more about Lila and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Newsletter: sign up on the sidebar of Lila’s website

About Delilah Marvelle:

Delilah Marvelle is the winner of the Reviewer’s Choice for Best Sensual Historical Romance of the Year and had Booklist name her historical romance ‘Forever and a Day’ one of the TOP 10 Romances of the year. When she isn’t writing, she’s digging through inappropriate research books that include anything in history having to do with courtesans, brothels, sexual contraptions that were never properly used and other fascinating forms of dirty history that didn’t make it into college textbooks. She includes all of her research in her books to ensure countless hours of entertainment and continues to take pride in knowing more about dirty history than most people feel comfortable with.

Find out more about Delilah and her books here: Website |Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Newsletter

About Erica Ridley:

Erica Ridley learned to read when she was three, which was about the same time she decided to be a writer when she grew up.

She is the author of three Gothic romances, Too Wicked to Kiss, Too Sinful to Deny and Dark Surrender, the vampire romance “Never Been Bitten” in the paranormal romance anthology Born To Bite, contemporary paranormal romances Charmed and Midwinter Magic, and the holiday fantasy romance Let It Snow.

When not reading or writing romances, Erica can be found riding camels in Africa, zip-lining through rainforests in Costa Rica, or getting hopelessly lost in the middle of Budapest.

Find out more about Erica and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Newsletter

About Emma Locke:

Emma Locke is a writer and engineer living in the Pacific Northwest, where she loves hiking with her dog, hot yoga and riding out the annual 330 days of rain. Hiking and yoga give her time to plot, the lack of sun makes for perfect writing weather, and as for her day job, the dichotomy seems to work: her analytic side ensures her passionate, satisfying love stories don’t mulch under her bed, and her author side forces her to keep writing more.

Find out more about Emma and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Newsletter: sign up at the bottom of Emma’s website

About Gina Danna:

Gina has spent the better part of her life reading. History has been her love and she spent numerous hours devouring historical romance stories, dreaming of writing one of her own. Years later, after receiving undergraduate and graduate degrees in History, writing academic research papers and writing for museum programs and events, she finally found the time to write her own stories of historical romantic fiction.

Now, under the supervision of her three dogs and three cats, she writes amid a library of research books, with her only true break away is to spend time with her other life long dream – her Arabian horse – with him, her muse can play.

Find out more about Gina and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads

About Erica Monroe:

Erica Monroe is a bestselling author of emotional, suspenseful romance. Though she has a Bachelor’s degree in writing, she’s been a secretary, a barista, and a retail assistant. Now Erica spends her days crafting lovable rogues and feisty heroines for her historical and new adult series. She is a member of the Romance Writers of America, Heart of Carolina, and the Beau Monde Regency Romance chapter. When not writing, she is a chronic TV watcher, sci-fi junkie, lover of pit bulls, and shoe fashionista. She lives in the suburbs of North Carolina with her husband, two dogs, and a cat.

Find out more about Erica and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Newsletter: sign up on Erica’s website sidebar

About Eva Devon:

Author of sexy and laugh out loud funny Regencies, I’m also Maire Claremont, creator of dark and angsty Victorians!

Find out more about Eva and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Newsletter

About Anthea Lawson:

Anthea Lawson, called “a new star of Historical Romance” by Booklist, has won readers with her combination of spicy love scenes and elegant prose. Her first novel, PASSIONATE, was a Best First Book finalist in the prestigious Romance Writers of America RITA awards.

Anthea also writes award-winning YA Urban Fantasy under the pen name Anthea Sharp.

Find out more about Anthea and her books here: Website | Facebook | Twitter | Goodread | Newsletter

Follow the whole tour HERE

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December 13, 2013December 4, 2013

Kelly reviews The Duke’s Match Girl by Lila DiPasqua

TITLE: The Duke’s Match Girl- A Fiery Tale Novella
SERIES #: Fiery Tales #4.5
CHARACTERS: Leo & Suzanne
AUTHOR: Lila DiPasqua
PUBLICATION DATE: December 3, 2013

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
As childhood friends, Leopold d’Ermart and Suzanne Matchet were inseparable. One unforgettable Christmas Eve, their relationship changed from the best of friends…to lovers. But the heir of the Duke of Mont-Marly isn’t supposed to fall in love with the daughter of his family’s physician. Or vice versa.

