This is just a quick reminder: I'll be here tomorrow with a new RH! Tomorrow is the first of the month, (where did the summer go?) and as promised, I'll be back chatting with another Romance Husband of one of your favorite romance authors! Check back to see who my guest is. He and I actually met in person and hung out at a pool at one of the RWA conferences a few years ago.
There comes a time in a romance reader’s life when something amazing happens. Something awesome. Something really, really cool that makes you emit a high-pitched shrieking sound which then causes everyone around you to gape and stare. That shriek often sounds something like SQUEEEEEEEEE.
Dear friends and fellow romance readers, you might have a SQUEE moment ahead in your future.
Five huge romance fans, who just happen to be romance authors as well, have decided that we want to give you the opportunity to receive complete, SIGNED backlists of one of your very favorite authors (and yes, that means EVERYTHING they've ever written).
The romance fans/authors who are participating are: Ashley March, Shana Galen, Lila DiPasqua, Vanessa Kelly, and Heather Snow.
The complete, SIGNED backlists they’re giving away are books from the following authors (henceforth known as “The Amazing Authors”):
Before we can give these awesome prizes away, though, we need you to show how fanatical of fans you are. Since we know that you’re already following The Amazing Authors on Facebook (you are, aren’t you??), all you need to do is follow the authors who want to give away these complete, signed backlists to you. We all have to reach a certain number of followers; once that happens, then we will run a Facebook giveaway on our individual pages where you can enter to win the complete, signed backlists from the Amazing Authors.
(Please note, you must follow and enter on each of the five Facebook pages to be eligible to win each backlist. The giveaway won’t happen until AFTER the goals are met for ALL of us, and the giveaways will be open to US and international residents! All books will be in English as print books; if any books in the Amazing Authors' backlists are currently our of print, used books will be purchased for those titles so that the backlist will be complete.)
Ashley March(must reach 2500 total “Likes” in order to give away Lisa Kleypas backlist)
Shana Galen(must reach 2000 total “Likes” in order to give away Julia Quinn backlist)
Lila DiPasqua(must reach 3500 total “Likes” in order to give away Elizabeth Hoyt backlist)
Vanessa Kelly(must reach 2000 total “Likes” in order to give away Cynthia Eden backlist)
Heather Snow(must reach 2500 total “Likes” in order to give away Julie Garwood backlist)
Those are the rules! Tell your friends, tell your family, tell any fellow romance fan you know. Soon, 5 lucky winners will win a complete, signed backlist from a favorite author that will make you SQUEEEEE!
I'm excited to announce our winners! If you didn't win my giveaway (copy of A MIDNIGHT DANCE), my DW has informed me that you have ONE MORE chance to win a book from the Fiery Tales series!
Tomorrow, (Monday Aug. 23rd) Lila will be interviewed on Lovin' Me Some Romance. And I believe she's found one more glass slipper to offer up, too!
So make sure to visit her tomorrow! After that, she'll be going deep into her writing cave. :)
Mr. Grant's WINNER:
UNTAMED HIGHLANDER
Ann/Alba
Mr. Allen's WINNER:
a signed copy of both PRACTICAL WIDOW TO PASSIONATE MISTRESS and RAVISHED BY THE RAKE
Robin D
Mr. Jordan's WINNER: WICKED IN YOUR ARMS, NIGHT FALLS ON THE WICKED,
and VANISH
Amy (angeldream)
Mr. Hoyt's WINNER:
a copy of To Beguile a Beauty
LilMissMolly
Mr. DiPasqua's 3 WINNERS:
a copy of A MIDNIGHT DANCE
Na
Jennifer Mathis
lostinagreatbook
GRAND PRIZE WINNER:
the 9 SIGNED BOOKS LISTED AT THE BOTTOM OF THE BLOG and A GLASS SLIPPER!
Carol L.
All winners please email my DW HERE and provide your mailing info.
NOTE: There are still some people who've won a copy of A MIDNIGHT DANCE over on THE SEASON BLOG who haven't sent in their mailing info in yet.
Mr. DiPasqua: Pardon me while I eat icing off my wife's nose. Aww, isn't she beautiful? And she didn't drop the plates!
Folks, the day has finally arrived!! I promised you my interview and a surprise.
I lied.
Now, before you start throwing things at me, I want to clarify. I have 4 surprises!!
It's time for my interview! I am so excited! Surprise #1: My DW is going to be asking the questions I've asked every RH at the A MIDNIGHT DANCE Blog Party. Plus, we added the questions from Glass Slipper winners ORA and Debbie Laurie! As for the other surprises, we'll get to those very shortly...[Mr. DiPasqua sits down comfortably in a chair and smiles at his wife.] "Hi there, beautiful."
Lila: Hi there, Mr. D. Before we start, I want to thank my handsome hubby for the amazing job he did during this month. He spent countless hours on this blog party.Wrote the most touching post on the release date of A MIDNIGHT DANCE. And hosted a blog party that's never been done before. I just want to say to my supportive, wonderful husband, "Honey, I love you! Thank you!" [Oh, and I'll smooch you later, when we don't have an audience. ;) ] Dearest Readers, this very unique blog party was all his idea, and it's been wildly popular!! I've enjoyed reading every interview. These RHs had me LOL each day. Now, without further ado, let's get to those fabulous questions Mr. D wrote!
Now, Mr. DiPasqua, can you tell us who you’re married to and what she writes?
Mr. DiPasqua: Gladly, I am married to Lila DiPasqua, historical romance author of the wicked and witty books.
Lila: Your wife’s fans would like to know the RH (Romance Husband) behind the author better. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Scholar? Athlete? Businessman? Artist?
Mr. DiPasqua: I'm an executive at a large corporation, have an MBA and am an engineer by training, a former kids hockey coach, can improvise in the kitchen, been known to swing a hammer for some home reno projects, and thanks to Lila, have grown to love both art and cheese.
Lila: LOL You certainly have. Where did you and your wife meet? What convinced you that she was THE ONE?
Mr. DiPasqua: We were at a club with mutual friends when we were introduced. Lila was in front of me in line for awhile as we waited to get in, and she wasn't turning around to meet me. I think she didn’t like being set up by her girlfriend who'd tricked her into showing up. She wanted no part of a blind date. So, there I was in line behind this gorgeous girl…totally admiring her. Lila: You mean, checking me out, right? Mr. DiPasqua: Of course. Let's just say JLo and Kim Kardashian had nothing on Lila.
