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

Website & Reader Interview: Daphne

I know a lot of you are waiting for the website to be updated - the plan is to have it done by next week sometime, so give me a few more days. :)

Also, if you want me to answer any questions for the FAQ page, email me at nalinisinghwrites @ gmail.com (without the spaces) with FAQ in the subject line. I can't promise to answer all the questions, but no harm in asking!

Now, onto today's reader interview! Today's interviewee is Daphne, and I must say, I'm loving her desert island priorities! (And she has fabulous taste in books *grin*)

1. Tell us a bit about yourself.

I'm a 20 year old from London, and a two-time uni dropout. It got in the way of my reading and writing, what can I say? I mostly live in my own world and always have a pair of headphones on, either plugged into my laptop or my iPod. I can't function without music!

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

I either sell or donate most books I read, I only keep books I'm absolutely in love with. I'm really hard to please, therefore I end up letting go of nearly everything. I've kept all my Nalini Singh books, though. :)

3. What author might tempt you into turning stalker?

Again, it has to be Nalini. Your books are something special, and I find myself thinking about the Psy/Changeling world frequently. But don't be too alarmed, I'm a terribly courteous stalker.

4. How susceptible are you to chocolate?

Chocolate is currency in my world. I have a wicked sweet tooth and get cranky when I haven't satisfied it. I also love white chocolate, though my sister is always quick to remind me it isn't technically chocolate. But I don't care as long as it has sugar in it!

5. Favorite book? Why?

"The Kite Runner" by Khaled Hosseini. Every turn of the page was a revelation, a new emotion to be experienced. Beautifully written and utterly heartbreaking. I also love "The Sword and the Scimitar" by David Ball; it's an epic historical adventure that captivated me from the first page to the last.

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

Pictures of my family, a lifetime supply of chocolate, and Gerard Butler. *wink*

7. What did you eat for breakfast?

Jaffa Cakes. Not good. But so tasty.

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

I just went crazy on amazon, so about 20. I recently left uni, and I don't have a job yet, so I don't know what possessed me. But...er, does anyone want to hire me? *grin*

9. Describe your idea of a perfect hero.

Intelligent, open-minded, kind, eccentric, and funny.

10. Which character in a book do you relate most with?

It has to be Bridget Jones. I always say the wrong thing or embarrass myself, but can laugh about it.

Sakura!

A friend from Japan sent me this. Isn't it pretty? Cherry blossom season is just so beautiful.

Grimspace - Ann Aguirre

A couple of the comments in the previous post reminded me I've been meaning to post about Grimspace. I read it a while back and really enjoyed it - couldn't put it down in fact. It's definitely sf, but it's also a romance. I'm very much looking forward to the next book in the series.

Here's the blurb - you can check out an excerpt on the author's website:

By all accounts, Sirantha Jax should have burned out years ago…

As the carrier of a rare gene, Jax has the ability to jump ships through grimspace—a talent which cuts into her life expectancy, but makes her a highly prized navigator for the Corp. But then the ship she’s navigating crash-lands, and she’s accused of killing everyone on board. It’s hard for Jax to defend herself: she has no memory of the crash.

Now imprisoned and the subject of a ruthless interrogation, Jax is on the verge of madness. Then a mysterious man breaks into her cell, offering her freedom—for a price. March needs Jax to help his small band of rogue fighters break the Corp monopoly on interstellar travel—and establish a new breed of jumper.

Jax is only good at one thing—grimspace—and it will eventually kill her. So she may as well have some fun in the meantime…

I know a lot of you have read this already - what did you like best about it? Any other sf/romance recommendations?

Also, you guys have to check out this Author Talk video with Kresley Cole. Don't have coffee in your mouth when you do (you'll thank me when you get to the "birth" scene). *grin*

Have a good weekend folks!

Blog Takeover

First, another link - Bridget Locke is running a contest over on her writing blog, so swing by that way and enter.

I'm buried under copy edits, so how about you all take over the blog for today? Seen anything interesting around the web? Read a good book? Tell us all about it!

Link & Reader Interview: Helen

First a link - Urban Fantasy Land's got Particia Brigg's new cover art up - one word: stunning!

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And now, as promised, here's a new reader interview! I've got two more left (unless any more come in), that I plan to post next week. Today's interviewee is Helen, a fellow book lover!!

Question #1: Tell us a bit about yourself.

I am currently ready to graduate from Cal. State University Bakersfield after this Winter Quarter with a LBST degree. I plan to attend either San Jose State University or someplace else- I haven’t decided yet!- to get my Masters in Library Science.

Obviously I love books so I reaaallllyyyy hope to get into a profession where I am surrounded by books!

I was born in California and have lived here all my life!! I love it here and I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else, but I would love to travel all over the world!!

Question #2: Are you a hoarder or do you give your books away?

I am definitely a hoarder, I also happen to be a giver, especially when I love a series ‘cause then I give my books over to someone else so they can be obsessed as me and I can keep buying new ones….sounds bad but …..jeez what can I say I LOVE BOOKS!!!

Question #3: What author might tempt you into turning stalker?

I don’t think I could stalk anyone…..what with the threat of Imprisonment….but if I could get away with it….ummm…..lets just say Nalini you are definitely in the top 10!

Question #4: How susceptible are you to chocolate?

Very susceptible to chocolate, especially if it is Ferrero Rocher….ohhhhh that stuff is soooo good!!!!

Question #5: Favorite book? Why?

