NZ Contest & Launch, plus Review

Archangel's Blade Countdown Quote (8 days to go)

"You called?" Dmitri was wearing a white shirt open at the collar and black suit pants, his hair tumbled just enough to make her think he'd been running his hands through it.

It made her own fingers curl into her palms.

_______________________

A reminder that the launch of Archangel's Blade will be on September 12th, at Whitcoulls, Queen Street, Auckland. Full details here (scroll down for the September listing). Look forward to seeing some of you there! If you can't make it, but would like a signed copy of the book, please contact Whitcoulls before the event, so they can arrange a copy for you.

My New Zealand publisher, Hachette, is also holding an amazing contest to promote the release of Dmitri and Honor's book. If you purchase a copy of Archangel's Blade from any NZ retailer, you can go into the draw to win a weekend away at the Nautilus Cottage in Blenheim, so keep your receipts! Full details and the online entry form available on the Hachette website.

The Book Reading Gals just put up their A+ review of Archangel's Blade. They're also giving away a copy of Angels' Blood. Here's a quote from the review:

...I knew that Dimitri’s book was her next book and was looking forward to it. I wasn’t expecting what I got though. This is in my opinion her absolute best book. It will rip your heart out, make you cry, and then put your heart back together stronger and more complete than it was before you read this book.

I'm working on Tangle of Need today, and really hoping to complete the second draft. Wish me luck!

p.s. Per the requests on the previous post, I'll put up the quotes from Archangel's Blade both on FB and here - check back this afternoon, as I'll update this post with today's quote. [Updated]

Monday

Hi everyone. I hope you all had a good weekend. I thought I'd dive back into blogging with a couple of happy things.

First up, Katiebabs at Babbling About Books did a great review of Archangel's Blade. She says "Dmitri is unlike any hero I’ve read this year." Follow the link to read the full review.

Second, I'll be posting quotes from Archangel's Blade on my Facebook page to count down to the release next week. You don't have to be a member of FB to see them. Just click on the FB box on the sidebar of the blog, and it'll take you to the wall, where you can read the quotes. Or if you like, I'll post them here, too (leave a comment if you'd prefer that).

Here's the one I put up for today:

She'd just finished her cereal and was walking to refill her tea when someone knocked on the glass wall that fronted her apartment. Twisting on her heel, she went for the gun tucked into the back of her jeans...and saw wings of silver-kissed blue backlit to brilliance by the rising sun.

Friendship

We said our final goodbyes to an amazing friend today, after losing her suddenly last Sunday. To me, Sandra Hyatt was a friend, but she was also a devoted wife and mother, a passionate writer, and so much more. There were tears today, but there was laughter, too, as we shared our favorite memories of Sandra.

I remember how tickled the two of us were when we accidentally discovered we'd both been to the same small town in California that none of our other friends had ever heard of. From then on, we always had Yuba City. And it was in CA, this time in a much larger city, at a RWA Conference, that Sandra got "The Call" - her joy was just luminous, and the entire conference one big celebration.

Only three weeks ago, she gave a brilliant workshop at our local RWNZ meeting, the notes from which I have sitting beside my computer. A whole bunch of us had coffee together afterward. It was the last time I spoke and laughed with her, and I can still see her sitting across the table, her wild, gorgeous mane of curls tamed straight.

Then there were those fantabulous sneakers of hers that I may have threatened to steal one sunshiney Saturday as we stood having tea before the start of another meeting. We laughed over that, and over whether angels flew vertically or horizontally. Explanations with hands and bodies were involved. Thinking of it now still makes me smile, and I think that's fitting, because Sandy had the most beautiful smile, and of all the things I remember about her, it's her smile that is the brightest.

I will miss you, my wondeful, generous, kind friend. I'm so glad I had the chance to know and love you, and that your vibrant voice will continue to live on in your stories.

p.s. I still adore those sneakers!

ARC of October Anthology

Hello, this is Nalini's assistant, Ashwini. Just a quick heads up that Nalini's agent Nephele Tempest is giving away an advance copy of Angels of Darkness on her blog.

Contest will be open until Friday August 26th 9am Pacific Time. Full details on Nephele's blog.

Friday Book Club

Before we talk books, I have to share something. I met the fabulous Tess Gerritsen today at an RWNZ Conference event - she was so incredibly lovely that I'm even more of a fangirl now. If you love thrillers and haven't read Ms. Gerritsen, go forth and enjoy!

Onto the book club! What are you reading and loving at the moment?

Archangel's Blade

...giveaway at The Book Pushers! They're also giving away a copy of Carly Phillips' Serendipity! 

(I'm not running this contest, so all questions/comments need to be posted on The Book Pushers blog. Closing comments on this post to avoid confusion.)
 

Guest Author: Leslie Parrish

Winners: The random winners of Leslie's contest are Scrapper and Jill. Congratulations! Please email your mailing addresses to naliniDOTassistantATgmailDOTcom so we can pass them on to Leslie.


You all know how much I enjoyed Cold Sight. I'm absolutely delighted to have the author, Leslie Parrish, here today, chatting to us. Please welcome Leslie to the blog everyone! (And don't forget to enter her contest.)

A Happy Ending…Mostly
by
Leslie Parrish

First—thank you so much Nalini, for inviting me to be your guest here. I’m such a fangirl and was absolutely shocked to see a note from you in my in-box, telling me you’d enjoyed Cold Sight. That really made my day, so thanks again.

I’m a long-time romance reader. I started with Kathleen Woodiwiss’s The Flame and The Flower when I was twelve years old and have stuck with the genre, through thick and thin, ever since. Okay, I occasionally cheat and go on a horror, mystery or classics glom, but I always know that when I’m in the mood to have my emotions twisted and tangled and dragged along on a roller coaster ride, romance novels are my standby.

The thing I love most about romance novels is the one non-romance-readers like to sneer at: The happy ending. Some people scoff at the HEA as unrealistic. Sorry, I am living my happily-ever-after with my husband of 25 years, so I firmly believe they are possible. Meaning I am one of those people who really likes that HEA in my romance novels, and woe to any author who doesn’t give it to me.

 But here’s the thing—I like to be surprised. I really like to be surprised. I am one of those annoying people who can always see the twist coming in the first ten minutes of a movie, and I almost always guess the killer when I’m reading suspense. So if a book or movie can really stump me, I’m much more inclined to love it.

