Website

Popping up out of the cave to say the website's been updated! :)

Blog Vacation

I'm taking a blog vacation and heading off into the writing cave. See you all when I get back! :)

Thursday Smile

For everyone who needs a smile today :) (Make sure you turn on the sound)

Reader Interview: Sayuri

It's reader interview time, and today's interviewee is Sayuri, all the way from Scotland :)

1. Tell us a bit about yourself.

I'm Thirtymumble..live in Edinburgh, Scotland, currently manage a bookshop. Love to read and eat and knit and read. Oh and I am a lifelong member of the a-ha fanclub. Oh yes, I'm a child of the Eighties.

2. Are you a hoarder or do you give your books away?

Are you mad? Give books away? Certainly not. Although I am considering changing over to e-format almost exclusively. But not just yet.

3. What author might tempt you into turning stalker?

Actually I would love to make it over to one of those multi-signing doohickeys you have over in the states just so I could get a few books signed and meet a few peeps. Does flying from Scotland to America to get a book signed constitue stalking? Among my top would be Nalini (of course), Meljean Brook, Marjorie M Liu, Jim Butcher, Charlie Huston, Simon R Green, Jennifer Rardin, Lilith Saintcrow, Mike Carey......

4. How susceptible are you to chocolate?

Very.

5. Favorite book? Why?

Shipping News by Annie Prolux. Because it's a quiet unassuming book about quiet unassuming people who do quiet unassuming things and how that can change someone and their life completely.

6. If you knew you were going to be stuck on a desert island, what three things would you take with you?

Some kind of iHarry Potter house/tent thing so I can stay out the sun. I'm a pale lass. An unlimited supply of Diet Irn Bru (It's a Scottish drink) and something tall, dark and handsome with a degree in handyman skills.

7. What did you eat for breakfast?

Nothing, I usually trade breakfast for an extra 15 mins in bed.

8. How many books in your current to-be-read pile?

37. Check it out on Goodreads.

9. Describe your idea of a perfect hero.

Oh god, where do you start? Smart, funny (He needs to be able to make me laugh.), loyal, protective (Thanks to you Nalini) , a little vulnerability with an understanding of female anatomy. It's not like I'm asking for too much. Oh and he has to hate Football/Soccer.

Extra reader submitted question(s)! Answer at will :)

* Which character in a book do you relate most with?

I'm not sure I do. I'm not that damaged. I had a happy childhood, I am confident, cynical and nothing exciting has ever really happened to me. (Do you feel sorry for me yet? LOL) Actually, I can relate to Charlie in Demon Night quite a bit as I have quite an addictive personality and have to channel and control like she does.

* Where do you live?

I live by the sea in Edinburgh and I love it.

* If you were in the Psy/Changeling World, what side would you be in?

I would be a Psy just so I could hook up with one of those damn fine Changeling men. Are there any left at this point....?

Monday

Hope you all had a good weekend! I'm continuing to work on the copy edits and enjoying getting reacquainted with the characters :)

I've also got an interesting link for you - Casee over at Book Binge is discussing epilogues, so swing over and cast your vote. (I love epilogues!)

Weekly Catchup

It's catchup time again - what're you all up to? I just got copy edits for "Stroke of Enticement" - for The Magical Christmas Cat anthology, so I'll be jumping into those. Can't wait to see Mr. Scrumptious a.k.a. Zach again!

Adding to the TBR :)

I know many of you are fans of Anne Bishop's Black Jewels world, so I thought this might be of interest - there's going to be a new Black Jewels book in March 2009!! It's called The Shadow Queen and you can read the backcover copy on Anne Bishop's website. I can't wait to get my hands on it!!

How about you all? What're you looking forward to? Any interesting book release info to share?

Berkley/Jove Forums

Did you all know that Berkley/Jove has forums where you can chat about your favorite Berkley/Jove books? I just joined, so swing by and say hi :-)

Reader Interview: Alice

It's reader interview time, and today's interviewee is fellow Mr. Darcy fan, Alice!

1. Tell us a bit about yourself.

I’m a twenty-*cough* year old female currently working full time with an undergrad degree I’m not using and trying to figure out my life. Working, mostly. Trying to be a better person? I’m not very good at these things… I mean, I talk about myself ALL the time, but it’s usually one of those odd random facts that people give those “are you for real” looks. So…in light of books…

I always loved stories. Always, for as long as I can remember, I had stories. They’re my teachers, my friends, my understanding to the world and my only form of cognitive expression. Romantic slants were just so much sweeter. Even as a kid being read fairytales, I'd always reread the ones with strong female characters and romance in it more. Ah, happy endings.

