HISTORICAL AUTHORS: Isolde Martyn

Isolde Martyn is known for her historical romances. Her debut novel was the first novel by an Australian to win a RITA® Award from Romance Writers of America as well as being the first novel to win the R*BY (Romantic Novel of the Year Award) in Australia.

Isolde grew up in London and might have stayed in England, however, after graduating from uni, she met a geologist at a bus stop and ended up in Sydney.

Published works: Four single titles plus two in press. 
Publisher/s: Bantam US; Bantam Australia; PanMacmillan, Australia; Berkley Jove US; Mira (HMB) Australia; Bastei, Germany; and Bolinda Audio Publishers.

What is historical romance and which era intrigues you the most?
Historical romance covers such a wide range of stories and quality of writing. It can range from women in pretty dresses and knights in armour against a vaguely historical backdrop to well-researched stories that are about real people. Straight historicals often seem to balk at humour and sex in the writing and that’s a pity.

I tend to write stories that have lots of historical people but I keep getting asked, ‘Well, which genre do you write?’ I guess it boils down to how a book is marketed. However, I don’t suppose anyone asked Diana Gabaldon which side of the marker her stories fall – she just goes ahead and writes.

Favourite era?
The Wars of the Roses. I love the intrigue of that period and there are so many fascinating historical characters. Setting stories against turbulent historical times increases the challenge for the hero and heroine and makes it more interesting for the reader.

Sometimes the past catches up with the present, too. It’s very exciting to think that UK archaeologists may have found the skeleton of King Richard III and that they are going to try and reconstruct his face as well as test for DNA.

The other era I find fascinating is the French Revolution but not the guillotine stuff, I might add! Fleur-de-Lis was utterly guillotine-free. The growth of the media, people power and many aspects of democracy arise from what happened in France in 1789-99 but a lot of people just see it merely as a time of violence. I hope readers will enjoy Fleur’s story and see revolutionary Paris from a totally different angle. 

What's the most fascinating aspect about writing in this genre for you?
The research and the guesswork. Truly a lot of the so-called facts of the late fifteenth century have been cobbled together from very little. An academic could not have based a whole book around the anonymous woman spy mentioned in a Burgundian chronicle but as a novelist I was free to do just that. What’s more, I’m pretty sure she was Warwick the Kingmaker’s bastard daughter, too. 

What challenges did you face publishing in this genre?
The wonderful thing about writing historical romance is that there is a wonderful, enthusiastic sorority of readers out there, whereas for straight historicals it is harder to get noticed by potential readers unless the publisher is making a big effort.

As for hoping for good reviews for historical romance in mainstream papers, tricky stuff! Some newspaper reviewers only have to see the words ‘romance award’ in your bio and the knives are whetted. I just wish such people would a) put their egos on a shelf; and b) actually read the book. 

Which authors have inspired you in your own writing? Or which ones do you enjoy reading?
The late Dorothy Dunnett, a true diva, for her research, imagery and humour. I still enjoy reading Georgette Heyer’s Regency novels and I adored Daphne du Maurier’s novel Frenchman’s Creek. Probably the most romantic story I have ever read. For humour and characters, I loved Sydney writer Karen Miller’s fantasy novel The Innocent Mage.

When you get a chance to relax, what do you like to do?
Go for a bush walk. Mind you, reading a novel that is well crafted and unputdownable is bliss as well. And time we spend with good friends sharing a good Aussie red wine. Purrrfect! 

Could you share your latest release, or a selected book, and tell us a little bit about it?
My novel MISTRESS SHORE is due out in February 2013.

My real life heroine, Elizabeth Lambard (also known in history as Jane Shore) was the daughter of a former Sheriff of London, who was a wealthy merchant. She was wed in her early teens to a mercer twice her age and, judging by historic records, she was determined to free herself and obtain a divorce. In her twenties, she became the mistress of King Edward IV and after his death suffered imprisonment by King Richard III until a wonderful man rescued her.

I loved writing this story because Mistress Shore was at the heart of events and, despite being a woman in an age when men were the masters, she managed to rebel against the rules and find her freedom. A lady of intelligence, compassion and courage!

I also am putting up my published novels THE MAIDEN & THE UNICORN and FLEUR-DE-LIS as e-books and a new e-book called THE DEVIL IN ERMINE, which is about the political intrigue of the events of 1483.

You can learn more about Isolde and her books at her website.

HISTORICAL AUTHORS: Anna Jacobs

Anna Jacobs was born in Lancashire, moved to Australia and now lives part of the year in each country. She’s totally addicted to writing, and produces three novels a year. As of October 2012, she has 59 novels published.

At the moment Anna is writing historical novels for two UK publishers and modern novels for another.

She has been married to her own hero for many happy years, and they have two daughters and one grandson. 

Published works: 59 novels, two how-to books, 9 French textbooks, assorted short stories and about 20 poems. 
Publisher/s: Hodder & Stoughton UK and Australia, Severn House, Allison & Busby.

What is historical romance and which era intrigues you the most?
Historical romance is like any romance in one sense, two people meeting and falling in love, facing problems about getting together. But if it’s done properly, if it’s truly historical, the period background is integral to the plot and the story couldn’t have happened in any other era. In other words, it isn’t modern characters dressing up in fancy frocks, brandishing swords, but characters from the past falling in love, characters with perhaps a slightly different attitude to the world, since they ‘live’ in a different world.

I like writing stories from 1730 to the present day. I find the Tudor and Medieval periods too brutal. I’m a sucker for happy endings.

What's the most fascinating aspect about writing in this genre for you?
I write in several genres and it’s always about trying to tell a good story. So I have to find the best possible story to tell. I do that through research and finding historical settings that haven’t been done to death.

I particularly like researching how ordinary people lived in the past. I’m not interested in politics and murder, or in the nobility. I read a lot of research books. You can find a certain amount of information on line, and yes, it’s very useful, but that’s usually the past seen through other people’s or historians’ eyes.

I like to hunt out old autobiographies, diaries or journals, especially amateur publications. That way I can hear the voices of people from that era. I keep my eyes open every time I visit a tourist spot, or country bookshop and pick up little gems of floppy paper booklets, amateur publications, that tell me about things I’d never even heard of in my formal history studies.

I also like to find old photographs, because they too are directly from the era. For THE TRADER'S WIFE which is set partly in Singapore in the 1860s, my local library got in some rare books from the central library’s reserve collection. I wasn’t allowed to take them home, but had to read them in the library. But I could photocopy them. Photos of Singapore in the 1860s. Wonderful stuff!

I also have my own family photos from the 1860s onwards, so I’ve used those too to find out what real people were actually wearing. As we all know, very few women of today wear the sort of clothes shown in the high fashion shows – most didn’t wear high fashion in the past, either. So a history of fashion doesn’t always tell me what I need, but a family photo does. 

