February 26th, 2010 — Links and Challenges, News
Ten more fantastic blogs for you to check out today! Add them to your favorites and don't forget to say hi!
Subscribe to all Top 100+ romance blogs with this Google Reader Romance Novel Bundle. It's easy and a great way to keep your thumb on all the latest happenings.
- Romantic Crush Junkies – Christine S. Morehouse runs RCJ. It’s a beautiful looking blog with lots of cover art.
- Romantic Reads – Dorchester Publishing Editor Leah Hultenschmidt.
- Samhain Weblog – Ask the Editor, Editing, Writing, Publishing and Stories.
- Seduced by History – Where romance and history meet.
- Slip into Something Victorian – Twelve writers unmake Victorian Romance and Adventure.
- Smexy Books – Mandi is a sweetheart. She loves paranormal romance, m/m romance, urban fantasy, and historical romance.
- Smoking Hot Books – Twin sisters blog about paranormal romance, urban fantasy, and erotic romance.
- Stumbling Over Chaos – Reviewettes, links, randomity, cats, knitting, fun!
- Teach Me Tonight – Musings on romance fiction from an academic perspective.
- Teflon Panties – Jamie King’s romance review site, where big girl panties and thick skin are combined.
Top 50 from 2009:
2010 Top 50 Continued:
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February 23rd, 2010 — Links and Challenges, News
These blogs are added to last year’s list of 50 romance blogs to watch. The grand total is up to 100. That's a lot of romance blogs! 
There are at least 50 more I have not mentioned, especially author blogs, feel free to subscribe all at once to this ever growing list of blogs through the Google Romance Novel Reader Bundle I set up.
This list, like last year's, is posted in alphabetical order.
- Alpha Heroes – And the Women who Love Them! Nicola O. runs it and has been reading romance for over three decades.
Bootstrap Book Marketing – More for authors than readers, though I find it very interesting. If you’re like me you will be bookmarking and saving a lot of the posts to refer back to later. ***Tracy folded this blog before this post went live but all the articles can be found here.***- Cataromance – All about category romance, it’s books, it’s authors, and it’s readers.
- Cheeky Reads – The Sassy Girl’s Guide to Romance!
- ClitLit – Jodi writes about Women, Romance Fiction and Patriarchal Discourse. Lots of great articles.
- Den of the Ogress – Mrs. Giggles romance blog. Careful, she's scary.
- Dirty Sexy Books - Catering to dirty book lovers everywhere… I guess that's me!
- Fantasy Dreamer’s Ramblings – Not just romance, there are other genres too.
- Fiction Vixen – Paranormal romance, urban fantasy, historical romance, erotica and YA.
- Gossamer Obsessions – Anime June on romance novels, with romance reviews and spoilers, and nonsensical rants.
Top 50 from 2009:
2010 Top 50 Continued:
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February 17th, 2010 — Erotica, G-I, Guest Blogger, Paranormal, Supernatural
by Eliza Gayle, guest blogger and author of Lucas: A Black Cougar Novel
To be honest it was a fast and furious trip. Despite my love for reading and my early adventures in fanfic, (although I had no idea the fact I was writing sequels to Star Wars movies was called fanfic back then) I had not really given much thought to becoming a writer.
From the very beginning it’s been all about romance. I used to hide in the corner of the library devouring Rosemary Rogers as a pre teen and eventually wound my way to Nora Roberts. I’ve never been a reader of Horror of Science Fiction so it wasn’t until Sherrilyn Kenyon started writing the Dark Hunters that I realized paranormal romance was awesome. I fell in love with Valerius and that was it for me I was hooked. I sought out more books to read and I kept my library hopping for quite a while. Then two things happened that changed my life.
I picked up a copy of the Romantic Times magazine and I found Ellora’s Cave. My first EC book was by Lora Leigh and I swear my eyes were probably bugging out of my head. I kept turning to my husband with that OMG, deer in the headlights look. I even commented to him “They can write that? Wow!” Yes, I was truly oblivious to erotica until that moment. Somehow I’d made it into my thirties unaware. But I loved it and the wheels started turning. I wanted to write some but I didn’t have a clue even how to get started.
This is where the Romantic Times magazine comes into play. I came across the advertisement for the 2006 RT Convention in Daytona, Florida where they offered a pre-convention beginner’s writers course. That was only an hour away from my childhood home and my mother had been bugging me to come for a visit anyways so why not? I took that course with Judi McCoy who I will credit forever with starting me on this crazy path that I love so much. Her realistic approach to the business is awesome and I couldn’t recommend it more highly.
I returned from that trip in May of 06 and sat down and began writing a story about shapeshifters in the North Carolina mountains. I finished it in September and put it away. I needed some distance from it before I began edits and I had a short story idea I was dying to write. The short I finished in two weeks and sent it off to two publishers. The first rejection came and I sent it out again. The story sold a few weeks later and thus Eliza Gayle was born and it’s been crazy ever since.