Is this a second chance at first love?
Years later, Suzanne is dreading her first Christmas without her father. The heartbreak Leo caused when he left seven years ago is a distant memory. And she prefers to keep it that way. The last thing Suzanne expects is for tall, dark, and sinfully seductive Leo d’Ermart to show up at her door and announce he wants her back in his life. And in his bed. Worse, the now celebrated libertine is even more devastating to a woman’s senses than ever before…

Or are they playing with fire?
The only woman Leo, Duke of Mont-Marly, has ever yearned for is the adorably unconventional, intelligent beauty who got away. He discovers Suzanne creating and selling matchsticks, elixirs for the ill…and is still so damned alluring. Leo is determined to show her the depth of his desire, win back Suzanne’s heart. And give her a Christmas beyond her wildest imagination…

REVIEW:
4.5 HEARTS I don’t think anyone can twist a fairy tale and tell such an amazing story quite like Lila. I loved this story. I loved the tension between Leo & Suzanne. Although I wanted to kick Leo’s butt for hurting Suzanne like that. Leo & Suzanne’s history is very heart breaking and while it would have ruined the story I wish that he would have fought for her. But being a novella I am not going to tell you any more.
Just know that if you have loved any of Lila’s books you will love this story. If you are new to Lila and her Fiery Tales you can easily read The Duke’s Match Girl as a stand alone.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

April 30, 2012

Lila DiPasqua’s husband has taking over the blog….

Mr. D interviews Simon Boulenger –Hero in UNDONE!

I’m honored to be here at Books-n-Kisses. As many of you know, I’m the host of the popular, Mr. D’s Romance Husband (RH) interviews. I started them last year and well, I do intend to get back to them on a regular basis in the near future. Thanks for all the requests for more! In the meantime, I’m here chatting about my dear wife, Lila DiPasqua’s latest release in the Fiery Tales series, UNDONE. It’s hot, sexy, steamy—did I mention hot? A historical romance. A spin on Rapunzel. And yes, I read every luscious word in this wonderful book. 🙂

By the way, if you’re wondering why I would submit the photo of me you see here, allow me to explain briefly. This photo was taken of me this winter. I bought this hat for ice-fishing, and though I’m not much of an ice-fisherman, (stop snickering Lila), I’d announced I was going to wear it more often. My wife and kids laughed—until they realized I was serious. Then, strangely, the hat went missing. If anyone has seen my missing hat (not pointing any fingers at who might have taken it—cough…Lila&kids…cough), please let me know.

I have with me today Simon Boulenger, the hero in UNDONE. In keeping with my RH interview style, please welcome Mr. Boulenger!

Mr. D: Can you tell us who you’re married to?

Simon: I’m not married, but I am rather taken by Angelica, a ravishing green-eye beauty with chestnut-colored hair. Though, I must admit, she is as alluring as she is maddening.

Mr. D: Readers would like to know the hero behind the heroine. Can you tell us a little bit more about yourself? Scholar? Artist?

Simon: I’m of common birth and had aspired to be ennobled by my King for my naval successes. I have elevated myself in the merchant class, currently commanding 14 privateer ships. Most of my education was learned on the decks of warships, and my achievements have been attained by the tip of my sword—though I do write and read extensively, and have amassed wealth. As for an artist…let’s just say that I’m well versed in the carnal arts.

Mr. D: Where did you and Angelica meet? What convinced you she was THE ONE?

Simon: We met outside a convent at midnight where she knocked me off my feet…literally. Thereafter, she simply took my breath away anytime she entered the room. And ultimately, this incredible woman stole my heart.

Mr. D: If she were to call you her hero, how would she describe you?

Simon: I think she’d find many reasons to dislike me. At least at first. But neither of us can dispute our emotional connection, or our intense mutual attraction.

Mr. D: On the first night you met Angelica were you most like:

a) Prince Charming;

b) Prince (bad boy) Harry;

c) The Artist formally known as Prince;

d) Prince, the family pet.

Simon: I don’t know who they are, but on the first night I met Angelica, I’m afraid I’d have to say I kept to my rakish nature. Upon seeing her beauty in the moonlight, I was undone, losing all sensibility and reason. For the first time in my adult life, I acted on impulse. I survive based on instincts. On well thought out plans. And it isn’t as though I’ve never seen a lovely face before. Yet, upon meeting her, I found myself acting completely out of character. Again. And again.

Mr. D: when you hear the work “ball” what do you think of:

a) Baseball

b) Basketball

c) An uncontrollable weeping reaction of fans upon meeting your wife in person?

d) A gathering of lords and ladies.