Such a hard question…I guess I will go with what I said in a previous blog, Piers Anthony writes Sci-Fi Fantasy books, and his Xanth series got me started reading when I was young and so I will always hold a special place in my heart for his books since his books gave me my unquenchable desire to read, read, and read!!!!

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

EEEEEKK!!! The desert I can live with, (I live in the MOJAVE DESERT!) but Island!!!! I am so afraid of water!!! So for me I would definitely need …… an architect/contractor so he could design a home, and build it, if I have to live on an island….. Then I would need… a chef so he could feed me food that I wouldn’t know how to prepare, or scavenge, or find.. and last but not least…..a fully equipped helicopter pilot with a helicopter so I could leave this Island paradise whenever I need to get back to civilization!!!!

Question #7: What did you eat for breakfast?

This one is easy….I ran out the door and forgot my breakfast!!! But I was dreaming about pancakes with lots of maple syrup

Question #8: How many books in your current to-be-read pile?

Oh wow since I am in my last 3 weeks of school I have at least 10 books!! But its ok because as soon as I am done I will be reading at least 2 a day and I should be caught up in a week!

Question #9: Describe your idea of a perfect hero.

The perfect hero for me is someone who can love me for who I am, but will always spare time for others as well and not be caught up completely in just us because there is a whole world out there.

Xtra ?’s

Which character in a book do you relate most with?

-I relate most to Sascha because she fights her feelings a lot but then finds out that her emotions are what sets her free to be everything she always wanted to be and more.

Where do you live?

-I live in California, Antelope Valley, Lancaster- part of the Mojave Desert

So what would people think was a perfect heroine??

-A perfect heroine can be tough or soft but can always hold her own when she needs to.

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

-I would absolutely want to be in the Changeling world, being able to turn into an animal would be a wonderful gift!!