That very first manuscript? Well, I poked it and prodded it here and there until in late 2008 I finally got serious with it. It needed a lot of work but I couldn’t let go of the premise. After a few name changes and a couple of other hurdles that book is now called Lucas and is my latest release and the first in the Black Cougar Trilogy.
Here is the blurb:
Lucas: A Black Cougar Novel
Kira MacDonald is in trouble. Plagued by false visions and erotic dreams of a man she’s never met, she fears losing both her psychic powers and her sanity. The cure? Finding and bonding with her mate. The stubborn red-haired warrior might not want one, but fate has other plans, plans that include her rescuing Lucas Gunn.
As the Guardian of his shape-shifting clan, Lucas Gunn lived a quiet, solitary life. Until he was kidnapped, examined, and tortured. Now imprisoned, his only tie to the outside world is the memory of his dreams and the passionate woman who appears nightly in them. He thought she was nothing more than a vision. Then she came for him.
An uneasy alliance, a mating call that won’t be denied, rituals that must be honored, and unrelenting enemies who will stop at nothing to get what they want. It all comes together in the first of Eliza Gayle’s sensational Black Cougar Series. Passion and Pride. Duty and Danger. In the end, there’s really only one choice…for Lucas.
The link to read an excerpt is http://elizagayle.net/books/lucas
Buy: Lucas: A Black Cougar Novel
Follow me on Twitter @elizagaylebooks
Or on Facebook http://www.facebook.com/elizagayle
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February 7th, 2010 — 3.5 Stars, 4 Stars, A-C, ARC, Alien, Erotica, Great Britain, Kidnapping, Kings, Princes, Sheiks, Chiefs, Knight, Magic Users, Paranormal, Politician, Queen or Princess, Space, Stowaway, Warrior
Today I am reviewing Knight’s Fork by Rowena Cherry. This is my first ARC (advance review copy; official book release is September 30, 2008) and I eagerly read the whole novel in two days! Knight’s Fork is just one novel in the futuristic set series about the Great Djinn race. Knight’s Fork contains all the right stuff from a stowaway princess to a knight’s quest and the threat of death licking at their heels. This book and series would be great for any lover of alien paranormal romance or paranormal romance in general.
Watch out for the ‘Dj’ names! There’s quite a few to remember and follow! The romance novel is filled to overflowing with political intrigue and the key players are trying to play everybody else all at the same time to get their way. The main characters have to watch out for who their enemies are and who their allies are.
Cherry titles her novels after chess moves, and yes the characters do play chess and the move in question is used several times throughout the novel. Knight’s Fork in particular is about a choice between two evils – you’re going to lose something and the decision becomes which loss is acceptable?
This choice is ‘Rhett’s, a Saurian Knight, and it is between power and a female. Saurian is another alien race, but don’t let this fool you about this white knight. Back to the point - how can power or a female be a bad choice whichever you choose? A grab for power will set other leaders in a tizzy and the female is another male’s mate that’s how!
The rival male is King of another alien race, the Volnoth, and taking Electra could start a war on par with the ancient Greek war over Helen of Troy. It’s too bad for ‘Rhett that he’s tempted by Electra and not by the power offered. Far more tempting is that she wants him… for his sperm. What’s a knight to do?
This novel and series isn’t for the fainthearted that likes their romances to be mild and sweet. Urban colloquialisms for sex and emissions abound, the Great Djinn even regularly swear by Carnality! However for those who crave the contemporary slang and straightforward nature to the approach of sex Knight’s Fork is deliciously racy and erotic. The whole novel revolves around sex!
You could compare Cherry’s novel to Laurell K. Hamilton’s Meredith Gentry series about fairies because the Princess Electra seeks to get pregnant just like Meredith does. Or you could compare the novel to the Twilight Saga with ‘Rhett being a virgin, sworn to a vow of chastity, similar to Edward’s chase behavior. Whatever parallels you draw, Cherry spins a great story.
Rating: 3.5-4 Stars
Originally posted 2008-09-11 05:56:00. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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January 26th, 2010 — 4.5 Stars, ARC, Contemporary, Detective, Guest Reviews, Paranormal, Police, S-U, Science, Survival, Suspense/Thriller, United States of America, Werewolf
by Susan S., guest reviewer
Spear’s latest novel is bursting with romance, suspense, and heart-pounding excitement!
Legend of the White Wolf is the fourth book in Terry Spear’s werewolf series.
Does it stand alone? Yes.
Recommendations: This novel will appeal to readers who enjoy both paranormal romance, and romantic suspense.
The heroine (Faith O’Malley) is a forensic scientist working with the police dept. in Portland, Oregon. She’s also a woman on a mission. Faith is traveling from Oregon to Maine, in search of her soon-to-be, ex-boyfriend Hilson. Apparently, he just stole her father’s research.
Meet Cameron MacPherson, a sandy haired, blue-eyed gorgeous hero. He’s a physically fit private investigator, and former police officer. Cameron has a mission of his own, to find his missing partners, Owen and David.
