Lila DiPasqua - A Writer's Salon

Top 10!

2012-01-27T03:11:00.000-05:00

Happy Belated New Years, everyone!

I've been MIA because I have some exciting things in the works. I'll be making announcements very soon. I promise!

In the meantime, Mr. D will be coming back in February. On Valentine's Day! Be sure to check back to see who his next RH (Romance Husband) interview will be. ;)

Only two and a half months to go before UNDONE is released (April 9th). I'm so excited about this book. And the cover is so gorgeous, makes me sigh with delight every time I look at it. I've even had requests for a full poster versions of the UNDONE cover. I've been mulling over different ways to offer you the cover as a keepsake. As soon as I have things in place, I'll let you know. ;) You can find UNDONE on Goodreads now---so if you have a Goodreads account, and you're so inclined, I hope you'll add it to your reading shelf. I just might do a giveaway there. You never know.

Lastly, I'm thrilled to announce that A MIDNIGHT DANCE was named one of the TOP TEN HISTORICAL ROMANCES for 2011 on the Historical Romance Addict Blog! I'm flattered to be in such fantastic company.

Happy Reading, all!

Hugs,
Lila

New covers revealed! Squeee!!!

2011-12-09T14:25:00.004-05:00

Dearest Readers,

I have a big announcement to make! I've decided to enter into the same arena as so many of my talented author friends. My next two books in the Fiery Tales series will be self-published---and oh so special!! Just check out the covers! (Available in both e-book and print form!) I'm so excited about these upcoming novels. These are two of the most emotionally charged books I've ever written. And yes, you can count on more of my signature hot carnal encounters. *grins*

Coming 2012: THREE RECKLESS WISHES

Sexy rake, Luc de Moutier, gets his own book in the fairy tale retelling, THREE RECKLESS WISHES. (And he's just as carnally gifted as his older brother, Jules). You'll definitely want to read A MIDNIGHT DANCE before this. Won't say why . . . Just sayin' ;)

I intend to scandalize you some more in THREE RECKLESS WISHES. Consider yourself warned. This is one historical hook up you DON'T want to miss! (cover design by the fab Kim Killion, Hot Damn Designs)

THREE RECKLESS WISHES

A Fiery Tale

Historical Romance

Inspired by Charles Perrault’s classic fairy tale, Three Wishes, Lila DiPasqua delivers a new spellbinding historical romance in the acclaimed Fiery Tales Series . . . A scorching tale of redemption and undeniable desire.

An Untamable Allure . . .

Luc de Moutier, Marquis of Fontenay is haunted by the writings of a dead woman. He is the subject of her romantic interest. Obsessed with her journal, he can’t stop thinking about the sweetly sensual words of the late Isabelle Laurent. Though he’d never noticed her watching him from afar, he now compares every woman to the innocent enchantress who invades his thoughts and most luscious dreams . . .

A Guarded Secret . . .

The old Isabelle is dead. Sought after by the most powerful men in the realm, Isabelle has her choice of wealthy lovers. Her only goals are to provide for her young son, and to maintain the ruse of her demise. Three reckless wishes led her down the path she now walks. And there is no turning back. She allows her heart’s yearnings to show only on the pages of her anonymously published books. Charming and witty, she dons her social mask each day, her performance unshakable until the very man of her long-held private dreams walks into her life—and shakes the foundations of her carefully crafted world.

An Unexpected Ecstasy. . .

When Luc meets the beautiful courtesan, she captures his fascination. He’s determined to know the woman behind the façade. To deliciously decimate her defenses, show her true passion and the depths of his desire—one exquisite carnal encounter at a time . . . But soon he discovers books written in a style all too familiar to him . . . a deadly enemy looming near . . . and a passion as perilous as it is perfect.

Want more Fiery Tales in 2012?
No problem!

How about a Rapunzel retelling?

UNDONE

A Fiery Tale

Historical Romance

April 2012

Inspired by the tale of Rapunzel, Lila DiPasqua offers a new steamy, emotionally charged historical romance in the acclaimed Fiery Tales Series . . . Rescuing this beauty from the ‘tower’ is only the beginning . . .

Maintaining her ruse as a commoner, and trusting no one has kept Christine safe. But a chance encounter with a handsome stranger lands her right where danger lies. Now, this sinfully handsome man with arresting blue eyes and a polished manner thinks he’s saved her life, when in fact he’s placed her in great peril. She’s intent on keeping him and everyone else at arm’s length. Yet, the smoldering attraction between them is difficult to deny. And impossible to ignore . . .

As commander of a number of privateer ships, Simon Boulenger dresses and speaks like an aristocrat, and has obtained wealth. But he is still not a noble. Or an officer in the King’s Navy. His lifelong dream to elevate himself from his station of birth and attain a respectable place in society is dead. Worse, he’s ensnared in deadly scheme, and must get out. But how is he to stay focused on his dangerous mission when the mysterious beauty has him utterly intrigued? He can’t afford the distraction any more than he can resist the carnal hunger she stirs. Simon soon discovers that she’s not only a passionate soul mate, but a woman born into privilege. A woman he can never have. But they’re in too deep. Their hearts are at risk . . . as well as their lives.

THE MAKINGS OF GREAT COVERS . . .

Kim Killion created these, just for fun, so you can see the elements that went into the making of the stunning THREE RECKLESS WISHES and UNDONE covers.

Winners! Winners! Winners!