Lila: *blushes* Good Lord. I can't believe you just said that.
Mr. DiPasqua: LOL Now where was I? Oh, yeah, when Lila finally made eye contact…that was it for me… Big brown eyes stared back at me. It was love at first sight (not so much for her, though). But I was determined she was going to be mine. Later that evening, I even drop down on my knees and sang to her…"Baby, baby, I get down on my knees for youuuu..." Yeah. I know what you're thinking, folks. Why on earth did you sing "You've Lost That Loving Feeling" by the Righteous Brothers to a girl you're trying to impress? Not the most romantic song. Plus, I can't sing. Perhaps not my smoothest moment. But, hey, I must have done something right that night, because she didn't run away screaming. :)
I even managed to score an invitation to her birthday party which was coming up. I showed up alone, and she attended with a date, so that night I worshipped her from afar.Lila: *eye-roll* We've been having this ongoing argument for years. He wasn't a date. Honestly. He was just a friend. I showed up with a group of friends. It was a birthday party, remember? Oh, and I thought you looked so cute when you were on your knees singing to me. :)Mr. DiPasqua: A week later we met at a different party and I talked to her for hours…I think I was winning her over at last. I kept thinking, “God, I hope I am”.
Lila: Where were you when she got THE CALL from her agent/editor? What was your reaction when she told you she’d sold her first book?
Mr. DiPasqua I was at work when I got an email asking to call home. One of the kids answered the phone and told me, “Mom is screaming in her office.” I knew before she even got on the phone that she had made it. I was so happy for her. Years of hard work had paid off. I was so proud of her!
Lila: That's one of the reasons I love you. You automatically assumed it was good news and not that I'd lost my marbles. :) Mr. DiPasqua, is the hero in your wife’s last book:
a) Just like you;
b) The opposite of you;
c) You wish it were you;
d) More like Mr. May in the NYC Firefighter calendar.
Mr. DiPasqua I would have to go with a) from the perspective of being very focused and single-minded but easily distracted by the heroine. Jules, from A MIDNIGHT DANCE, and I are alike that way. :)
Lila: On your first date with your wife, were you most like:
a) Prince Charming;
b) Prince (bad boy) Harry;
c) The Artist formally known as Prince;
d) Prince, the family pet.
Mr. DiPasqua: Well, as I've mentioned, leading up to our official first date, I sang to her which would make me (c) (though I don't sing like Prince, the artist. Probably more like Prince the dog.); I worshipped her from afar and engaged her in deep conversation (that would make me (a) Prince Charming). But on our actual first date, I changed up my game—I played hard to get and then I surprised her with a “good night kiss” at the beginning of the date. (Why wait until the end of the night for the good stuff, right?) That I guess would make me (b). After that I was just cute and cuddly (d).
Lila: LOL Nowadays when you hear the word “ball” do you immediately think:
a. Baseball
b. Basketball
c. An uncontrollable weeping reaction of fans upon meeting your wife in person?
d. A gathering of lords and ladies.
Mr. DiPasqua I’ve been an RH too long to answer anything other that (d)…After all, this blog is celebrating A MIDNIGHT DANCE! Although I did like Mr. Archer’s answer.
Lila: How long have you been a RH? (Romance Husband). What advice would you give new RH’s about what you’ve learned being married to a romance author? What should a new RH do or not do when his wife is under deadline?
Mr. DiPasqua: Lila has been under contract since 2009. I wrote a blog last year that offered a fair amount of advice. I think I'll have to expand it based on some of the great responses the RHs provided this month.
If there is one thing I would suggest, it’s try to understand your DW’s writing process. Lila is a night person, so doing things that makes this time as productive as possible is always appreciated.
When under any sort of deadline, take the kids skiing or on a road trip for a few days…Just make sure that there are some frozen dinners in the freeze or she just might forget to eat.
Lila: Okay, you know I have to go there . . . What’s your response when asked, “So where does your wife get the inspiration for her love scenes?” (Usually by a guy smirking.)
Mr. DiPasqua: I can't believe how often we RHs get asked this question! I usually just smile and say “me”.
Lila: Which character in your wife’s books would she say most resembles you and/or your personality?
Mr. DiPasqua: I’d say Adam in THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED. He's in the story, The Marquis' New Clothes. And he's an engineer---in historical times. ;)
Lila: Tell me something about your wife her fans would be surprised to learn.
Mr. DiPasqua: Lila is a huge hockey fan.
Lila: Ah, honey, we're Canadian. That's our national sport. I don't think that's a shocker. How about, "Lila went to the same high school as NHL hockey superstar, Wayne Gretsky and singer, Shania Twain (though not at the same time.)". :)
Now for the wonderful questions from our 2 Glass Slipper winners!
Debbie Laurie asked: Mr. D. Tell us the TEN most favorite things you LOVE about Mrs. D. Now tell us one thing about her that makes you smile every time you look at her.. What made you fall in love with her??? Now give her a Hug& Kiss.
Mr. DiPasqua Why I love Lila: kind heart; devoted mother; sweet; laughs despite my terrible sense of humor (she has a great one); I love talking to her about absolutely nothing; she taught me to love and appreciate art, history (…and cheese---yes, I know I keep mentioning this, but I absolutely hated cheese before I met her); incredible sense of right and wrong – justice; believes in happily ever after; she is beautiful; and she is humble and down to earth (and can’t take a compliment).
She makes me smile every time she looks at me and her eyes sparkle…I don’t know how to explain it…like I said earlier love at first sight.
As for Hugs and Kisses, she is always getting them from me. My kids' friends think we’re cute when I hug Lila…my kids – not so much!
Ora asked: I can imagine that sometimes having to deal with deadlines are just as hard on the family as it is with writers. Do you ever feel like that some of your goals or projects have need to be delayed or adjusted in order to help Lila meet her deadlines? And do you find it hard to have time to yourselves with all the demands of work and family?
Mr. DiPasqua I can honestly say that watching someone you love pursuing something that's a passion is truly wonderful. Nothing gives me as much satisfaction as helping Lila out in any way I can. As a father, I'm pleased to see my children pursuing their passions. Knowing that I'm in a position to enable those dreams is a true blessing, and knowing that Lila is a role model that inspires them to chase after their dreams, makes me all the more proud of her.
