Countdown to Branded By Fire: 7 days to go!

Winners! The random winners are:

Elizabeth G - Kissing Midnight by Emma Holly
Karah - Fair Game by Jasmine Haynes

Congratulations! Please email me your address (nalinisinghwrites AT gmail DOT com).
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Seven days to go until Branded By Fire hits the shelves! The Book Smugglers just put up their review of Mercy and Riley's story. Here's a snippet:

Notable Quotes/ Parts: Just about every single interaction between Riley and Mercy. Also, between Mercy and her pack members. Actually, make that all the scenes between Riley and his alpha, Hawke and between Hawke and Sienna. Crap. the whole book is freaking notable.

To read the full review, follow the link!

Today's cyber launch party giveaways are a copy of Kissing Midnight by Emma Holly and Fair Game by Jasmine Haynes.

Entry rules are same as Monday, so have a look at that post if you've just arrived at the party. And welcome! (Don't forget to note if you already have one of the books).

Now, onto today's burning question: Who are your favorite couple(s) from books? Why?

It doesn't have to be a romance. One of my friends really loves the hero & his dragon from the Temeraire books. As for me...hmm...

Countdown to Branded By Fire: 8 days to go!

Winners! The random numbers have rolled and the winners are:

Ang From Oz - Yasmine Galenorn's Demon Mistress
Megan - Angels' Blood

Congratulations!
_________________________

Branded By Fire releases July 7th and I'm throwing a cyber launch party to celebrate!

Thanks to my wonderful editor & my super-duper abilities at ordering and hoarding books *grin*, there are going to be lots of awesome giveaways.

Today, I'm giving away a copy of Demon Mistress by Yasmine Galenorn and a copy of Angels' Blood by yours truly.

How to enter? Easy. Just leave a comment with your answer to the day's burning question. If you already have one of the books being given away, please let me know so I can make sure everyone gets new reads.

BUT this time around, I'll give you a way to get in a second entry. Or a third... ;-) If you invite folks to the party (through blogs, twitter, etc), and leave a note about or a link to your invite, I'll give you one more shot at the day's prize(s). If you told a friend, just have your friend(s) mention your name in their comment so I know you invited them.

So invite everyone! However, please be polite - no hounding friends who aren't in the party mood. This is all about having fun :-)

All contests will be drawn twenty-four hours after they post. Please make sure you swing back to check if you've won.

Now, onto today's question: Which romance novel hero would you like to find alive and gift-wrapped on your doorstep?

Subliminal message: You know you want to say Riley Kincaid from Branded By Fire, Riley Kincaid, Riley Kincaid...

Countdown to Branded By Fire

I've got some fun stuff planned for everyone as we count down to the release of Branded By Fire, so make sure you come by tomorrow! :)

Friday Book Club: Guest Author - Jennifer Ashley: The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie

Winner: Thank you to Jennifer Ashley for being such a fantastic guest!!

I've drawn the random winner of a copy of The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie, using a random number generator, and the winner is: Barbarita V! Congratulations!

__________

It's a special book club today!

I recently read The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie and just loved it. Ian is such an intriguing character, and watching his and Beth's relationship grow had me glued to the page.

Follow the link to read an excerpt and check out information about the series.

Jennifer was kind enough to agree to guest on the blog today and answer your questions, so get them ready!

Here are a few that I asked:

1. Lord Ian Mackenzie is one of the most unusual heroes I've read. How did you come up with his character?

I wrote about Ian because I got to pondering how people in the past dealt with autism or Aspergers. Autism (and Aspergers) wasn't defined until the twentieth century and many still don't fully understand it. Aspergers, I learned through my research, doesn't present the same way in each person--I read about or was given widely different accounts of Aspy behavior.

I thought Ian's struggle would make for an interesting story. His character grew in my mind over a couple of years before I had a chance to write the book. And it was challenging! I went over each of his scenes many times before I was happy with them.

I also wanted to write a family saga--I want the series to be more than just about couples getting together. I'm writing not only about how each brother finds the lady of his dreams, but also how the brothers grow and strengthen as a family. Ian's troubles are only one part of the whole.

2. Of the remaining three brothers, whose story do you think will be the most challenging to write?

Most readers might think I'd say Hart, the dark, oldest brother. But I love redeeming baddies, and I'm looking forward to having him meeting the lady who brings him to his knees. :-)

Personally I think Cameron will be a big challenge (I'm already writing Mac, so I might change my mind, LOL). Cam is kind of an enigma--I'm not sure I know him well yet, and I need to make him a fully fleshed out, interesting character. His heroine is a little different, too.

3. What are some of your recent favorite historical reads?

My favorite this year is Scandal, by Carolyn Jewel. Carolyn is the nicest person, ever, and I was eager to see what she'd written after a short hiatus from historicals. I started reading Scandal and was entranced. It's a rich, deep, character-driven book that I enjoyed very much. Her hero is to-die-for, and I loved that her heroine is a writer (a lady novelist). I recommend it to historical lovers.

~

I've got an extra copy of The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie to give away. Everyone who leaves a comment by Sunday noon New Zealand time, goes into the draw. If you haven't got a question for Jennifer, how about saying what intrigues you about the book. :)

Friday & Dakota Cassidy Giveaway

We're going to have a very special guest at Friday's book club, so make sure you all make a note in your diaries.

Clue: The hero of her most recent book is...unusual.

Who could it be???

Also, a heads-up that The Knight Agency is giving away a copy of Dakota Cassidy's Accidentally Dead today. Be quick!