Ebooks & Reader Interview: Soraya

Some good news for those of you who like e-books, BooksOnBoard has offered to continue the promotion on my books till the end of May - just input NaliniOnBoard as your promo code during checkout to get the discount. (More info on the News page of my website).

~~~

And now, onto today's Reader Interview! Today's interviewee is Soraya, all the way from Paris, France!

1. Tell us a bit about yourself.

Soraya, 35 years old, single and I live in Paris (France). I'm a lawyer's secretary. Since I'm 14 I read voraciously romance books, I don't have any genre preferences. I took English classes after work when I learn that some of Amanda Quick books were not translated in French - she was my favorite author back then.

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

I have given a lot of my books away since my little sister offers me a palm :) I only kept my very favorites one :)

3. What author might tempt you into turning stalker?

Linda Howard, JAK, Christine Feehan, Lora Leigh, Stella Cameron, Angela Knight, Shelly Laurenston, Laurell K. Hamilton, Jaci Burton and Nalini Singh.

4. How susceptible are you to chocolate?

I can kill for a box of Jeff de Bruges chocolates.

5. Favorite book? Why?

I really don't have "one" favorite book.

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

Well Brad Pitt and Denzel Washington are taken soo... let me think...

- Jack (from lost)
- a swiss army knife
- chocolate

7. What did you eat for breakfast?

a croissant

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

the last I check something like 20... or so...

9. Describe your idea of a perfect hero.

My hero of all time, Gideon from "Ravished" by AQ.

Polls & Zombies

Sorry for the sporadic posts the past week everyone - I'm snowed! However, I've got some plans for this week. I thought I might post the final reader interviews I have. And I've also got a poll/question for you that I'll put up later in the week.

But today, check out Sayuri's poll - Which Psy/Changeling Couple is your Favorite?

I can't vote - they're all my favorite! *grin*

And just because I couldn't resist - I think I need to work on my zombie survival skills.

43%

Link Bonanza

Links, links, links! Some old, some new :)

Magic Burns is a national bestseller - swing by and congratulate Ilona Andrews! And on the topic of Magic Burns, the contest is over, but check out the LOL Cover Art.

Gena Showalter has a new website for her Lords of the Underword series

Jaci Burton just posted up the cover for The Darkest Touch. And if you missed it, Katiebabs posted up the covers for the next two C.L.Wilson books earlier. Meljean Brook has also posted up the cover for Demon Bound. All so pretty!

Michelle Styles talks about Harlequin's April Books & Contests over at TGTBU. And staying with Harlequin, my friend Bronwyn Jameson has a release this week - Tycoon's One-Night Revenge

Lora Leigh has posted up a hot new book trailer for Wicked Pleasure

Meredith Duran told a great First Sale Story over on Dear Author

I was interviewed twice last month, first at Chicklit Gurrl (focusing on Mine to Possess) and second by fellow writer Travis Heermann (focusing on writing).

If you think you know your countries, go see how many you can name in five minutes (link via Jill Myles)

Lorelie Brown is telling a story in installments over at Dionne Galace. The link will take you to part 1. (It's up to part 3.) Check out that gorgeous cover.

Diana Peterfreund is giving away a copy of Julie Leto's Phantom Pleasures. And she's also posted up the Russian cover of her own Secret Society Girl.

And to end with a smile - check out this list of words and descriptions on Linda's blog, and let her know if their usage is universal among women! :)

OOTB Tour: Lady and the Vamp - Michelle Rowan

OOTB Tour time - check out the details below!
_______

LADY AND THE VAMP by Michelle Rowen

April 2008 – Forever, an Imprint of Grand Central Publishing

She fights.
Janie Parker’s a supernatural assassin—not by choice, but what’s a girl gonna do? The only thing standing between her and decapitation at the hands of her hellish boss is a magical artifact called The Eye. To get it, all Janie has to do is find a dark, broody vampire named Michael Quinn and take it. Easy, right? Except if Quinn keeps kissing her that way, she just might lose her head...in more ways than one.

He bites.
Former vampire hunter Michael Quinn is determined to become human again. If he grabs hold of The Eye and makes a wish—then boom, everything’s good with the world. But now Quinn has a sassy tagalong with a long, delectable neck and orders to stake him on sight. He just hopes his first bite won’t be Janie’s last moment on earth...

Excerpt: http://www.michellerowen.com/latv_chap1.htm

ABOUT MICHELLE ROWEN

Waldenbooks bestselling author Michelle Rowen is a self-confessed bibliophile, reality TV junkie, and is well known for making a mean pot of Kraft Dinner. Her novels for Grand Central Publishing (formerly Warner Books) include the Immortality Bites series: BITTEN & SMITTEN (2007 Holt Medallion winner for Best First Book), FANGED & FABULOUS, and LADY & THE VAMP, as well as the standalone paranormal romance, ANGEL WITH ATTITUDE. Under the pseudonym Michelle Maddox she has written COUNTDOWN (August ’08) for Dorchester Publishing's new and exciting SHOMI line of "speculative" romance novels. Michelle lives in Southern Ontario, and is currently hard at work on her next fantastical novel.

REVIEWS

“I loved Lady & the Vamp! Michelle Rowen has again successfully written a funny and highly entertaining vampire story...I can’t wait for book four of this series!” – Armchair Interviews

“Lady & The Vamp is a fast paced and entertaining read. Its light comic style effortlessly pulls the reader along for a ride...dishing up romance and laughs along the way.” – LoveVampires.com

“This book was great fun. Janie and (Quinn) are a breath of fresh air...you'll be laughing and rooting for them both from the very beginning.” – Fresh Fiction

"Excitement, a strong, character driven, intense plot, and wicked humor keep this story racing... As usual, Ms. Rowen delivers a winning story. Enjoy it. No fooling." – Huntress Romance Reviews

"4 stars! Fans will appreciate the light tone, the smooth and swift narration... throughout the third book of Rowen's Immortality Bites series." – Romantic Times BOOKreviews

Website: http://www.michellerowen.com

Deleted Scene from "Beat of Temptation"

This deleted scene will be going up on the website during the April updates (along with a second piece), but since that won't be for a couple of weeks yet, I thought you guys might like a sneak peek.

A bit of background: This scene didn't make it into the novella because I decided that with the shorter wordcount, we needed to jump straight into Nate and Tammy’s story, rather than going from the present, to the past. Plus, I was indulging myself with the other characters and with a novella, you need a much tighter focus.