Lila: Yes, dearest readers. He is the reason I write romance. He's my hero. Thanks so much for participating in the A MIDNIGHT DANCE Blog Party, Mr. D. You’ve been an incredible host and guest! One final question: What would you like us to know about your wife’s latest release?
Mr. DiPasqua: I've said it before and I'll say it again: I read A MIDNIGHT DANCE from cover to cover. It's fantastic! I hope you read it, love it as much as I do, and tell all your friends and neighbors how much you enjoyed it.
Inspired by the tale of Cinderella, Lila DiPasqua weaves a steamy historical romance that offers a glass slipper, a dangerous deception, and an impoverished beauty determined to find her handsome prince…and make him pay.
Mr. DiPasqua: Which leads me to our second surprise!
Today, for the first time ever, we're unveiling the breathtaking book trailer for A MIDNIGHT DANCE!!!
Folks, you're going to be the first to see it!! BOOK CANDY STUDIOS did an incredible job on this. Do check out the amazing work they do!
Lila: Dearest Readers, the images, and music are just so beautiful. We hope you enjoy the book trailer!
Surprise number # 3 GIVEAWAY: I'm giving away THREE copies of A MIDNIGHT DANCE TODAY to three random commenters who can quote one of the review quotes found in the A MIDNIGHT DANCE book trailer. HINT: there are three of them to choose from (one from Fresh Fiction, The Romance Dish and NYT bestselling author, Elizabeth Hoyt.) You only have to give me one in your comment. :)
Giveaway open WORLDWIDE.
RULES:
To win you must:
1. Give us a quote from the A MIDNIGHT DANCE book trailer :) Remember: the more you comment, the greater your chances at winning the GRAND PRIZE.
2. You MUST be a follower/subscriber of Lila DiPasqua's blog (through Google Friend Connect).
3. Must be at least 18 years of age.
4. Winner will be selected at random on SUNDAY.
Ways to increase your odds at winning are found at the very bottom of this blog.
Mr. DiPasqua: THE FORTH AND FINAL SURPRISE: Since we got so many comments asking for more RH interviews, I'm going to be back the first of every month with a different RH to interview! See you all on Sept. 1st! But before that, be back Sunday for this week's winners----and the winner of the GRAND PRIZE!! Okay, folks, let's hear your responses!
Mr. DiPasqua: Our month-long ball is winding down. I hope you've learned a lot from the many RHs we've had here. As you've seen, they truly love and support your favorite romance authors. We're the guys who see firsthand the passion and hard work our wives put into each book they write for you, their fans. :)
I can't wait until tomorrow!!! It's my turn to put on the dancing shoes! I have my answers all ready, as well as my surprise! I only hope that I can do as great a job as all my guests so far. Oh and get ready to see my wedding photos!
I hope you've enjoyed the A MIDNIGHT DANCE Blog Party. A blog party in celebration of a book release, hosted by an RH with all RHs as guests has never been done before. Remember, you saw it here first! I'm glad to have brought you something unique. And unique is a wonderful way to describe my DW's books. There's never been a historical romance like A MIDNIGHT DANCE. If all the great reviews haven't convinced you to try this book out, I hope the desire for something fresh and different will motivate you to check it out.
Folks, we're down to our final RH! And he's a VERY special guy! His DW happens to be one of Lila's favorite authors, and in fact, her fabulous quote graces the cover of A MIDNIGHT DANCE. "Lushly erotic . . . and deeply romantic." Lila is giving away this New York Times bestselling author's ENTIRE BACKLIST (every book signed!) once Lila reaches 3500 likes on her FACEBOOK FAN PAGE!
Please help me give a warm welcome to Mr. Hoyt! Great to have you here! Kindly tell everyone who you’re married to and what she writes.
Mr. Hoyt: I’m married to Elizabeth Hoyt, who writes historical romance.
Mr. DiPasqua: Your wife’s fans would like to know the RH (Romance Husband) behind the author better. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Scholar? Athlete? Businessman? Artist?
Mr. Hoyt: I’m a trophy husband! No, honestly I’m an archaeologist, working as a consultant on projects that require archaeological review. So that makes me…both a scholar AND a businessman.
Elizabeth Hoyt: Oh, dear God. This is why I explain what Mr. Hoyt does for him at dinner parties. Mr. Hoyt is a private archaeologist specializing in the Midwest. Businesses and towns—and sometimes the state and federal government—hire him to do basically an archaeological impact survey when they build things. For instance, if you’re planning to build a wind farm, Mr. Hoyt will do a survey to make sure you aren’t disturbing a thousand year old Native American cemetery.
Mr. DiPasqua: While the archeaologist gig sounds fascinating; I'd like to know what I have to do to become Lila's trophy husband. ;) Where did you and your wife meet? What convinced you that she was “the one”?
Mr. Hoyt: We met in a cornfield in southwest Wisconsin. We were on an archaeological dig—I was the wise, but rugged Teaching Assistant, she was the serious, but nubile young undergrad.
I have to say I never saw it coming—it just happened. EH: This makes me sound like a tornado—and not in a good way! ;-)
Mr. DiPasqua: LOL That does sound like an interesting story! Where were you when she got THE CALL from her agent/editor? What was your reaction when she told you she’d sold her first book?
Mr. Hoyt: I was at home and Elizabeth was visiting her folks. I got an excited, very confused call. My first reaction was: Hurray! My second to ask how much her book had sold for. My third was to be surprised at how little it was after all her hard work.
Mr. DiPasqua: LOL...I guess this is when you figured out that the trophy husband gig would have to wait a little while! Is the hero in your wife’s last book:
a) Just like you;
b) The opposite of you;
c) You wish it were you;
d) More like Mr. May in the NYC Firefighter calendar.
Mr. Hoyt: d.
EH: *eyeroll* Mr. Hoyt just asked which book I last published: “Was it that Mickey the pirate guy or the goofball younger brother? (Griffin in Notorious Pleasures)” THIS is why Mr. Hoyt does NOT write my back copy!
Mr. DiPasqua: On your first date with your wife, were you most like:
a) Prince Charming;
b) Prince (bad boy) Harry;
c) The Artist formally known as Prince;
d) Prince, the family pet.