2011-12-04T02:25:00.000-05:00

It's been such a great week! First the birthday celebration I shared with my friend Delilah Marvelle. Then the wildly entertaining RH interview of Mr. Robinson, Maggie Robinson's dear husband, by my husband Mr. D.

And now have our winners!

WINNERS OF THE LILA & DELILAH BIRTHDAY BASH

(Six signed sets of A MIDNIGHT DANCE and FOREVER AND A DAY)

June M. (manning_j2004)

Emily Tardy

GzNKz4evr

Laura T (heartoftexasbooks)

rainie72

dannyfiredragon

WINNERS OF MR. ROBINSON'S GIVEAWAY

(MISTRESS BY MARRIAGE & ANY WICKED THING)

Eli Yanti

Please email me HERE with your snail mail address. Or send me your mailing info though my WEBSITE.

Thanks so much for joining in the fun, everyone! You made Delilah's and my birthday so very special!

Hugs,

Lila

Mr. DiPasqua's Guest, Mr. Robinson!!

2011-12-01T03:54:00.000-05:00

Mr. DiPasqua: I'm back!! I can't believe it's been a month already! I seriously love these RH interviews. I've met so many great guys--and I've had the chance to mingle with my dear wife's lovely fans. A couple of quick announcements before we get started:

The winner of Lila's fantastic October/November contest is :

CHRISTINE A ( your1chef11)

Congrats! Email my wife HERE with your mailing address! Also, Lila's and Delilah's Birthday Bash giveaway is still open. Six sets of books to six winners! You can check it out HERE.

Okay, I'm going to right jump into it---Mr. Robinson, welcome! It's great to have you here. Can you tell us who you’re married to and what she writes?

Mr. Robinson: I have been married for 40 years to Maggie Robinson and Margaret Rowe. Have yet to be charged with bigamy. They both write historical, erotic, romantic fiction. Margaret, though, is really a dirty little girl and not someone you would want your children to spend time with.

Mr. DiPasqua: 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. Robinson: Let’s see……..I’m retired after 38 years as a high school principal. I live, literally, in the Maine woods at the end of a dirt road. I’ve been a scholar and an athlete but much prefer retirement. I have no desire to be an active and contributing member of society. I like my life the way it is, i.e., not knowing what day it is when I first wake up and enjoying my four children, now that they have all moved out, and my almost four grandchildren. I have appropriated my wife’s color NOOK, and read voraciously. We travel a lot.

Mr. DiPasqua: Man, that sounds great to me. You're one lucky man. Where did you and your wife meet? What convinced you that she was THE ONE?

Mr. Robinson: We met in some friends’ living room on April 4, 1970. The husband was my best friend and the wife was hers. I knew she was the one when we went out on our first date alone that July. We got married January 24, 1971.

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?

I was at my “retirement job” when she got THE CALL from her agent, and she stayed up until 2 A.M. to tell me. I wondered what her advance was so I could retire a second time.

Mr. DiPasqua: Yup. That seems to be the first question that pops into every RH's head when their wife gets THE CALL. :) 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. Robinson: I haven’t read her last book, but I suspect he was a much improved version of me, certainly younger.

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. Robinson: I was definitely Prince Charming. I sold a pint of blood to finance that first date (Dinner at Erik’s on 2nd Avenue and the Movie “Joe”, staring Peter Boyle) and walked 40 blocks to her NYC apartment carrying a bottle of Andre champagne and a bouquet of flowers. (Maggie: How could I not marry him? He sold blood and walked through half of Manhattan to go out with me!!! The cheap champagne didn’t hurt either.)

Mr. DiPasqua: Oh, you've put all men to shame, Mr. Robinson. I've heard a lot of stories of men doing things to impress women, but never selling their blood. 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. Robinson: Any sport that uses a ball (Maggie: Mr. Robinson is a huge jock. He played football in college and coached football, basketball and baseball in his teaching career.)

Mr. DiPasqua: That is impressive, Mrs. Robinson/Rowe. Mr. Robinson, 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. Robinson: I’ve been a “serious” RH about 5 years. I would advise a new RH to be very nice to his wife. Remember she might be really rich someday, or kill you off in one of her books.

When your writer is under deadline, get a hobby that will take you out of the house. Learn to cook. Bring her breakfast at her desk. Do your own laundry if you want matching socks.

Mr. DiPasqua: 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. Robinson: “Where do you think?”

Mr. DiPasqua: Which character in your wife’s books would she say most resembles you and/or your personality?

Mr. Robinson: Any of her male protagonists. (Maggie, jumping in: Lord Edward Christie from Mistress by Marriage is Mr. Robinson at his best and worst all the way, a Regency Boy Scout who always does the right, honorable thing and doesn’t want to talk about his feelings.)

Mr. DiPasqua: Since you’re married to a romance author, I’m sure fans want to know---what do you consider a romantic evening? Dinner and a movie? A quiet evening at home? The back seat of a Chevy under the stars? (Folks, we’re guys. You know I had to add that last one.) What do you think your wife’s answer would be to this same question?

Mr. Robinson: Sitting watching our children with their children and coming to the same conclusion, “What do you know, they all turned out all right!”

My wife would say flowers, champagne and dinner. I got it right the first time.