But, when Faith and Cameron stumble onto a murder scene, their plans are not only sidetracked, but they are now persons of interest in a murder-mystery.
Will they find the person(s) responsible, or will they become the next targets?
More importantly, can two jilted people learn to love and trust their hearts again? Read Legend of the White Wolf to find out.
Here are some things I enjoyed: There’s a scene, where Cameron runs a towel over Faith’s wet hair. I thought it was both simple and utterly romantic. The author’s description of an Aurora Borealis was also beautifully written.
What will you enjoy? Hunky- wolfish men shedding their clothes, wolf bites, hotel clerk’s key mix-ups, and the reference to the Sleeping Beauty trio.
Legend of the White Wolf will leave you howling for more! Don’t worry, Terry Spear promises to feed our wolf addiction with books five and six, set to release by fall of 2010. Both novels will be published by Sourcebooks, Inc., Casablanca-titled Seduced by the Wolf and Wolf Fever.
Rating: 4.5 Stars
Buy: Legend of the White Wolf
Paranormal Romance, ARC, Series, Sourcebooks, Inc., Casablanca, February 2010, Mass Market Paperback, Print Pages, 367. ISBN-13# 978-1-4022-1905-4.
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January 9th, 2010 — 4 Stars, ARC, Dukes and Earls, Erotica, Guest Reviews, Historic America, Love Triangle, Magic Users, Mystery, P-R, Paranormal, Revenge, United States of America, Widow or Widower
by Susan S., guest reviewer
Sex and Subterfuge is a compelling novella with likeable characters, palpable emotions, and a great plot.
This is book two in Roman’s- The Dark Desires of the Druids series.
Does it stand alone? Yes. Although, if you read its predecessor Murder and Magick, you’ll learn the events which cause Lucien to flee England. Sex and Subterfuge has brief references to characters from book one: Isadore, Raven, Mac, Corwin, Gareth and Beckett. But, the author does a nice job of explaining their character roles.
Note: The hero Lucien Harrington (Earl of Granville) was also in book one.
Recommendations: Do you like jealous heroes and love triangles? How about sizzling sexual encounters atop of dining room furniture? If you answered yes to either question, you’re going to love this novella. I’m also recommending it, if you enjoy reading paranormal romance, historical, or erotica.
If you’ll remember in Murder and Magick the setting was in England. Well welcome to America! The setting in Sex and Subterfuge takes place in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
It’s been more than 130 years since the magickers from Europe and the American magickers have been in contact. So why the devil is Lucien in America! That’s precisely what the heroine (Morgana Blackthorne) intends to find out. When Lucien tells Morgana there are rogue magickers in “her” American community, she is adamant that there isn’t. Until her visions indicate danger of a murderous kind.
Should she trust this new Englishman and give in to her lustful emotions? Or, will she face the danger alone and send this hot Earl packing?
When reading a story, I can usually pick out “one” main character that appeals to me. Usually. In Roman’s novella though, I loved not one, but “three” equally.
Morgana: Is a strong powerful Master with a responsibility to protect her people. Yet, she has moments of weakness and vulnerability.
Lucien: He’s a tall, blond- haired, blue-eyed Englishman; with one “wicked” magickal affinity. Loved him!
James Blackthorne: Gosh, I loved him too! He’s Morgana’s cousin. I found it touching how he protects and looks after her.
The novella didn’t garner five stars for one reason only. I felt the novella should’ve been fleshed out more. Book one gave us blood magick oaths and ancient words of healing. I wanted more of the same in Sex and Subterfuge, and was disappointed when a New Moon Ritual was mentioned, but not described.
The Dark Desires of the Druids is a wonderful series. It’s my intent to read “all” of the remaining books within this series.
Books three and four are currently available for your reading pleasure. Desert and Destiny is the third; Temptations and Treachery is the fourth.
4 Star Rating
Buy: The Dark Desires of the Druids II: Sex and Subterfuge
Erotic Romance, Historical, Paranormal, Ravenous Romance, Fantastica Publication, Copyright 2009, eBook Novella, pages 160.
ISBN# 978-1-60777-107-4.
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January 3rd, 2010 — About, Paranormal, Science Fiction, Time Travel
Time travel romance is usually classified under paranormal romance. I'm surprised it isn't more of a science-fiction romance element actually, but that's neither here nor there.
One of the best things about time travel romance is the way the hero or heroine manages to do it. Some authors have gotten really creative as they try to puzzle it out. How exactly do our romance leads get to the past or future? I've compiled a list of ways in which they have below:
- Steering a spaceship through a blackhole and coming out the other side in the past/future depending on direction of travel. – Time and Again by Nora Roberts
- Jumping from a bridge so as to reach the speed of gravity before passing through a wormhole just above the water. – Kate and Leopold
- Stepping through a secret door in your house/apartment to the past/present. - Lost in Austen
- Genetic ability. - The Time Traveler's Wife
- A coma inducing fainting spell. – Prince of Dreams by Lisa Kleypas
- Reading old diaries, letters, or documents that are not your own. - The Man Who Loved Jane Austen by Sally O'Rourke
- The use of a talisman, ancient artifact, or any old object to trigger a space-time continuum jump. - The Highlander’s Touch by Karen Marie Moning
- Magic spells, especially those meant to save you from execution. - Breath of Magic by Teresa Medeiros
- Busybody ghosts who want you to save them from a life of ruin. - What Would Jane Austen Do? by Laurie Brown
- Falling down a well and being rescued from it in another time and place. – Enchanted
I know there's more! Chime in! What are some other ways of time travel have you come across? What are your favorite time travel romances?