Mr. Hoyt: I was Prince Charming until I suggested that we go Dutch—when the bill came. Up until that point I had made all the right moves—suggesting a Thai restaurant Elizabeth had wanted to try and presenting her with yellow tulips (which turned out to be her favorite flower!) However, let me point out that the woman later married me, so she obviously got over the splitting-the-bill gaff.
Mr. DiPasqua: Nowadays when you hear the word “ball” do you immediately think:
a) Baseball
b) Basketball
c) An uncontrollable weeping reaction of fans upon meeting your wife in person?
d) A gathering of lords and ladies.
Mr. Hoyt: d. And I state with modest pride that I can—and have—spelled “soiree” correctly when asked by Elizabeth.
Mr. DiPasqua: Spell checker...I have to add that to the list of things an RH can do to be supportive...How long have you been a RH? (Romance Husband). What advice would you give new RH’s about what you’ve learned being married to a romance author? What should a new RH do or not do when his wife is under deadline?
Mr. Hoyt: I have been a RH since Elizabeth’s first book came out in 2006, so six years. We’ve been married 23 years. A smart RH brings his wife chocolates when she’s under deadline and learns how to cook dinner.
Mr. Hoyt’s Fabulous Vegetarian Chili
2 cans black beans
1 can chili beans
2 cans chopped tomatoes
lots and lots of garlic
1 large chopped onion
½ jar salsa (hot or sweet for different chili results.)
salt & pepper
chili powder (amount to taste)
Simmer everything for 3-4 hours. Serve over cooked pasta with sour cream (or yogurt), green onions, and grated cheese.
Mr. DiPasqua: That's a great recipe. Mr. Hoyt, you're on to something here... I think the first duty of the new RH support group is to create a recipe book, so that we can all save our families from..."Scrambled eggs and hot dogs again?? That's 3 times this week!!"
Okay, you know I have to go there . . . What’s your response when asked, “So where does your wife get the inspiration for her love scenes?” (Usually by a guy smirking.)
Mr. Hoyt: “Why, from me of course!”
Mr. DiPasqua: LOL Which character in your wife’s books would she say most resembles you and/or your personality?
EH: tempted here to go with the “goofball younger brother” but Mr. Hoyt handed me the answer on a silver platter by observing that he WASN’T like that “goofball scarred naturalist.” That would be Alistair Munroe from To Beguile a Beauty, and in many, many ways Mr. Hoyt is indeed like him—but with two working eyes.
Mr. DiPasqua: Thanks so much for participating in the A MIDNIGHT DANCE Blog Party! It's been a real pleasure having you both here! One last question, Mr. Hoyt: What would you like us to know about your wife’s latest or upcoming release?
Mr. Hoyt: Elizabeth’s next book is Scandalous Desires (“that Mickey the pirate guy”) on sale October 18, 2011.
Can a pirate learn . . .
River Pirate ‘Charming’ Mickey O’Connor has lifted himself from the depths of the slums to be the King of St. Giles. Anything he wants he gets—with one exception. Silence Hollingbrook has been haunting his dreams ever since she spent a single night in his bed.
That the only true treasure . . .
Once Silence was willing to sacrifice anything to save the man she loved. Now a widow, she’s finally found peace when Charming Mickey comes storming back into her life with an offer she can’t refuse. But this time she won’t be the only one paying the price for his sins.
Lies in a woman's heart?
When his past comes back to torment him, Mickey must keep Silence safe from a merciless enemy, while wrestling with the delicious hold this widow has on his heart. And in the face of mounting danger, both will have to surrender to something even more terrifying . . . true love.
GIVEAWAY: I’m giving away Elizabeth’s To Beguile a Beauty and my question is for the guys: What’s your favorite recipe when it’s your turn to cook? (Oh, okay. For the ladies: What’s the best thing your guy cooks?) GIVEAWAY OPEN WORLDWIDE.
RULES:
To win you must:
1. Asnswer Mr. Hoyt's question, ask a question of your own, or leave a comment below---We're men. We can take it. :) Remember: the more you comment, the greater your chances at winning the GRAND PRIZE.
2. You MUST be a follower/subscriber of Lila DiPasqua's blog (through Google Friend Connect).
3. Must be at least 18 years of age.
4. Winner will be selected at random on SUNDAY.
Ways to increase your odds at winning are found at the very bottom of this blog.
Mr. DiPasqua: This has been a lot of fun! Many thanks, Mr. and Mrs. Hoyt . . . and to all of you who have been here each day! DON'T MISS TOMORROW'S POST! ;) Folks, let's hear your responses!
Mr. DiPasqua: Folks, we have two final interviews before we get to mine on Friday!! And these men are the Romance Husbands of New York Times bestselling authors!---One of these RHs is here today. You'll have to show up tomorrow to see who the final one is. :)
But before we welcome out guest, you'veGOT TO READ THIS REVIEWof A MIDNIGHT DANCE! "Sabine and Jules turn A Midnight Dance into a scintillating erotic feast! These two are irresistible. They make the pages fly by and leave you wanting more of Lila DiPasqua’s dazzlingly beautiful writing!Ms. DiPasqua’s take on Cinderella is a gorgeous sizzling tale! I finished and wanted to start it over immediately. I cannot wait for the next installment in this outstanding series!"--Joyfully Reviewed.
Yeah, I'm having a proud RH moment. :)
Okay, to our wonderful guest: Please help me welcome Mr. Jordan/Kohler to the A MIDNIGHT DANCE Blog Party! Can you tell us who you’re married to and what she writes?
Mr. Jordan/Kohler: Wow, great question. I guess it depends on which book is coming out next. I am married to the very lovely and talented Sophie Jordan -- or Sharie Kohler depending on your taste in genres. She writes historicals and young adult fiction for HarperCollins as Sophie Jordan, and paranormals for Pocket as Sharie Kohler.
Mr. DiPasqua: Your wife’s fans would like to know the RH (Romance Husband) behind the author better. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Scholar? Athlete? Businessman? Artist?
Mr. Jordan/Kohler: Huh, let’s see. I love the outdoors and anything that has to do with the outdoors: hunting, fishing, etc. I love sports. I grew up playing the usual. Football, baseball, basketball. When I’m not busy being a RH, or acting as a taxi cab for our 2 children, I work full-time as a productivity leader for Ingersoll Rand. I am fortunate enough to work from home, so I get to spend a lot of time with my lovely wife and children.