In romance, when the biggest story question is answered before you ever open the book—ie: Will the hero and heroine end up together?—you have to find other ways to surprise your reader. I am ever mindful of that when I’m writing, which is why I have not pulled many punches in my dark romantic thrillers. Aside from promising readers that they’ll get a happily-ever-after for the hero and heroine, I want them to understand—and hopefully appreciate—that just about anyone and anything else is fair game.

That’s not to say I like to throw-in shocking deaths or horrible surprise twists just for the sake of having them there. If they don’t fit and further the story, I won’t do it. But if a beloved secondary character needs to die, I have to let them, even if it breaks the reader’s (and my own) heart. 

So what about you—do you open a romance novel wanting everyone you like to have a happily-ever-after? Or are you okay with letting the chips fall where they may, as long as the romantic relationship ends happily? 

____________

Giveaway: Leslie is giving away one copy of Cold Sight and one of Cold Touch.  

Leave a comment on this post (if you're reading this on Goodreads, please comment on the original post on the main blog) by 5pm, Sunday 21 August 2011, New Zealand time, to go into the random draw. 

Winners will be picked using random.org and their names announced on the blog the following Monday. If you don't leave a way for us to get in touch with you, please check the blog to see if you've won and contact us within 72 hours. International entries welcome. One entry per household. No purchase necessary to enter. Void where prohibited.


Contest Now Closed

Tangle Of Need

...is the title for the next Psy/Changeling book! Release date: May 29, 2012

 

Cold Sight - Leslie Parrish

If you follow me on Twitter, you would've seen me tweeting about the fact that I stayed up till 2am the other night, reading Cold Sight, the first book in Leslie Parrish's Extra Sensory Agents series. I literally couldn't put it down.

Here's the blurb from the author's website (where you can also read an excerpt):

After being made a scapegoat in a botched investigation that led to a child's death, Aidan McConnell became a recluse. Still, as a favor to an old friend, Aidan will help on the occasional XI case. But under his handsome, rugged facade, he keeps his emotions in check--for fear of being burned again.

Reporter Lexie Nolan has a nose for news--and she believes a serial killer has been targeting teen girls around Savannah. But no one believes her. So she turns to the new paranormal detective agency and the sexy, mysterious Aidan for help.

But just as the two begin forging a relationship, the case turns eerily personal for Lexie--and Aidan discovers that maybe he hasn't lost the ability to feel after all...

The hero, Aidan, is a psychic, with the ability to "connect" to people, including victims of violent crime. He's helped find and save people in the past, but things went terribly wrong in his last case. As for the heroine, I really liked Lexie - it wasn't just about a story for her. The victims mattered to her as people, and she'd do anything she could to save them.

Though this is labelled as paranormal romance, for me it read more like a dark, gritty and gripping suspense with paranormal elements (being the extra sensory abilities of Aidan and the other investigators) and a romantic thread. But I didn't feel short-changed with the romance - I believed in Aidan and Lexie's relationship.

I will warn you that the book is dark, and the villains do some truly evil things, but if you're a suspense fan, I think you'll enjoy Cold Sight. The only series I can think of to compare it to is Kay Hooper's Bishop/Special Crimes Unit books - they're both very different, but there's that compelling mix of strong suspense, paranormal elements, and romance.

You can read some more in-depth reviews of the book at Smexy Books, All About Romance and Book Binge.

This was my first book by Leslie Parrish, but I have a feeling she's going to become a favorite author. I've already got Cold Touch, the second book in the series (about an investigator who experiences the last two minutes and ten seconds of a murder victim's life if she touches the body).

Have you read this series? Thoughts?

UK: Kiss of Snow

The UK hardcover of Kiss of Snow is now out! I know many of you have been waiting for this edition - I hope you enjoy!

Have a great weekend everyone. :-)

Friday Book Club

It's Book Club time! 

I read my first Dorothy Koomson book this week. The Woman He Loved Before is difficult to categorize, but I'd call it dark women's fiction, with a compelling mystery. Even though I knew from the start of this book that something bad was going to happen to/be revealed about the characters, I couldn't put it down. 

Here's the blurb from the author's website (where you can also read the first chapter):

She’s out of his life, but is she out of his heart?

Libby has a nice life with a great job, a gorgeous husband and a big home by the sea. But she’s becoming more unsure of Jack’s feelings for her – and if he is over the mysterious death of Eve, his first wife.

When fate intervenes in their relationship, Libby decides to find out all she can about the man she hastily married and the seemingly perfect Eve.

Eventually Libby stumbles across some startling truths about Eve. As she begins to unearth more and more devastating secrets, Libby becomes frightened that she too will end up like the first woman Jack loved. . .

Tense and moving The Woman He Loved Before explores if the love you want is always the love you need – or deserve.

Karen at Karen Knows Best did a great review of this book on her blog, so check it out. The excerpt she quoted from Eve's letter was what originally hooked me.

Your turn - what are you reading and loving this week?

Psy/Changeling #11

From the comments and e-mails I'm getting, it looks like a lot of people missed the announcement about the next Psy/Changeling book, so here's a roundup of the info I've shared so far.

The book will feature Adria and Riaz. The Arrows will also play a strong role, as will Councilor Kaleb Krychek.

What I haven't shared until now, is that Hawke and Sienna will also have a very strong presence in this book. We're going to see the next step of their relationship, and I think the book will interlink very closely with Kiss of Snow in that sense. 

I can't share anything more at this stage - I'll probably talk a little more about the book once I have a completed near-final draft.

Also, I always post release info on the blog and website, but if you'd like to make sure you stay up to date with all the news, here's the link to sign up for my newsletter (please remember to click the confirm link sent to your e-mail after you sign up). The newsletter goes out about once a month (less if I'm traveling or on deadline).

SnowDancer Territory

I'm currently happily hanging out in SnowDancer territory, working on the first draft of the next Psy/Changeling book. Right now, it's a big jigsaw of scenes, but I can feel all the pieces coming together. :-)

What are you all up to?