Photo Credits: Hubble Space Telescope and Website. You are looking at an Andromeda radio wave photo of the black hole at it's center. Pretty nifty looking isn't it?
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December 28th, 2009 — Reader Highlights
We have a mystery reader with us today, hi there! Welcome to Love Romance Passion. Whoosh! Zoom! Uh! I’m sorry; our reader is flying around the room. Let’s just begin without her, for now. This reader throws potion bottles when entering contests, and flies around on a besom while blogging. Some authors refer to her as WW.
She drinks way too much coffee, and wonders why Folgers hasn’t officially named her the largest consumer in the world. The library is her second home, her haven if you will. This woman considers herself an (EOR) Equal Opportunity Reader. Nothing “offends” her. In fact, certain subject matter which cause hypertensive meds to work triple-time in certain individuals, simply have no effect on her sensibilities.
Our reader has a bookshelf which contains classics, young adults, historicals, regency, eroticas, paranormals, time travels, romantic suspense, and a few others crushed beneath the above aforementioned. Her categories are hidden strategically in key areas of her SUV.
This blogger/reader/reviewer may remind you of Batman’s character Two-Face. When flipping a coin to tales, she decides to read paranormal romance. Here are just a few of her favorite paranormal romance authors: Michele Hauf, Emma Holly, Sherrilyn Kenyon, Lynsay Sands, Gena Showalter, and Donna Lea Simpson.
If fate decrees the coin should land on heads, this mystery reader will read romantic suspense. Some of her favorite romantic suspense authors are: Nina Bruhns, P.C.Cast, Delores Fossen, Susan Kearney, Sheryl Lynn, Leigh Riker, and Darlene Scalera.
This lady loves Nancy Drew PC games, James Bond movies, and Mystery Dinner shows.
Keira hears the radio blaring from our reader’s flying besom. Here’s an announcement from Ms. Unknown.
Hi, LRP readers! For my fellow sleuths out there, look for these upcoming 2010 releases. They’re sure to satisfy your romantic suspense sweet tooths, and give you a romance to boot. Criminal Deception by Marilyn Pappano, Dead Again and Dead Double by Tracy Cooper-Posey, and Black Magic by Cherry Adair.
Cherry Adair deserves special mention, you should really see this author’s website. It is the “best” website ever for suspense fans. I really feel like an agent when I visit. http://tflac.com/
Keira, I love visiting your blog site! There’s so much to see and read. Sorry I missed most of my own reader highlight, but you don’t have any parking for witch brooms. I did want to mention, that I consider myself to be a paranormal suspense witch…er, queen, sorry.
Any guesses, as to who our mystery person is? Scroll down to find out.
Lower.
No, sorry, just a little lower.
Answer: Susan S., a.k.a. Witchy Woman, and our very own Paranormal/Suspense Queen!
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December 23rd, 2009 — Defining the Genre, Paranormal, Time Travel, United States of America, Vampire, Werewolf
What is paranormal romance?
Well we can easily define paranormal romance as subgenre of romance. But what is it really? Paranormal romance combines the supernatural world with that of the real, the natural, the plain. One lover is sure to be something special and the other lover is special because they are so plain; something is found in their ordinariness that strikes a cord with the extraordinary lover.
More than not these stories take place in America, especially when dealing with vampires, but it's not a requirement for the genre. Paranormal romance usually blends mystery, thriller, or suspense as part and parcel of its tale. You could consider these novels to be more than a bit Gothic in theme. Anita Blake Vampire Hunter and the Twilight Saga are two such series that can be found within the category of paranormal romance.
Why do people like it so much?
The sales of paranormal romance have risen over the years. It is not uncommon to find several titles of paranormal fiction in romance aisles. Why is that? As I said when discussing Edward and Bella in the Twilight books, I believe it is because we are all craving that extraordinary romance.
As with time travel romances, paranormal romances that involve vampires have that glorious advantage of a love out of time. One person waits, separate from the time stream of the normal world with all its stresses and hectic schedules just for you. Waters run deep in the one that has been waiting, he (or she) knows just what it is like to live a small eternity in loneliness and now that you've been found, you won't be let go. He (or she) will love you forever.
Besides vampires what fits into this category?
Magic users, lycanthropes (like werewolves), selkies, fairies, ghosts, superhuman capabilities (like flying), gods and goddesses, and angels and demons are all perfectly acceptable.