2. Are you a hoarder or do you give your books away?

I hoard, but books I really love have two copies. One for lending and reading...the other, for keeps. ^_^ It’s even better when newer additions are added. I’d need to get those too!
Very often, I do make an attempt to give books I love away to get my friends hooked and buy more copies. My ploy, hehehe.

3. What author might tempt you into turning stalker?

You mean I'm not doing it now? Hehe. I cannot say for fear of restraining orders and self incrimination. >_< Of course, the better question is whom I have NOT stalked, ehehehe (you think I’m kidding don’t you…maybe I am, maybe….mwahahah *cough cough*-darn sugar high again). I’ll list top 3 (although Ms. Nalini is in top 10):

1. Diana Wynne Jones- I’ll just faint when I meet her, faint I tell you.
2. Hayao Miyazaki- His mangas and films…so wonderful.
3. Fuyumi Ono- Her books changed my life. It was that powerful.

4. How susceptible are you to chocolate?

Like waving blood at a shark hundreds of miles away. I'll bite the hand off too. Especially if it's chocolate dipped strawberries...ooooohhhhhhhh...my weakness...actually, I think I tried to stab a friend with a fork the other day when they tried to take my food. They were too quick though, so I didn’t succeed. I’m pretty sure I smacked a couple of them really hard when they tried to take my chocolate strawberry dessert. Trying to steal my chocolate…the fools, the fools I say!

5. Favorite book? Why?

I cannot choose ONE favorite book, there are so many good stuff, great wondrous books! I love stories, I love reading. I need stories. BUT, if I must...
Pride and Prejudice. Both education and entertaining. Such a wonderful romance story, but so exquisitely written and contained social commentary that applies even to this day. More importantly there’s Mr. Darcy!! Need I say more? ^_~

6. If you knew you were going to be stuck on a desert island, what three things would you take with you?

Can I say a backpack full of supplies? It's a desert island! Come on! A desert! And on an Island! I don’t have any parameters of what’s going to be on the desert island for survival’s sake. Okay, okay, if not: clean water (lots of it, hopefully an unending supplies), sunblock, and a solar powered satellite laptop (the joys of ebooks, internet, and online shows- while I order more supplies and books, and maybe rescue...mwahahahaha).

7. What did you eat for breakfast?

Honey water, fruit, garlic bread. I eat this daily nowadays in an attempt to gain some weight. Sometimes I have soup instead of water, hot chocolate, or plain warm water. Other times I have everything. Teehee.

8. How many books in your current to-be-read pile?

Uh, I’ve lost count and have more on the way. It has taken over most of my bed, table and overflowed onto one side of my floor. It’s like a flood of books! =)p I'm a fairly fast reader and read a book or two a day...more on weekends when time available, but my need for books tend to get the best of me and I keep buying more than I can finish. Darn you internet with free shipping!! *shakes fist at computer screen*

9. Describe your idea of a perfect hero.

Are we talking about the perfect hero to read about? Or my perfect hero?
I like reading about characters like Cam Rohen from “Mine Til Midnight.” Lucas Hunter was just about ideal-so close to my ideal! Teehee. Someone who works hard, not bound to the materialistic world, compassionate, would never take his anger out on someone he cares about: loyal, responsible, gentle, but willing to be strong when the need comes up. Not quite whole, but not insanely damaged (I really cannot begin on how insane those guys can be). I’d go for Lucas, but he’s taken. Cam’s taken too…And Mr. Darcy. Awww… Then again, I relate more to Cam and Mr. Darcy than me actually wanting them for MY personal hero. Haha. Lucas on the other hand…teehee. No, no, he’s taken…by wonderful Sascha. What a cute couple. *happy sigh*

Extra reader submitted question(s)! Answer at will :)

* Which character in a book do you relate most with?

Oddly enough, I almost always relate more to male protagonist in books (probably 90% plus of the time), which always made me a little sad. That was why your books, Ms. Nalini, were such an awesome surprise for me. I related to almost all of the female characters, especially Sienna, although I don't have her intelligence. I sometimes feel like Sascha, but I’m not that nice. Eh. Ehehehe. Kind of like Elizabeth from Pride and Prejudice, but once again, not that smart. My friends tell me I'm like anime/manga characters come alive (thus their constant fascination to dress me up…all the time…)-they mean it sincerely, so I take it as a compliment, even thought I don’t relate to them at all.

* Where do you live?

Sunny California, USA, with my lovely puppydogs whom I love with all my heart.

* So what would people think was a perfect heroine??

Independent, kind, a bit flawed and willing to admit it. Knows herself well (and rather happy with herself overall), thus compassionate and soft when needs to be, but also stubborn and can kick major butt when she needs to. Emphasize the butt-kicking. ^_^

* If you were in the Psy/Changeling World, what side would you be in?