Gena Showalter - Lord of the Vampires

Winners: Thanks for all your comments everyone! The random winners of the ARCs are ERIKA and ROXY. Congratulations! Please e-mail your mailing address to my assistant (nalini DOT assistant AT gmail DOT com) within 24 hours. 
___________

As you all know, I'm writing book 4 of the Royal House of Shadows series, titled Lord of the Abyss. Book 1 is Gena Showalter's Lord of the Vampires. Thanks to the publisher and Gena, I have two ARCs of Lord of the Vampires to give away.

To enter, leave a comment on this post with the name of your favorite vampire (from books or movies, or television...the choice is yours!). (If you're reading this on Goodreads, please leave your comment on the original post on the main blog).

This is going to be a quick contest, as I want to get the books to the winners prior to the release date of August 23rd. Leave a comment by midnight, Wednesday, August 10th 2011, New Zealand time, to go into the random draw. Winners will be picked using random.org and their names announced on the blog on the following Thursday afternoon.

If you don't leave a way for us to contact you, please make sure to check the blog to see if you've won. If we don't hear from the winner(s) in the twenty-four hours after the winners are announced, we'll pick a new winner or winners. International entries welcome. One entry per household. No purchase necessary to enter. Void where prohibited.

Friday Book Club

The Friday Book Club is now open! What are you reading and loving at the moment?

You all know how much I loved Dragon Bound by Thea Harrison. I had a chance to read the second book in the series, Storm's Heart, early, and adored it, too. Storm's Heart is now out, so check it out!

Okay, your turn!

RT Book Reviews Interview

I taped a video interview with the fabulous Morgan Doremus of RT Book Reviews Magazine while I was at the RWA Conference, and it's now live. (Ignore my fit of giggles - I'm really very professional. Promise. *grin*)

Guest Author: Anne Gracie

Winner: Thank you all for your comments! The random winner of the book given away by Anne is LaniM. Congratulations! Lani, please e-mail my assistant with your mailing details, so we can pass them onto Anne. (nalini DOT assistant AT gmail DOT com).

You've all heard me raving about Anne Gracie's books. I think her historicals are witty and romantic and just wonderful! So I'm very excited to have Anne on the blog today. Please welcome Anne to the blog everyone! (And don't forget to enter her contest)

Anne Gracie

Hi, I'm Anne Gracie, and I'm delighted to be here — thanks for inviting me, Nalini. Now, before I start, I must make a terrible confession — for years I wouldn't even pick up a paranormal romance. (Hush those boos and hisses! Would I be here if I still hadn't touched them? And yes, I know I write historicals so if you really must boo and hiss, go ahead. (waits for booing and hissing to die down, then proceeds.)

A dozen or so years ago, in my first ever critique group, I met my first ever paranormal writer and the conversation went like this:

Keri (unpublished writer) "What sort of books do you write?"

Anne: (unpublished writer) "Regency historicals."

Keri (pulling a face): "Historicals? How boring."

Anne (narrowing eyes): "Why what do you write?"

Keri: "Vampire romances."

Anne: "Vampires? How creepy."

That was Keri Arthur, and even though we each had no interest in what the other wrote, she and I became friends. We both got published. I bought her books and they sat unread on the shelf. They were paranormals so I knew I wouldn't like them.

Then a few years ago, a friend lent me the first of JR Ward's Black Dagger Brotherhood series, and insisted I read it. It sat on my shelf untouched for an embarrassingly long time, because I didn't like paranormals, did I? In fact the only reason I ended up opening it was so I could honestly say to my friend "I read the first 50 pages, but it's not my thing." Only it was my thing. By the end of the weekend I'd bought and read the whole

series.

So I read my Keri Arthur books and then I read Nalini's Psy Changeling series and of course I'm now a huge paranormal reader, because what's not to love about gorgeous heroes, strong heroines and exciting stories?

It was my own preconceived notions of what they were that kept me from paranormals for a long time. Prejudice. I was so sure I wouldn't like them. But the thing is, a good story is a good story, and unforgettable characters leap off a page whether the book is a paranormal or a historical or a contemporary.

People often think the same thing about historicals. "Historicals? Why would I want to read them? Everyone in them is dead," another writer friend of mine once told me. Of course, being a friend, she forced herself to read one of mine and she shocked herself silly when she actually enjoyed it.

She was sure she wouldn't like historicals because she hated history at school. As if somehow a historical romance was a dusty old tome filled with boring facts.

But history is just a setting, atmosphere, a world to escape into in the same way you can enter into the world of a paranormal. History provides the background, the texture, some of the detail. But if a historical romance is doing its job, you shouldn't even notice the history - you'll be reading for the story, for the characters, the thrills and spills. Just like any other book.

I love writing historicals. They're not all ballroom stories. I can do what I want; I can pair an elegant lady with a bad-boy rake (Perfect Rake), I can send a cool, controlled Regency dude after a girl/boy living on the streets of Cairo (To Catch a Bride), I can send my heroine on a journey across France with a stranger she met by chance on a beach (Perfect Stranger), I can write love at first sight (His Captive Lady) or I can make a soldier make a marriage-in-name to a young Spanish girl and then eight years later find out the annulment he planned on was not possible (Bride By Mistake coming in January 2012.)

And I love getting emails from readers that say things like: "Yours was the first historical I ever read, and now I can't get enough of them."

A couple of years ago Keri Arthur started reading regency historicals. She read my books, Eloisa James's, Julia Quinn's... "Why didn't anyone tell me historicals were so much fun?" she complained. And we had a laugh about our attitude change.

So what about you? Have you been blind like I was? Are there any subgenres you haven't given a fair go to? Haven't really tried out? Given up after one bad experience? And what about a recommendation for someone that's new to your favorite subgenre?

I'll give one of my books to someone who leaves a comment.* The winner can choose any book of mine (except the old Harlequins, which are out of print): http://www.annegracie.com/books/books.htm

*Rules: Contest closes Friday 5th August 2011, 9am New Zealand time. Open internationally. One entry per household. No purchase necessary to enter. Winner will be chosen randomly using random.org and his or her name(s) posted on this blog on Saturday 6th August 2011. Void where prohibited.

Friday Book Club

A late Friday book club post today. What are you reading and enjoying at the moment? =)
 

Cover: Angels' Flight

My love for this cover is boundless. I utterly and absolutely ADORE it!!!! Click on the image to see a bigger version.