If you have more on the subject of paranormal romance feel free to add!
Originally posted 2008-07-01 08:32:53. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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December 11th, 2009 — Defining the Genre, Paranormal, Urban Fantasy
I had to educate myself on this. For instance, until I read Katiebabs’ WTF post on Laurell K. Hamilton (among other things) I would have cleanly classified Anita Blake as contemporary paranormal romance. If Anita Blake is urban fantasy then so to by deduction must be Keri Arthur’s Riley Jenson Series and Buffy the Vampire Slayer
.
Which begs the question, when did vampires and werewolves leave their home in Paranormal Land and cross into the Fantasy World? Isn't fantasy populated with witches, magic, dragons, and princes? As Orson Scott Card said (and I’m paraphrasing) if you think trees the story is a fantasy; if you think metal it’s a science fiction… or in this case not-fantasy. I think of vampires and werewolves as claws and teeth, which is probably why I’m so confused. 
Are you? Let’s figure it out together.
Urban Fantasy Romance Is:
- Fantasy elements (also including paranormal here don’t ask me why) in a people populated setting be it city or town.
- Sure to deal with mystery, suspense, and/or crime.
- Reliant heavily on world-building to make it work. How did these creature rise from obscurity and into the everyday? How do normal humans deal with them?
- A romance, but it doesn't overwhelm the driving plot.
- Usually a series so world-building and romance arcs are sprinkled throughout many books.
- Usually contemporary or modern, but can be set in historical or futuristic settings too.
- Populated with tough kick-ass heroines.
- Never fluffy. It’s gritty, dark, and thrilling.
Urban Fantasy vs Paranormal Romance:
What’s the difference between an urban fantasy and a paranormal written in an urban setting? Please explain! Here’s what I got so far…
- Paranormal romance is usually hero-centric whereas urban fantasy tends to be heroine-centric.
- Paranormal romance is about the hero and heroine’s relationship first and foremost with a HEA (happily ever after). Urban Fantasy romance is about saving the world and finding love while you do it.
-
Avon executive editor Erika Tsang explains: “In paranormal romance the relationship between the couple is the focus of the main plot. In urban fantasy, the world that the couple exists in is the focus.” Publisher's Weekly
This is why everyone says the two get confused and are used interchangeably. It really is a difference of degrees I feel.
Do you prefer Urban Fantasy or Paranormal Romance? I am clearly a fan of both even though before I wrote this post I thought I never read an urban fantasy. Give me Edward Cullen and Buffy Summers!
What are some of the other Urban Fantasy Romance series that you enjoy?
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December 7th, 2009 — Author Interviews, Contemporary, Historical Romance, Paranormal, Regency, S-U, Vampire
I can't think of a better way to start the weekend off than with an author interview with romance writer Lynsay Sands. I got the opportunity to pose a series of questions about her writing and tips and advice for new writers. Her responses are a joy to read! Thank you again, Lynsay for interviewing with us, and now on with the interview!
LRP: So first question, what do you enjoy doing besides writing?
Lynsay: Walking and nature. Luckily the two things go together.
LRP: You like to write paranormal romance on top of historical. What do you think is the appeal of vampires?
Lynsay: Actually, I just like to write, period. I don't prefer any genre. I have written medieval, regency, vampires and shape shifters. I've also written contemps and will do so again. I wouldn't mind trying my hand at horror too, although I don't think I write dark enough. My horror would probably be black comedy rather than strict horror.
As for the appeal of vampires, I can't really answer that, that's not what it's about for me. With the Argeneaus it was the family and the situations that appealed to me. The vampire stuff was just handy as a problem of sorts, something that was both a blessing and a little bit of not-so-much-a-blessing at the same time. These are people who just happen to be vampires. They still have the same issues everyone else does.
LRP: How do you decide on character names and book titles?
Lynsay: That is the hardest and most important part for me. The names usually have a lot to do with their character for me and when I say I struggle at the beginning of writing a book, the name is part of what I'm struggling with. I can change the name several times until I find the character and the name that suits them.
As for book titles . . . I suck at those and my editor is always changing them. The Accidental Vampire is one of the few they didn't change.
LRP: What is your advice to would-be authors?
Lynsay: Write what you enjoy and do it for your own pleasure. Do not go into writing for the money, or even thinking you'll make any. Most writers don't make much money. I've been lucky of late and can work at only this, but most writers have to continue to work a day job throughout their career. And this is HARD work. Believe me. At least it is for me. I work long hours. It isn't just the writing you have to do. You come into it thinking it will just be writing your stories, but there is the writing of the book, the corrections, the proofs, the fan letters, the promotional stuff they want you to do, etc. etc.
And then it isn't like accounting or engineering where if you get it right, it's just right across the board. Writing is more subjective and a story is NEVER just right. You can't please everyone and there is ALWAYS going to be someone who hates your story and seems to delight in telling you that. Even those who like them overall, may criticize the pants off you for something. That is life as a writer. You either develop a thick skin quickly, or . . . So make sure you love it if you're going to give it a go.