Probably Psy. I relate to them more, I guess. Not the superiority thing. More the need-to-control-emotions-since-it's-always-getting-out-of-hand-hurting-everyone-around-me-thing, but also the wanting-to-feel-and-care-and-show-affection-but-don't-know-how thing too. Also, the social structure I was brought up in reflects that of the Psy world more than Changeling. I would like to be a Changeling, if only for the ability to change. Of course, once we learn more and more about humans...

* Seen any good movies lately?

Quite a few actually! Enchanted was adorable and such a parody at times. Secretary was a bit on the whoa side, but I thoroughly enjoyed it. Imagine You and Me was actually really good and I loved the music. D.E.B.S was cute. Now if I only had time to watch The Piano and North and South. It’s calling me!!!

Covers

The annual Cover Cafe cover contest is up and running so swing by and have a look.

Do you have any favorite covers from this year? And what about covers in general? What works and what doesn't?

This & That

Brenda Novak's annual auction for Diabetes Research has kicked off, so don't forget to swing by and bid on lots of great stuff (including an ARC of HtP).

Dear Author is giving away some free Nocturne Bites - you might just have time to sneak in an entry.

There's an interesting article on Stephenie Meyer in Time magazine.

And I'm working on Mercy's book :) What're you all up to?

Fly-by

It's all systems go today, so I'm doing a fly-by. Hope you're all having a good day!

Reader Interview: Eva

It's reader interview time and today's interviewee is Eva, all the way from Germany :-)

1. Tell us a bit about yourself.

My name is Eva. I'm 29, married, graduated in business administration, current I`m working as a Case-Manager for unemployed people.

2. Are you a hoarder or do you give your books away?

That depends on the book.

3. What author might tempt you into turning stalker?

If she would still be alive:

Juliette Benzoni (Her Catherine novels are one of my most protected treasuries).

Updated:

Andrea Schacht (about the beguine Almut Bossart) and Nalini Singh (Psy/Changeling Romance).

4. How susceptible are you to chocolate?

Highly. Especially cooled. (Before I eat the chocolate, I put it into the fridge.)

5. Favorite book? Why?

I've a lot of favorite books.....

The most important four:

Andrea Schacht: The novels about the beguine Almut Bossart.
Reason: There are few books that make people laugh. This is one.

Shakespeare: Hamlet
Reason: The book shows a tragedy which is very thought-provoking.

Donna Boyd: The Passion / The Promise
Reason: There are the best werewolf novels I've ever read.

Nalini Singh: Psy-/Changeling-Romance
Reason: A new wold, which is fascinating and absolutely addictive.
(All these hidden hints...).

6. If you knew you were going to be stuck on a desert island, what three things would you take with you?

- a sunshade
- a freezer filled with water, grapes and chocolate
- The books of Edith Maude Hull: The Sheik / Sons of the Sheik

7. What did you eat for breakfast?

White coffee, bread and cheese.

8. How many books in your current to-be-read pile?

One.

9. Describe your idea of a perfect hero.

Strong, smart, humorous and solid.

Extra reader submitted question(s)! Answer at will :)

* Where do you live?

Germany / Bavaria.

* If you were in the Psy/Changeling World, what side would you be in?

SD

OOTB Tour: The Darkest Night - Gena Showalter

It's OOTB tour time. Check out the details below! (If you missed the interview with Gena, follow the link).

THE DARKEST NIGHT by Gena Showalter

His powers – Inhuman

His passion -- Beyond immortal . . .

All her life, Ashlyn Darrow has been tormented by voices from the past. To end the nightmare, she has come to Budapest seeking help from men rumored to have supernatural abilities, not knowing she'll be swept into the arms of Maddox, their most dangerous member -- a man cursed to die every night, only to awaken the next morning knowing he has to die again.

Neither can resist the instant hunger than calms their torments . . . and ignites an irresistible passion. But every heated touch and burning kiss will edge them closer to destruction -- and a soul-shattering test of love . . .

Though they carry an eternal curse, the Lords of the Underworld are irresistibly seductive -- and unimaginably powerful . . . Don’t miss this incredible new paranormal series from Gena Showalter!

Read a three chapter excerpt here!

ABOUT GENA SHOWALTER

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Gena Showalter has been praised for her “sizzling page-turners” and “utterly spellbinding stories.” The author of more than seventeen novels and anthologies, Showalter is celebrated in a wide variety of genres for her breathtaking romances featuring dark, seductive heroes and strong, appealing heroines. Readers can’t get enough of her trademark wit and singular imagination, whether she’s writing paranormal stories about vampires, nymphs and superheroes, white-hot contemporary romance or alien huntress books. Her newest series, Lords of the Underworld, promises to be her sexiest and most addictive yet. Don’t miss this intoxicating blend of dangerous passion, demons and other supernatural forces, and immortal men who are hotter than hell!