MARCH 2012

(This isn't final, so ignore the typo. There are going to be some other minor changes, but I just couldn't wait to share it!)

This anthology was originally going to feature the print edition of Angels' Pawn, a reprint of Angels' Judgment, plus a brand new novella, Angels' Dance. However, my publisher has decided to make it a complete GH collection, so as a bonus, they'll be including Angel's Wolf as well (releasing as part of the Angels of Darkness anthology in October). 

So, you can choose to wait and get Angel's Wolf in March next year when Angels' Flight releases. But, if you want my opinion, I would very much recommend you get the Angels of Darkness anthology. The lineup is incredible  - I'm hanging out to read the other novellas (by Ilona Andrews, Meljean Brook, and Sharon Shinn) myself!

Also, for Psy/Changeling fans, there will be a Psy/Changeling anthology coming out in 2013. I don't have any further details at the moment about what exactly it'll include.

ANGELS' FLIGHT

In Angel’s Wolf a vampire becomes fascinated with the seductive angel who rules Louisiana. But all is not what it appears to be in her court.

In Angels’ Judgment a hunter must track one of her own gone bad, while surviving the deadly tests placed in her way by the archangels themselves. Unexpected backup comes from a stranger who might just be the most lethal threat of all...

Plus FIRST TIME IN PRINT

In Angels' Pawn a vampire hunter faces off against two rival factions and the angel manipulating them both, and a vampire whose help is not entirely selfless...

And NEVER BEFORE PUBLISHED

In Angels’ Dance an angel trapped in the mountain stronghold of the Refuge finds herself under siege by a warrior angel from a martial court.

Writing & Kiss of Snow

I'm currently working on Riaz and Adria's book. Lots of things happening in this story, but if I told you what, I'd have to send an Arrow after you. ;-)

Also, the Kiss of Snow paperback is going to have several deleted scenes in back. But don't worry if you bought the hardcover - the scenes will be available on the website as well.

I hope you're all having a great week!

Website Up!

Edited to add: The website is back up! Thanks for your patience everyone.

The website is currently down. We're looking into it, and hopefully it'll be back up soon! Until then, all info will be on the blog. Please spread the word to other readers. Thanks! :-)

Newsletter

The July newsletter has been sent! If you've subscribed (and confirmed via the e-mail link), and don't see it in your in-box, check your spam folder to make sure it's not in there. If not, e-mail my assistant (nalini DOT assistant AT gmail DOT com), and she'll forward it to you. There's a little something extra in there for you all. ;-)

Edited to add: A couple of the links are apparently wonky. Looks like there's an extra (http//) in there. Just delete that and they should work. Apologies!

Friday Book Club

Time to talk books! What are you reading and loving at the moment?

I've seen several interesting books lately that I want to further investigate. Are there any future books that have caught your eye? 
 

Archangel's Blade ARC Contest Winners

Thanks to my awesome publicist at Berkley, we were able to give away more than one ARC of Archangel's Blade. 

The winners have all been e-mailed. (If you see your name on this list but didn't get an e-mail, it's because someone else with the same name won.) And the winners are:

Connie B.

Eva A.

Marie C.

Kristi D.

Sheree T.

Joanna K.

Congratulations to the winners and thank you to everyone who entered. If you didn't win, I hope you enjoy Archangel's Blade when it releases!

UK Cover: Archangel's Blade

I know some of you have been waiting for the UK/New Zealand/Australia cover for Archangel's Blade. Here it is!! I'm loving the concept for these covers.

 

Classic Hits Interview

I had a fun interview on the Classic Hits Breakfast show with Dave and Camille last week. You can now listen to the interview online. Just follow the link. 

There's an audio quiz at the end of the interview. Don't give away the answers, but post how many you got right. 1, 2, or 3. :-)

Hope you all had a great weekend!

Lord of the Abyss and the Royal House of Shadows

Look! A cool new trailer for the Royal House of Shadows continuity!

Here's a little bit of background about the series. Once we (Gena, Jill, Jessica and I) knew that we'd be writing it together, we brainstormed the idea for the world via e-mail, set out the rules, and then each of us went away and wrote our books. So the individual stories were left totally up to each author, as we all had our own ideas for our particular characters - what ties the four books together is the continuing backstory.

We talked to each other constantly through the process to ensure that that backstory/overall storyline remained coherent. Also, since the world developed and gained more detail as we wrote, we kept one another in the loop re changes, and discussed anything in each of our books that might impact the others.

I'm looking forward to reading the series as a whole and seeing it all come together!

You can read more about the series and Lord of the Abyss at the Royal House of Shadows site.

Friday Book Club

...coming to you on a Saturday! What are you reading and enjoying at the moment?
 

Video of my Interview with Lori Foster

I did a live video interview with the awesome Lori Foster while I was at her Get Together in Cincinnati. It's available online now if you'd like to watch. 

Here are the instructions on how to get to the video (I've double checked it works):

- link: http://t.wbx.me/f8ms6
- once at the link, click on an author name/photo to view
- use the guest tab (not registered users tab)
- enter your name in the guest field
- click enter button to join

Hope you enjoy it!

Archangel's Blade ARC Contest

Contest Now Closed.

If you'd like to go in the random draw to win an Advanced Reading/Review Copy of ARCHANGEL'S BLADE, send an e-mail to naliniDOTassistantATgmailDOTcom with:

- "ARCHANGEL'S BLADE ARC Contest" in the subject line; and

- your mailing address

by midnight, Tuesday July 19th, 2011, New Zealand time.

Please follow the correct format for entry re the subject line, so your e-mail goes into the right in-box. (Your e-mail address will only be used to contact you should you win, and your mailing address to post out the ARC if you win.)

Since this will be an Advanced Reading/Review Copy, if you win, I'd ask that you please post a review somewhere, on or before the release date (September 6th, 2011) - on a blog, on Amazon, B&N, Goodreads...it's up to you, but it would be much appreciated if you'd post your thoughts somewhere. The contents of the review are, of course, totally up to you, but I would request that you not share any major spoilers until after the book is out.

A note about the ARC - it's substantially the same as the final book, but since ARCs are printed prior to the final round of edits, there are some errors in the text that aren't in the final book.