Mr. DiPasqua: Taxi driver is probably a full time job on its own :) Where did you and your wife meet? What convinced you that she was "the one"?
Mr. Jordan/Kohler: This answer may get me in trouble, but we will go with it.
The first time I met Sophie was at a party in college that a friend of mine was having. It was during the summer and Sophie knew the girl I was on a date with. She used knowing this girl to get an introduction to me – or so she tells me now. Once the semester started, and I ran into Sophie a few more times, I got up the courage to ask for her phone number one night at the Dixie Chicken, the greatest bar in College Station. Since she already had her eye on me, you can guess that she said yes. ;)
I knew Sophie was the one after our first couple of dates. She always thinks of others and had a strong sense of family, which is important to me. Of course it also helped that she was smoking hot and could cook – boy, can she cook! Ironically I lived with Mr. Shana Galen at the time and one day at through the grocery store, I guess I was talking about Sophie a little too much, and he asked me: “So when are you going to marry this girl?” Right there, I knew I wanted to do just that.
Mr. DiPasqua: That's a great story! Where were you when she got THE CALL from her agent/editor? What was your reaction when she told you she’d sold her first book?
Mr. Jordan/Kohler: I was at work when we got the call for representation from Maura Kye-Casella. Funny story, when our daughter was born we decided that Sophie would stay at home and take care of her - I mean let’s face it, after paying for day care with a teacher’s salary back in the day there wouldn’t be a lot left over at the end of the month. So this arrangement worked out for a few years while Sophie started the writing journey, eventually finaling in contests where the manuscript would be read by an agent or editor. One Sunday night Sophie and I sat down and had a talk about her needing to go back to work (remember back in the day when teacher’s jobs were plentiful?). We agreed that she would call her old principal on Monday and see what they had available for the school year. So early Monday, before she put in that call, she got a call from Maura offering representation, Finally one of those contests paid off!
We were both very excited. We knew that it didn’t mean landing a contract exactly, but it was on the right track. Needless to say that phone call to the principal NEVER happened. Once Sophie agreed to sign with Maura, she told her that Avon had a copy of a manuscript that had finaled in a contest. So Maura made a few calls and within a week Avon offered Sophie her first contract! We were both very excited and haven’t looked back since.
Mr. DiPasqua: Amazing timing!!! Is the hero in your wife’s last book:
a) Just like you;
b) The opposite of you;
c) You wish it were you;
d) More like Mr. May in the NYC Firefighter calendar.
Mr. Jordan/Kohler: I think the hero in her upcoming book, VANISH, is somewhat like me. When reading Sophie’s books I can always pick up on little sayings of mine that she utilizes in her books.
So I also consulted the wife about this, and according to her “All my heroes are just like you, honey. You’re an alpha male, and if we were a pack of dogs, you would defiantly be the leader”. I honestly don’t know if I should be offended or not by that statement…I guess it’s just good I’m not a dog…
Mr. DiPasqua: On your first date with your wife, were you most like:
a) Prince Charming;
b) Prince (bad boy) Harry;
c) The Artist formally known as Prince;
d) Prince, the family pet.
Mr. Jordan/Kohler: I am going to say A, but Sophie might not agree. I think the one thing she remembers from our date was after dinner we went to have a drink in a sports bar, and I allegedly kept paying attention to the score of the Houston Astros game. In my defense I was nervous about what to say, but was an excellent listener. I also may or may not have told a joke about being “tri-sexual” -- you know to break the ice…
Mr. DiPasqua: Nowadays when you hear the word “ball” do you immediately think:
a) Baseball
b) Basketball
c) An uncontrollable weeping reaction of fans upon meeting your wife in person?
d) A gathering of lords and ladies.
Mr. Jordan/Kohler: I immediately think baseball, probably for playing the sport from ages 5 – 18, and then slow pitch softball after college. I also think of football, basketball, soccer ... yes,
Mr. DiPasqua: How long have you been a RH? (Romance Husband). What advice would you give new RH’s about what you've learned being married to a romance author? What should a new RH do or not do when his wife is under deadline?
Mr. Jordan/Kohler: I have been an RH since 2005, with all the RH’s on the blog we could probably start an RH support group.
I guess the number thing is to be supportive, and also encourage others to be supportive. It seems that most people outside the writing community don’t really “see” this as a full time job, and trust me with 3 different publishers its more than a full time job for my wife.
Help out whenever you can, especially around deadline time. Cook, clean, take kids out of the house, anything that helps her get some solo time to write. Fortunately our oldest is in elementary school, and our youngest will be starting a 5 day a week mother’s day out in September. So after September you can find Sophie in her office at the local Starbucks. Just don’t bother her – she needs to write!
Also, become a good listener. Expect to hear that every book just turned in was the worst book she ever wrote. Sometimes she just needs someone to vent to. Of course it’s a fine line to walk between just listening and commenting. I haven’t figured it out yet myself, a work in progress (RH support group hotline???).
Educate yourself with the writing process/business and attend writing events with your wife. Chances are that if you have seen Sophie/Sharie at the last two RWA conferences, I have been with her - especially at the signings.
Mr. DiPasqua: A RH Support Group hotline--great idea ;) Okay, you know I have to go there . . . What’s your response when asked, “So where does your wife get the inspiration for her love scenes?” (Usually by a guy smirking.)
Mr. Jordan/Kohler: This seems to be the number one question I usually get asked, followed closely by how much money she makes writing. I guess my running joke has become: “When you’re reading those love scenes … just picture me”. That seems to silence most people, followed by a “ewe” from a majority of her friends…
Mr. DiPasqua: LOL...watch out if the "ewe" start changing to "ohhh" ;) Which character in your wife’s books would she say most resembles you and/or your personality?
Mr. Jordan/Kohler: Well, apparently I would lead a pack of dogs, but strangely I haven’t read any of her books about a pack of dogs yet – might be the next big idea???
Honestly I would have to say Will in FIRELIGHT and VANISH. Will is a draki hunter, and I recall getting asked lots of questions about guns, hunting, and 4 wheel drive trucks during the writing of these books. Not to disappoint, Will also uses a few of my patented quotes in these books.
Mr. DiPasqua: Tell me something about your wife her fans would be surprised to learn.