Hope you guys enjoy it!

Deleted Scene from "Beat of Temptation" - An Enchanted Season Anthology

“The Psy who Stole Christmas,” Sascha read out the title, a frown creasing her forehead. “I’m not sure I’m going to like this book.”

Tamsyn laughed. “Oh dear, it’s probably not very friendly to leave that lying around now that I have Psy packmates.”

Faith took the book from Sascha and read the back. “The terrifying, scarifying, mystifying true story of how Christmas was almost outlawed.”

“You’re not offended are you?” Tamsyn suddenly realized how bad the book might look to her friends. “It’s just a fun book. The kids like the rhymes. I’d never—”

“We’re not offended.” Sascha sneaked a bite of chocolate from the pieces Tamsyn had cut for the cookies. “It simply relates a factual event in a way small children can understand.”

“Yes.” Faith opened the book to the first page. “I believe the newly powerful Psy Council was trying out its wings during that time period. This was not one of their success stories.”

Tamsyn laughed, glad for Sascha and Faith’s imminently logical outlook on life. “No, I’d say not. I don’t think they’ve been defeated like that ever again.”

Sascha nibbled on another piece of chocolate as she picked up a beautiful ornament from the box on the table. “Isn’t it a bit early for Christmas decorations?”

“It’s a family thing.” Tamsyn felt her heart catch at the memory. “A tradition you could say.”

Faith’s eyes lingered on the hand-painted ball in Sascha’s hand. “I see the future, but I think it would be nice to have a past full of enough joy that you celebrate it.”

Tamsyn smiled at the foreseer. “I’m sure you’re making some great memories with Vaughn.”

“Yes.” Her eyes softened. “He carved a sculpture of me.”

“Can we see it?” Sascha asked.

Faith shook her head. “No, I don’t think so. He’s quite possessive about it.”

“Just like he is with you.” Seeing movement out of the corner of her eye, Tamsyn grabbed the chocolate bowl before Sascha could demolish it. “How much chocolate do you go through in a week anyway?”

Sascha’s night-sky eyes, pinpricks of white on black velvet, crinkled at the corners as she winced. “I think we should change the subject. Let’s talk more about Faith and Vaughn.”

Lucas stuck his head around the corner from the living room. “She ate an entire bar after dinner last night. Good thing I make sure she gets regular exercise.” He ducked back out before the apple Sascha had thrown at him reached the door, his sensual grin leaving no doubt as to what kind of ‘exercise’ the two had been indulging in.

“I swear I’m going to—” Sascha kept the apple in the air using telekinesis and brought it back to the bowl. “He bought me that damn chocolate bar.”

Tamsyn bit her lower lip to stop from laughing at Sascha’s blush. “Of course he did. He adores you.”

“And I foresee many more chocolate bars in your future.”

Tamsyn and Sascha both looked at Faith. The F-Psy was gifted with the ability to see the future and when she said something like that, it was usually correct to give it a literal interpretation.

“Do you also see lots of exercise?” Tamsyn asked.

Sascha swiveled to stare at her. “Tammy!”

“Oh yes.” Faith grinned impishly, the smile rare. She’d been out of the PsyNet for several months but some things took time. Tamsyn knew the redhead was still getting used to interacting with her new packmates. “Chocolate and exercise are intimately connected in your future.”

Sascha put her hands on her hips, looking from one to the other. Then her lips quirked. The laugh when it came was infectious. They were all holding onto their sides when Nate walked into the kitchen from the backyard. “What did I miss?” He was holding a bunch of flowers.

Orchids.

Stupidly expensive, incredibly beautiful and softly delicate.

Tamsyn stopped laughing. “You idiot.” But she was walking into his arms, tears in her eyes, barely aware of Sascha and Faith slipping out of the room.

He hugged her with one arm, flowers in the other. “Happy Anniversary, my darling cat.”

She sniffed. “It’s not until Christmas Day.”

“No it isn’t.”

No, it wasn’t. That might be when they’d had the ceremony in the Pack Circle to celebrate their mating bond, to share their joy with packmates, but it was on this day eighteen years ago that they’d truly become one, without barriers or fears. The first day he’d ever given her orchids. “I should put them in water.”

He was nuzzling at her neck. “Later. Right now, you should come upstairs and put me out of my misery.”

“Nate!” she whispered, well aware of the others only a wall away. In particular, their two cubs, Julian and Roman—the boys had preternatural hearing when it came to their daddy. “The kids, Lucas and Sascha and—”

“They’ll take care of the kids.” Teeth nibbling on her skin. “I’ll be very quiet.”

Things were melting low in her stomach as the scent of him wove around her. “Liar.” God she was mush where this man was concerned. Especially when he gave her orchids. “I want to be on top.”

Putting the orchids on the table behind him, he scooped her up into his arms. Like all healers, she was a practical woman, but he’d always made her feel utterly feminine. Now he grinned. “No you don’t. I have plans for you.”

She nipped at his lower lip. “Going dominant on me, Nathan Ryder?”

He gave her a full-blooded kiss. “Remember that time in the cabin, Mrs Ryder?” He whispered a more intimate description in her ear.

“Oh.” Damp heat between her legs. “You’re right, I don’t want to be on top.” The things he’d done to her in that cabin…it was no wonder she’d agreed to be his mate. But their story had begun long before that final showdown.

Copyright © 2007 by Nalini Singh

Weekly Catchup

We haven't had a catchup day for a while - what's everyone been up to? Any news?

My news: Angels' Blood is done and currently being read by my agent!! Woohoo!!

I've decided to do a draft of the novella for next year's anthology while the world is fresh in my head, so that's what I'm up to now. However, as of next week, it's all Mercy, all the time. And her hero, of course. *g*

Alright, your turn!

Interview: Ilona Andrews

I fell in love with Ilona Andrews' voice last year when I read Magic Bites. After reading Magic Burns (releasing April 1st), I have a feeling this will be an enduring affair. I'm delighted to present an interview with the authors behind the books! (Ilona's also agreed to swing by and answer any reader questions, so put your thinking caps on!)

Who is Ilona Andrews?

Ilona: Ilona Andrews is an international woman of mystery. Actually most of our fiction is written by my husband Gordon and I. His first name is actually Andrew.

Gordon: Gordon is the name I chose to be called when I became an adult. I was in the Navy for four years and nobody there actually called me by my first name. And when I met Ilona, she called me Gordon as well.

Ilona: A Southern Russian woman habit. For Kate Daniels series the publisher suggested a female pseudonym, so we glued our two first names together.