What challenges did you face publishing in this genre?
The same challenges you face getting published in any genre. Firstly, bringing my own skills up to scratch. Secondly learning how to use the historical background to best advantage, trying to fascinate the reader. Thirdly, learning what to include so that the reader would understand the subtleties of the past and relate to my characters’ situations.

And then, finding a publisher isn’t easy in any genre. In the end I finalled in a big Australian competition and that got my first historical romance published.

Once you’re published, the problem is to stay published. In any genre. You have to attract readers to try your books and keep readers interested so your new books will keep selling. I’m happy to say, my first historical series is still reprinting, the Gibson Family Saga beginning with SALEM STREET.

And my husband has now reissued as ebooks some other historical romances, to which I have the rights back. To my delight, two of my own favourites MISTRESS OF MARYMOOOR and REPLENISH THE EARTH are my bestsellers in historical ebooks. They’re both set in the 18th century. MISTRESS OF MARYMOOOR is a romantic suspense, taking place in an old mansion on the edge of the moors. Wuthering Heights meets happy endings! REPLENISH THE EARTH is a gentle rural romance and is one of my ‘special’ books. I love that tale to pieces.

A new challenge in this area is to publicise and sell ebooks. 

Which authors have inspired you in your own writing? Or which ones do you enjoy reading?
It was Georgette Heyer who inspired me to write in the first place, and I still re-read her books. But now that I spend two-thirds of the year writing historical romances, I don’t read as many. I spend the other third of the year writing modern complex relationships novels, and during that time I’m more likely to read a historical.

I read so many books (three a week) that I ran out of historical authors I liked. I don’t like graphic sex or violence, you see. Then I found cosy mysteries, many of which are historical eg Jacqueline Winspear’s Maisie Dobbs series, which it truly wonderful writing. My husband and I have devoured her books. You need to read the series in order.

I get ‘inspired’ in one sense by the best authors I read, because you can always learn something, since writing novels is a complex craft. I’m studying things like plot, period detail, characterisation, credibility, memorable scenes, not mere words.

I don’t need inspiring to write, as I have story ideas welling up all the time. But I do try hard to improve my writing and plotting with each book. It’s a personal challenge, I suppose. 

When you get a chance to relax, what do you like to do?
Most important of all is to spend time with my husband, who is also my best friend. No wonder I write romantic novels. I’ve loved that man for over 50 years, since two days after we met at university.

I like to read, getting through three novels a week. I’m hopeless, aren’t I? A book/story addict.

I also like watching TV: antique shows, house hunting shows, not celebrity stuff or sport. And good drama like Downton Abbey. Or classic comedy like ‘Last of the Summer Wine’ or ‘Dad’s Army’. I also have a weakness for the Mikado, and we watch it on DVD at least once a year, singing along with it. Brilliant music and a silly but fun story.

Also we spend part of the year in the UK, where we also have a house, and that is a pleasure, but takes a great deal of organising. We not only have to transport ourselves, but my business!

Could you share your latest release, or a selected book, and tell us a little bit about it?
I’m deep into writing The Traders series at the moment. (1860s, Australia, Singapore, Ireland) It started off as a trilogy, but has sold well, so has gone to five books. The stories not only please my editor and readers, but it gives me great pleasure to write them. I’m just finishing writing No 4.

I didn’t intend to write this series, but Bram Deagan appeared in DESTINY'S PATH the last of another series, and was such a vivid character I couldn’t get him out of my mind.

He’d been a groom in Ireland but got the idea of becoming a shopkeeper while sailing to Australia, then got bigger ideas, ie to become a trader. He’s of medium height, scrawny, not good looking, but he’s the best romantic hero I’ve ever created. He is such a wonderfully loving man. Or did he walk out of the mists and does he really exist ‘somewhere’? I wonder sometimes.

Bram’s story threads through the series, but he’s not centre stage in the other books, just #1 THE TRADER'S WIFE.

In that book Bram travels to Singapore to set up trading links and there he meets his wife and a Chinese merchant who takes him under his wing. The research was fascinating and I loved writing it. The book was shortlisted for Romantic Book of the Year in 2012 (romantic elements section not ‘pure’ romance).

THE TRADER'S DREAM #3 in the Traders series, is released in October 2012, in hardback, trade paperback and ebook.

It’s a story I’ve been waiting ten years to tell, ever since I found out fascinating details about the opening of the Suez Canal.

Bram Deagan dreams of bringing his family out to Australia. Maura Deagan has no intention of going anywhere as she’s just been promoted to assistant housekeeper. But fate has other ideas and she finds herself obliged to go to Australia.

Her ship goes through the new Suez Canal in the first flotilla. She also ‘just happens’ to meet a man she can love, but there are rather a lot of complications to block their path.

Oh, I am enjoying writing it, the research, the characters, everything!

HISTORICAL AUTHORS: Anna Campbell

Queenslander ANNA CAMPBELL has written six historical romances for Avon HarperCollins and her work is published internationally, including in the United States, Germany, Russia, Turkey and Japan.

Anna has won numerous awards for her sweeping, emotional stories set in the first quarter of the 19th century. These awards include Romantic Times Reviewers Choice, the Booksellers Best, the Golden Quill (three times), the Heart of Excellence, the Aspen Gold (twice) and the Australian Romance Readers Association's most popular historical romance (four times).

She has twice been nominated for Romance Writers of America's prestigious RITA Award and three times for Australia's Romantic Book of the Year. The Australian Romance Readers Association voted Anna their favorite Australian romance author of 2009, 2010 and 2011.

In 2012, Anna launches an exciting new publishing venture with her first series "Sons of Sin", beginning with SEVEN NIGHTS IN A ROGUE'S BED in October 2012.

Published works: 7 (plus two novelettes).

Publisher/s: Avon HarperCollins, Grand Central Publishing.

What is historical romance and which era intrigues you the most? 

Thanks for having me as your guest, Kylie! Lovely to see historical romance in the spotlight.

A general definition of historical romance is romance set in any period prior to 1945. My books are set in the most popular era with readers, the Regency (largely thanks to Jane Austen and Georgette Heyer). To purists, the Regency is officially from 1811 to 1820 when King George III became incurably mad and his son stepped in as Regent to fulfil his father’s royal duties. In 1820, King George died and the Prince Regent became George IV.

For historical romance readers, the Regency encompasses stories set in the UK from the French Revolution at the end of the 18^th century through to the accession of Queen Victoria in 1837. My books are all set in the 1820s.