Dakota will also be chatting in the TKA Chat Room on Thursday, June 25th @ 9pm ET and I believe there are going to be giveaways there too. :-)

Movies: The Proposal

This was an adorably funny movie! Definitely one to see with your girlfriends.

Catchup

I'm working on something fun for the release of Branded By Fire - only two weeks to go until it hits the shelves! I can't wait! :)

Also, Meljean Brook is giving away an ARC of Must Love Hellhounds. You can enter here.

Hope you all had a great weekend. Get up to anything interesting?

Guest Blog

I've got a guest post up at RR@H Novel Thoughts & Book Talk. Swing by and say hi :)

Friday Book Club

It's Friday again! And we're talking books we enjoyed this week. Leave your recommendations in the comments!

This week, I read Vision in White by Nora Roberts and I absolutely loved it. Carter is the most adorable, gorgeous hero ever! I'm really looking forward to the next three books in this quartet.

Okay, your turn. :-)

Quickie

Contest Closed! Winners below.

Since there were so many entries, I decided to draw three winners using a random number generator. And they are:

KMont - Awaken the Senses
Midnight - One of my Silhouette releases
Monica Kaye - Visions of Heat

Congrats! Could you all email me with your addresses at nalinisinghwrites AT gmail DOT com. Since this attracted so many entries, I think I'll have to do it again. I do have a release coming up, so there might be a party...keep an eye out *grin*

______________

Want a signed copy of one of my books? Leave a comment with the title of the book you'd like to go into the draw. I'll draw a random winner tomorrow and send that person the book they chose (as long as I have a copy).

Open to everyone, everywhere. And yes, your choice can be one of my Desire releases.

Edited to add: Just to clarify - I have no copies of Branded By Fire yet, so that's out of the contest. Backlist books only.

ConSciption 2009

This was my first sf con and I had an absolute blast. Here are some photos from the weekend.

The international guest of honor was writer Julie Czerneda, who gave a 3 day writer's workshop prior to the con. I joined in for a discussion session on the last day, and it was so much fun. I really enjoyed hearing her speak over the weekend - if you have a chance to attend one of Julie's talks, don't hesitate.

Of course, I also fell in love with Julie because she bought me a present.


You're looking at a copy of Anne Bishop's Queen of the Darkness, signed to me! It's no secret that I adore Ms Bishop's Black Jewels world so you can guess how excited I was to receive this!

Then as the weekend kicked off, the con was invaded by expert swordsmen...


...and Roman legionnaires.

The displays were fantastic. I was particularly interested in the demonstration and talk relating to the history of the modern sword. The speakers brought along a beautiful collection of swords and related armor from across several centuries, and it was wonderful to be able to handle the weapons - especially as blades play an important role in Archangel's Kiss.

The weekend ended on a high note with Stroke of Enticement winning the Best Novella category of the Sir Juilus Vogel Awards. Here's a photo of me with fellow winner Sally McClennan, who won for her children's book Deputy Dan & the Mysterious Midnight Marauder.


A great weekend all around!

German Page Update

I want to give a big thanks to all of you who've helped with translations so we can set up a German page on the website. You guys are completely awesome.

I'm hoping to have the German page up with the next set of updates, but I'd really like someone to do a quick read of the complete page (approx 9 pages in Word), and make sure all the pieces fit. Since I'd need it back in a couple of days, I don't want to put my wonderful volunteers on the spot - if anyone's got time, could you email me? (nalinisinghwrites AT gmail DOT com).

Danke!

Jaws in 30 Seconds (with bunnies)

Maree Anderson shared this link for Jaws in 30 Seconds (with bunnies) on Twitter, and I was sucked into the vortex of bunnies - I also watched Jurassic Park in 30 Seconds, King Kong...and the moral of this story is, do not follow the link unless you have several minutes to spare. ;-)

Friday Book Club

It's Friday book club time - all about recommending books you've enjoyed.

I've got a great rec for you today - Julie James' Just the Sexiest Man Alive. Here's the blurb:

COOL. CALM. COLLECTED.

Nothing fazes Taylor Donovan. In the courtroom she never lets the opposition see her sweat. In her personal life, she never lets any man rattle her–not even her cheating ex-fiancé. So when she’s assigned to coach People’s “Sexiest Man Alive” for his role in his next big legal thriller, she refuses to fall for the Hollywood heartthrob’s charms. Even if he is the Jason Andrews.

CONFIDENT. FAMOUS. IRRESISTIBLE.

Jason Andrews is used to having women fall at his feet. When Taylor Donovan gives him the cold shoulder, he’s thrown for a loop. She’s unlike any other woman he’s ever met: uninterested in the limelight, seemingly immune to his advances, and shockingly capable of saying no to him. She’s the perfect challenge. And the more she rejects him, the more he begins to realize that she may just be his perfect match. . .

It's a smart, funny, romantic book - I enjoyed every moment of it. I picked it up and raced through it in one sitting, and I'm still smiling as I write this.

You can check out an excerpt on the author's website.

Okay, your turn - what are your recommendations this week?

Guest Author: Maree Anderson - Even Demons Get The Blues

Winner: Thank you all for being so welcoming to Maree - and thanks Maree for being such a great guest. And now the part you've all been waiting for - the random numbers have spoken and the winner of the free Even Demons Get the Blues download is LouiseD. Congratulations! Please email Maree at maree AT mareeanderson DOT com, to claim your prize.

I've got a special interview and giveaway for you today - with fellow Kiwi and good friend Maree Anderson.

One person will win a free pdf download of Even Demons Get the Blues - just leave a comment to enter.

Now, onto the interview!