REVIEWS

"A fascinating premise, a sexy hero and non-stop action, The Darkest Night is Showalter at her finest, and a fabulous start to an imaginative new series." Karen Marie Moning, New York Times best selling author

One of the premier authors of paranormal romance. --New York Times bestselling author Kresley Cole

You can buy your copy at: Amazon or Barnes and Noble

Website http://www.genashowalter.com

http://www.lordsoftheunderworld.net

RT Pics

I thought you guys might enjoy this - it's a link to a running list of blog posts from people who attended the RT Conference, complete with pictures!

Weekly Catchup

Thanks for the congratulations everyone! It was really great to celebrate with you all. :-)

I seriously can't believe it's Saturday already. Egads, where did the time go?! What've you all been up to? Plans for the weekend? Me, I'm continuing to work on Mercy's book.

RT Reviewers' Choice Award

I'm very excited to announce that Caressed By Ice has won a Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award for Best Paranormal Action-Adventure Romance!! Woohoo!!

Guest Author/Interview - Gena Showalter

I'm delighted to present an interview with the fabulous Gena Showalter! We're talking about her amazing new series and Gena's agreed to swing by and answer any reader questions, so hit her with them!

1. Who is Gena Showalter?

I’ve always been a mix of the wallflower who wants to remain in the shadows and a quirky, attention-hogging wild child who craves compliments. How’s that for variety? I married my high school sweetheart, have three English bulldogs I adore (Mary Ann, Ginger, and Lovey), and am an avid romance reader.

2. You have a new series debuting this May – can you give us the lowdown?

I’ve taken the myth of Pandora and completely turned it upside down! I say the gods entrusted Pandora, the greatest warrior of her time, to guard the box. But a group of immortal warriors, her peers, fought and won it, opened it, and unleashed the horde of demons locked inside. Because of this, the gods punish each warrior to house a demon inside his own body. So the warriors become the box, so to speak. It’s not an easy pairing, either. There’s Violence, Pain, Disease, Wrath, Death, Doubt, Misery, Lies, Disaster, and so on.

N: I've been lucky enough to read books 1 & 2 in advance and they rock (and I'm not saying that just because I might possibly be in the dedication *grin*). I blogged about my reaction to book 1, here.

3. The first three books are going to release back to back—what did that mean for your writing schedule? (Keeping in mind that Gena writes demon-fast).

The first book was already written and the second one well on its way to be written when we decided to push back their release dates and do the back to back thing. So it was just a matter of writing the third. But still, that third had to be written very very quickly when I didn’t have the story figured out yet. So panic? Just a wee bit.

4. The series starts out in Budapest—why did you choose this city?

I love the mix of old world charm and modern style, the sense of mystery and mysticism.

5. Very Important Question: Who do you think is the sexiest Lord of the Underworld and why?

(Answer always subject to change.) Whoever I’m writing at the time is usually the one I’m most in love with. Right now that just happens to be Sabin, keeper of Doubt. He has a very dry sense of humor that I adore, and he’s always been one of those warriors who will do anything to win: cheat, fight dirty, whatever. He’s always put his war with his enemy first, but for once, for a woman, he’s going to have to rethink that.

6. Do you have a set number of books planned?

I think I could write these books forever, I love them so much.

7. Can you share any super-secret behind-the-scenes info on the series?

Sometimes death is only the beginning. All’s I’m sayin.

8. Since this is a new series, where can folks find out more info about it and your other books? Are there excerpts?

I’ve just launched a new Lords of the Underworld website! You can find it at www.lordsoftheunderworld.net There aren’t any excerpts up yet, but I plan to load them soon!

N: A three chapter excerpt has been added since we completed the interview!

9. And this one's for the fans of your other series'—will you be writing more books in those worlds, or are you focusing on the LOTU?

Next year, there will be a sequel to Playing With Fire -- Twice As Hot -- and the fourth book in the Atlantis series -- The Vampire’s Bride. If readers want more, it will be my pleasure to give them more!

10. Final question just for fun –hypothetically speaking, if a (gorgeous) man came up to you and told you he had a demon inside, what would you do?

After I kissed the breath out of him? Hmm, I’m not sure. Hard to say. Guess it’d be a wait and see situation :-)

N: Thanks for the interview, Gena. (Now, feel free to grill her mercilessly!)

I'm back!

And the website updates are almost complete, so go forth and explore.

Later this week, we're going to have an awesome interview & guest author, so don't forget to swing by.

So, what's everyone been up to? I'm working on Mercy's book today. :)

Look out!

see more crazy cat pics