The first quarter of the 19^th century is a fascinating period in British history. The empire was taking its final form after the loss of the American colonies, the industrial revolution was hitting its stride, the Napoleonic Wars cast a long shadow over the early years of the century. It’s also a time of glittering high society and decadence before the rise of Victorian morality. There is political unrest and a huge divide between rich and poor. It also marks the beginnings of modern feminism with the publication of Mary Wollstonecraft’s A VINDICATION OF THE RIGHTS OF WOMAN in 1792. Add to that elegant fashion, furniture and decorative arts, a scientific revolution and the explosion of Romantic and romantic literature (gothic romances were hugely popular in this era).

It’s difficult not to find this period fascinating.

What's the most fascinating aspect about writing in this genre for you? 

I love trying to get inside the heads and hearts of people who lived in the past. I love thinking about how the mores and customs and technology of the times make these people different from me, but also how sheer humanity makes them the same.

I love the larger than life quality I can write into a historical. I love that the whole sexual element of a relationship has such high stakes in a historical. Risking her reputation can be a matter of life and death for a woman. Makes for great tension!

Oh, and the dresses! I love the dresses. And the boots. What? Me? Shallow? NOOOOOOOO!

What challenges did you face publishing in this genre? 

When I started submitting to agents and publishers in the mid-2000s, the word around the book trade was that the historical was dead.

Fortunately, to paraphrase Mark Twain, the rumours of the historical romance’s death was greatly exaggerated. Lucky for me because I love writing this genre and perhaps just as important, I love READING this genre.

Which authors have inspired you in your own writing? Or which ones do you enjoy reading?

Oh, so many! There’s the classics like Georgette Heyer, Victoria Holt, Mary Stewart. Jane Austen and the Brontes. Christina Brooke. Annie West. Loretta Chase. Laura Kinsale. Liz Carlyle. Anne Stuart. Liz Fielding. Dorothy Dunnett.

I’ll stop there but I could go on. I’m a voracious reader so you could say every book I’ve read has influenced me.

When you get a chance to relax, what do you like to do? 

Read. Play the piano. Swim. Walk. Travel. Have a drink with my friends. Watch a good movie. Go to art galleries.

Could you share your latest release, or a selected book, and tell us a little bit about it?

My latest release is SEVEN NIGHTS IN A ROGUE’S BED which was out 25^th September in North America and the beginning of October in Australia and New Zealand. It’s also available as an audiobook from Tantor Audio. Rogue is the first instalment in the “Sons of Sin” series, my very first series. It’s a classic Beauty and the Beast story.

SEVEN NIGHTS IN A ROGUE’S BED

Will a week of seduction... 

Desperate to save her sister's life, Sidonie Forsythe has agreed to submit herself to a terrible fate: Beyond the foreboding walls of Castle Craven, a notorious, hideously scarred scoundrel will take her virtue over the course of seven sinful nights. Yet instead of a monster, she encounters a man like no other. And during this week, she comes to care for Jonas Merrick in ways that defy all logic-even as a dark secret she carries threatens them both. 

...Spark a lifetime of passionate surrender? 

Ruthless loner Jonas knows exactly who he is. Should he forget, even for a moment, the curse he bears, a mere glance in the mirror serves as an agonizing reminder. So when the lovely Sidonie turns up on his doorstep, her seduction is an even more delicious prospect than he originally planned. But the hardened outcast is soon moved by her innocent beauty, sharp wit, and surprising courage. Now as dangerous enemies gather at the gate to destroy them, can their new, fragile love survive?

You can find an excerpt here: http://annacampbell.info/rogue.html

Website: www.annacampbell.info
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AnnaCampbellFans
Twitter: https://twitter.com/annacampbelloz

GoodReads: http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/296477.Anna_Campbell

And readers, Anna's generously giving away one copy of SEVEN NIGHTS IN A ROGUE’S BED, so please make her feel welcome by saying hi and leaving a comment or by asking her a question. Don't forget to leave a contact email address - you must do all this to be eligible for the draw.

HISTORICAL AUTHORS: Sophia James

Today begins a series featuring the wonderful talent of our Down Under authors - from Australia and New Zealand - across a number of romance genres. 

The first series will showcase our HISTORICAL ROMANCE AUTHORS.

Please welcome my first guest...Sophia James!

Sophia James writes historical romance for the Harlequin Historical imprint in London.

A double winner of the Romance Writers of Australia R*BY 2010 & 2011 she has also finalled in the Australian Romance Readers Awards and won the Romance Writers of New Zealand Clendon Award.

Sophia has been a mentor at the RWA 5 Day Intensive (5DI) in Brisbane in 2010 & 2011 and has run a similar mentorship programme in New Zealand in 2012.

She has a degree in History and English from Auckland University and a background in teaching.

Published works: I have published eleven books to date in two time periods; Regency England and Medieval Scotland.
Publisher: Historical Harlequin.

What is historical romance and which era intrigues you the most?
The Regency period was full of anomalies, the manners of the time balanced against the ruthless push of ‘getting ahead’ and ‘marrying well.’ A period like this always sets up a great background for tortured characters who have been thrown around by the unreasonable expectations of Society.

My other time span in Medieval Scotland and the brutal raw harshness of the period always presents other challenges (such as just staying alive).

What's the most fascinating aspect about writing in this genre for you?
I love historical because I feel I am not so constrained in aspects of character. A medieval knight can kill with barely a hint of shame and it’s so freeing to be able to thumb your nose up at the strict conventions of the Regency in print.

What challenges did you face publishing in this genre?
The challenges are the research and getting it right. When I began writing I had read many historical and so sort of knew the terms and expectations by osmosis really. But further on in my career I realise I am a novice in research and accuracy and it is one of the things I am trying to get better at.

Which authors have inspired you in your own writing? Or which ones do you enjoy reading?
I love Diana Gabaldon and her Jamie and Claire series. She is such an intelligent writer and her characters just leap off the page for me. I reread Judith McNaught and I love Joanna Bourne.

When you get a chance to relax, what do you like to do?
I walk or go to the gym. I read. I visit art galleries. I renovate my old house. I garden.

Could you share your latest release, or a selected book, and tell us a little bit about it?

My latest release is LADY WITH THE DEVILS SCAR which is out in the UK/USA on the 24 July, 2012. It is a Scottish Medieval set in the 1360’s. I love this book, it’s just one of my real favourites.

The heroine, Isabel Dalceann, is fighting to save her keep from David the Second and is a figure bards tell of all across Scotland; a witch they say who has repelled three sieges upon her castle and a disfigured woman who dresses as a man.

The hero Marcus de Coutenay is a commander of the armies of Kings. He is feared and lauded in both France and Scotland.

If you would like to read more I have their first kiss as an excerpt on my website.