LRP: How long does it take you to write a novel on average? What work took the shortest amount of time and what book gave you the most trouble?
Lynsay: Usually a month for the first round, I tend to write them straight through. The fastest I've ever written one was two weeks. That was my first book, The Deed. The one that gave me the most trouble was A Quick Bite. It was my first book for a new publisher and I was a bit anxious (read panicking like CRAZY) so I really struggled with it.
LRP: How do you handle writer's block? (Or better still... coffee or tea?)
Lynsay: Tea . . . and sometimes coffee. As for writer's block, moving work to a coffee shop and writing there by hand in a notebook usually loosens things up.
LRP: What is your favorite aspect of writing?
Lynsay: Finishing it. LOL. That's not really true, though sometimes it is a relief to print them up and send them out. There are several aspects of writing that are great. Working from home is one. My commute is a short walk to the sunroom and I can go there in pjs or a toga if I like (grin).
Making my own hours is nice too, although with me, I tend to not know when to stop, I just work around the clock which isn't good. But I guess the stories themselves are my real favorite part. I am experiencing them as I write them. It's kind of like reading them but it takes longer and involves more work (grin). However, I laugh, or smile my way through the stories, and sniffle at the occasional touching scenes too and for me, that's probably the best part. I get to enjoy the stories as I write them, and I write exactly what I enjoy. I'm just lucky others seem to enjoy them too.
LRP: What do you think makes a good bedroom scene?
Lynsay: I'm not sure. I've been told I write them well, but I'm not sure that's true and if so why it is. I have a friend who has a real struggle with the sex scenes. I think she thinks too much. She seems to think people will think it's her sex life she's writing about, so she gets all self-conscious and is very stiff when writing them. I don't get caught up in that. For me the beginning of the book is where I struggle. I can often write the first chapter or two twenty or more times. I've come to realize that what's happening then is I'm getting to know my characters. Once I have a handle on them (how they think, feel, react, etc) the stories usually flow after that and become a film in my head that I'm just typing up as quickly as I can, sex scenes and all. That gives me a certain amount of distance from it all I guess and less self-consciousness than others might suffer.
LRP: What do you hope your readers will gain from your books?
Lynsay: I hope they get an escape from their everyday lives, a chance to relax and hopefully smile if not laugh. I don't aspire to write something that makes them stop and think or changes their views on anything, I just think life is tough and we all need a break from it and I hope my books give readers the opportunity to do that
LRP: Thank you again Lynsay, for taking the time to answer all my questions.
Lynsay is really friendly and welcomes questions. Be sure to visit her website @ http://www.lynsaysands.net/.
Lynsay also writes a blog, which you can visit @ http://lynsaysands.spaces.live.com/.
Don’t miss out on her upcoming vampire novel this fall: The Rogue Hunter (Argeneau Vampires, Book 10)
.
What's your favorite book by Lynsay Sands?
Originally posted 2008-11-23 19:17:17. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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December 5th, 2009 — Alien, Demon, Dragon, Fey / Fae, Ghost, Lycanthrope, Magic Users, Merman/Mermaid, Necromancer, Paranormal, Super Hero, Supernatural, Vampire, Werewolf
Truth or another whiny complaint from males about our reading material? Does paranormal romance hopelessly increase our expectations in a man? Let’s examine the paranormal hero to find out:
- He isn’t human. The paranormal hero is vampire, lycanthrope, demon, shapeshifter, angel, or other. Can a normal man get that irresistible dangerous edge? Yes, and he needn't even have a romantic suspense hero occupation. Role play and grab that Halloween cop uniform! Practice your growl. We love it when men growl their excitement!
- He has otherworldly powers. The paranormal hero is powerful in many aspects from his body to his personality, from his wealth to his influence and even to the impossible. Just because the paranormal hero can enter our minds, doesn't mean a real man can't guess what's in ours. Hint: A glass of wine, and a backrub will give any man superhuman powers.
- He’s ridiculously good looking. It’s our fantasy! Besides have you never heard of a gym? You expect us to be perfectly coiffed, made up with shaved legs, I think a few hours in a gym is not asking too much. Quit complaining and give me twenty! Or two hundred as twenty a six pack does not make.
- He’s an out of this world lover. The paranormal hero is a skilled lover. He’s sex walking and a giver of multiple orgasms. Nervous? Don’t worry. Real men can be phenomenal lovers too. It’s all about the E^E equation: Experimentation ^ Experience = Amazing in Bed.
- He’s too perfect. Not all the time! If the paranormal hero didn’t screw up sometime he wouldn’t be so perfect now would he? Flaws create the perfect character. Real men have flaws too.
Conclusion: Paranormal men sparkle. Real men can sparkle too.