_________________________

Hi Nalini! Thanks heaps for letting me talk about my debut release. And as if June wasn’t exciting enough already for me, it’s my publishing company’s anniversary: Happy 15th Anniversary, Red Sage! (BTW, these ladies really know how to celebrate, so please check out their official anniversary statement at the end of this interview.)

1. Who is Maree Anderson?

I'm a wife, a mom, a soccer team supporter, a Ceroc dancer, a karate yellow-belt (just starting out), a gym regular (trying really hard to make that one true), and an avid reader.... Among other things. Like being a lover of chocolate—the darker the better—oh, and let’s not forget a glass of good wine. As far as writing goes, I’m heavily skewed toward fantasy and paranormal. I just can’t seem to resist the whole out-of-this-world aspect when I’m writing.

2. What's it like being a debut author? Any particular experiences you'd like to share?

The process so far has been exhilarating and fun and just plain scary as hell.

An actual editor who loved one of my stories enough to want to publish it? The best!

Having input into the design of my very first cover and then being emailed the final proof? Fan-freaking-tastic!

From my editor I learned about crafting stories. And from my copy-editor, I learned about crafting sentences. I’m a far better writer because of their input. And thanks to everyone’s input, when I received the final proof of my story I was confident it was the best it could be.... Unless someone else had a go at writing it. Someone like our Nalini, perhaps? *VBG*

The “scary as hell” part? That’s the thought of actual readers spending their hard-earned cash to buy my book. And waiting for reviews. It’s one thing to pour your soul out onto a page, quite another to send those pages out into the world for people to read.

3. I've known you personally for several years, and I've seen you submit, enter contests and work really hard toward publication. If you had one piece of advice to give to those seeking publication, what would it be?

Never, never, NEVER give up. If, like me, you can’t not write because frankly you’d go nuts, then you just have to believe in yourself and keep trying.

4. Tell us a bit about Even Demons Get The Blues.

This was such a fun story to write! I try to challenge myself with my writing so when you posted details of Red Sage’s Alpha Male Novella Contest to the RWNZ loop, I decided to try and write a novella. I wanted to write a really flawed heroine—Leisa was actually inspired by Holly Hunter’s portrayal of the lead character in Saving Grace. I’d never written for the erotic romance market before, either, so it was a real challenge!

Here’s what I came up with for Even Demons Get The Blues:

Rezon was the Demon King’s lieutenant for four thousand years but even the most badass Demon in Hell gets jaded, so Rez joined the Beguilers. Only trouble is now he’s been beguiled—by Leisa, a tormented human woman who’s captured his heart.

Leisa might look like an angel, but she sure doesn’t act like one. Her guilt is eating her alive. Alcohol and casual sex are her chosen methods of self-destruction, and she’s embracing both with a vengeance.

When Leisa picks up one loser too many, Rez is provoked into showing her what a real man—uh, make that Demon!—can do for her. But Leisa’s been tagged by a Destroyer and her soul is forfeit, so when she inadvertently shatters Rez’s defenses and bonds with him, there’s Hell to pay!

5. What're you working on right now?

I’m working on two manuscripts: a paranormal about Spartan soldiers and the dryad antagonist who steals their humanity, and just for something different, a novella-length “Space Opera”.

6. Who are your "keeper" authors?

Gosh, *glances at her cramped bookcases and overflowing desk* there’s too many to mention here! Angela Knight. Charlaine Harris. Janet Evanovich. Laurell K. Hamilton. Oh, and a really talented writer who goes by the name of Nalini Singh ;-)

7. Anything else you'd like to share?

I loved, loved, LOVED! Angels’ Blood. And I just have to say that if I could be any paranormal creature in the entire world, I’d be one of your angels, Nalini. They’re a truly awe-inspiring creation. *le grand sigh*

Maree Anderson
Even Demons Get The Blues, Red Sage Presents, June 1st
www.mareeanderson.com
www.writersgonewild.blogspot.com
www.eredsage.com

_________________________________

Visionaries. Risk-takers. Just plain wild.

These are some of the words reviewers have used to describe Red Sage authors, the Secrets anthologies, and the Red Sage Presents line of e-books. Featuring best-selling paranormal authors such as Angela Knight, MaryJanice Davidson, Emma Holly, Larissa Ione, Cynthia Eden, and many more, Red Sage books have earned a place on many readers’ “keeper” shelves.

This month, Red Sage celebrates its 15th anniversary with a month-long sale and celebration.

15 Years.

15 E-Books.

$1.50 Each.

Visit the Red Sage website, www.eRedSage.com, and Red Sage Revealed (http://redsagerevealed.blogspot.com) throughout the month of June for the sale, special surprises, and maybe even a giveaway or two!

Red Sage. Read Dangerously!

Hellhounds, Branded & More

If I could write odes to this little beauty, I would. If I could hang out under its balcony and sing it sweet songs, I would. If I could bake it a cake the size of Texas, draped in miles of frosting ribbons proclaiming Branded by Fire as the best Psy/Changling novel yet, I would. Then I’d eat it. The cake that is. Hmm, maybe the book, too.

From KMont at Lurv A La Mode's review of Branded By Fire! She loved Mercy and Riley's story so much, she's giving away a pre-order of the book. Go forth and enter :-)

Dear Author and SBTB are holding a giveaway, fundraiser and auction in memory of author Edith Layton. In honor of Ms. Layton's love of animals proceeds will go to support animal charities. One of the items up for auction is a bound galley of Must Love Hellhounds, which contains novellas by Charlaine Harris, Meljean Brook, Ilona Andrews & yours truly. Follow the links for more info.

There's a great profile of author Dean Koontz in USA Today.

The Knight Agency is having another Take Home Tuesday.