GUEST AUTHOR: Tamara Gill

TAMARA GILL's love of history started from an early age, but her reading of historical romances only began when home on maternity leave with her second son. Her writing career started as a hobby but soon turned into an obsession—just ask her members of her family, who have suffered many a whipped up, burnt meal.

Member of Romance Writers of Australia, Romance Writers of America, South Australian Romance Authors and The Beau Monde keep her occupied and focused on her craft and the changing trends of readers.

Tamara lives in the beautiful Barossa Valley in South Australia and enjoys hearing from readers and writers alike.

About the book...
Title - A MARRIAGE MADE IN MAYFAIR
Setting - London, England 1811
Hero – Royce Durnham Viscount Danning
Heroine – Miss Suzanna March

Scene you would never cut – I really love the scene where Royce and Suzanna argue in a woman’s retiring room and she slaps him across the face. Of course, he deserves it and soon apologies for his actions, but I just love his reaction when she does it. Classic.

What's one quirky thing about your hero/heroine? In relation to Suzanna it would have to be that she’s a klutz. Not that you see a lot of this in the book, as it’s more from her memory of her first season. But she was forever falling over or spilling food on herself poor girl.

What do you think the readers will like about this book? Hmm, well hopefully everything. Although it’s not an erotic novella so I’m a little worried it may be a bit tame for some of my readers. But the love story between the two was more my focal point with this manuscript and I think it’s just a really sweet story.

A MARRIAGE MADE IN MAYFAIR
Miss Suzanna March wished for one thing, the elusive, rakish charmer, Lord Danning. But after a frightful first season sees her flee to Paris, such dreams seem impossible. That is until she returns to London, a new woman, and one who will not let the ton's dislike of her stand in her way of gaining what she wants. Revenge on the Lord who gave her the cut direct and perhaps a little flirtation to show the mighty Viscount what he'll never have.

Lord Danning unbeknown to his peers is in financial strife and desperate to marry an heiress. Such luck would have it Miss Suzanna March fits all his credentials and seduction is his plan of action. Yes, the woman who returned from Paris is stronger, defiant, and a little argumentative, but it does not stop Lord Danning finding himself in awe and protective of her.

But will Suzanna fall for such pretty words from a charmer only after one thing. Or will Lord Danning prove to Suzanna and himself that she is more than his ticket out of debtor's prison...

What's next for you? Oh, where do I begin. I’m about to Indie publish a paranormal manuscript about a goddess and Scottish druid. It’s called BANISHED and you can see the cover for this story on my website and blog.

I’ve just signed a contract for my single title, time travel Regency romance, A STOLEN SEASON. So edits will soon be landing on my desk, which I can’t wait for. This is my first full length manuscript to be picked up and I’m ecstatic about it.

After that, I’m hoping to keep submitting my other stories to publishers or agents and see where that leads. And let’s not forget the RWAustralia conference it just around the corner. Gold Coast here we come!! 

About you...
Favorite movie of all time - Gone with the Wind. Have always loved it. Used to wrap quilts about my hips and make out I had a gown like Scarlet O’Hara.
Favorite fairytale – Sleeping Beauty, but don’t ask me why as I really don’t know. 
Favorite story to disappear into - I LOVE Karen Marie Moning’s Highlander and Fever series. When I need a break and want to read something I know I’ll enjoy, I always look for her books on my bookshelf. 
Favorite TV program -  Restoration Home and Who Do You Think You Are? I know, not very exciting is it? 
First book you remember reading - Snugglepot and Cuddlepie. I remember being really proud of myself because of its length. 
Dog or cat person (or other) - Cat hands down. I don’t want to upset anyone but I’ve always thought of dogs as needy pets looking for attention. I love how cats are aloof and independent. 
Author (living or dead) you'd most like to meet - Karen Marie Moning. Just to ask her how she does it. She’s an amazing writer. 
A romantic retreat for you would be... I’m not big on romance (gasp) and my hubby often says, ‘how can you write romance when you’re not romantic?’ So a romantic retreat seems more like torture to me. I’d rather be writing or just taking the kids on a family holiday somewhere. Not a very interesting answer was it. LOL 
What do you do to unwind or relax? Sorry, can you repeat the question. LOL. I don’t to tell you the truth. I have two boys in school and a little six month old baby, so I’m kept pretty busy most of the time. The closest thing to relaxation would be going to bed before midnight. *g* 
What era would you like to time travel and visit? And why? The Regency era of course, and pretty much because of the clothes. I’d love to visit Almacks and see a ball in progress during the height of the London season. Would be spectacular sight I think. 
What does love mean to you? My family.

Tamara can be found at - her blog or Historical Hearts, Twitter, Facebook & Decadent Publishing.

Now, lovely readers, Tamara has a special surprise for you all - she's offered to giveaway one copy of A MARRIAGE MADE IN MAYFAIR (from Amazon or your preferred e-reader store) - all you have to do is answer this question.

QUESTION - Where would be the ideal spot to get married? 

So, leave a comment with your answer AND your email address so Tamara can contact you if your name is drawn out. Comments close midnight 26th July (USA date here, Aussies!)

Don't forget, if you do leave a comment, your name will also go into a major prize draw at the end of Tamara's blog tour! Good luck! 

INVITATION TO SCANDAL giveaway winner announced!

Thank you to everyone who dropped by to comment on Bron's interview and participate in her giveaway.

Without further ado, Bron has used Random.Org to draw a name for the giveaway copy of her book, INVITATION TO SCANDAL. The winner is...

Book Chatter Cath

Bron will be emailing you at the address you left to arrange the details of sending you your prize!

Congratulations!

GUEST AUTHOR: Bronwen Evans

I'd like to welcome a very special friend, my fellow BILD'er (writing group - Book in 50 Days ) and historical romance author, Bronwen Evans.

Bronwen's in the middle of a blog tour and has stopped by today to share with you more about her latest release, INVITATION TO SCANDAL, and there's a surprise at the end of the interview!

Without further ado, take it away, Bron!

New Zealander Bronwen Evans grew up loving books. She’s always indulged her love for story-telling, and is constantly gobbling up movies, books and theatre. Her head is filled with characters and stories, particularly lovers in angst. Being able to write her characters stories is never work, it’s a dream come true. Is it any wonder she’s a proud romance writer.

She writes both historical and contemporary sexy romances for the modern woman who likes intelligent, spirited heroines, and compassionate alpha heroes. She's won several romance writing competitions and is a member of several writing organizations, including RWA, RWNZ, and The Beau Monde. Her 2011 debut novel, INVITATION TO RUIN, received a 4.5 star rating from RT Book Reviews and was nominated in the RT Reviewers’ Choice awards – Best First Historical.