By entering, you give me permission to post your name on the blog should you win.

The fine print: Contest is open internationally. One entry per household. No purchase necessary to enter. Winner will be chosen randomly using random.org and his or her name(s) posted on this blog on Thursday, July 21st, 2011. Void where prohibited.

Contest Now Closed.

Books On Board Crossword Contest

Books On Board has put up a fun "Nalini Singh Crossword Contest" on their site, so swing by and test your knowledge!

I'll be chatting on the BOB Facebook page Saturday 2pm CST (that's 7am, Sunday, NZ time). See you there! (Even if you're not on Facebook, you should still be able to click on the Wall tab and see the questions and answers).

Happy weekend everyone. :-)

Friday Book Club

Time to talk books! What are you reading and loving at the moment?
 

New Zealand!

I'm back home! I'll be mostly offline for the next few days as I have some edits to complete, but I have some photos to post up after that.

Also, apologies to everyone who's emailed me. I'm about six weeks behind on emails, which is making me a little crazy. I'm hoping to catch up a bit this weekend. I'll post when I'm up to date.

I'm touring New Zealand next week, so don't forget to check out the updated tour schedule if you're in NZ!

What have you all been up to over the past few weeks?

Edited to add: Video from the Literacy Signing by Sarah Wendell from Smart Bitches Trashy Books.

 

New York, New York!!

I'm currently sitting in my hotel room in Times Square listening to the pulse of the city - sirens, music, horns, the buzz of activity. I almost expect to look up and see Elena flying overhead.

I hope you're all having a great start to the week. I'm looking forward to seeing some of you at the Literacy Signing tonight!

Friday Book Club

Time to talk books!

I read an early copy of Maya Banks' In Bed With A Highlander (August 30th), and adored it! The hero is a gruff, tough Scottish laird, and the heroine a determined woman with a secret. Not only were they great characters, the wider cast was also wonderful.

It's one of my favorite reads for this year - I'm really looking forward to reading the next two books in the trilogy.

Here's a link to the excerpt on Maya's website.

What about you? What have you read and loved this week?

New Orleans and New York

I'll be at the American Library Association Conference in New Orleans on Saturday. I'll be doing a reading at 2pm, and then signing at the Penguin booth afterward. If you're attending, I hope to see you there!

I'll also be attending the Romance Writers of America Conference next week in New York, and signing at the Literacy Signing on Tuesday June 28th, 5.30-7.30pm. The signing is open to everyone, so if you're in NY, swing by! All the proceeds from the signing go to support literacy programs. 

There are hundreds of authors signing. You can check out the list, and read more info about the signing here.

I hope you're all having an awesome week. :-)

New Zealand Tour Schedule - UPDATED

Here's my NZ tour schedule, organized by my NZ publisher, Hachette! You'll see there are several store visits - these aren't formal events, but you're more than welcome to pop in while I'm there to say hi, and/or get some books signed, so do swing by if you're in the area. You can also call the store ahead of time to arrange a personalized copy.  

There are also three confirmed ticketed events - that's because the venues are putting on drinks and nibbles, so bring yourself, friends you think might enjoy some book talk, and have a fun night. (Please do rsvp as it'll help the store and library prepare for the events).

I hope to see many of you in July!

Monday July 11 – AUCKLAND

Store visit, Whitcoulls Corner
Time: 12.30pm
Nalini will be in-store signing copies of Kiss of Snow, contact the store on 09 984 5400 to arrange a personalised copy.

Monday July 11 – MORRINSVILLE

An evening with Nalini Singh
Location: Paper Plus Morrinsville
Time: 6.30pm for a 7pm start
Tickets: $10 (includes wine and nibbles) from Paper Plus Morrinsville 07 889 5359 or morrinsville@paperplus.co.nz

Tuesday July 12 – AUCKLAND

An evening with Nalini Singh (book sales thanks to Paper Plus Takapuna)
Location: Takapuna Library
Time: 6pm for a 6.30pm start
Tickets: Entry: $5 ($2 Friends of the Library) - includes drinks and nibbles
RSVP to 486-8469 or helen.woodhouse@aucklandcouncil.govt.nz

Thursday July 14 – WELLINGTON

Store visit, Borders Lambton Quay

Time: 12pm

Nalini will be in-store signing copies of Kiss of Snow, contact the store on 04 471 1900 to arrange a personalised copy.

Thursday July 14 – WELLINGTON

Store visit, Whitcoulls Lambton Quay

Time: 12.30pm

Nalini will be in-store signing copies of Kiss of Snow, contact the store on 04 890 4200 to arrange a personalised copy.

Thursday July 14 – LOWER HUTT

An evening with Nalini Singh
Location: Dowse Art Museum, 45 Laings Road, Lower Hutt
Time: 7.00pm.
Tickets: $5.00 ($3.00 Friends), includes wine and nibbles. Available from all Hutt City Libraries and Lower Hutt Paper Plus.
Phone: Lower  Hutt Central Library, (04) 570 6633 for more information

Friday July 15 – CHRISTCHURCH

Store visit, Borders Riccarton

Time: 2pm

Nalini will be in-store signing copies of Kiss of Snow, contact the store on 03 343 6792 to arrange a personalised copy.

For further information please contact Gemma Finlay, senior publicist Hachette NZ gemmaf@hachette.co.nz / 09 477 5583

Friday Book Club

Time to talk books! What are you reading and loving at the moment?
 

Angels' Dance

I'm currently working on Galen and Jessamy's novella - I thought you all might like a little sneak peek. Jessamy isn't in this particular bit, but it's from her point of view.

Unedited advance excerpt from Angels' Dance 

A ringing blow with the flat of the blade against Dmitri’s cheek, a kick to the gut and suddenly, Galen had the advantage, the tip of his broadsword touching Dmitri’s jugular as the vampire’s chest heaved where he lay on his back on the ground. “Yield.”

Dmitri’s unblinking gaze locked with Galen’s, the merciless predator within the sophisticated vampire very much at the forefront. But his voice, when it came, was a lazy purr languid as a summer afternoon. “You’re lucky the babies are watching.”

Galen didn’t so much as a flinch, his focus absolute.

Dmitri’s lips curved. “Bloody barbarian. I yield.”