Jackie at Literary Escapism is hosting author Anna Katherine, giving away a copy of Salt and Silver and talking lies.

Deidre Knight and Gena Showalter are holding a Kiss & Seduce party here.

Bitten By Books is holding a "Who is your heroine?" poll.

And talking about polls, it seems like many of you think Kaleb isn't a bad guy. Interesting...

Open Thread

I'm hunkering down to finish some copy edits over the next couple of days, so I'm turning the blog over to you guys - tell us what you got to over the weekend, share fun/interesting links, chat about fun gadgets you wish you could have (or maybe that's just me - I lust after shiny new gadgets!), basically discuss whatever takes your fancy!

Friday Book Club

It's book club time - all about recommending books you enjoyed.

My recs this week - two fabulous books coming out later this year, Blaze of Memory & Must Love Hellhounds. *grin* As you might guess from that completely unbiased rec, I've been doing galleys and copy edits this week ;-)

Okay, your turn, what are your recommendations?

Berkley/Jove & Ace/Roc ARC Giveaway

Over at Dear Author.

There might be an ARC y'all may have an interest in.

Clue: B_ _ _ _ _ _ B_ F_ _ _

New Poll

...on sidebar of blog -->

Book Tour: Red Kiss - Deidre Knight & Silent Blade - Ilona Andrews

It's book tour time!

Quick heads-up: Ilona Andrews' Silent Blade, a short story with Samhain Publishing is now out. More info on Ilona's livejournal!

Now, onto today's OOTB tour!

RED KISS

A Gods of Midnight Novel
by Deidre Knight

Signet Eclipse
June 2, 2009

Immortal warrior and Spartan slave River Kassandros has a special gift—the ability to transform into any weapon. But in a recent battle, he was trapped as a dagger, unable to become human again. His one hope of salvation is a mere mortal…

When Emma Lowery beaches her kayak on an uninhabited island off the coast of Savannah, an ancient dagger seems to call out to her. Compelled by dark forces, Emma draws blood with his blade, freeing River. Now he’s stronger, angrier—and exudes more sensuality than Emma can resist.

But a sinister power wants to claim River’s destiny, and his precarious freedom. The pair must join the Spartan warriors to fight Ares himself. But can they face sacrificing their love to protect humankind from the war god’s demonic plan?

Excerpt: http://www.deidreknight.com/red_kiss_excerpt.html

ABOUT DEIDRE KNIGHT

Deidre Knight is a literary agent, mom, wife, novelist and southern woman, and proud to answer to all of these titles. Before she founded The Knight Agency in 1996, Deidre worked behind the camera in movies and television. During the thirteen years since she launched her literary agency, she has grown The Knight Agency to national prominence, shepherding authors on to every major bestseller list.

After nearly a decade of working with Knight Agency clients, helping them discover their creative potential, Deidre’s dream of writing romance came true in the form of her debut series THE MIDNIGHT WARRIORS which launched with PARALLEL ATTRACTION in the spring of 2006. She has been nominated for a plethora of industry awards including the PEARL, the PRISM, the NOR, the JABIC and the STRCA.

Deidre's riveting new series, THE GODS OF MIDNIGHT, chronicles the journey of seven passionate and immortal Spartan warriors who battle demons in contemporary Savannah. The first book in the series, RED FIRE, was released on October 7, 2008, and the series’ next installment, RED KISS, premieres June 2, 2009.

REVIEWS

“Knight’s expertise at combining sensuality and pulse-pounding action is on full display. Make room for another “Knight” on your keeper shelf.” – Jill M. Scott, Romantic Times, 4-Star Review

“This is a sensual, action-packed, steaming hot romance! Filled with demons, Gods, immortal warriors, and unique world building, Red Kiss will leave you begging for more.” – Wendy Hines, Armchair Reviews

“Ms. Knight did a wonderful job blending the old world sensibilities with the modern age.” – Eye on Romance

www.DeidreKnight.com
www.DeidreKnight.yuku.com
http://www.deidreknight.blogspot.com/

Branded By Fire Excerpt

I'm back from Conscription 2009 (great con - post on it later this week), and as promised, here's another excerpt from Branded By Fire.

Mercy and Riley have been in a meeting with Lucas and Hawke as this begins.

___________

Riley stirred beside her. “You need us the rest of the day?”

It was Lucas who answered. “No. Go . . . play.”

Hawke’s grim look turned wolf-wicked as Mercy narrowed her eyes at her alpha and left the room. She felt Riley exit beside her, though he didn’t say a word until they were back in the main corridors. “I guess the secret’s out.”

“What’re you talking about?” she said, the devil in her taking over. Seeing that bloody, broken body had been the final straw—she needed to decompress. And what better way than by teasing Riley?

“You,” he said, his voice dropping as she stopped and turned to face him, “and me.”

Her nipples hardened to aching points, but she made her expression dismissive. “Don’t flatter yourself.” She shoved her hands into the back pockets of her jeans and rocked back on her heels, decision made. Excitement was a taut bow inside her as she said, “I had an itch. You scratched it. End of story.”

A low growl that made her thighs clench. But she smiled and wiggled her fingers. “See ya later, wolfie.”

Riley was about to stalk after her when be belatedly realized he was no longer alone. Scenting the air, he found out how the intruder had snuck in under his defenses. His wolf didn’t consider his younger sister any kind of a threat. “Bren, don’t say a word.”

Brenna took one look at Riley’s face and bit back a laugh. Not fast enough. Her oldest brother turned to her with that look. The one that made everyone behave. But this time, she was laughing too hard to hold it in any longer.