Mr. DiPasqua: That's a great answer! 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. Robinson: I haven’t read it yet but probably intelligently erotic. (Maggie, jumping in again: Mistress by Marriage came out in September 2011 from Kensington Brava and was chosen for the Smart Bitches Trashy Books Sizzling Book Club. Margaret has a hot short story in Berkley Heat’s Agony/Ecstasy edited by Jane Litte from Dear Author in December, and her Any Wicked Thing March 2011) is a 2011 RT Reviewers Choice nominee in the best erotic fiction category. Maggie’s Master of Sin ends the Courtesan Court series in April 2012. Thanks so much for having us here! Mr. Robinson may not be a perfect hero, but he’s mine! )

Master of Sin link: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ISBN=075825105X/

Mistress by Marriage link: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ISBN=0758251033/

Agony/Ecstasy link: http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ISBN=0425243451/

Any Wicked Thing link: http://www.amazon.com/Any-Wicked-Thing-Margaret-Rowe/dp/0425238644/

GIVEAWAY: Maggie Robinson: We’ll give away Mistress by Marriage AND Any Wicked Thing so you can sample both of Mr. Robinson’s wives. *g*.

Giveaway open WORLDWIDE!

RULES:

To win you must:

1. Ask a question or leave a meaningful comment.

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 MONDAY Dec. 5, 2011.

Mr. DiPasqua: Thanks again for chatting with me, Mr. Robinson! It's been a lot of fun getting to know you!

Thanks for joining us, Mrs. R!

See everyone next month, folks! Now, let's hear your questions or comments. :)

The Lila & Delilah BIRTHDAY BASH...and you're invited!

2011-11-26T20:29:00.001-05:00

My dearest readers,

My good friend and wonderful author, Delilah Marvelle, and I have the same birthday---November 28th. And in case you didn't notice, our names are pretty similar, too. In fact, there are so many freaky similarities between us, it's unbelievable. I seriously adore her! And I love her books!

On Monday November 28th we've decided to throw a DOUBLE birthday bash right here! Oh, but that's not all. WE'RE THE ONES GIVING OUT THE GIFTS!

There will be prizes . . . And Delilah will be unveiling her brand new book trailer to her fabulous new series!

Now dash off and find something fabulous to wear. ;) And we'll see you at our soiree Monday!

Hugs,
Lila XO

We have a winner!!

2011-11-13T15:14:00.000-05:00

A big congratulations to the winner of the next lovely Glass Necklace (purchased in Venice, Italy)!

Sebrina C

Please email me HERE or through my WEBSITE with your snail mail address and choice of color.

I'll be giving away the final necklace, soon. Stay tuned for details!

Hugs,

Lila

Step with me into Pompeii!!

2011-11-07T16:18:00.002-05:00

Dearest Readers,

I'm delighted to share my pictures of Pompeii with you! It was my second time visiting this ancient, doomed yet utterly fascinating city, and there's still so much more to discover.

The excavation of Pompeii continues. I won't get into a lot the history of Pompeii, but as you'll see, these people lived just as you and I.

They had homes. Entertainment. Shops. Sewers!! And water pipes alongside the roads were also discovered. (They were made of lead. The lead in the pipes that brought water throughout the city no doubt contributed to the reduced life expectancy of these people.) It's estimated that the city was built around the 8th or 9th century BC. And it soon became a thriving metropolis.

Sewers discovered at Pompeii

Lead water pipes at Pompeii

Road

The small white pieces of marble reflects in the dark allowing you to see the road at night.

Just to give you an idea of the size of Pompeii today, here is an aerial view.

THE TRAGEDY

It's unknown exactly which day, but one day in the latter part of 79 AD, the volcano, Mount Vesuvius (thought to be extinct), shortly after midday, erupted to life.

Why didn't people leave immediately? Because over the next 48 hours the volcano had appeared to have calmed down. Many people stayed behind, refusing to evacuate, because they thought they were safe.

But Mount Vesuvius wasn't done.

Within 2 days of its awakening, all hell broke loose.

Suddenly, and with intense fury, it spewed toxic gases and poured molten lava, destroying Pompeii, its people and all forms of life for miles and miles around.

The flames from the volcano shot high into the sky, but it was the black smoke it emitted that blocked out the sun.

Adding to the apocalyptic scene, were the earthquakes and massive tidal waves the volcano incited.

This went on for 3 days.

Then came the silence.

Buried under 15 to 20 feet of ash---Pompeii was captured in a moment in time.

Area affected by the eruption of MT. VESUVIUS

Allow me to show you only a *very* small portion of this incredible ancient city. NOTE: YOU CAN CLICK ON THE IMAGES FOR A LARGER VIEW

The Cemetery

(Below) For those who died before the destruction of the city. This is where they buried their dead.

The Bakery

Men's Forum Baths (Below)

Sadly, the women didn't get anything this fancy.

Interior of some of the Houses

Dining Room (Below)

Another Dining Room (Below)

Kitchen (Below)

Courtyard with Doghouse (Below)

On the ground outside the front entrance of one of the homes is this mosaic of a dog with the inscription that when translated means "Beware of Dog" (Below) Unfortunately the inscription is cut out of my photo).

The Red-Light District in Pompeii

In need of a prostitute?

It is the oldest profession, after all. And Pompeii definitely had its share.

There were *many* brothels in Pompeii. In fact, it's estimated that there was one brothel per one thousand people. Below are erotic frescoes discovered in one of the brothels we visited in Pompeii. You can click on them if you'd like to see a larger view. They're incredible. Were they there for inspiration? Or were they some type of menu---"I'd like to do that one, please." ;)

Whatever the answer, they prove no matter what, people are people. They don't change. :)

Warning: Graphic frescoes of sexual positions.