For those of you unfamiliar with your work, how about a quick summary of what these books are about?

Ilona: The books are set in alternative Atlanta. The world is battered by magic waves: they come and go as they please. When magic is up, cars stall, guns don't work, and mythical creatures rampage through downtown. When magic is down, magic users lose their power and defensive spells vanish. Magic hates tall buildings and chews them to rubble, so the world is in ruins, but people are resilient and they work around it.

In this world lives Kate Daniels. Kate likes her sword a little too much and has hard time controlling her mouth. But she also has some interesting abilities that frequently make her a target.

In the first book, MAGIC BITES, Kate's guardian is murdered, and she must choose to hide or to pursue his preternatural killer. Hiding is easy, but the right choice is rarely easy. In the sequel, MAGIC BURNS, out this April, Kate is trying to protect a little girl during a magic wave of catastrophic proportions.

Do you plan to write a specific number of Kate Daniels books?

Gordon: It depends on whether or not ACE decides to continue the series.

Ilona: We're under contract for four and have it thought out to five, but like Gordon said, it's mostly up to the publisher at this point.

How does the whole writing with another person work? Do you have a system, or do you duke it out until one of you wins?

Gordon: I don't think it's all that confrontational. We discuss it but it's a collaboration, not a contest of wills. I always thought it was very similar to a marriage. It's about compromises, figuring out who is good at what, and compensating for each other's weakness.

Ilona: We have occasional arguments, but we've been together for a while and we generally think along the same lines. Gordon typically is better with plot resolution than I am and I'm better with setting, for example.

Talking about duking it out - there are several awesome fight scenes in Magic Burns. Did you choreograph those or did it just come out as you were writing? Who's the fight-scene expert?

Gordon: We always choreograph fight scenes to make sure they make sense.

Ilona: Gordon studied judo while in Japan. We're both familiar with firearms and some basic sword fighting. Mostly choreographing fight scenes requires a lot of research. But yes we do actually get in the middle of the floor and try to figure out the most likely move or the easiest target. One of the things I hope people will keep in mind is that these fights are there for entertainment purposes only. We do take artistic liberties in the name of coolness.

Gordon: In practice it's very difficult to decapitate a person, for example. Pulling a sword out of the body takes a lot of strength, because of the suction involved.

Kate has an interesting history, which we get more info on in this book - did you work all that out way in advance? Or has some of it come as a surprise to you, too?

Ilona: No, we have it all planned out. We are so sad.

Soooooo, you have this uber-sexy/scary as heck shapeshifter, Curran, in your books. Why do you think so many readers react so strongly to him?

Gordon: He's a strong dependable guy who has responsibilities. He takes care of his people and he'll do what he says he will do. That's what a man supposed to do. Both he and Kate are autonomous. They have their own lives and histories, but even though they started from different places, they arrived to a somewhat similar world view. Unfortunately, they disagree on their methods and it's interesting to see them interact.

Ilona: Curran's an interesting character. He's not a bad boy or an anti-hero in a strict sense of the word. He's powerful and dangerous, but he isn't unreasonable despite what Kate might say. I think that if you were his friend and you were in trouble, he'd drop everything and come to rescue you no matter how dangerous the situation might be. He is Beast Lord, however, and has been one for quite some time. When one commands a thousand shapeshifters, one tends to develop certain arrogance.

The whole magic wave vs tech wave stuff is really interesting. Any background on how you came up with the concept?

Gordon: I think as humans, it would probably very difficult for us to have both magic and technology. When I was younger, I read a book (sorry, don't recall the name now), where there was a god Tech. He was a very small god, who started out when the first bow was made. Other gods made fun of him. But the more humans developed, the stronger he grew until he finally became incredibly powerful. On the funny side, when he appeared, he always looked like Clark Kent. And magic and technology mix makes such a cool world.

Ilona: There are so many stories where the magic is going out of the world. Tolkien's work, for example, explores that theme. And it always made me so sad to read about it. I mean, we yearn for magic. Look at the film industry – we basically use cutting edge technology to create magic on screen. It's an integral part of being human: to want a touch of something mystical and unexplained. It seemed natural to bring about "reverse" apocalypse: magic is back with a vengeance. There are some cartoons that played with that theme and we both really enjoyed them.

Gordon: Thundarr the Barbarian.

Ilona: Heman. Guys on mechanical eagles with swords.

Gordon: Magic that never was and technology that never will be.

Ilona: We've officially outed ourselves as total geeks.

Gordon: Yep.

I hear you're in an anthology next year with some very kewl people - can you give us hints about what your story's going to be?

Ilona: I heard Nalini Singh is going to be in that anthology. How cool is that? Our story will be about Kate and hellhounds.

Follow up question - do you think readers unfamiliar with your world will be able to dive into the novella and understand it?

Gordon: We'll try to write it so they can.

Getting back to Kate and Curran (not that I'm obsessed or anything), are these two ever going to get up close and personal? (I'm torn whether I want this to happen or not. The push/pull between them is just so fascinating.)

Ilona: I'm sorry, you'll just have to read it. Thank you so much for having us over!

Gordon: Thank you! We enjoyed it.

A huge thank you to Ilona and Gordon for the interview! Here's the link to their website if you'd like to read excerpts and find out more about the series.

And now, feel free to grill Ilona! (Maybe if we work together, she'll let something slip...)

Guess Who?

Very late post today (or very early depending on your timezone!)

Onto the post! I want to give you all heads-up that I've got a fabulous author interview planned to go up this week. But who is it with? Here's a clue:

The letter

K

What? You want another clue? Okay, you twisted my arm. It's:

The letter

C

And the third clue - these letters don't necessarily have anything to do with the name(s) of the interview subject(s). *grin*

Have fun guessing! All will be revealed when I check back in tomorrow!