Riley just waited until she’d gotten it out of her system before raising an eyebrow.

“You and Mercy. I love it!”

Silence.

She sniggered. “You wanted Little Miss Submissive and you got a DarkRiver sentinel.” Her giggles started again, deep in her throat.

“Brenna, I’m still your eldest brother.”

“And I’m mated to a big, bad Psy.” She put on her best annoying little-sister voice. “Plus you know you love me.”

“I know that right now, I wish I had some duct tape to put over your mouth.”

Oooh, that was interesting. Nobody really ever got to Riley. She knew he loved her to pieces, but even she had to prod and poke at him for a really long time before she got a reaction. “Mercy and Riley in a tree. K-i-s-s-i—” She shrieked as he picked her up, threw her over his shoulder, and strode toward her quarters.

Her laughter came unbidden. She was giddy with delight. Riley had always been mature, contained, but he’d also had a sense of quiet humor. He was the kind of man children loved because he was both patient and open. But he’d changed after her abduction, withdrawn all that warmth, become so hard that nothing seemed to reach him. She hated that. And she loved Mercy for refusing to allow Riley to be this stranger he’d turned into.

Her nostrils flared at the familiar scent of ice laced with something that was uniquely Judd. “I assume you have a reason for manhandling my mate?” Cool words but his amusement was apparent.

“Riley likes Mercy,” she stage-whispered, trying to twist around to look at her mate. “But she told him that h—oomph.” Riley set her on her feet without warning.

She swayed, but Judd’s hands on her hips kept her upright. Pushing her hair off her face, she leaned into her sexy Psy mate and smirked at Riley. “Sooooo . . .”

“Judd.” Riley ignored her. “You’re obviously not interesting enough for my sister—she’s got way too much time to poke her nose into other people’s business.”

Judd wrapped his arms around her from behind, his chin on her hair. “I’m more interested in you and Mercy.”

Growling—Riley actually growled—her big brother turned on his heel and left.

_________

Hmm, wonder where Riley's heading off to???

Updates & Friday Book Club

It's a long weekend over here, so the next post will be up on Tuesday, New Zealand time. And since it'll be June, I might have an excerpt of Branded By Fire for you ;-)

Onto the book club - all about recommending books you've enjoyed!

I've just started Unfallen Dead by Mark Del Franco. This is the third book in the excellent Connor Grey series and I can't wait to get back to it. If you're looking for a new urban fantasy series to try, I'd highly recommend this one.

Okay, your turn. What are your book recommendations?

Copy Edits

I'm working on copy edits for Blaze of Memory today, so it's busy, busy.

What're you all up to?

Wild At Heart - Patricia Gaffney

I don't know where I originally heard about Wild at Heart by Patricia Gaffney, but I'm so glad I did. It's one of those stories that's going to stay with me a long, long time.

Here's the blurb:

They called him "the lost man." He was beautiful, wild. Raised by wolves, without speech, without civilization. And when he was captured and locked in a room to be studied by scientists, he was treated more like an animal than a human being.

Only Sydney, daughter of a renowned anthropologist, saw beyond the wildness to the man. Something in his fierce loneliness called to her, imploring her to help him -- to save him. Fascinated, drawn by compassion and then desire, Sydney used gentleness to tame him, patience to educate him, kindness to make him her friend. And he would need a friend, for the world was not nearly so understanding, and his new life was still haunted by the mysterious tragedy of his past.

But now he wanted more from her than friendship. He wanted all of her -- her love, her heart, and her soul.

The amazing heart of this book is the hero - who becomes known as Michael. We see the world through his eyes, and it's a stunning shift of perspective, because he's at once innocent, and yet has an incredible clarity in the way he sees things.

The growth of Michael and Sydney's relationship runs concurrently with Michael learning to live in a world that is at first, utterly foreign to him. It's a romance that leaves me lost for words, it's so beautiful.

If you haven't read this, track down a copy (I think it might be out of print), and clear a few hours, because you won't want to put it down. Absolutely recommended.

While Googling the cover, I found a much more detailed review of this book over at Racy Romance Reviews, so follow the link if you'd like to read more.

Win a copy of Angels' Blood

Over at TKA's Take Home Tuesday :-)

NZ/Aus Author Series: Annie West

Winners: The random winner's of Annie's giveaway are:

Orannia - The Greek's Convenient Mistress
Una - Blackmailed Bride, Innocent Wife

Congratulations! Please email your addresses to: annie AT annie-west DOT com

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It's time to meet the second guest in my monthly series on authors from my corner of the world.

Today's guest is the lovely Annie West! Annie, a Waldenbooks bestselling author, writes for Harlequin Presents (called M&B Sexy down under). She's also an Australian, but we don't hold that against her ;-)

Please give a warm welcome to Annie everyone! And check out the presents she's bought along to share.
______________

Hi, Nalini! Thanks so much for the invitation to come and join you. This is a real treat. I’ve been admiring your work for a long time.

This is a special time for me right now and it’s great to be able to share that with other romance lovers. Recently I sold my 10th book to Harlequin and am well into my 11th manuscript. Double digits – yay! Somehow when I got ‘the call’ for that first book I never really looked ahead as far as this. Now I feel like maybe I can make a success of writing long term, especially as I’ve just heard that my first Presents story is about to go into a ‘By Request’ omnibus of reprinted stories in the UK in August.

As well as that, I’m grinning from ear to ear about my two (count them!) current releases. The Greek’s Convenient Mistress goes on sale this week in North America and in the UK Blackmailed Bride, Innocent Wife is on shelves already (and in Aus/NZ in June). (If you’re curious and want to read an excerpt follow these links to the Harlequin sites or visit my website).