When not ensconced in her study writing her characters thrilling journeys to their happy ever after, Bron can be found on the golf course.

Readers can contact Bronwen via email at romance(at)bronwenevans(dot)com For more information on all of Bronwen’s books, including updates on novels yet to come, visit Bronwen’s website at www.bronwenevans.com

Title – INVITATION TO SCANDAL 
Publisher – Kensington Brava
Release date – 1 May 2012

What do you think the readers will like about INVITATION TO SCANDAL?
Hi Kylie, thanks for having me over to blog today. I’ve just about finished Vengeance Born. It will almost be a disappointment to come to the end. But I digress. :-)

I hope readers will love INVITATION TO SCANDAL because they can relate to the internal struggle my hero, Rufus Knight, Viscount Strathmore faces. Rufus is all about honor and clearing his father of treason. He lives his life trying to atone for the sins of his father. He puts honor before everything else. He has to live his life this way because Society would crush him, his mother and sister, if he did not. However, my heroine, Rheda Kerrick, teaches him that sometimes doing the honorable thing leads only to pain and suffering. Sometimes a little naughtiness can do a world of good.

Imagine the gut-wrenching position Rufus is put in when he learns that he can clear his father’s name, but only by destroying the woman he loves! It’s the old catch twenty-two – love or honor.

What themes or tropes appear in INVITATION TO SCANDAL?
Good versus evil. Honor versus what’s right. Self-sacrifice for those you love.

INVITATION TO SCANDAL
Her secrets are coming undone...

Plagued by scandalous rumors, Rheda Kerrich will stop at nothing to restore her reputation and make an honest living for herself-and she's determined to do it without a husband. But times are hard, and smuggling is a risky though profitable trade. So when a dashing agent for the English government catches her in the act, she desperately resists his charms and conceals her illicit profession. Until she realizes he may be the key to her ultimate freedom-and unbridled passion.

Rufus Knight, Viscount Strathmore, has never had trouble beguiling the ladies of Kent. When his search for "Dark Shadow," a cunningly elusive smuggler, leads him to alluring and headstrong Rhe, her objections to his amorous advances merely incite a tantalizing game of cat and mouse. Soon, they'll find the very secrets driving them apart could ensnare them in a love they can't escape… 

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Excerpt
The thundering hooves focused her back on the problem at hand. Horse and rider appeared around the bend. The horse was galloping so fast she wondered if its accomplished rider would see her. Her heart missed a beat. The man wasn't Daniel. Daniel didn’t own, nor could he afford, a magnificent beast such as this.
Please, she prayed, let him fly past without noticing me. 
Like every other aspect of her day, she was denied her wish. The rider pulled on the reins, and the powerful steed came to a sliding halt in the middle of the road, gravel spraying through the air.
Her shoulders drooped. “Perfect,” she uttered to no one but herself.
The stallion pranced on the road in tune to the pounding surf, its owner stroking its neck with a large gloved hand. He took in her situation and seemed to whisper something in his horse’s ear. Rheda licked her lips nervously. Would he be friend or foe?
The pair trotted across the field in her direction and halted in front of her.
“Are you in need of assistance?” His voice was velvety smooth, yet commanding.
She saw two dark eyes rimmed with lovely long eyelashes, and a wide soft mouth. With a mouth that soft he would be very responsive. She might even be able to control him. The stallion before her was impressive. He would make a fine mate for her mare, Desert Rose.
“He won’t bite,” the man added, misinterpreting her interest in his horse as fear.
With some reluctance she lifted her gaze to the owner of such a beautiful piece of horseflesh. Her heart tumbled in her chest, flipping and flopping as if caught in the thundering surf behind her.
Beautiful.
She shook her head. The word applied equally to the stallion’s rider. She had never seen such an arresting man. Her pulse hitched as she drank him in, the pain from the barrel momentarily forgotten. When she reached his dark eyes she shivered. He had a look of danger about him.
His eyes were almost the same color as his horse’s glossy coat, a luminous rich brown. His breeze-swept chestnut hair was fashionably cut and softened the hard planes of his handsome face. His countenance screamed he was a man not to be messed with.
Like his regal mount when he sought his mares, this man could mesmerize any female he chose to conquer—she was sure of it.
Rheda tried to move her foot so the pain would distract her from the knowledge that this man’s beauty disturbed her more than it should.
To hide her reaction to him she bit out a reply. “Of course I need some help."

What was the inspiration behind your INVITATION series?
I love tortured heroes. Men who seem to have everything but in reality are missing the one thing that would make them whole—LOVE. So the series is about four friends (two brothers) who have had terrible events in their lives which they must overcome. Needless to say it’s the heroines who help them through their journey and who complement them.

I had to match these magnificent men with pretty special heroines. That was fun too. They are woman who are perhaps a little ahead of their time, but who we can all relate to. Strong, intelligent and independent, but full of compassion, warmth and love.

Will readers see more books in this series?
Rufus’s story, INVITATION TO SCANDAL, is book two in the series, so there are two more books to go. INVITATION TO PASSION is Richard Craven’s story. He is the twin brother of Anthony Craven,  my hero in book one, INVITATION TO RUIN.

Richard’s book will be released early 2013. I’ve paired Richard with Rufus’s sister, Madeline. The story is very poignant as tells the tale of their deep friendship and the how they find themselves, through a misunderstanding, married. The journey from friends to lovers is a rocky one.

Then late 2013 will be, INVITATION TO LOVE, Alexander Montford’s story which is also introduced in INVITATION TO SCANDAL. 

What other new projects are you working on?
I’ve written a Regency novella trilogy called, Wicked Wagers. Book one, To Dare the Duke of Dangerfield got to #3 in the Amazon Best-Sellers list Regency, and I’ve just released book two, To Wager the Marquis of Wolverstone, and I’m busy finishing book three, To Challenge the Earl of Cravenswood – August 2012.

I also have a contemporary category romance called The Reluctant Wife coming out with Entangled Publishing in fall 2012. This is a new direction for me and I’m very excited. I’ll still be writing dark, tortured heroes though.

5 minutes with Bronwen...
Worst subject at school? Chemistry
.
First pet? A Puppy – Sam – when I was seven
.

Lake Okareka, Rotorua, New Zealand

Ideal holiday spot? Lake Okareka, Rotorua, New Zealand
.
Favourite holiday activity? Golfing.

Favourite snack? Cottage Cheese on crisp breads.
Sunset or sunrise? Sunrise
.
Dragons or angels? Dragons.
Guilty pleasure? Chocolate cake with loads of frosting.
Favourite place to write? My study.
The book (or author) that got you hooked on romance? Any romance book by Penny Jordan, Robyn Donald.