Long Weekend

How's the long weekend going for everyone? I've been working on Angels' Blood, but I did manage to watch a dvd - No Reservations. I thought it was a sweet, romantic movie. Anyone else seen it?

And another very important question - how many Easter eggs did you eat over the past few days?!

Hostage to Pleasure & Preorders

Good news! Hostage to Pleasure is now available for pre-order on Amazon (thanks to Bel for the heads-up!).

I thought we'd talk preorder lists today - what books are you all waiting for in the coming months?

Sarah Addison Allen - Garden Spells

First, the blurb:

Welcome to Bascom, North Carolina, where everyone has a story to tell about the Waverley women. The old house that’s been in the family for generations, the walled garden that mysteriously blooms year round, the rumors and innuendoes of dangerous loves and tragic passions. Eccentric, reclusive, or renegade, there’s not one that wasn’t somehow touched by magic.

As the town’s successful caterer, Claire has always clung closely to the Waverleys’ roots in their enchanted soil, tending the family garden from which she makes her much sought-after delicacies. She has everything she thinks she needs – until one day she finds a vine of ivy creeping into her garden and knows that everything is about to change.

Then her prodigal sister Sydney arrives with her five-year-old daughter and a dark secret she hopes to keep well hidden. And suddenly Claire’s carefully tended life is about to run gloriously out of control …

From Sarah Addison Allen's Website

This is such a lovely book - with a beautiful sense of magic. I wasn't sure what to expect when I picked it up, but I couldn't put it down. At heart, it's about two sisters, but there's a wonderful romance (or two) woven into the story, and everything's dusted with that shimmering element of magic and enchantment. It's almost like a fairytale, but one grounded in the real world.

Have any of you read it? Thoughts? How about recommendations for other books with that same sense of magic and wonder?

Reader Interview: Darla

It's reader interview time! Today's interviewee is Darla, and she's one smart cookie - check out her answer to the desert island question!

1. Tell us a bit about yourself.

My name is Darla, and I've been reading romance since I was 16, starting with Shanna by Kathleen Woodiwiss. I've been in my own wonderful romance for 28 years to a man that knows the ropes! Wink Wink...Gotta love it. BG! I'm a mother of 3, all adults now, and Grandmother of 2.

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

I have always been a hoarder and have over 2,000 books at home...but lately since I am seriously running out of room I'm going through my books and donating and giving some of them away. If I had my druthers I'd just do what George Carlin says and "Get a bigger place for my stuff!"

3. What author might tempt you into turning stalker?

For me this is by far the hardest question. There are so many talented authors I've read, that have given me hours of enjoyment, but I can't name just one...I'll have to wait until the RWA conference comes back my way and stalk ALL of them!

4. How susceptible are you to chocolate?

VERY! Have to have it with me at all times...there may be an emergency where its needed!

5. Favorite book? Why?

Knight of a Trillion Stars by Dara Joy. When I picked this book up I didn't really know what I was getting into. For me reading this book is like sitting in a movie theatre. This was before there were very many paranormal reads. It just knocked my socks right off and from then on I was hooked and still hope that someday she may be able to finish the series.

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

Books, books & books...because I can hunt for food and comforts and no one said there wouldn't be a man already there, so I choose to believe that Hugh Jackman will be waiting for me!

7. What did you eat for breakfast?

Granola with yogert, nuts, banana, flax.

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

Over 300...!

9. Describe your idea of a perfect hero.

Just someone who is there when you need him...that and a great bod don't hurt.

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

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

Depends on the mood I'm in at the time!

* Where do you live?

Emporia KS

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

I don't know, each person is different is the things they look at. Me I like those that are decisive, easy to be around, and real, as in not trying to be something you're not or fake.

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

Changeling, I'd love to be able to shift into a big cat!

Research & Questions

I've been doing research today - you find out the strangest things that you might never use, but man it's interesting.

Also, I know I've missed questions people have asked in previous posts, so if you asked something and I missed it, hit me with it in the comments to this post.

Weekly Catchup

Google Reader refuses to work for me anymore so I'm hideously behind on all my blog reading - however I've managed to pick up a few cool links for you.

First up, huge congratulations to PC & Kristin Cast - Chosen just hit #2 on the NYT list!!!! Can we give a big woohoo!!!!

Also, a heads up that Friday (U.S. time) is the first anniversary of PW's Beyond Her Book blog - and Barbara Vey is throwing a mega-party, complete with all sorts of cool stuff. So don't forget to swing by.

Magic Bites author Ilona Andrews is answering questions over at the RT Forum, so go pester her, ask her any questions you have about the Kate Daniels' books!

And you guys must go read about the DABWAHA - this is going to be a tournament like no other!

Okay, that's all I got. What's your news? Catch me up people!

Interview: Patricia Briggs

I'm absolutely delighted to present an interview with the wonderful Patricia Briggs! Her #1 NYT Bestselling (woohoo!!) Mercy Thompson series is one of my absolute favorite new series - if you haven't read these books, you're missing out!!

The series order is Moon Called, Blood Bound & Iron Kissed. However, there's also a fantastic novella "Alpha and Omega" in the On The Prowl anthology. Follow the link for excerpts.

And now, onto the interview that Patricia was gracious enough to agree to despite deadlines!

1. I have a girl-crush on you and your writing. Please tell me that doesn't disturb you so I can continue to adore you from afar.

Adoration is always acceptable :) When it is mutual it is more fun *grin*

2. I know you have a book (Cry Wolf) coming out this year featuring Anna and Charles from your brilliant short story in the On the Prowl anthology - I've heard that you originally only planned to write a novella about them. Did the fact that you'd done a novella make it harder or easier to write a full-length book about them?