How did you know you were in the brothel district?

Well, by the giant penis carved into the wall, of course. (Below)

Inside the brothel...you need a bed. This is a typical room. There would have been a mattress on the stone bed.

The People

When excavation started in Pompeii, it didn't take long to find bodies. They are now forever preserved by the ash. I only photographed a few of the victims of Mt. Vesuvius (the last five pics here). I included these others to give you a glimpse of the enormity of lives lost.

As you will see, many died covering their noses and mouths against the gas and ash.

Female Victim

Closeup on Female Victim--

As you can see, she was pregnant.

Giveaway: Another beautiful glass necklace purchased in Venice, Italy! Open WORLDWIDE.

RULES for the Glass Necklace from Venice:

To win you must:

1. Leave a meaningful comment.

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.

Contest for the Glass Necklace from Venice ends Saturday Nov. 12th 2011. Winner will be selected at random on Sunday Nov. 13th, 2011.

I hope you enjoyed my tour of Pompeii. :)

Hugs,
Lila

We have a winner!

2011-11-06T11:28:00.000-05:00

Mr. D here! Congratulations to Mr. Romain's winner!

DEBBY (debby236)!

The winner of a signed copy of SEASON FOR TEMPTATION.

Please contact my lovely wife HERE and provide your snail mail address.

Thanks, everyone for joining in the fun! See you all December 1st with another RH!

Mr. D

Technical Difficulties! %$#@!

2011-11-04T13:58:00.000-04:00

Dearest Readers,

I had every intention of posting my pics of Pompeii today----and giving away another beautiful glass necklace, but I've had some technically difficulties in downloading the photos.

I'll be doing the giveaway on Monday, instead! :)

In the meantime, I'm hosting no less than THREE fabulous giveaways--going on right now:

1. HERE
2. HERE
3. HERE

On a completely random, irrelevant note, these coffee signs made me LOL. I hope they make you laugh, or at the very least, smile. :)

Have a great weekend!

Hugs,
Lila

My Guest, Mr. Romain!

2011-11-01T02:53:00.000-04:00

Mr. DiPasqua: Hi folks! I'm thrilled to be back here today on my lovely wife's blog with another Romance Husband. Please help me welcome Mr. Romain! Can you tell us who you’re married to and what she writes?

Mr. Romain: I’m married to Theresa Romain, author of romance novels set during the Regency (1811-1820). Her debut, SEASON FOR TEMPTATION, was published last month.

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. Romain: I studied music and history in college, and I’ve played the French horn professionally for years. But that’s a hobby at this point. My career is in technology. I develop products for a manufacturer of data storage products (like external hard drives).

Mr. DiPasqua: Where did you and your wife meet? What convinced you that she was THE ONE?

Mr. Romain: We met when we were both graduate students in history. I was studying in the TA office—a small room shared by several graduate teaching assistants—when she stopped by to visit another TA. I thought she was cute so I kept glancing up from my book to check her out. Unfortunately, she thought I was glaring at her.

After she left I asked the other TA about her. I suspected (and hoped) that word of my interest would get back to Theresa. Sure enough: a few days later Theresa stopped by the office pretending to look for her friend. In reality, she knew I’d be the only one there. We talked for a while and realized that we were both fascinating people, :) so we made plans to go out.

A few days later we had our first date. We played trivia in a bar, and she wowed me with her knowledge of the bones in the human body. That’s when I started to wonder if she was the one. But I knew she was THE ONE a couple months later when I was helping her study for a class. The fact that we could make each other laugh with Civil War-themed jokes made it clear I had found someone truly unique and ideally suited for me.

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. Romain: I was at work. She called to tell me the news, and I was thrilled for her because I knew this is the career she wanted and that was a big step towards that goal. But there was still a lot of uncertainty, too, since we didn’t know what the terms of the contract would be and she didn’t yet have an agent. Over the next few weeks she got an agent and the contract was negotiated, and each of those moments seemed almost as significant as the THE CALL itself.

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. Romain: I think James, the hero of SEASON FOR TEMPTATION, is more like me than not, but he wasn’t modeled after me. What I like about James is that he acts realistically and with good intentions. In some romances, the conflict seems contrived, or could easily be resolved by open communication. In SEASON FOR TEMPTATION, James behaves the only way he can given his situation, his sense of honor, and the expectations of Regency society.

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. Romain: “A” on the first date. “B” on the second date. No further explanation will be forthcoming.

Mr. DiPasqua: There is a great story behind that answer :)... 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. Romain: I think of playing catch with our young daughter, Little Miss R. And basketball. I’m a big fan of college basketball and always make at least two brackets for the NCAA tournament (hedging my bets).

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. Romain: About three years, I guess. That’s when she first revealed her Top Secret work in progress (she wrote about ¼ of the book before she told me anything about it) and her ambitions for a bold new career choice. I was surprised, but after I read what she’d written I knew she’d be a great success and encouraged her to go for it.

My advice is to be encouraging without offering unsolicited advice. If she asks you to read her work, you should do it. And don’t delay. Offer constructive suggestions if you can, but be aware that even a gentle comment could easily be misconstrued as criticism, so tread carefully. An author’s work is deeply personal, so it’s hard for them not to be a little sensitive about it.
If she’s under a deadline, leave her alone.