Now, for that surprise I mentioned at the start of the post!

Bronwen is generously offered a copy of INVITATION TO SCANDAL to one lucky commenter who tells her their favorite trope in a romance book i.e. marriage of convenience, secret baby etc., and why?

Comment and leave your email address by 6pm, Sunday May 20th (AEST), and you'll go into the draw. Have fun!

From the Bookshelf...The Ministry of Marriage series

Christina Brooke is the author of 7 Regency-set historical romances. She has received two RITA nominations and was the first Australian to win an RWA® Golden Heart Award.

A former corporate lawyer, Christina lives in Brisbane on the east coast of Australia with her husband, a girl dog called Monty and two very noisy boys. 

Series: The Ministry of Marriage
Title/s: HEIRESS IN LOVE, MAD ABOUT THE EARL and A DUCHESS TO REMEMBER
Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Series overview: The Ministry of Marriage is the nickname of a cabal in which the leaders of the most prominent families in Britain arrange eligible marriages.
The founder of the Ministry is the Duke of Montford. He is head of the extensive Westruther dynasty and the guardian of six assorted Westruther orphans—three boys and three girls—who have grown up together under his roof. He has arranged brilliant marriages for each of them via the Ministry of Marriage.
The ladies Jane  (HEIRESS IN LOVE, July 2011) , Rosamund  (MAD ABOUT THE EARL, January 2012)  and Cecily  (A DUCHESS TO REMEMBER July, 2012). All three girls are heiresses destined for marriages of convenience.
Their three male cousins, The Earl of Beckenham, Viscount Lydgate and the Marquis of Steyne have managed to retain their freedom a little longer, but their time will come -- Christina is currently writing Beckenham's story.

Series extra's: Take the quiz--which Ministry of Marriage family do you come from? If you join Christina's Brooke Club, the *free* Members Only section of Christina's website: http://www.christina-brooke.com/members-only/ you can play some fun M.O.M. games. 

HEIRESS IN LOVE
A CONVENIENT MARRIAGE
Jane, Lady Roxdale, has endured one marriage of convenience decreed by the Ministry of Marriage. While she deeply regrets her late husband’s death, she is relieved to be free at last. But when a dissolute rake threatens everything Jane holds dear, she must contemplate marrying a second time…   
AN INCONVENIENT PASSION

Disgraced libertine Constantine Black inherits his cousin Roxdale’s land and title–while Roxdale’s prim widow is left all the wealth. Constantine is not a marrying man, but wedding Jane is the only way to save the estate from ruin. Jane resists the smoldering heat between them, desperate not to fall in love with an unrepentant rake. But for the first time ever, Constantine wants more than seduction. He wants all of her–body, heart, and soul…

MAD ABOUT THE EARL
A BEAST OF BURDEN
Lady Rosamund Westruther has no objection to the match arranged for her by the Ministry–until she meets her intended. Gruff, stubborn Griffin, Earl of Tregarth, is hardly the charming
nobleman the classic beauty has dreamed of for so long. While a proper lady can’t cry off, she can demand a proper courtship… 
A BEAUTY TO BEHOLD 
Griffin is aware of his duty to wed–and more convinced than ever that the lovely Rosamund has no place with a man like him. Built for fields and stables rather than drawing rooms, Griffin doubts he can win her in the polite manner society requires. But with every passing day, the attraction between them flares higher and hotter. Maybe there is more to love than meets the eye…  

A DUCHESS TO REMEMBER
For a lady of breeding and wealth, the Ministry of Marriage can always ensure a suitable match. But sometimes, the heart wants what it wants—in spite of the risks… 
A PRACTICAL ENGAGEMENT
Lady Cecily Westruther is nothing if not practical. By agreeing to marry an older duke who already has an heir and a mistress, she can assume a wifely role—without the wifely duties. Only one thing stands in her way—a  letter that could destroy her betrothal. Desperate to retrieve that letter, Cecily must match wits with the most dangerously seductive man she’s ever known… 
A PASSIONATE MARRIAGE
Disguised as a footman, Cecily gains entry to her adversary’s house—only to be unmasked by London’s most powerful man. Rand, Duke of Ashburn, is accustomed to getting any woman he wants—and he wants Cecily. He will stop at nothing, including seduction, to make her his. But Rand holds a secret more shocking and destructive than that letter could ever be… 

TOPIC: An Author's Life...with Christina Ashcroft / Christina Phillips

Being a published author is an ... involved ... process, and I take my hat off to those who've been in the business more than a few years now.

As a pre-pubbed author I was always curious about what happened once you received THE CALL and stepped into the world of publishing.

What did it involve? How did they handled the day to day pressures? Did they developed routines, set goals etc.? What did they like/dislike about the process?

So I asked my special guests these questions and many of them have offered some intriguing insights into their lives. Maybe they'll even give you a heads up on what to expect if you're thinking of entering the world of "getting published".

Please welcome my next guest...

CHRISTINA ASHCROFT is an ex-pat Brit who now lives in Western Australia with her high school sweetheart, their three children, an eccentric Maltese-cross and three regal cats.

She can't remember a time when she didn't write, and always managed to include an element of fantasy or the paranormal in her English essay homework. Luckily her English teachers didn't mind, despite the fact these stories generally finished with the hero, heroine (or both) coming to a sticky end.

Thankfully by the time she hit fourteen she discovered romance novels and the wonder of a Happily Ever After. She now writes about hot archangels and the women who capture their hearts for Penguin/Berkley Heat and her books always have a happily-ever-after.

CHRISTINA PHILLIPS has an eerily similar history to CHRISTINA ASHCROFT and is also owned by three cats who believe the world revolves around them. As it happens, they are quite right.

Pseudonym or Given Name on the cover? Why a pseudonym?
I write paranormal/fantasy historical romances as Christina Phillips and paranormal romance as Christina Ashcroft. I chose my middle name Christina because I've always loved that name, and Phillips is my married name.

Ashcroft came about half way through 2011 when my editor suggested a new pen name for my new archangel series as it's a different sub-genre to my Roman/Druid books. Half the time I have no idea who I am and will answer to almost anything!

Location: Born in the UK and moved to sunny Western Australia at the end of 1998.

Published Genre/s: As Christina Phillips I write historical romance with hot Roman warriors and magical Druid heroines, Highland Warriors and vampires (not all at the same time!!!)

As Christina Ashcroft I write about fallen archangels and the women who capture their hearts.

Website/s: http://www.christinaphillips.com     http://www.christinaashcroft.com 

First published in: My first novelette, FORETASTE OF FOREVER, was published in October 2008. My first full length romance, FORBIDDEN, was published in September 2010 by Berkley Heat.