To celebrate I thought I’d give away a copy of those two titles – one book each to two contributors to the blog, chosen at random.

Both these books feature Mediterranean heroes: tall, dark, dangerous and sexy. One is Sicilian and the other from the island of Crete. I fell in love with both of them as I wrote their stories. That got me wondering what it is I enjoyed so much about these guys and why so many readers want a strong Mediterranean man in their romances.

For me there are attributes I particularly enjoy writing and reading in a Mediterranean hero. They’re strong, charismatic and sexy, with a sense of assured masculinity that just seems to ooze from them. They’re fantastic lovers and they know how to please a woman.

They may, I admit, be slower than their heroine to realise when they’re in love. Actually, one of the things I enjoy is watching a strong, self-assured hero, who’s been used to striding through his world, in charge and capable, off balance when he finds his emotions engaged for the first time, all because of one woman. Especially if that woman isn’t the sort to whom he thought he’d be attracted. Especially if he hadn’t expected to fall in love. Or maybe he didn’t even believe in love.

He’ll be a man used to taking charge. He’s powerful and pragmatic, often with a strong sense of responsibility – especially for family and friends. In protective mode, this hero will move heaven and earth to care for and keep safe those people who are important to him. He’d act swiftly, possibly ruthlessly, against anyone threatening them. Which makes life interesting if he perceives the heroine as a threat! It also means he’ll do whatever is necessary to protect the woman he loves – something I find appealing - even if a heroine is perfectly capable of fending for herself.

His strength demands an equally strong heroine to match him.

He has a sense of honour. His values may be different to those of others. He may not care what others think and may dare to do things others won’t, but he has boundaries he will not cross and standards he’ll fight to maintain.

He’s proud. And we all know what they say about pride going before a fall. Don’t you love to watch a hero realise he’s been on the wrong track in his assessment of the heroine, then fight to make things right?

He’s passionate and capable of caring deeply. He may have a dark side, which has an appeal all its own.

You could argue that he shares quite a few characteristics with heroes from some fantasy and historical novels.

Does this sort of hero appeal to you? Do you like your men dark, passionate and maybe a little dangerous? What characteristics make a hero memorable for you?

Annie

Friday Book Club

It's Friday Book Club time - all about sharing your book recommendations!

I did a reread of one my favorite Jayne Ann Krentz books this week. Sweet Fortune is an absolutely wonderful story. I couldn't put it down once I picked it up, even though I've read it so many times before.

I love the heroine, Jessie, but it's the hero, Hatch, who really makes this book for me. I love the way he thinks, the way his mind works. Here're a couple of favorite lines:

"If you are angry or hurt or feeling neglected, I think you'll complain directly to management, not go behind my back and cry on some other man's shoulder."

"Complain to management." Her lip quivered. "Oh, Hatch. What am I going to do with you?"

Those lines alone make me want to go raid my JAK collection for more re-reads!

Okay, your turn. What've you read lately that you'd like to recommend?

Bollywood: Ek Vivaah...Aisa Bhi

This is a sweet, heart-tugging and very traditional film. I loved it. The literal translation of the title doesn't quite get the meaning across, so I'm going to give you a less literal translation that goes more to the heart of the story: "And there exists...love like this, too."

Here's the trailer.

Thank you & Website

First up, a huge thank you to all of you who've volunteered to help with the German translation. You guys are awesome!!

Second, the website updates have gone live - along with a fun short story. Enjoy!

German Speaking Volunteers Needed

Speaking of German translations, I'm noticing a lot of website hits from Germany (hello everyone!), and I was thinking I should set up a page on the website with information in German. Except I don't speak German. *g*

Anyone want to volunteer to help me out with some translating? Email me! (nalinisinghwrites AT gmail DOT com)

Also a thank you to the person who already helped me out with a translation recently :-)

German Cover - Mine to Possess

The German edition releases October :-)

Silent on the Moor - Deanna Raybourn

I have been hanging out for Silent on the Moor ever since I finished the first two Lady Julia Grey books, and it did not disappoint. It was, in fact, wonderful, fabulous, utterly satisfying!

Here's the blurb:

Despite his admonitions to stay away, Lady Julia arrives in Yorkshire to find Brisbane as remote and maddeningly attractive as ever. Cloistered together, they share the moldering house with the proud but impoverished remnants of an ancient family—the sort that keeps their bloodline pure and their secrets close. Lady Allenby and her daughters, dependent upon Brisbane and devastated by their fall in society, seem adrift on the moor winds, powerless to change their fortunes. But poison does not discriminate between classes….

A mystery unfolds from the rotten heart of Grimsgrave, one Lady Julia may have to solve alone, as Brisbane appears inextricably tangled in its heinous twists and turns. But blood will out, and before spring touches the craggy northern landscape, Lady Julia will have uncovered a Gypsy witch, a dark rider and a long-buried legacy of malevolence and evil.

If you're not reading this series, you must! I'd recommend starting with the first book, Silent in the Grave, because though the mysteries all stand alone, Julia and Brisbane's relationship grows through the books.

You can check out excerpts and book details on Deanna Raybourn's website.

I know several of you are already reading this series. Are there any you'd recommend as being similar?

Breaking Book News

I'm very happy to announce that I'm now contracted to write four more Psy/Changeling books and two more Guild Hunter books.

Woohoo! :-)

Friday Book Club

It's book club time - all about recommending books. Leave a note in the comments about a good book(s) you've read recently, and if you like, a line or two about why.