Mr. DiPasqua: 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. Romain: Well, (smirk), you know, (wink), research is an important part of writing a novel. (Nudge, nudge.)

Mr. DiPasqua: LOL ... Which character in your wife’s books would she say most resembles you and/or your personality?

Mr. Romain: She would probably say mostly James.

Theresa adds: both James and Mr. R have a quirky sense of humor. That’s an essential in any hero, whether real or fictional! James is also comfortable being himself, and he tries to do the right thing—also very much like Mr. R.

HOWEVER…there’s an important scene in the book that takes place at a ball, and we see that James likes to dance. Mr. R does not like to dance. Mr. R would barely even dance with me at our wedding.

Overall, James is a lot more outgoing and smart-mouthed than Mr. R is. So in some ways, Mr. R might be more like the heroine, Julia, who’d do anything to help her family and who is hungry all the time. Or like Julia’s stepsister, Louisa, who’d rather spend time with a book than a crowd of people.

I guess there are bits of Mr. R—and of other people I love—in all my characters.

Mr. DiPasqua: I like that answer, Mrs. Romain! Now then, Mr. Romain, tell me something about your wife her fans would be surprised to learn.

Mr. Romain: Her first book was not a novel, but a biography of a silent film actress. Theresa loves old movies and is extremely knowledgeable about them.

Also, she can lick her own elbows even though that’s supposed to be impossible.

Mr. DiPasqua: This has be a lot of fun! 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. Romain: I thought SEASON FOR TEMPTATION was funny and smart, and I’m hardly the target audience. (Have you seen how pink the cover is?) The book has gotten some great reviews, too, so I’m not the only one who loved it.

Here’s the back cover copy:

TWO SISTERS…

Julia Herington is overjoyed when her stepsister, Louisa, becomes engaged—to a viscount, no less. Louisa’s only hesitation is living a life under the ton’s critical gaze. But with his wry wit and unconventional ideas, Julia feels James is perfect for Louisa. She can only hope to find a man like him for herself. Exactly like him, in fact…

ONE CHOICE…

As the new Viscount Matheson, James wished to marry quickly and secure his title. Kind, intelligent Louisa seemed a suitable bride… Until he met her stepsister. Julia is impetuous—and irresistible. Pledged to one sister, yet captivated by another, what is he to do? As Christmas and the whirl of the London season approach, James may be caught in a most scandalous conundrum, one that only true love, a bit of spiritous punch—and a twist of fate—will solve…

Mr. Romain: And here are some of those great reviews I mentioned:

“Give in to temptation–treat yourself to Theresa Romain’s delightfully witty debut.”

—Sally MacKenzie, USA Today bestselling author of the Naked Nobles series

“Hilarious and utterly adorable. Theresa Romain’s brilliant debut manages to be both passionate and just plain fun.”—Courtney Milan, New York Times bestselling author of PROOF BY SEDUCTION and UNLOCKED

“This delicious debut is Regency romance at its best — rich narrative, accurate historical details and interesting characters. Romain is definitely an author to watch.” —RT Book Reviews, 4 stars

“Season for Temptation was an absolute delight to read, and is one of my favorite books of the year. It has it all – witty dialogue, amusing circumstances, charming characters and a perfect romance. I can’t wait for Ms. Romain’s next book.” –Rakehell.com

Mr. Romain: We recently learned that Theresa’s second book was accepted for publication. It’s called SEASON FOR SURRENDER and will come out in October 2012.

Order SEASON FOR TEMPTATION: Amazon • Barnes & Noble • Indiebound • Powell’s

Order ebook: Kindle • nook

GIVEAWAY:

Giving away a signed copy of Theresa Romain’s historical romance debut, SEASON FOR TEMPTATION. (open WORLDWIDE!)

RULES:

To win you must:

1. Ask a question or leave a meaningful comment.

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 November 6, 2011.

Mr. DiPasqua: Thanks again for chatting with me, Mr. Romain! Okay folks, see you all next month! Now let's hear your questions or comments. :)

Congrats to my Winner!

2011-10-30T16:52:00.000-04:00

Congrats to my winner of a Glass Necklace from Venice, Italy!

JessS

Please email me HERE with your snail mail address and color choice.

I will be giving away one more glass necklace on Friday Nov. 4th, but first make sure to be here TUESDAY NOV. 1ST for another Romance Husband interview by Mr. D! The giveaway will be open WORLDWIDE. You'll definitely want to check out who he'll be talking to! ;)

Come join in the fun!

Step with me into Rome, Italy!

2011-10-25T16:32:00.000-04:00

Dearest Readers,

It's been so much fun sharing my pics of my vacation to Italy with you! :)

Step into Rome!

Ancient Rome (beside the Colosseum)

The Colosseum

The lines to buy a ticket was over ONE HOUR long. In the heat. But it is worth it. Completed in 80 AD, this place is as popular today as it was in ancient times!

Look at this wonder of wonders!

Inside the Colosseum

Above is the underground (beneath the stage) where the gladiators and animals were kept for the fights.

Below--the VIP section of the Colosseum. The Senators' names are still carved into the stone to indicate their seats.

The Famous Trevi Fountain (Below)

Italians say:

Toss 1 coin in the fountain: if you want to return;

Toss 2 coins in the fountain: if you want to find true love;

Toss 3 coins in the fountain: if you want to get rid of your love.

I wonder if men hang around looking for women who toss in 2 coins. ;) Or maybe three? Ha.