My first book published as Christina Ashcroft, ARCHANGEL OF MERCY, is due for release on 4th December 2012. I've been assured the Mayans got it all wrong so here's to December 2012!!

Number of books published: Three full length novels (including ARCHANGEL OF MERCY in December 2012) and two novelettes.

The Nitty Gritty 
List up to 5 significant events in your journey to publication?
Hooking up with my critique partners, Amanda Ashby and Sara Hantz. I was the last one to be published and those girls kept me motivated through all the lows and helped celebrate all the highs. This journey wouldn't be half as much fun without them!

Finalling in the RWNZ Meet the Editor Contest 2008. This was the first contest I'd entered in years and it was a terrific boost to my morale to be highly commended. The certificate also looks very awesome on my wall!!!

2008 was a turning point for me in my writing. Up until then I'd written contemporary romance for several years, and had just started writing paranormal romance. However, after my CPs dared me to try my hand at writing an erotic romance it was as if everything fell into place. I not only discovered how much I enjoyed writing erotic romance but I sold the first one I wrote. I took that as a Sign from the Universe!

Signing with my agent was a huge milestone for me, and helped validate the countless hours I'd spent hunched over my keyboard during the previous nine years.

What resources/techniques/events did you find useful to develop your writing skills/craft?
The best thing I did very early on was join the e-Harlequin boards. This was when I was targeting Harlequin Mills and Boon, and the wealth of knowledge from published authors and visiting editors on those boards was just amazing. There was a sense of real community and I made some wonderful friends, including my CPs Amanda and Sara.

Can you share the special moment when you received THE CALL/THE EMAIL?
Three months after signing with my agent she sent me an email on a Thursday saying that she'd had interest from an editor and should know more soon. I have no idea how I got through the next five days.

What did "interest" mean? Just how excited should I be by this news? (A totally redundant question since I was so excited I couldn't eat, could hardly sleep and kept breaking out into hysterical giggles at inappropriate moments!) Thankfully I was put out of my suspense the following Tuesday when Berkley made an offer :-)

Looking back over your writing career, how have you grown as an author?
You're not talking about the size of my behind, are you? OK, moving on...!

I was writing for nine years before I was published, and looking back I can see that each time I made the decision to change sub-genre - from category to single title, and then onto paranormal and erotic romance, I made a significant leap forward in my writing. I think it was because I stretched my writing muscles and pushed myself out of my comfort zone.

Even over the last two and half years I can see how my writing has improved and that's down to my wonderful editor who really opened my eyes about several things during our last round of revisions!

How important is it to set career goals? Can you give an example of one you have for yourself?
Before I was published I didn't think much beyond the fact that I wanted to be published. That was my goal. But I do think it's important to set realistic goals because they act as a motivator and reminder of what I want to achieve. By that I mean I give myself daily or weekly word/page goals. At the end of last year I gave myself a January goal - to finish the revisions on one book and edit a second book and I managed both by 30th.

Can you describe your writing process/timeframe from when you start a new book to handing it in at deadline?
The process couldn't have been more different between my two historical romances and my first Archangel book so that's a hard one to answer. Timewise I give myself six months from starting the book to deadline but of course there's a whole heap of other writing related stuff that needs to be done during those months as well.

FORBIDDEN and CAPTIVE both had only minor edits at copyedit stage, but at 70k into my Archangel book I received substantial revisions from my editor which entailed rewriting and finishing the book within a month. And then I had revisions on the full book. I've said it before and I'll say it again - my editor is a goddess!!!

One of the things I found challenging about being a published author is the constant juggling of tasks ie. writing a book, editing another, planning promotion, writing the prosposal for another (and usually this all happens while holding down another job or dealing with family/life etc.).

What do you enjoy the most in the publishing process?
My fave bits in the publishing process is seeing the cover for the first time! I've also loved the back cover blurbs Berkley have done for my books, so I enjoyed reading them through as well. And nothing beats opening the box that has just been delivered by FedEx and giving your book its very first cuddle!

What do you least in the publishing process?
There's nothing in the publishing process itself that I don't like. The waiting can be nerve racking, but I've learned to just get on with something else in the meantime.

What's the most memorable fan-mail you've received?
I will never forget the very first reader who contacted me. It was before FORBIDDEN came out and she'd seen a blurb about it on one of the reader boards. She also took the time to write to me after reading CAPTIVE to let me know how much she enjoyed the series.

Is there anything you think pre-publishers writers need to know about the business/industry before they're published?
Expect the unexpected. Be prepared for rejection even after you're published. And don't take a stinging review to heart.

A Bit of Fun
Favorite color: Pink.

Hunkiest hero ever: Clive Owen is hot in whatever movie he's in, and is still my darling despite the times I cheat on him with Henry Cavill. I also have a bit of a crush on Jason Momoa from Stargate Atlantis. *fans self* that guy is so big!!!
Most daring thing you've done in your life: Moving from the UK to Australia.
Greatest love: My long-suffering husband and our Darling Offspring. Mustn't forget the cats, either... 
Timeout/relaxation for me includes: Hahaha! Oh what, sorry...
Special quote/saying you like: OK it's an oldie now, but it's still a goodie - Never Give Up! Never Surrender! From Galaxy Quest.

Another one I live by (although not intentionally I can assure you!!!) is Never say Never. Because you can bet as soon as I say that I'll go and do it!

TOPIC: An Author's Life...with Anna Campbell

Being a published author is an ... involved ... process, and I take my hat off to those who've been in the business more than a few years now.

As a pre-pubbed author I was always curious about what happened once you received THE CALL and stepped into the world of publishing.

What did it involve? How did they handled the day to day pressures? Did they developed routines, set goals etc.? What did they like/dislike about the process?

So I asked my special guests these questions and many of them have offered some intriguing insights into their lives. Maybe they'll even give you a heads up on what to expect if you're thinking of entering the world of "getting published".

My first special guest is...Anna Campbell.

Author Facts

ANNA CAMPBELL has written six multi award-winning historical romances for Avon HarperCollins and her work is published in eleven languages.

Anna has won numerous awards for her Regency-set romances including Romantic Times Reviewers Choice, the Booksellers Best, the Golden Quill (twice), the Heart of Excellence, the Aspen Gold (twice) and the Australian Romance Readers Association's favorite historical romance (three times).

Her books have twice been nominated for Romance Writers of America's prestigious RITA Award and twice for Australia's Romantic Book of the Year.

Pseudonym or Given Name? Why a pseudonym?
Pseudonym. I intended to write under my given name but was so sure I’d never be published, I didn’t spend a couple of bucks parking a domain name.

Would you believe about six months before I sold, someone with my name (and I suspect it’s her real name) published a romance? As far as I know, she hasn’t published another but it meant I needed to come up with an alternative name. I dug back through the family tree and combined names from my two grandmothers.