Copyright (c) 2011 by Nalini Singh

_______________________

Angels' Dance releases next year as part of the Angels' Flight anthology. Updated info on that to come soon.

Signings & Books!

First of all, a huge shout-out to the wonderful booksellers who hosted the events, and to all of you who attended the signings, at the Lori Foster Weekend in Cincinnati, Joseph-Beth in Lexington, The Book Cellar in Chicago, Murder By The Book in Houston, and Hastings Entertainment in Waxahachie! I had an awesome time at all of the events, and loved getting to meet so many of you. 

I'll be at the Boas and Tiaras Tea tomorrow. If you aren't able to attend, you can still participate - the event will be livestreamed at: http://freshfiction.com/romancelive/, Saturday, June 11th at 11am Central (12pm ET / 9am PT).

That's Sunday 4am New Zealand time, Saturday 6pm Berlin, Saturday 5pm London. If you need to work out the time in your timezone, the Meeting Planner on the World Clock is great.

Now it's time to talk books! What are you reading and loving this week?

Teijan

Author Jess Granger recently started a #TheRatIsHot campaign on Twitter, in support of a story for Teijan. She even wrote a haiku to convince me. I thought you'd all enjoy reading it!

Rat

by Jess Granger

Stealthy in darkness, 

Your silent invasion each night

You take what you want

 

So, what are your views on Teijan?

New York Signing

The New York signing was so much fun! Thank you to all of you who came, and to the wonderful staff at the 150 East 86th Street Barnes & Noble. A special thanks to the brilliant and witty Sarah Wendell who interviewed me on stage.

Here are a couple of photos from the event! More photos to come from the tour stops soon as I have a little more time.

Sarah and I with the winner of the Archangel's Blade ARC we gave away at the event! (Don't worry, I snagged a couple for a blog giveaway after I return home. :-))

I hope you're all having a good weekend! I wasn't able to put up a Friday Book Club post, so share your reads on this post. What are you reading and loving at the moment?

Kiss of Snow *Spoiler* Thread

Thanks for keeping the comments spoiler-free everyone! I know many readers of this blog are still waiting for their copies of Kiss of Snow, so it's very much appreciated.

However, I know those of you who have read it would like to discuss it with spoilers - please do so in the comments to this post only.

If you haven't yet read the book, and don't want to be spoiled, look away! I'll place a bookmark to this thread in the sidebar sometime later in the week, so you'll be able to come back and join in the discussion once you have read the book. 

As always, please respect one another's opinions. Happy discussing!

Roseville & Heart to Heart Interview

Thank you to everyone who came to the signing last night, and to the awesome staff at the Roseville B&N! It was a fantastic way to kick off the tour. :-)

I also have an interview up at Heart to Heart, the BN Romance Blog today, so swing by and check it it.

I hope you're all having a fantastic week. I'm currently sitting at the airport- next stop, New York!

Kiss of Snow Now Out!!

Kiss of Snow is out!! I hope you all love Hawke and Sienna's story!

p.s. The newsletter went out a few minutes ago - it should be hitting in-boxes soon. Everyone who emailed me to ask they be manually added, has been. Please check your spam folder if you didn't get the newsletter. And enjoy! :-)

Kiss of Snow Countdown Quote #14

Kiss of Snow releases tomorrow! Here's one more Kiss before release day. :-) 

Kiss of Snow Countdown Quote #14

Hawke smiled...and she realized he was stalking her in slow, steady steps. Twisting, she saw she was about to back herself into a corner. She jerked left, expecting him to stop her. When he didn't, suspicion licked through her veins. "I'm glad you're going to be reasonable about this," she said, never moving her eyes off him. 

So who thinks Hawke *is* going to be reasonable? ;-)

And a bonus Kiss :-)

"Ready to play?" the wolf asked. 

1 day to go!!

Hawke's Kiss

2 days to go till Kiss of Snow hits the shelves! Here's today's Kiss. :-) 

That sneaky wolf charm was not going to weaken her defenses this time. "I'm working, in case you didn't hear me the first time."

Arms sliding around her waist, tugging her back against a warm male chest. "I've come to keep you company."

Reaching back, she pulled her hair out from between them. "I like being alone." 

A quick nip of her ear. "Such a liar."

Saturday Kiss

Kiss of Snow Countdown Quote #12

"I know he'd chew me up and spit me out, but God, it's all I can do not to strip myself naked and beg for him to bite me any way and anywhere he wants."

3 days to go!

Alpha Showdown & Kiss of Snow

The lovely Jaci Burton is giving away a copy of Kiss of Snow, so swing by and enter if you'd like to go in the draw. 

Smexy Books has posted up a new interview with me, along with another giveaway.

Also, it has been brought to my attention that Raphael is up against Kate Daniels in the Alpha Showdown. Go forth and vote.

(p.s. Who else is looking forward to Magic Slays? I'm so there!)

Friday Book Club & A Kiss

Kiss of Snow Countdown Quote #11 

Eight hours later, with the mountains kissed white-gold by the morning sun, Hawke stood staring at the door that had just been slammed in his face. "Sienna," he growled.

Friday Book Club

Time to talk books! What are you reading and loving at the moment? I'm reading Angel's Wolf. :-)

Winner of The Magical Christmas Cat

The random numbers have spoken and the winner of The Magical Christmas Cat giveaway is:

EMMA CLAW 

Congratulations! An email is on the way to you!

 

Angel's Wolf & Kiss of Snow

I'm working on the copy edited manuscript of Angel's Wolf (my novella in the Angels of Darkness anthology), and falling in love with the characters and the story all over again. I'll post a short excerpt from it after I return from the tour.

Here's today's Kiss!

Kiss of Snow Countdown Quote #10

"Tomorrow." Leaning down, he nuzzled at her, only taking a small bite before rubbing his lips over the spot. "Time to go back."

A Kiss, Interview, and Live Chat Details

While I’m in New York next week (woohoo!!) I’m going to be doing my first ever LiveStream chat event on Penguin’s Project Paranormal Facebook page.  The chat’s on June 2 at 3:30 PM EST—like the page and stop by! http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/ProjectParanormalBooks

If you want to work out what time 3.30pm EST on the 2nd is in your timezone, you can use the fabulous World Clock Meeting Planner.