A lot harder. First off, I wouldn't have made Charles a Flathead (one of the Salish people) though that was the most logical tribe for his mother to have come from -- there is a lot more information out there on other Native peoples. Also, Charles is more powerful than I usually prefer my characters to be -- it makes challenging them . . . well, more er challenging. Thirdly, I would never have left them where I did. The first chapter of Cry Wolf has to begin in Chicago -- and explain a lot of what happened in "Alpha and Omega". It all contributed to the very difficult time I had writing Cry Wolf. I like the final version, my editor liked the final version (though she maintains that the version before that wasn't bad), and one of my copyeditors wrote to tell me he liked it too.

3. Do you think you'll write more novellas set in Mercy's world?

Truthfully, I am not a short story writer -- and for me the novella is a special hell for writers. All the work of a book -- and you have to keep cutting the good stuff. It took me as long to write "Alpha and Omega" as it did "Raven's Strike" -- which is my longest book to date.

I do have a short story in Tony P. Kelner and Charlaine Harris's Wolfsbane and Mistletoe which should be out around Christmas next year. It's about David Christiansen, Adam's mercenary buddy from Moon Called.

I'll also have a short story in Strange Brew edited by P N Elrod about witches. I assume it will be out sometime in 2009. That brings my total short fiction ever written up to six. Five are published -- and one will never, ever see the light of day as it was not only horribly derivative, but a shaggy dog story as well.

4. What do you most love about the world you've created in the Mercy Thompson series?

I love to play in the "real" world. To take things I see in politics, in society and say, "what if". I derive a terrific pleasure from using real places -- "Ah hah," I mutter "that's somewhere I don't have to make up from scratch!"

5. Do you think there really are things that go bump in the night?

Absolutely. I'm not sure about werewolves -- though one of my husband's coworkers claimed that not too long before Mike (my husband) started working there, some guy broke into the building (six story brick 1920's gorgeous building) setting off the alarms. When the police got there he was crouched on the ledge outside the second story windows. They brought him in and he claimed he was running away from werewolves. I'm also not sure about vampires (other than the humans who have convinced themselves) But ghosts and ghoulies? Absolutely. In fact I have six, six foot tall, thousand pound hairy beasts that guard my home . . . all right, they're horses -- but Speck chases off any coyotes, deer or antelopes who trespass.

6. Can you tune up a VW?

Nope. But I've worked as the tool handler for my husband as he worked his arcane craft. We've had three Jettas, two Vanagons, a Eurovan, and a Passat -- as well as a pair of Opel GT's (imported by Buick, built in Germany by Opel). Most of the mechanic stuff are things that have happened to us -- or friends.

7. A couple of writerly questions because I'm nosy: How do you write - do you plot out the books or do you just run with it?

I just run with it. Though I've had to be a little more disciplined as my timelines for getting books finished has diminished. It's awfully easy to write yourself into a corner and have to delete 100 pages when you don't have an outline.

8. How do you keep track of your world? Do you have a series bible?

I have lovely people who do all the work for me. I was just sitting down (after Iron Kissed) to pull apart the three books and write everything down -- when my forum people got together and posted it to the web. So if you're curious, you can go to Hurog.com and head to the Forums and look for the Mercy's World Topic. They have saved me thousands (okay, hundreds) of hours of work. Bless 'em.

9. Were you suprised at the wonderful reader reaction to the Mercy Thompson series?

Absolutely. We (my editor and I) knew it would sell better than the straight fantasy -- because Urban Fantasy was just selling better in general. When Moon Called sold out the first week and then made it to the USA Today list, we were over the moon. (pun intended) When Blood Bound hit the New York Times we were flabergasted. When Iron Kissed made it to #1 mass market . . . well, I'm not sure I really believe it yet. I keep waiting for someone to say, "Wait, we made a mistake!" but so far so good.

10. I don't think it's spoilerish to say that Mercy chooses between Adam & Samuel in Iron Kissed. Did you always know which one she'd choose?

N: I'm whiting out the answer for those of you who haven't read Iron Kissed and want to be kept in suspense! To read the answer, just select the text either with your mouse, or using SHIFT and the arrow keys.

No. Not until I started wondering why they hadn't killed each other in Blood Bound -- and why Samuel wasn't being pushy. I knew it had to be Samuel who was running the show -- as the most dominant he determines how he and Adam interact. And the only reason I could come up with was that he wasn't really, really in love with Mercy that way anymore. Mercy loves Samuel -- but not that way -- though if Adam hadn't been around . . . Anyway, I knew when I started Iron Kissed, but I didn't expect it to resolve when it did.

11. Can you give us a hint of what you have coming up for Mercy? Tell me you have plans to write lots and lots and lots more books! :-)

The next Mercy book will be Bone Crossed. We're back to dealing with the vampires -- and for those readers who have been complaining about Stefan's absence, he's a major player in this one. After Bone Crossed, I'm under contract for three more Mercy books. We'll see where it goes from there.

12. If you met a werewolf on a lonely night, what would you do?

I have no idea. My stupid reaction to sheer terror is rage. I have no idea why. So doubtless I'd do something really dumb and get myself eaten.

13. And a fun question to end on: What's your vice of choice? Chocolate? Cute men? Wine?

Well, my husband, in addition to being smart and funny, is very cute -- but probably not a vice since he makes me happy and doesn't cost me anything (marriage is a wonderful institution). Horses would probably have to be my vice of choice, since they are demanding, expensive and, like most people bitten with the bug (Mike calls us Pod People) I tend to get obsessive about them.

A huge thanks to Patricia Briggs for the interview!!

Reader Interview: Jen B.

It's Tuesday and time for a reader interview! Today's interviewee is Jen B., a true romantic :-)

1. Tell us a bit about yourself.

I'm 29, 30 in February (OMG). A complete and total romantic, I am emotional and my one dream has always been to find true love (cheesy I know). I have a seven year old daughter who is far too clever for her own good. I am American but I live in the UK and have done for eight years now. I love reading, of course, and cannot wait to meet some of my favourite authors. I currently work as a secretary for the director of education at the local authority.