My reading this week was hot, hot, hot! You can blame Jaci Burton and Maya Banks for that. I read two novellas by Jaci (Unwrapped, and Unraveled), and an ARC of Sweet Persuasion (June) by Maya.

The stories were very different from one another, but one thing's certain - both Jaci and Maya know how to write heat with heart, never forgetting the romance in erotic romance.

To read excepts, check out Maya's site here, and Jaci's site, here.

Okay, your turn - what're your recs?

Edited to add: Maya is giving away a copy of Sweet Persuasion on her blog - contest closes soon, so be quick.

Q&A Session and Writing

Okay, looks like most people want the Q & A session after the release of Branded By Fire, so we'll do it a few weeks after the release - for both series. We can also do one after Blaze of Memory (releasing Nov).

The plan today is to polish up a little short story I'm working on for the website. Hoping to get some updates up soon.

Btw, I'm on Twitter now. I don't tweet that often, but I think I'm starting to understand the addiction. Anyone else tweeting?

This and That

First up, I know there are some questions in the previous thread that I haven't yet answered - I'll be getting to those today. We'll have a proper Q&A session later on in the year, so you can hit me with your questions then as well.

When would you like the session - after the Branded By Fire (July) release, or after Must Love Hellhounds (Sep)? Leave a note in the comments with your preference.

Also, a link - The Knight Agency is giving away a copy of Marley Gibson's Ghost Huntress: The Awakening. Be quick - it ends soon.

Links & Inspiration

I saw this on the NZ Herald site and found it incredibly inspiring - it's a short piece on an injured British soldier, Major Phil Packer, who completed the London Marathon two weeks after starting it.

Also, a couple of links to blogs giving away copies of my books - Meljean Book (Angels' Blood) & new author Suzanne McLeod (Visions of Heat or Mine to Possess).

I spent the past week reading and watching dvds, but it's back to work today. I'm going to polish up a novella, then start working on the next Psy/Changeling book.

What're you all up to?

Friday Book Club

It's Friday Book Club time again! This is all about recommending books, so leave a comment about a book you enjoyed, and, if you like, a few words about why.

I've been reading fabulous book after fabulous book. Most of it's not releasing for a while, so I won't tease you...too much. But I have to share - I'm on that happy good-book-run high.

Meljean Brook's Demon Forged will be out in October and it's fantastic. It has all the elements I love in Meljean's books - strong, gorgeously drawn characters, a world so real I totally believe it, and the punch of powerful emotion.

Ilona Andrews' next Kate Daniels book (out March 2010) is awesome. I'll post more on this closer to the release date, but trust me, you'll love it.

I'm currently halfway through Ilona Andrews' On the Edge (out in October) and it's soooooo good! The world and the characters are so real they leap off the page. I can't wait to get back to it!

More to come on all these books nearer their releases, but if you're not reading Meljean and Ilona, you need to!

Okay, hit me with your recs!

Branded By Fire Spoiler Thread

This is the thread where you can freely discuss BRANDED BY FIRE and the previous books in the Psy/Changeling series. *SPOILERS* allowed, so if you haven't read Branded yet, click away! This link will take you back to the main blog.

So, if you're sure this is where you want to be....let the discussion begin!

Also, if you're looking for the Caressed By Ice Spoiler thread, Mine to Possess Spoiler thread, or the Hostage to Pleasure Spoiler thread, follow the links.

For those of you who aren't bloggers, you can still comment - just choose the Anonymous option and sign off the comment with your name if you'd like folks to know who you are.

NB: This thread is for readers, so if you have a question specifically for me, email me at nalinisinghwrites AT gmail DOT com.

Interview & OOTB Tour: Bride of the Wolf - Jennifer St Giles

I've got an interview and the giveaway of a backlist book over at Beth Kery's.

And I've also got an OOTB book tour for you from the lovely Jennifer St Giles! Check out the details below.

Bride of the Wolf
by Jennifer St. Giles (Shadowmen Series Book 4)
Release Date 4/28/09

When the heroic werewolf Navarre is trapped in the twilight realm, his Shadowmen comrades are unable to rescue him. Only a passionate woman with a spirit as wild as his own can set him free….

Oil heiress Marissa Vasquez fled the jungles of Belize to avoid becoming a pawn in her vicious uncle’s wicked schemes. Though she has found temporary sanctuary in little Twilight, Tennessee, only in her dreams does she taste freedom. At night, her spirit intertwines with a magnificent black wolf, and they run together under the glow of a forest moon. When a wounded stranger is brought to the camp where she is hiding, she glimpses in his eyes the mysterious being who has been the partner of her visions. But before she can explore her strange reaction to this man, they are kidnapped and imprisoned once again.

Navarre is a shapeshifting Shadowman, captured by the evil Vladarian vampire who hopes to control Marissa. Injured and blind, he struggles to regain his warrior’s strength as they fight for their freedom — and their lives. Together, their spirits form a powerful link matched only by the passion they discover in each other’s arms. But can a mortal woman attain true love with a man who is half wolf? And will their enemies give them time to find an answer?

Reviews

“With a spin that will shake fans with delight, Jennifer St. Giles continues to make The Shadowmen saga one of the best urban romantic fantasy series on the market today.”—Klausner

“Magically believable and overflowing with affecting emotions, BRIDE OF THE WOLF holds your attention during every gripping scene.” Singletitles.com

“Jennifer St. Giles packs an emotional punch that will take your breath away.” Bitten by Books, Brianna.