Mr. Jordan/Kohler: Growing up my wife raised rabbits. She’s also deathly afraid of roosters – yes, some unmentionable incident from years ago.
Also, my father in-law has a pecan orchard as a hobby, so she knows a lot about pecans, and allegedly knows how to operate a tractor, even though there is a rumor of a tractor vs. tree incident…
Mr. DiPasqua: I can tell there is a great rooster story there somewhere! Thanks so much for participating in the A MIDNIGHT DANCE Blog Party. One final question: What would you like us to know about your wife’s latest or upcoming release?
One of the most notoriously eligible bachelors in Europe is finally ready to marry . . .
For fiercely independent Grier Hadley, being the illegitimate daughter of one of London's most unsavory characters has only one advantage: an enormous, ill-gotten dowry.
Prince Sevastian Maksimi knows where his duty lies: he must find a well-bred young lady-one with a considerable fortune to her name-wed her promptly, and get to the business of producing an heir.
The last thing Grier needs is some unattainable prince curling her toes with his smoldering glances and wicked suggestions. As far as Sev is concerned, she lacks the breeding to become a princess. And yet one kiss from this arresting female is all it takes for him to realize that anyone else in his arms would be unthinkable . . .
Sharie Kohler returns to the shadowy world of the Moon Chasers, where a seductive witch stalked by demons finds protection in the arms of a lycan on a mission of blood vengeance. . . .
Darby lives her life below the radar, moving from town to town in the coldest climates, eluding the demons that hunt her—and never allowing herself to get close to anyone. Now, in frigid isolation, Darby waits tables in a small town and tries to forget who she is—what she is—and the danger forever nipping at her heels. Until a new danger finds her—a lycan pack whose distant howls have the locals on edge. But the call of the lycans has also drawn a handsome, menacing stranger. . . .
For years, Niklas has searched for the bloodthirsty pack that murdered his mother and infected him. Darby is overwhelmed by his raw appeal and dangerous strength. Niklas senses her need and vulnerability . . . and together they give in to the hungry attraction blazing between them—but desire this fierce brings dangers of its own. When Darby is targeted by the lycans, the stakes are higher than ever—and Niklas is not about to lose another woman he loves to their evil bloodlust.
To save the life of the boy she loves, Jacinda did the unthinkable: She betrayed the most closely-guarded secret of her kind. Now she must return to the protection of her pride knowing she might never see Will again—and worse, that because his mind has been shaded, Will's memories of that fateful night and why she had to flee are gone.
Back home, Jacinda is greeted with hostility and must work to prove her loyalty for both her sake and her family's. Among the few who will even talk to her are Cassian, the pride's heir apparent who has always wanted her, and her sister, Tamra, who has been forever changed by a twist of fate. Jacinda knows that she should forget Will and move on—that if he managed to remember and keep his promise to find her, it would only endanger them both. Yet she clings to the hope that someday they will be together again. When the chance arrives to follow her heart, will she risk everything for love?
In bestselling author Sophie Jordan's dramatic follow-up to Firelight, forbidden love burns brighter than ever.
GIVEAWAY: We will give away one copy of each of the books listed above, US only please.
RULES:
To win you must:
1. Ask a question or leave a meaningful comment below---We're men. We can take it. So fire away! :)
2. You MUST be a follower/subscriber of Lila DiPasqua's blog (through Google Friend Connect).
3. Please indicate if you live outside the US. You can still leave a comment! Your comment will *not* count toward this giveaway, but *will* count toward the Grand Prizelisted at the very bottom of this blog.
4. You must be at least 18 years of age.
5. Winner will be selected at random on SUNDAY.
Ways to increase your odds at winning are found at the very bottom of this blog.
Mr. DiPasqua: Thanks so much, Mr. Jordan. It was a lot of fun talking to you. I'll call you about the RH support group. :)
Mr. DiPasqua: Hi folks. Only 4 days left until the finale at our ball. I'm going to miss chatting with the other RHs and you lovely readers everyday. Today we have Mr. Allen at A MIDNIGHT DANCE Blog party! Mr. Allen can you tell us who you’re married to and what she writes?
Mr. Allen: I am married to Louise Allen and she writes “Scandalously witty Regency romance.” – that is her description as displayed on her website: she certainly seems to do plenty of giggling when writing. And heavy breathing . . .
Mr. DiPasqua: Sounds like she really enjoys the writing process. LOL! Your wife’s fans would like to know the RH (Romance Husband) behind the author better. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Scholar? Athlete? Businessman? Artist?
Mr. Allen: I retired early from gainful employment, and now I’m pit crew for Louise. I worked in the biological sciences at London Zoo, Cambridge University and ended my career at Cranfield University. I’ve always been involved in the hands-on practical side of things rather than the more academic. In my free time I enjoy motor sport, as a spectator or marshal. Travelling with Louise on holiday and to assist in her research (or, even better, both at once) lets me indulge another enthusiasm for food and drink. I also enjoy photography, bird watching and gardening, although Louise does all of the garden designing and I mostly dig the holes where I’m told to. Having said that, I do have a small vegetable plot for the first time in many years. So far I have harvested one tomato and one zucchini and a lot of snails.
Mr. DiPasqua: Escargots for dinner...YUMMY! Where did you and your wife meet? What convinced you that she was THE ONE?
Mr. Allen: We met early in our first term at Durham University. Before the internet, universities must have been the best dating agencies ever created. What convinced me she was THE ONE is truly impossible to say. We dated for a while and then split up for reasons I have forgotten, and I then realized that there was a huge hole in my life that Louise filled perfectly. She still does.
Mr. DiPasqua: Where were you when she got THE CALL from her agent/editor? What was your reaction when she told you she’d sold her first book?
Mr. Allen: We were at home when the letter arrived. I think my initial reactions were: a) congratulations, someone has at last recognized your talent (by this stage she had had eight scripts rejected), b) have we any champagne to celebrate properly, and finally c) how much are they paying you? (I have always wanted to be a kept man). As it turned out, for the first novel, it wasn’t much more than the bottle of champagne cost.
Mr. DiPasqua: Is the hero in your wife’s last book:
a) Just like you;
b) The opposite of you;
c) You wish it were you;
d) More like Mr. May in the NYC Firefighter calendar.