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

No No No!! Never give books away...the idea is just absolutely shocking to me! I loaned books to a friend once and stressed until I got them back and then went mad because she'd bent a spine :)

3. What author might tempt you into turning stalker?

How much time have you got??

4. How susceptible are you to chocolate?

Umm...hello...need to breath....need to eat chocolate...life's sustenance

5. Favorite book? Why?

I'm not sure how to answer this...different genres, different likes. I really loved Night Play by Sherrilyn Kenyon when I first read it and have probably read it far too many times but I would say my ultimate favourite book was Pride and Prejudice and while I adore the Colin Firth adaptation I loved the book before then.

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

My IPod, preferably with a solar battery of some sort so it never stops running
A laptop with undying internet connection and battery so that I can at least download books since the post guy won't be coming to visit
A picture of my daughter to help keep me sane

7. What did you eat for breakfast?

Two slices of toast with butter

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

15 (bought) too many to count on pre-order on amazon

9. Describe your idea of a perfect hero.

I want an alpha male..surprise surprise, who is attractive (to me anyway), protective, honourable, generous, loving but not overly soppy, understanding, funny, likeable, good and adventurous in bed (and out lol), tall - I think that's it...you get the idea anyway :)

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

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

Generally the heroine that thinks she'll never get what her heart desires most...just waiting for my happy ending now :)

* Where do you live?

Cleethorpes, UK

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

I'd have to be a changeling. I could never pass as Psy - far too emotional :)

Monday

I hope you all had/are having a lovely weekend. It's Monday morning here, and I'm planning to dive back into Angels' Blood today.

To kick off the week with a smile, here's a link to a comic strip that hit my funnybone. Oooh, another one. This site is addictive. Don't say I didn't warn you ;-)

Cover!!

I'm stickying this so we can continue to enjoy the gorgeousness!! Scroll down for newer posts.

I love, love, LOVE this cover!! I also think I'm having a hot flush. (Fans self.)

Chosen - PC & Kristin Cast

A heads-up that Chosen has just been released! This is the third book in PC & Kristin Cast's fabulous House of Night Series. (Click on the tags at the bottom of this post to see my posts on the earlier books).

Here's a link to PC Cast's homepage, which has links to blurbs for Marked & Betrayed, the first two books in the series - you definitely have to read this series in order, as the story carries on from book to book. Zoey gets into a lot of trouble in book 3, and there are some major developments in her life (and at the House of Night). I can't wait to see where the Casts take their heroine in book 4!

Any of you reading this series? What about other YA (Young Adult) books? Any recommendations?

Reader Interview: Ashley

It's reader interview time - today's interviewee is fellow chocoloate connoisseur, Ashley!

1. Tell us a bit about yourself.

I am 23 years old female college student on the verge of graduating (finally!) with majors in History and Japanese. I'm passionate about reading, shopping, and celebrity gossip!

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

I hoard... but not so much that I'm a fire hazard. I tend to loan a good portion of my books out to my friends though...

3. What author might tempt you into turning stalker?

Stephanie Meyer... true love, high school angst, vampires and werewolves, is there nothing better?!

4. How susceptible are you to chocolate?

Very... especially around exam time. Speaking of which I really should be studying for tomorrow's Japanese final exam...*I type while drinking hot chocolate*

5. Favorite book? Why?

Daughter of the Forest by Juliet Marillier. Why? Because it made me cry and books/ movies never make me cry. Her writing truly sucks in the reader so much that you feel the pain and trials of the main character. It was a really wonderful book!

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

A cookbook (for cooking fish of course), my laptop (I'm not too sure where I'd get the electricity to keep it running), and my Nintendo DS Lite (A girl's gotta have some fun!)

7. What did you eat for breakfast?

Instant breakfast, the chocolate flavored variety.

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

Zero, I prefer lack of sleep to an unread book!

9. Describe your idea of a perfect hero.

Funny, kind, and confident.

p.s. Think I should add any other questions?

Seen any good movies lately? (I have! Everyone should go see Enchanted!! So wonderful and cute!)

[Nalini: Totally agree! Enchanted was really sweet.]

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

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

Possibly Sasha Duncan, I'm a very nurturing person but I am also very reserved in my mannerisms.

* Where do you live?

Georgia!

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

I'd be a Psy hoping there is a special Changeling out there just for me! ^_^

AAR Reader Poll!!

Best Paranormal - Caressed By Ice
Best Short Story - Beat of Temptation

A big giant thank you to every one of my readers!! You all rock :-)

Follow the link to see the full list.

Linking Goodness

I've just cleared the inbox, so if you asked for a chat transcript, you should have received it. :-)

I've got some links for you today - enjoy!

Chris Howard talks about How Do Mermaids Hear? at Fangs, Fur & Fey

The Book Smugglers has an interview with Julie Garwood (link via KristieJ)

Dear Author is having an Author Promo Open Thread

Tess Gerritsen is discussing dream jobs

And Holly over at Book Binge wants you to write a Haiku on the theme of heroes! Off I go to see if anyone's taken up the challenge :-)

Saturday!!

It's a rainy, windy Saturday here today - perfect weather for staying in. Last night was lovely though, and we had a great dinner in a restaurant out by the beach. There was much cackling and hilarity, and I'm sure all the muscles we used laughing cancelled out the calories from the scrumptious deserts.

And check out the bag on the left - isn't it adorable? The parties to blame are - Nicky, Peta, Barbara, Yvonne & Taryn - the bag is in honor of all the exclamation marks I used in Feb (and continue to use!!). ;-) Is it any wonder I love my friends?

Getting back to work stuff - since the chat transcript link seems determined to play hard to get, if you want the file, just email me at nalinisinghwrites @ gmail.com (without the spaces), and I'll fwd it to you. It'll come as an attachment that opens in Excel.

Have a great weekend everyone!!