Photo Credits: http://weheartit.com/
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November 27th, 2009 — Arabia/Middle East, Australia/New Zealand, Contemporary, Guest Blogger, M-O, Soldier
by Shelley Munro, guest blogger
Thanks so much for having me to visit today. My name is Shelley Munro, and I write both contemporary and paranormal romance for Ellora’s Cave and Samhain Publishing.
I come wearing my contemporary author hat today. Like many other readers and authors, some of the earliest romances I read were Harlequin Mills & Boon. They were contemporary stories set in exotic locations, both in the country and in cities. The stories I read actually fueled my desire to travel. I wanted to see the Greek Islands, the Italian cities and French vineyards. I wanted to see London. Yes, I definitely started my love of contemporary romance at an early age.
So why do I like contemporary romances so much?
- The stories are set in this world in recognizable settings.
- The heroine is often someone who is just like me. It’s easy to step into her shoes and experience the ride.
- The problems the hero and heroine face during the story are ones the reader can empathize with because often they have experience with the same problems or know of someone who has. This can make the story more meaningful.
- The reader can armchair travel to exotic locations.
- The stories are often more light-hearted and less dark than in other genres.
- The stories are often set in small, close-knit communities.
- The stories have happy endings.
Luckily for me, after a bit of a drought in the contemporary genre, there are some great ones around this year. Some of my favorites include Lorelei James with her hot cowboy series, Robyn Carr with her Virgin River series and Victoria Dahl. All three authors have set their stories in small country towns. Everyone knows their neighbors and often their neighbors’ business, which can add to the story conflict. Some of the stories have a slight suspense element to them, but mostly the stories are character driven.
Authors Natalie Anderson and Sarah Mayberry are both Down Under authors. Natalie writes for Presents and Sarah writes for Blaze and Superromance. Both write wonderful contemporaries, often with quirky characters and a little humor. I snap up their books as soon as they come out.
Erin McCarthy is personally responsible for me losing sleep because I couldn’t stop reading her Flat-Out Sexy
, a contemporary set in the race car world. Maya Banks and Beth Kery write hot, hot, hot stories that leave the reader needing a cold shower or better yet, their favorite man.
My recent contemporary release Soldier of Fortune is set in both Iraq and New Zealand. My hero Louie Lithgow and heroine Joanna “Mac” McGregor are both soldiers who face danger every day while working for a private security company. Both have taken the job to earn big money. Louie intends this tour to be his last one while Mac needs to sign up again to support her father. I did lots of research while writing this story and hopefully I’ve managed to blend the danger and romance in a way that readers enjoy.
Here’s the blurb:
Joanna “Mac” McGregor loves her father, and she’ll do anything to keep him safe after Alzheimer’s starts to steal his mind. That takes money, and Mac uses her only skills—those of soldiering—when she takes up a security contract in Iraq. She doesn’t have time for men, her last vacation fling in Fiji relegated as one perfect moment to hold close during the grim reality of war.
Soldier Louie Lithgow is tired of fighting, the constant danger, and has decided this is his last contract. He wants to retire, sink his savings into a place on the beach, and find the sexy Joanna, his holiday lover.
Mac’s arrival in Iraq causes consternation. They’ve both been economical with the truth, but the attraction sizzling between them flares hot and bright. They embark on a clandestine affair—professional and confident during their high-danger day, passionate with the release of emotional stress during their torrid nights. One thing is clear—they have different goals and the future is both murky and dangerous. If they survive their contracts.
Buy link: http://www.jasminejade.com/pm-7810-127-soldier-of-fortune.aspx
Website: http://www.shelleymunro.com
Blog: http://www.shelleymunro.com/blog
Do you enjoy reading contemporary romances? Why or why not? Do you have any favorite contemporary romances you’ve read this year that you’d like to recommend?
Giveaway: One commenter will win a download of Shelley Munro's e-book Summer in the City of Sails
, which is the book where readers first meet Louie Lithgow, the hero of Soldier of Fortune. Enter by answering Shelley's questions about contemporary romances. One entry per relevant comment; multiple entries allowed. Ends: December 4, 2009.
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November 22nd, 2009 — 4 Stars, D-F, Fantasy, Fey / Fae, Guest Reviews, Lawyer, Love Triangle, Magic Users, Paranormal, United States of America
By Susan S., Guest Reviewer
Barely Bewitched is a fun, “light,” and entertaining read. I’ve read it twice!
This is Kimberly’s second book belonging to her Southern Witch Series. It stands alone, but if you’re interested in how Mercutio became the heroine’s cat, I recommend starting with Would-Be Witch
. I suggest it simply because Mercutio plays such a “huge” role in the main character’s life.
What I love about this author is her ability to keep me guessing. Oftentimes, we can accurately surmise an upcoming scene, or even predict an ending. Not so, with Kimberly’s novels.
I recommend this novel to cat lovers, anyone who enjoys magic based stories, if you read paranormal romance, or love triangles.
Meet the heroine (Tammy Jo Trask) she’s a Texan witch, an unemployed pastry chef, and a woman who meets trouble at every turn. Her magic also goes awry, “every” single time she attempts to use it. Whoever said rules were meant to be broken, just accurately described the heroine.