Mr. Allen: OK, confession time. I have not read any of Louise’s books. I have read the occasional page, but that’s all. This started with my not wanting to know too much about the secret workings of Louise’s sub-conscious, and finally turned into a superstition. I worry that if I do start to read them it will somehow affect what she does, and I would hate to do that. So the answer to the question is that I haven’t got the faintest idea.
Mr. DiPasqua: On your first date with your wife, were you most like:
a) Prince Charming;
b) Prince (bad boy) Harry;
c) The Artist formally known as Prince;
d) Prince, the family pet.
Mr. Allen: All I can say with any certainty is that it was at an undergraduate party, and drink had been consumed and the details are hazy! I hope that I behaved in a reasonably civilized manner. (Louise says it was a mixture of a & d).
Mr. DiPasqua: Nowadays when you hear the word “ball” do you immediately think:
a) Baseball
b) Basketball
c) An uncontrollable weeping reaction of fans upon meeting your wife in person?
d) A gathering of lords and ladies.
Mr. Allen: According to Louise, one of my best features is that I have no interest whatsoever in the vast majority of ball games. Soccer leaves me absolutely cold. I enjoy watching International rugby but don’t understand the rules – but then, it seems to me, neither does anyone else. Cricket is an endlessly fascinating game, best watched by listening to the commentary on the radio. ‘Balls’ now conjures up images of Regency Lords and Ladies being ever so elegant in Assembly Rooms the length and breadth of the country. Also, the Duchess of Richmond’s Ball on the eve of the Battle of Waterloo, the location of which I was expected to track down in the streets of modern Brussels.
Mr. DiPasqua: How long have you been a RH? (Romance Husband). What advice would you give new RH’s about what you’ve learned being married to a romance author? What should a new RH do or not do when his wife is under deadline?
Mr. Allen: Louise’s first book was published in 1986, but I suppose that I must have been a RH for a few years before that while she was trying to get accepted. Advice to the new RH – be patient. A baby takes 9 months from conception to production, novels take much longer and can be just as stressful. If she asks you to read something, do so and offer an honest critique. DO NOT say “ Oh that’s wonderful, dear” if it isn’t or you will run the risk of marital disharmony when someone else, an editor or agent, criticizes it. As for deadlines….offer as much support as the writer will accept. Keep her supplied with food, tea and biscuits, gin and tonic, chocolate - whatever she feels she needs. Take the blame when she gets on the scales once the deadline is reached. Do not expect to find that the laundry has been done and your socks miraculously paired up in the appropriate drawer. Learn where the washing machine, dishwasher, vacuum cleaner are and how to use them. Learn to cook. Or starve. I’ve just been on a course to learn how to make bread. If, when delivering tea, G&T or whatever, you find that she is playing Solitaire, or on Facebook or Twitter, do not get downhearted. This is known as ‘Thinking time.’ Mind you, if you go back an hour later to collect the empty cups, glasses, plates etc and there still no evidence of work, I think you are definitely on your own.
Mr. DiPasqua: We all need our thinking time! Okay, you know I have to go there . . . What’s your response when asked, “So where does your wife get the inspiration for her love scenes?” (Usually by a guy smirking.)
Mr. Allen: This happens so many times at workshops and talks to readers. There are two stock answers. Either ‘She uses her imagination based on her experiences,’ (plus smug smile) if you feel that you can brazen it out, or you ask in return whether they think that crime writers base their work on their personal experiences of murder most foul. That usually gives them pause to think.
Mr.DiPasqua: Good answers! Which character in your wife’s books would she say most resembles you and/or your personality?
Mr. Allen: I can’t comment – but Louise says there is a bit of me in all of the heroes. I like to think those are the dashing/romantic/very rich /handsome bits, but I wonder…
Mr.DiPasqua: Tell me something about your wife her fans would be surprised to learn.
Mr. Allen: We are both tracing our family trees. As part of our research we have discovered that in Louise’s ancestry there are two highwaymen who were hanged for their misdemeanors, and a woman who poisoned her husband on Christmas day with a cake made with rat poison. So far I haven’t seen any evidence of these character traits in Louise, but then, I do all the cooking….
Mr. DiPasqua: LOL. Thanks so much for participating in the A MIDNIGHT DANCE Blog Party. You’ve been a great sport! One last question: What would you like us to know about your wife’s latest or upcoming release?
Mr. Allen: Louise has two trilogies beginning this month. In the States there is The Transformation of the Shelley Sisters which traces the lives of three sisters from a repressive country vicarage who take their destinies into their own hands despite scandal and heartbreak. The first (August) book, Practical Widow to Passionate Mistress has been described by The Romantic Times as an “addictive read” and follows the middle sister, Meg, as she takes drastic action to return to England after being widowed in Spain during the Peninsula war. The trilogy continues with Vicar’s Daughter to Viscount’s Lady (September) and Innocent Courtesan to Adventurer’s Bride.
In the UK there is Danger and Desire which follows the fate of four of the passengers on an East India Company ship wrecked on the Isles of Scilly in 1808. The first (August) is Ravished by the Rake, the story of Lady Perdita Brooke, a lady haunted by scandal, and the dangerously tempting Lord Alistair Lyndon, a man who holds the key to her most devastating secret. Seduced by the Scoundrel (September) and Married to a Stranger (October) complete the trilogy.
Buy at Amazon.co.uk (Published in the States in 2012)
To learn more about Louise Allen visit her WEBSITE HERE.
GIVEAWAY: Louise will give away a signed copy of both PRACTICAL WIDOW TO PASSIONATE MISTRESS and RAVISHED BY THE RAKE. The giveaway is available WORLDWIDE.
RULES:
To win you must:
1. Ask a question or leave a comment below---We're men. We can take it. :) Remember: the more you comment, the greater your chances at winning the GRAND PRIZE.
2. You MUST be a follower/subscriber of Lila DiPasqua's blog (through Google Friend Connect).
3. Must be at least 18 years of age.
4. Winner will be selected at random on SUNDAY.
Ways to increase your odds at winning are found at the very bottom of this blog.
Mr. DiPasqua: It was a pleasure interviewing you, Mr. Allen. That's a great giveaway! Okay, folks, let's hear your responses! :)
Mr. DiPasqua: Welcome back to the A MIDNIGHT DANCE Blog Party. We have another great lineup this week! Another week of fantastic prizes! And only 5 days until our grand finale on Friday!!