“BRIDE OF THE WOLF is yet another intense and powerful story from the very talented Jennifer St. Giles.” CK’s Kwips and Kritiques, Debbie

Excerpt: http://jenniferstgiles.com/brideofthewolf.shtml
Website: jenniferstgiles.com
Blog: jenniferstgiles.blogspot.com

USA Today Bestselling Author, Jennifer is a former nurse and homeschooling mother of three. She has won a number of awards for writing excellence including, two National Reader’s Choice Awards, two time Maggie Award Winner, Daphne du Maurier Award winner, Romance Writers’ of America’s Golden Heart Award, along with RT Book Club’s Reviewer’s Choice Award for Best Historical Gothic/Mystery.

Books: The Mistress of Trevelyan 8/04, His Dark Desires 11/05, Midnight Secrets 5/06, Touch A Dark Wolf 9/06, Darkest Dreams 12/06, The Lure of the Wolf 7/07, Silken Shadows 12/07, Kiss of Darkness 4/09, Bride of the Wolf 5/09. Point of No Return: Mammoth Book of Vampire Romances Book 2 9/09. Romance’s first graphic e-book through betweenyoursheets.com. Jennifer St. Giles writing as Jennifer Saints in Wild Irish 5/09 and Smooth Irish 5/09.

Guest Author: Travis Heermann - Heart of the Ronin

Today, I've got a special guest for you - friend and fellow author Travis Heermann. Travis and I met while we were both working in Japan, where Heart of the Ronin is set - so he definitely knows his setting!

Here's what the Ronin trilogy is about (from Travis's website):

Set in 13th-century Japan, The Ronin Trilogy tells of the rise and fall of a young warrior named Ken'ishi. With only his father's mysterious blade to guide him, he walks dangerous lands in search of honor--and the truth about his parents' murder.

You can also download an excerpt on the website.

Please welcome Travis to the blog everyone!
_____________________

First of all, many thanks to Nalini for inviting me into her space. Second, a bit about me and my book. I'm speculative fiction author; my recent novel, Heart of the Ronin, was released in library-edition hard-cover in February of this year, and I've been delighted with the response it's getting from readers and reviewers.

These days, in addition to being a freelance writer and author, I also teach English Composition at the University of Nebraska at Omaha while I work on my M.A. in English. Heart of the Ronin is a historical fantasy set in 13th century Japan. If you like a story with monsters, spirits, shapeshifting animals, spies, intrigues, ninja, samurai, and forbidden love, then check out my website at www.travisheermann.com for more information.

A female reader recently pointed out to me the immense differences between sex scenes written by women (i.e. Nalini) and those written by men (i.e. Yours Truly). The conversation went something like this:

Reader: "You know, in this book [Slave to Sensation], the juicy bits go on for pages and pages and pages. Hell, the entire book is foreplay! Then there's this part in yours [Heart of the Ronin]..."

Me: "Oh, yeah?"

Reader: "Well, yeah, the juicy bit lasts all of a paragraph."

Me: "No way! They've been leading up to it for a hundred--"

Reader: "One paragraph. Boom. In and out. Done."

Me: "Well, it's--"

Reader: "That's soooo like a man. How typical."

Me: "Yes, but it also says--"

Reader: "Gimme feelings, give me build-up, give me aftermath."

Me: "But for a hundred pages--"

Reader: "--There was romantic tension between them, yeah, but then he has to leave! With that much build-up, you need more payoff. I mean, big payoff. At least a chapter long."

Me: "But what about the adventure, and the intrigue, and the drama, and--"

Reader: "Gimme juice. Romance is all about the juice."

Me: "Sigh. Noted. Anything else?"

Reader: "[The hero] Ken'ishi sounds hot. Gimme more of that. Write juicy bits like [Nalini] does."

How can one argue with that?

Blaze of Memory Blurb

Here's the blurb for Blaze of Memory (Nov). A hint - there's a bit of a "twist" when it comes to the heroine's name. Who is she? *grin*

Nalini Singh returns to the Psy/Changeling world and its “breathtaking blend of passion, adventure, and the paranormal”* as a woman without a past becomes the pawn of a man who controls her future…

Dev Santos discovers her unconscious and battered, with no memory of who she is. All she knows is that she’s dangerous. Charged with protecting his people’s most vulnerable secrets, Dev is duty-bound to eliminate all threats. It’s a task he’s never hesitated to complete…until he finds himself drawn to a woman who might yet prove the enemy’s most insidious weapon.

Stripped of her memories by a shadowy oppressor, and programmed to carry out cold-blooded murder, Katya Haas is fighting desperately for her sanity itself. Her only hope is Dev. But how can she expect to gain the trust of a man who could very well be her next target? For in this game, one must die…

Guild Hunter Book #2 Title Change

It's now titled "Archangel's Kiss", which I absolutely love!

Brenda Novak Auction

The annual Brenda Novak auction to benefit diabetes research is now on. There's heaps of fun stuff to bid on, including a couple of things from yours truly *cough* ARC *cough*.

Inaugral Friday Book Club

It's our first book club day!

Basically, it's all about recommending books. So if you've read a good book recently, leave a note in the comments with the recommendation, and, if you like, something about why you were so happy with the story, or why you think others would enjoy it.

I read Pretend Mistress, Bona Fide Boss by my bud Yvonne Lindsay this week. It's got a sexy alpha hero, a heroine with secrets, and is undoubtedly hot. I wanted to beat the hero over the head at times, but to be honest, that's part of the fun. It makes it so much better when they grovel *grin*

I totally enjoyed being swept away into the high stakes world of the Rogue Diamonds. Also, Yvonne does a really great job of describing some beautiful places in New Zealand. I live here and I wanted to go tour!

Okay, your turn - what's your book rec? If you haven't read anything you want to recommend, how about telling us which books recommended in the comments capture your interest?