Below is another of the many fountains found in Rome.

Speaking of fountains in Rome, the water in the fountains isn't recycled water. It's fresh clean water you can drink! Many people refill water bottles and drink from the water fountains. Given the number of fountains in the city, clearly, they're not too concerned about water conservation.

National Monument to Victor Emmanuel II (also known as the "Wedding Cake").

The monument holds the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Vatican Museum

Technically the Vatican is an independent state and though found in Rome, it isn't part of it.

Below are a few treasures from this incredible museum. You need several days to take in all the wonders within its walls.

First, the ceilings in the Museum.

They were nothing short of breathtaking. No photo can do them justice.

Some of the art in the Vatican Museum.

Before books! This was what you wrote on. (Below)

Representative of Cleopatra. (Below)

Statue of Fertility. (Below)

That's bull's testicles all over her. :)

That's it for now! I'll be showing the final photos (from my trip out to Pompeii) next week. Stay tuned for the details. :)

Next Tuesday Mr. D will be back with another Romance Husband interview---WITH GIVEAWAY! You don't want to miss out on the fun! Mark your calendars for Tuesday November 1st!

Giveaway: Another beautiful glass necklace purchased in Venice, Italy! Open WORLDWIDE.

Question: Got any favorite movies filmed in Italy? Or in another country other than the US?

I personally love an older film shot mostly in Italy with sexy Robert Downey Jr. and Melissa Tomei --ONLY YOU. Such a cute romantic comedy!

RULES:

RULES for the Glass Necklace from Venice:

To win you must:

1. Answer the question or leave a meaningful comment.

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.

Contest for the Glass Necklace from Venice ends Saturday Oct. 29th 2011. Winner will be selected at random on Sunday Oct. 30th, 2011.

See you next Tuesday for another RH interview!

Hugs,
Lila

Congrats to my winners!

2011-10-23T13:56:00.000-04:00

Winner of an Italian glass necklaces (from my Venice photos post)

Karen C

From my Florence post:

Congrats to BOTH my winners!!!

Email me HERE with your snail mail address and your color choice of necklace. (First come, first serve).

See everyone Tuesday Oct. 25th for another Italian glass necklace giveaway and my photos of Rome!

Hugs,

Lila

Step with me into Florence, Italy!

2011-10-18T15:50:00.004-04:00

Dearest Readers,

Today, I'm sharing photos of our visit to the beautiful city of Florence----and giving away another lovely glass necklace I purchased in Venice, Italy!

Note: CLICK ON IMAGES TO INCREASE THEIR SIZE.

STEP INTO FLORENCE, ITALY!

There are two things you find a lot of in Florence. Leather. And the statue of David. Well, one particular part of David, actually.

His penis. Seriously.

Aside from the fact that they've been trying to slap a fig leaf on that particular part of his anatomy for hundreds of years, I don't think there's been anyone's genitals more debated or photographed on this planet than that of Michelangelo's David. Heh.

This is the second most popular postcard in Florence. The first is a close up of his ...you guessed it. His privates. And he's uncircumcised. Just sayin. I don't think Michelangelo ever imagined that David's penis would become more popular than the rest of the statue.

Replicas of David are all over the city.

The magnificent city of Florence (taken at the top of the Duomo). Isn't it beautiful?

The Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore

(originally called "The Duomo"). The construction on this cathedral was first began in 1296

It is an engineering masterpiece.

It's facade is made of white, pink and green marble.

INSIDE THE DUOMO:

Want to climb to the top of the dome to get a close look at the stunning murals? It's 463 steps. No elevator.

Mr. D and I escaped to the outskirts of Florence for lunch. This is the view from the restaurant, Aurora. Fantastic food! Mr. D tried wild boar. It's very popular in Florence. I passed. LOL

Pet the wild boar's nose and put a coin in his mouth for good luck. The crowds are crazy in front of this statue. I don't think Florence is a lucky place for boars, given that it's on the menu in just about every restaurant in the city. :)

You can't go to Florence without visiting the Galleria degli Uffizi, Italy's most crowded museum. :) Its collection of Renaissance art is incredible.

We weren't allowed to photograph the art. But we did stop at the museum's patio restaurant located at the top.

A pic of me trying to decide what to eat.

Our lunch! Yeah, we ate. A lot. The food is sooo good in Italy!

An antique carousel in Florence.

Mr. D and I stumbled upon a little restaurant called, Il Profeto. (The Prophet). It's a family run restaurant with the best food I ever tasted. The owners, husband and wife, were so much fun. Mr. D ordered the pasta and lobster.

I ordered pasta with mushrooms and ham. It was to die for! The restaurant owner told me that John Travolta had eaten at his restaurant on a few occasions and that the dish I chose was Mr. Travolta's favorite.

I didn't believe him. So he brought me out not only my food, but a pic of John Travolta he'd taken the last time he'd dined at his restaurant. LOL

I hope you enjoyed our Florence photos!

Question: Tell me, what's your favorite food or restaurant? It doesn't have to be restaurant food at all! Maybe it's a recipe your grandmother makes. Share your favorite food and a random commenter will win their choice of one of the glass necklaces I purchased in Venice, Italy. GIVEAWAY OPEN WORLDWIDE.

Be sure to return next Tuesday Oct. 25th for another chance at a Italian glass necklace....and to see my photos of Rome!