Simon: While I have no idea what the first two are, it has been said that our tale has been known to bring a tear to the eye of many a reader. I have no time to attend balls. I’m too busy trying to break the hold some powerful men have on me—get out of this situation alive and spare the lives of the men I command. If only this one green-eyed woman wasn’t so desirable and distracting.

Mr. D: How long have you been a hero and what advice would you give to heroes in the making?

Simon: Hero is not a word that one can use to describe oneself. I believe that there is a selfless quality that comes with the word. Giving of oneself in battle, or in love. I feel that Angelica is the truly heroic character, (though I can’t say why without giving anything away), and I love her for that. I can only hope that all of my selfless acts are perceived as heroic by her.

Mr. D: Okay, you know I have to go there…Jules de Moutier, the hero in A MIDNIGHT DANCE is in UNDONE and asked you whether you “sampled Angelica’s charms” while you were on the sea voyage with her…Did you?

Simon: Mr. D, the kindness I’ve afforded you will surely come to a violent halt, if you continue to follow that line of questioning. Have I made myself clear?

Mr. D: Yes!!! Absolutely! Just get that sword away from my neck and back in its sheath!! Simon, you are clearly an alpha male (as I’ve just personally witnessed), strong, a commander of hundreds of men, yet some say you have a hidden vulnerability…

Simon: I’d like to deny it, but I do have some difficulty trying to master my emotions towards Angelica, who is clearly out of my reach. A son of a fisherman is not a suitable husband for a woman born into privilege—no matter how untamable the allure and emotions are between us.

Mr. D: Simon can you share with me something about Angelica that her readers would be surprised to know?

Simon: I wish I could, but she’s a rather mysterious beauty with many secrets. You’ll have to read the book and find out what they are. Let me say, that I had the devil’s own time just trying to learn just her full name.

Mr. D: Simon thanks so much for coming here today.

Simon: You’re most welcome. May I ask you a question or two?

Mr. D: Given your hand is on you sword, I would have to say, I’d love to be interviewed by you…

Simon: Good…I understand that you and Lila are of different opinions as to who would play us if this book were made a play.

Mr. D: You mean movie?

Simon: Are you interrupting me?

Mr. D: Ah, no. Not at all. *wipes sweat*

Simon: Lila selected Emily Blunt and Henry Cavill. Who would you chose?

Mr. D: Simon, I’m smart enough to know that despite that sword drawn on my throat, there’s no disagreement between Lila and I! That said, I’m happy to hear what the readers have to say.

QUESTION: Got any favorite actresses (brunette) or actors (dark hair) you, the readers, think would make a good Rapunzel movie (without the insanely long hair)?

Giveaway: One lucky commenter will win a signed copy of A MIDNIGHT DANCE *and* a signed copy of Shana Galen’s A ROGUE PIRATE’S BRIDE!

Mr D: Thank you, Simon. Dear readers, I hope you’ll indulge in this book. You won’t regret it!

UNDONE

A Fiery Tale

Lila DiPasqua

HISTORICAL ROMANCE

April, 2012

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

Maintaining her ruse as a commoner, and trusting no one has kept Angelica safe. But a chance encounter with a handsome stranger lands her right where danger lies. Now, this sinfully handsome man with arresting blue eyes and a polished manner thinks he’s saved her life, when in fact he’s placed her in great peril. She’s intent on keeping him and everyone else at arm’s length. Yet, the smoldering attraction between them is difficult to deny. And impossible to ignore . . .

As commander of a number of privateer ships, Simon Boulenger dresses and speaks like an aristocrat, and has obtained wealth. But he is still not a noble. Or an officer in the King’s Navy. His lifelong dream to elevate himself from his station of birth and attain a respectable place in society is dead. Worse, he’s ensnared in a deadly scheme, and must get out. But how is he to stay focused on his dangerous mission when the mysterious beauty has him utterly intrigued? He can’t afford the distraction any more than he can resist the carnal hunger she stirs. Simon soon discovers that she’s not only a passionate soul mate, but a woman born into privilege. A woman he can never have. But they’re in too deep. Their hearts are at risk . . . as well as their lives.

Visit my website for more info on other books in this series: www.LilaDiPasqua.com

Follow me on Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LilaDiPasquaAuthorand Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/liladipasqua

Buy on UNDONE: (Coming soon on B&N and in print!)

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Undone-ebook/dp/B007WLNQRY/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1335134393&sr=8-2

Smashwords: http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/154489

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