Please help me welcome our special guest at the ball. Today we have Mr.Grant with us. Mr. Grant, can you tell us who you’re married to and what she writes?
Mr. Grant: I’m married to Donna Grant and she writes historical paranormal romance. The best books ever. :)
Mr. DiPasqua: Your wife’s fans would like to know the RH (Romance Husband) behind the author better. Can you tell us a little bit about yourself? Scholar? Athlete? Businessman? Artist?
Mr. Grant: I suppose first and foremost I would call myself a husband and father. I am a salesman and amateur (very amateur!) triathlete.
Mr. DiPasqua: Where did you and your wife meet? What convinced you that she was “the one”?
Mr. Grant: We met in a Business Communication class in college when I was just out of the Marine Corps. I knew she was the one at the end of our first date when I received the best goodnight kiss in the world!
Mr. DiPasqua: The power of a kiss!! ;) Where were you when she got THE CALL from her agent/editor? What was your reaction when she told you she’d sold her first book?
Mr. Grant: I was in my car working on the road when she called to tell me about it. My reaction was that I had to pull over, I was so excited!
Mr. DiPasqua: It's definitely a thrilling moment. Mr. Grant, can you tell us--is the hero in your wife’s last book:
a) Just like you;
b) The opposite of you;
c) You wish it were you;
d) More like Mr. May in the NYC Firefighter calendar.
Mr. Grant: He has some of my personality traits, but looks completely different than I do.
Mr. DiPasqua: On your first date with your wife, were you most like:
a) Prince Charming;
b) Prince (bad boy) Harry;
c) The Artist formally known as Prince;
d) Prince, the family pet.
Mr. Grant: I would say I was more Prince Charming than anything else. I was raised in the south, and believe me, chivalry is not dead down here!
Mr. DiPasqua: Nowadays when you hear the word “ball” do you immediately think:
a) Baseball
b) Basketball
c) An uncontrollable weeping reaction of fans upon meeting your wife in person?
d) A gathering of lords and ladies.
Mr. Grant: It actually depends on whom I am speaking with. If I’m talking to my wife, it’s obviously a gathering of lords and ladies. Anybody else, we’re probably talking football.
Mr. DiPasqua: LOL. How long have you been a RH? (Romance Husband). What advice would you give new RH’s about what you’ve learned being married to a romance author? What should a new RH do or not do when his wife is under deadline?
Mr. Grant: I’ve been a RH for about 10 years now. The best advice I could give a new RH is to expect the unexpected. One day, you come home and the publishing gods have been kind and all is well. The very next day, the universe has exploded. When your wife is under deadline, do everything you can to make her life easier, dishes, laundry, kids, etc.
Mr. DiPasqua: Ah, the roller-coaster life of a RH :) Okay, you know I have to go there . . . What’s your response when asked, “So where does your wife get the inspiration for her love scenes?” (Usually by a guy smirking.)
Mr. Grant: I’m a jokester, so I usually tell everyone that I am not her husband, I’m her research assistant! Then I tell them I am also the cover model on all her books!
Mr. DiPasqua: Which character in your wife’s books would she say most resembles you and/or your personality?
Mr. Grant: I would say that although none of them resemble my appearance, all of them have various parts of my personality.
Mr. DiPasqua: One final question, Mr. Grant: What would you like us to know about your wife’s latest or upcoming release?
Mr. Grant: Her next book is book 5 in her bestselling Dark Sword series.
The Dark Sword series captures all the power, passion, and magic of Scotland’s legendary warriors—sworn to fight for victory, in battle and in love…
HE CAN FEEL HER MAGIC
Sent on a dangerous mission into the shadowy world of the Druids, Galen must find a powerful ancient relic to defeat the enemies of MacLeod Castle. But what he discovers is far more powerful—and far more dangerous. A Druid lass whose beauty is as spellbinding as any magic...
CAN HE FREE HER SOUL?
Reaghan is the most enchanting woman Galen has even met—and the most enigmatic. She alone is immune to his mind-reading gifts. He alone makes her feel safe and secure. But Reaghan holds a secret power deep inside her that could destroy them both. And if Galen hopes to hold this captivating woman in his arms every night, he must defeat the darkness that draws closer around her every day...
Kathe Robin from RT Book Reviews gave it 4.5 Stars and said “Grant’s newest Dark Sword novel skillfully melds history and legend in a quick moving story. It’s an adventurous, sensuous and highly moving romance that is impossible to put down.”
GIVEAWAY: Giving away UNTAMED HIGHLANDER and it's open WORLDWIDE.
RULES:
To win you must:
1. Ask a question or leave a comment below---We're men. We can take it. :) Remember: the more you comment, the greater your chances at winning the GRAND PRIZE.
2. You MUST be a follower/subscriber of Lila DiPasqua's blog (through Google Friend Connect).
3. Must be at least 18 years of age.
4. Winner will be selected at random on SUNDAY.
Ways to increase your odds at winning are found at the very bottom of this blog.
Mr. DiPasqua: Thanks so much for participating in the A MIDNIGHT DANCE Blog Party, Mr. Grant. You’ve been a great sport! Okay, folks, let's hear your responses! ;)
An RT Convention tote bag, stuffed with books and promotional items as it was for the convention. NOTE: If an INTERNATIONAL WINNER IS CHOSEN, a copy of Seven Years to Sin shipped to them via Book Depository!
Sherie
Mr. Burns' WINNER:
A copy of Assassin’s Honor and Assassin’s Heart
May
Mr. Snow's WINNER:
A decorative book-safe; a set of Sweet Enemy trading cards and an I.O.U. for a signed copy of Sweet Enemy hot off the presses in February!
Vojalyn
Mr. Ashe's WINNER:
An autographed copy of Katharine’s last book, CAPTURED BY A ROGUE LORD.
Stephannie
Mr. Silver's WINNER:
Winner's choice of one book from the series: SINS OF THE HEART (book 1), SINS OF THE SOUL (book 2), SINS OF THE FLESH (book 3) or BODY OF SIN (book 4)
The BlogHore
Glass Slipper WINNER:
Debbie Laurie
Email my lovely wife, Lila HERE with your mailing address!
NOTE: Put MR. DIPASQUA in the Subject line.
Be back tomorrow with your dancing shoes. The Ball continues! We start the final week of the A MIDNIGHT DANCE Blog Party. Wait until you see what we have in store for you this week!