Oh, one more thing! I'm giving away TWO copies of A MIDNIGHT DANCE -- HERE. The contest on Romancing the Book runs through until Oct. 29th. :)

RULES for the Glass Necklace from Venice:

To win you must:

1. Answer the question or leave a meaningful comment.

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.

Contest for the Glass Necklace from Venice ends Saturday Oct. 22th 2011. Winner will be selected at random on Sunday Oct. 23th, 2011.

See you all next Tuesday! *muah*

Congrats to my winner!

2011-10-16T13:41:00.000-04:00

Winner of one of the GLASS NECKLACES I purchased in Venice, Italy is:

elizabethZayden

Please email me HERE with your choice of color, and mailing address.

NOTE: Next Tuesday, I'll be giving away another of these beautiful Italian glass necklaces! Come back Tues. Oct. 18th to see my pics from Florence, Italy and try your luck at this lovely giveaway---open WORLDWIDE.

Arrivederci!

Hugs,

Lila

Step into Venice, Italy!

2011-10-11T16:17:00.002-04:00

Dearest Readers,

Mr. D. and I had a wonderful time in Italy. What a country! Our Italian vacation focused mostly on seeing Venice, Florence and Rome (with a side trip to Naples and Pompeii).

Today, I'm posting some of our pics from our time in Venice--with a giveaway, of course! ;)

Onto the photos!

NOTE: YOU CAN CLICK ON IMAGES TO INCREASE THE SIZE.

Step with me into VENICE, ITALY.

This city is beautiful! There's nothing like it on the planet. Our plane arrived in Venice and we took a water taxi (How cool is that??) into the city.

This is our approach in the water taxi:

I'd been to Venice many years ago, but Mr. D has never been to Italy. We tossed our luggage in the hotel and immediately walked about and took in the beautiful canals.

This gown was in the store window. I SOOOO WANT TO WEAR THIS! It's stunning! This is the kind of thing I envision my characters wearing at the masquerade balls they attend in my Fiery Tales series. :)

The next morning we had breakfast on the rooftop of our hotel. This was the view.

This is Mr. D's pic of me taking a photo of our view. Mr. D thinks he's funny.

The last time I was in Venice, it rained and I never got to go on a gondola. I mean, who goes all the way to Venice and misses out on a gondola ride? I wasn't going to be denied this time! First, we were going to see the famous Doge's Palace, then I was going to jump on the first gondola I saw. Luckily, there are about a million in the city. LOL

We raced through St. Mark's square to the Doge's Palace, and bought our tickets to see this incredible hub of political power in the former Republic of Venice. It's construction began in the 14th century.

The following are some pics we took while taking in the Doge's Palace.

Two photos of the courtyard inside the Doge's Palace, different angles.

Got a complaint against someone? Venetians could drop notes into this slot (mouth) to report any wrongdoings to the officials at the Palace. This palace housed more than just the Doge and his family. It was the seat of power for the government of the Republic at the time.

Depending on who the accused was, those who decided his fate wore masks to remain anonymous. Doesn't seem fair, does it? If you're going to condemn someone, you should have the courage to show your face.

The palace has prison cells in the basement, as well as cells on the opposite back of the Rio del Palazzo. These are connected by the famous Bridge of Sighs. It was a name that was adopted in the 18th century, thanks to Lord Byron, who eloquently relayed the sounds that could be heard from condemned prisoners as they moved from the opulence of the palace, to their prison cells, possibly never to see the light of day again.

The most famous prisoner ever held here was none other than Giacomo Casanova, who escaped in 1756.

The Bridge of Sighs from the outside. (Normally the walls on either side are not blue. Renovations are taking place at the Palace on the outer walls.)

Inside the Bridge of Sighs as we walk through.

Last look out the window at freedom from inside the Bridge of Sighs.

In December 1577 there was a fire that destroyed much of the palace including the massive, elegant room below. The first is a painting of the room, done in the 18th century by artist, Francesco Guardi. The second was taken by Mr. D.

It put a BIG smile on his face when he learned that the engineers saved the palace after the fire. You see, Mr. D is an engineer. After the fire, the architects reviewed the damage and advised that the room and the damaged parts of the palace had to be torn down and rebuilt from scratch. After the engineers assessed the building, they disagreed. They stated that the foundations were still solid and the palace, including this lovely room below, could easily be repaired without destroying any more that had already been lost in the fire.

The Doge, thankfully, took the advice of the engineers. :)

(By the way, Adam, one of the heroes in THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED, is a engineer, in historical times---inspired by my husband).

On to the Gondola Ride! Yay! These are photos taken as we drifted along on our romantic ride through the city.

WHAT I LEARNED ABOUT VENETIAN MASKS

This is the type of mask typically worn by a woman. The lips are sealed and there is a "button" inside the mask a woman was supposed to bite to keep her from talking, remaining mysterious.

Typical Male Mask. The square jaw that jutted forward allowed a man to talk freely, drink and eat without removing his mask.

Doctor's Mask--worn during the plague. The long nose kept him from getting too close to his sick patients.

I hope you enjoyed my photos! Pics of Florence will be posted next Tuesday---with a GIVEAWAY! What's the giveaway, you ask?? Same as below!!

GIVEAWAY: As promised, I'm giving away on of five beautiful glass necklaces I purchased in Venice---just for you, my dear fans. :) Giveaway open WORLDWIDE.