In Barely Bewitched (WAM) the World Association of Magic thinks Tammy is a rogue witch. They’ve deemed her guilty of illegally using her magic. She now has only two choices. Enter the challenge which she’s not prepared for, or refuse and face either incarceration/extermination; whichever (WAM) chooses. This time around, Tamara’s life has never been more chaotic. When faery dust causes the entire town to act irresponsibly, and without inhibitions, it’s up to Tammy to set things right. Not an easy thing to do considering she still has to find her Aunt Mel’s emerald earrings, contact the family ghost (Edie), prepare for a challenge she’s sure to screw-up, cheat death repeatedly, and stay away from Bryn Lyons. (Easier said than done.) Tammy’s family insists he should be avoided at all costs, even (WAM) deems Bryn’s a wizard with ulterior motives. So if everyone warns her to run away from him, why can’t she stop kissing him? Maybe, it’s because he’s this gorgeous dark haired, blue-eyed wizard, who also happens to be a very wealthy lawyer.
This novel has several new characters, and two revelations. One, where we “finally” learn why Tammy’s magic always misfires.
Can Tamara save Duvall from themselves? Will she learn to ignore her ever growing attraction to Bryn? Even if he quotes Ovid the Roman poet? I must say, that was very sexy! This wizard has also been known to chant in Gaelic or Latin; temptation indeed!
Perhaps, I should also mention her ex-husband (Zach Sutton) who’s never really left her life. He’s one hunky Sheriff’s deputy, what’s a witch to do?
4 Star Rating
Buy: Barely Bewitched
The Berkley Publishing Group, Paranormal Romance, September 2009, Paperback, 312 pages. ISBN# 978-0-425-22961-3
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November 9th, 2009 — Guest Blogger, Lycanthrope, S-U, Werewolf
by Terry Spear, guest blogger
Have you ever wanted to shapeshift? Maybe not exactly thought of it in those terms, but haven't you ever wanted to be a fly on the wall? To hear and see what was going on at some event that you couldn't/wouldn't dare intrude on otherwise? But were dying to know what went on?
Or have you ever wished you could stretch up and reach something you can't without a stepstool or ladder? Or wished you could run like a gazelle? Or had four hands so you could do whatever job you were doing that needed more than two hands? What about looking out over a mountainous ravine, watching an eagle soaring above the treetops? Ever wish you could fly like that?
Or swim deep into underwater caves or around exquisite corals and through colorful tropical fish, or under icebergs to see what's down there, without the aid of scuba or snorkeling gear or wetsuits?
What if you could show off a pair of wickedly sharp teeth if someone really aggravated you and that would make him or her back off-quickly?
So now, have you ever wanted to shapeshift?
Why werewolves? In truth, I started out with vampires, and then somewhere along the line I created a futuristic world-a warrior who is grounded on a planet where the heroine is a panther shapeshifter and her brother, a dragon. But then, I began considering wolves, werewolves and how they got just as bad a rap as vampires in the beginning. Someone needed to love them, as they were. Many stories show werewolves living in our society, some as a fantasy element, some where they are more closely related to the old werewolf tales-man hates his being a werewolf, can't remember what he does in the middle of the night, dead bodies everywhere.
Mine are about a race of humans, unsure how they were turned, though various thoughts persist, from alien forces to a mutated virus from the bite of a wolf early on. I try to keep my stories as true to wolf behavior in the wild as I can-but of course, their actions are moderated by their human halves. And while they're human, they have their enhanced abilities that give them an advantage over regular humans.
In Heart of the Wolf
, which was named one of Publishers Weekly's Best Books of the Year, they said this: "The vulpine couple's chemistry crackles off the page, but the real strength of the book lies in Spear's depiction of pack power dynamics, as well as in the details of human-wolf interaction. Her wolf world feels at once palpable and even plausible."
And The Romantic Times had this to say: "A solidly crafted werewolf story, this tale centers on pack problems in a refreshingly straightforward way. The characters are well drawn and believable, which makes the contemporary plotline of this story of love and life among the lupus garou seem, well, realistic."
In Destiny of the Wolf, I wanted to show a werewolf pack that actually runs a town, a fictional place called Silver Town, based on several silver towns in Colorado. Lelandi is a red wolf from another part of Colorado, who knows her sister has been murdered, but when she arrives in Silver Town to locate and dispense with the murderer, she finds herself on his new hit list. And Darien, the gray alpha pack leader, soon changes his mind about sending the luring red back to her own pack, and keeping her right where she is-for her protection, of course.
So why wolves? They're fiercely protective of their own, mate for life, and live in family packs, loyal, courageous, cunning, and strong. Just seeing them nuzzling each other, shows their human, I mean, loving side. So why not werewolves? Combined, it makes them a hot new item where the term alpha male takes on a whole new meaning.
If you could, what would you like to shapeshift into?
Originally posted 2009-03-04 05:23:37. Republished by Blog Post Promoter
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