Interviews

I have new interviews up at Galaxy Books and the Open Book Society. :-)

Now for today's Kiss!

Kiss of Snow Countdown Quote #9

Lurching up, she grabbed the front of his T-shirt. "You will not touch any of my friends."

Patient wolf eyes. Deadly wolf eyes.

The Magical Christmas Cat

Contest Now Closed

The random numbers have spoken and the winner of the copy of The Magical Christmas Cat is:

EMMA CLAW 

Congratulations! An email is on the way to you! 

________________

Time for a contest! I have a trade paperback edition of The Magical Christmas Cat to give away. 

If you'd like to go into the draw to win it, just leave a comment on this post with your answer to any one of these questions: 

Which authors would you love to see in an anthology together - i.e. your ultimate lineup?

Cats or dogs?  

If you could have Hawke to yourself for ten minutes, and he agreed not to snarl at you, what would you ask him?

Make sure you leave some way for us to contact you, or check back on Friday to see if you've won. Since I'm leaving on tour soon, if you get back to me asap, I can sign the book before I go.   

Rules: Contest closes Thursday 26 May 2011, 5pm New Zealand time. Open internationally. One entry per household. No purchase necessary to enter. Winner will be chosen randomly using random.org and his or her name(s) posted on this blog on Friday 27th May 2011. Void where prohibited.

Contest Now Closed

Kisses, Reviews & Suitcases

The suitcase has come out and the clothes are being packed. One week to go till the release of Kiss of Snow and the start of the tour! I'm incredibly excited about both the release and the tour.

Talking of the tour, if you're coming to the New York event, then swing by Smart Bitches Trashy Books, as Sarah Wendell, who'll be interviewing me at the event, wants to make sure she includes reader questions in the interview.

A number of reviews went up today for Kiss of Snow. Here are some links if you'd like check them out.

"This is a thoroughly satisfying book, one that met every high expectation I had for Hawke's book." - Katidom

"I love that Sienna never fears Hawke. While they have a volatile relationship, he never forces his will upon her (for her own good) as in some alpha shifter stories." - Heroes and Heartbreakers

"Without giving any spoilers, I will say that I am completely satisfied with they way Ms. Singh addressed the mating concerns and how the whole mating storyline played out in Kiss of Snow." - Twinmom 227

Today's Kiss is for the fans of a certain Arrow.

Going down on his haunches, Vasic picked up a handful of sand, the silica catching the moonlight as it passed through his fingers. "Yes."

Kiss of Snow Countdown Quote #7

A Kiss to kick off the week. 

Hawke stepped sideways to block her. "No."

Not long to go to the release date!

Kiss of Snow Countdown Quote #6

Today's kiss below!

"You can't go around biting me whenever you feel like it." It was very alpha male behavior, and he hardly needed any more encouragement.

Kiss of Snow Countdown Quote #5

Happy weekend everyone! Here's today's Kiss of Snow quote!

"Do it again," he whispered. "I want to watch." 

Friday Book Club

Kiss of Snow Countdown Quote #4

"Wow, talk about alpha. Makes me want to say 'yes please, and again.'"

 _______________

What are you reading and enjoying at the moment? I have a whole bunch of books I'm looking forward to reading during my upcoming trip!

Angels' Flight

I've sent in the edits for Archangel's Blade, and am now back at work on Galen and Jessamy's novella. The novella is titled Angels' Dance, and will release March 2012 as part of the Angels' Flight anthology (in paperback and ebook).

As well as Angels' Dance, the paperback will feature the long-requested print edition of Angels' Pawn, along with a reprint of Angels' Judgment (Sara and Deacon's story), so it's a good chance to get most of the GH novellas in one go. If you've previously read one or both of the other novellas, not to worry - Angels' Dance is turning out to be a little longer than my other novellas, so you'll still get good value.

Let me know if you have any questions. :-)

____________________

Kiss of Snow Countdown Quote #3

"Your pelt," a lazy voice drawled as he walked into the clearing around Lucas's home, "would make a nice coat for my mate."

(Who do you think is speaking? About who?)

______________________

Also, my agent, Nephele Tempest, is giving away an Advanced Review Copy of Kiss of Snow. Follow the link to enter the draw!

Upcoming German Editions

Gorgeous new German covers! (If you're looking for the Kiss of Snow quote for today, scroll down. :))

Archangel's Consort

Angels' Pawn, Beat of Temptation, & Stroke of Enticement

Speaking of Angels' Pawn, the English edition will be out in print next year! It's currently scheduled for a March release. More info to come soon!

Kiss of Snow Countdown Quote #2

"Kiss of Snow is a gift to fans of the Psy-Changeling series, the development of Hawke and Sienna's relationship written in magnificent detail and their progression from adversaries to lovers so euphorically satisfying we can't imagine how we've made it this long without their story in all its glorious completeness." ~ Jenny from Supernatural Snark

Kiss of Snow Countdown Quote #2

A faint smile that made every tiny hair on her body rise in quivering attention. "How fast can you run?" A wolf's question. 

___________

12 (or 13) days to go to release day depending on your timezone!

All Kiss of Snow excerpts copyright (c) 2011 by Nalini Singh 

Kiss of Snow Countdown

I'm posting a quote a day on my Facebook page to count down to the May 31st release of Kiss of Snow, and thought I'd post them here, too, for those of you not on Facebook. Enjoy!

Kiss of Snow Countdown Quote #1

Indigo gave him an easy, dangerous smile. “I know all you have to do is snap your fingers and women throw themselves into your bed—” She held up a hand when he growled. “I’m not saying you use your position, but the fact that you’re alpha, the reason why you’re alpha—your strength, your speed, your sheer dominance, that’s potent stuff. Not to mention your pretty face.”

Copyright (c) 2011 by Nalini Singh

p.s. The first newsletter goes out tomorrow, and I've put in something special for you all. :-)

New Newsletter

I have a shiny new newsletter. To subscribe, follow this link!

I'll be sending out approximately one newsletter a month (though I might do two just for Hawke ;-)), and among other things, I'll be recapping any excerpt links, news, etc, so it'll be a good way to catch up and see if you've missed anything. (You can unsubscribe at any time, though I hope you'll be pulled into my web and want to stay forever *grin*).