Location: Sunshine Coast, Australia.
Published Genre:  Historical romance (late Regency setting).
Website:  www.annacampbell.info 
First published in: 2007. 
Number of books published: 6.

The Nitty Gritty
List up to 5 significant events in your journey to publication?

• Joining Romance Writers of Australia
• Placing in the RWA First Kiss 2001 (my first contest entry)
• Meeting Annie West, my wonderful critique partner
• Winning the RWA Emma Darcy Award 2005
• Getting an agent

What resources/techniques/events did you find useful to develop your writing skills/craft?
I think the principal difference between my unpublished and unpublished writing is that in between I learned to write emotion.

Can you share the special moment when you received THE CALL/THE EMAIL?
CLAIMING THE COURTESAN went to auction in 2006 after finalling in the RWA Golden Heart®.

I spent a really fraught week not sleeping – New York is on almost absolute opposite time to Australia. Then finally the word came through on Good Friday morning 2006 that the final offers were in.

I’d had a dream of being an Avon author since I’d read THE WOLF AND THE DOVE as a teenager and it turned out – I WAS AN AVON AUTHOR! Huzzah! It felt quite surreal, partly because I was operating on severe sleep deprivation by then, and it took a while to sink in properly.

But I remember being in the pool a couple of months later and suddenly smiling to think my dream of being a published author was finally coming true.

Looking back over your writing career, how have you grown as an author?
I’m not sure that’s something the author notices! One thing I’ve learned is to trust my process. It’s awful and it drives me mad but I know it’s given me a publishable book in the past. It should give me a publishable book in the future. Fingers crossed.

How important is it to set career goals? Can you give an example of one you have for yourself?
Actually I’m not sure I set career goals aside from meeting deadlines and writing the best darn book I can. I think a lot of this stuff is completely outside the writer’s control (bestseller lists, foreign editions, prizes, appearances on Oprah).

Can you describe your writing process/timeframe from when you start a new book to handing it in at deadline?
I’m currently writing my first series (still under wraps) and I’ve got eight months to write each book.

That’s fairly luxurious in the current genre environment, but I’ve got to say I still find it a stretch because I’m a pretty slow writer. I write a really dirty draft that’s always too long and completely unreadable, then I refine it down like making a lovely rich sauce. At least that’s the theory!

One of the things I found challenging about being a published author is the constant juggling of tasks ie. writing a book, editing another, planning promotion, writing the prosposal for another (and usually this all happens while holding down another job or dealing with family/life etc.).

What do you enjoy the most in the publishing process?
I usually enjoy turning the dross of my first draft into something readable. Like most writers, I love those occasional days when writing is like magic and the pages pour out in a beautiful flow.

What do you least in the publishing process?
Actually, I like pretty much everything. I wanted to be a full-time writer all my life, I’m not looking for things to complain about, LOL!

Is there anything you think pre-publishers writers need to know about the business/industry before they're published?
It doesn’t get easier.

A Bit of Fun
Hunkiest hero ever: Daniel Day-Lewis in LAST OF THE MOHICANS. Sigh. Swoon.
Greatest love: Music.
Timeout/relaxation for me includes: Reading and wine.
Special quote/saying you like: "The heart has its reasons that the reason cannot know." – Blaise Pascal.

The Christmas Shopping List

There is nothing I like more than being let loose in a bookstore (virtual or real) and filling a bag with books to take home and read.

Christmas time is my excuse to hit bookstores with my gift list of family and friends to buy for and guaranteed I DON'T come out of a bookstore empty handed. I swear I must have been a librarian or literature professor in a former life.

Anyhow, if you're wondering what books to buy someone who loves the romance genres I can make some personal recommendations (just try and stop me! - heh, heh).

A lot of my recommendations belong under the paranromal romance umbrella, but I've thrown in a handful of other genres as well.

Paranormal Romance
Nalini Singh -  (NZ author) her Psy/Changeling. Once tasted you'll kill anyone who gets in your way to devour...umm, I mean, buying the rest.

 Larissa Ione - if you like alpha demons/slayers, end of the world plots and twisty storylines set in modern times, then try the Demonica series.

Mel Teshco - her Winged & Dangerous series is my favorite. I love that she's used gargoyle shapeshifters as her characters (makes a change from the vampires & werewolves).








Urban Fantasy
Nalini Singh - the Angel series. Refer to my comment above.










Fantasy Romance

Kylie Griffin - (Aussie author) totally bias here, I know :-). Demons, half-breed demons, humans, magic, political intrigue & secrets set in a fantasy style world.

M.J.Scott - (another Aussie author) SHADOW KIN has been nicknamed a gas-light romance. I recently read this book and loved the complex world-building, not to mention the characters.

Denise Rossetti - (Aussie author) - the Four-Sided Pentacle or Phoenix Rising series are both great reads. For anyone who loves alpha heroes and wonderful world-building.

Elizabeth Vaughan - the Warprize series. I don't know how many times I've read the first three in this series. I've worn out the spines and need to buy a new set.








Post-Apocalyptic Romance

Joss Ware - Some of you might know she's been a guest here on my blog a couple of times now as I've really taken a shine to her Envy Chronicles series.
Not only does she give readers a Mad-Max meets zombies style setting, there's romance, mystery and are plenty of pop-culture references to giggle over in these books.


Science Fiction Romance

Sara Creasy - Her Scarabaeus series. Solid, engrossing SF with an element of romance where her characters fight to survive with the odds well and truly stacked against them. Techies will love the flavor of her bio-cyph & terra-forming world-building.

Linnea Sinclair - any of her Dock Five series. For anyone who likes their SF and romance mixed.

Lauren Dane - the Federation or Phantom Corps series. They're SF with an erotic heat level (fan the face stuff).




Western Romance

Sarah McCarthy - I've just discovered her Hell's Eight series. Phew-ey!!! Texas Rangers, bonded through a bloody past, determined to carve their place out of the wilderness, who take on heroines as challenging as the land itself.
I love a good western but these are hot (aka erotic) as well.

Lorelei James - more cowboys, this time bull-riders & ranchers in the Blacktop Cowboys series. Again, the heat level is hot, so don't go reading them in a barn.






Romantic Suspense

Jo Davis - like firefighters? Then check out the Firefighters of Station Five. Stuff them into your stocking and be prepared for a hot Christmas.









Historical Romance

Anna Campbell - (Aussie author) Regency romance at its best.

Bronwen Evans - (NZ author) her debut Regency romance is nominated for a Romantic Times Awards.

Anne Gracie - (Aussie author) more Regency romance. Anne's humor makes me keep coming back for more.