If you subscribed to my old newsletter, you're all set. We've moved you over to the new one.

Friday Book Club & Interview

Jenny at Supernatural Snark interviewed me recently and the interview is now up!

Now, onto the book club - coming to you on a Saturday. What are you reading and loving at the moment?

Linkage

A quick heads-up: Brenda Novak's online auction to raise money for Diabetes Research is currently running. Lots of things up for offer, including autographed books from me, and ARCs from various authors.

Oddshots

Swing over to Oddshots today and share your favorite sigh-inducing moments in books. :-)

Archangel's Blade

I'm currently working on the typeset pages for Archangel's Blade (the last time I'll see it before publication), so blog posts might be a little erratic over the next week.

But, I have a little bite to tide you over.

From Archangel's Blade

(full excerpt to come in June)  

[Honor]“Being food has never appealed to me.”

Dmitri turned to lean against the plate-glass wall that looked out over Manhattan, his masculine beauty starkly outlined by the piercing light of the sun at his back. “Ah, but I think you’d be a delicious snack.”

Copyright (c) 2011 by Nalini Singh

Friday Book Club

Time to talk books!

I've recently "discovered" Anne Gracie and fallen in love. The Perfect Rake was just a wonderful read - sweet and witty and romantic, but what really got me was that the hero of this book, Gideon, (the rake of the title), had a kindness to him that we rarely ever see in world-weary rakes. The heroine, Prudence, was smart and loving and well able to take on Gideon - I plain out liked her.

Very much recommended. 

Now, your turn! What are you reading and loving this week?

Guest Author: Thea Harrison - Dragon Bound

Contest now closed.

Winner: The random numbers have spoken and the winner is Kam Luen. Congratulations!  An email is on the way to you.

I'm delighted to host Thea Harrison on the blog today. I absolutely adored her debut paranormal romance, Dragon Bound (out now), when I read it for a quote last year. Since then, I've also read an early copy of the next book in the series, Storm's Heart, and fallen in love all over again.

Thea has several excerpts available on her website that you can check out. She's also giving away a copy of Dragon Bound to a commenter on this blog (Goodreads readers, swing by and enter on the main blog). Enter by 10 pm Thursday 5th May, New Zealand time, to go in the draw. 

Please welcome Thea to the blog everyone!

Thea Harrison

I was thrilled when Nalini approached me and asked if I would write a guest blog for her, but because I classify myself as “blog challenged” I asked her for a little guidance about what to focus on.  She wrote back quickly with a few ideas.  How did Dragon Bound come to be? What do I love about the hero and heroine? Why did I decide to write a paranormal romance? What great questions!

Dragon Bound came into being when the economy hit the skids.  My job was not going well.  I worked for a nonprofit, and a large part of my responsibility was to research grant opportunities and write grants.  Large grant making institutions that we had relied upon for funding for our programs were rerouting money to go to urgent needs like foodbanks. 

Not only that, but their financial portfolios were suffering huge losses.  One program officer told me their charitable trust was “fortunate” that they had lost only a third of their assets.  I found myself in the unfortunate position of having to recommend the termination of my own job to my boss.  As I was phased down, like so many others, I began to job search… and I decided it was also a perfect opportunity to try my hand at writing again.

Years ago I had published sixteen Harlequin Presents titles under the name Amanda Carpenter.  Single parenthood and school pulled me away from writing, and I always knew I wanted to return to it someday when the opportunity presented itself.  Images and ideas had floated around in the back of my mind for years.  I fiddled with a project or two but could never really get it off the ground.  When I finally sat down to write Dragon Bound, I knew the story would be a paranormal romance.  I had been reading science fiction and fantasy all my life.  Writing a paranormal romance seemed the perfect match for me, as it combined romance, which I had also read and written for years, with the fantasy elements I loved so well.

When I started Dragon Bound, the story exploded onto the page.  I had a complete draft written in 44 days.  I giggled and snorted the whole time I was writing it.  If anyone had witnessed me as I worked, I’m sure they would have thought I was a total nut-job.  The hero and heroine, Dragos and Pia, kept surprising me.  When I say that something “fell out of Pia’s mouth” that’s exactly how it felt inside—what she said was as much of a surprise to me as it was to her.  And Dragos simply didn’t have any of the normal brakes we humans have on our behavior.  They were a constant delight, and I loved every minute of it.

I was also putting out hundreds of job applications during the worst of the recession.  As discouraging as the job hunt was, I found revising the story as enjoyable as writing the rough draft.  I went through the query process in searching for an agent, approached seventeen agencies, had several nibbles of interest, and ended up with my wonderful agent Amy Boggs at the Donald Maass Literary Agency.  Together we ironed out more wrinkles in the manuscript, and she began the submission process.

Other aspects of my life continued to be increasingly painful.  Congress had stalled on passing an emergency extension on unemployment. I had exhausted all of my resources. I kept telling myself, wow, this could be like one of those stories where someone with $2 in their pocket wins the lottery.  Something good has got to happen sometime.

Then something good did indeed happen.  In March, 2010, Amy called with a multi-book offer from Berkley, and the Elder Races series was born!  Following the release of Dragon Bound on May 3rd is Storm’s Heart on August 2nd and Serpent’s Kiss on October 4th.  As for me, I’m feeling like I won the lottery and I’m still mopping my brow!

And if I can just emit a high-pitched fan-girl squee for a moment, Nalini is one of my favorite authors!  I was very excited when she invited me to guest blog.  Nalini, thank you very much for having me!  It’s been a pleasure.

So who are your favorite authors, and why?  Do any of them make you laugh out loud?  I would love to give away a signed copy of Dragon Bound to someone who comments!

Contest now closed.

Linkage & Writing

Science fiction romance author Marcella Burnard is guesting over at Oddshots, with an awesome post talking all about the adventure she's about to head off on.

The Book Reading Gals have posted their review of Kiss of Snow, plus they're giving away a backlist book. More review links to come soon!

We're having a guest on the blog tomorrow - Thea Harrison, writer of one of my favorite books of the year to date, Dragon Bound (releases May 3rd), so don't forget to drop by. Thea has a post up on Dear Author today, talking about her writing journey.

I'm working on Galen and Jessamy's novella - love these two. No specific release date yet, but it'll be out in 2012.