QUESTION: Tell me your favorite period movie. While I was in Venice, I couldn't help thinking about Dangerous Beauty and Casanova. I LOVE THOSE TWO FILMS! What about you? Do you like those movies? Are there other period movies you like more? It doesn't have to be set in Venice. Let's talk films! :)

Oh, one more thing! I'm giving away a copy of one of my books from the Fiery Tales series HERE. The contest on Manic Readers runs through until Oct. 15th. :)

RULES for the Glass Necklace from Venice:

To win you must:

1. Answer the question or leave a meaningful comment.

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.

Contest for the Glass Necklace from Venice ends Saturday Oct. 15th 2011. Winner will be selected at random on Sunday Oct. 16th, 2011.

Florence contest starts Tuesday Oct. 18th. See you then! *muah*

We have a winner!

2011-10-09T13:15:00.000-04:00

Folks we have Mr. Foster's Winner!

Mr. Foster's Winner:

The Watson Brothers a reissue of 3 of Lori Foster's novellas repackaged together, along with a T-shirt and some magnets and other promo stuff.

Gail (gsryley)

Congratulations! Please send your snail mail address by emailing my wife, Lila, HERE.

Or through the contact page on her website.

Folks, I'll be back on November 1st with a new RH to chat with! Hope you'll stop by on Oct. 11th here on the blog. Lila is going to post some of our pics from our recent Italian vacation. Also, she has a surprise for you. ;)

Mr. D

My Guest, Mr. Foster!

2011-10-04T02:08:00.001-04:00

Mr. DiPasqua: Hi folks! I'm back for this month's RH interview! As I mentioned in my last post, I usually do my RH interviews on the first of the month, but I delayed it a few days so that I could take my Dear Wife on a wonderfully romantic Italian getaway. We had a great time in Italy! I'm happy to be here today with you. And I'm super excited about my guest today! Please help me give a warm welcome to Mr. Foster! Bienvenuti!!! (That means Welcome… Okay, Dear Wife – please no more eye roles. I promise not to mangle the Italian language any further.) Mr. Foster, can you tell us who you’re married to and what she writes?

Mr. Foster: Lori Foster. She writes bestselling contemporary romances. Her last trilogy was romantic suspense, but she’s won awards for romantic comedy, romantic suspense, and one of her urban fantasy books was named Amazon’s #1 editors’ pick in 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. Foster: Well I’m not a big scholar or artist. As for athlete – kinda, or at least as much as a fifty-plus year old can be. Because I help Lori with anything she needs, especially promo, I guess I’m called on to be a little of all those things.

Mr. DiPasqua: I think as far as RHs go, we all fill that “Jack-of-all-Trades” role for our DW. I wonder if someone can come up with a more official sounding title for that. ;) Where did you and your wife meet, Mr. Foster? What convinced you that she was THE ONE?

Mr. Foster: We met in high school, the third day of our sophomore year.

After high school I was set to head off to college, but the idea of being away from her hit me hard, and panicked me a little, too.

There and then I knew life is a road that I wanted to be on with her, for good.
So we married right out of high school.

Mr. DiPasqua: High school sweethearts!! That's great! 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. Foster: I was at home when she told me. It was after an “OVRWA” (local writing chapter) conference. I was all smiles for a long time, and to this day, I’m proud over her accomplishments.

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. Foster: If there was a “none of the above” choice that would be more like it.
Lori’s last heroes were fighting human traffickers. Those guys were living on the edge and found love there. I like the middle ground and found my girl in high school.

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. Foster: I manned up to ask her out, but that’s where it ended. Neither of us had dated much before meeting each other. The “kiss good night” happened because she stared me down. ;-) But we’ve always been on the same page (with life, I mean) and we’ve been married over 30 years now.

Mr. DiPasqua: It must have been quite the stare! :) 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. Foster: I think of sports like baseball or football. Lori avoids the dances, and that works for me since I’m not much of a dancer either. We’re both more the “stay home and watch a movie together” type. Or go to the movies type. Her readers probably know that we see a LOT of movies.

Mr. Foster: Lori’s been writing for a long time now, maybe 18years. I think I learned early that what she was, or is doing, is as or more important than what I’m doing. Deadline or not, I try to keep the everyday life thing off her back as much as possible. Try and do as much as you can with chores and kids. I think she’ll appreciate it very much – and really, those dishes are yours too. This is the hard one, but remember, if she needs writing or business help, she’ll ask!! Don’t be pushy, and try to remember that her writing is the business.

Mr. DiPasqua: Very sound advice....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. Foster: I have a shirt that says, “She gets all her ideas from me.” But seriously, I tell the truth. She’s a writer, so she has plenty of ideas. She doesn’t need help from anyone.

Mr. DiPasqua: LOL! Great answer! Which character in your wife’s books would she say most resembles you and/or your personality?

Mr. Foster: She claims that they all have a few qualities that I have, or that she says I have.
I tell people I’m in the pages and not on the cover. LOL

Mr. DiPasqua: Tell me something about your wife her fans would be surprised to learn.

Mr. Foster: Lori is a huge horror fan. She hates chick flicks; when I watch them (because I like them) I have to watch them by myself! She laughs constantly at inappropriate times at the movies. (Like when someone gets killed or hurt, or scenes that make other people scream or jump.) She also loves head banging death metal music. If you want old, slow, love songs, see me. LOL
She likes KORN, I like Elvis. That sort of thing.

Mr. DiPasqua: Thanks so much. 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. Foster: Hmmm. Well, her most recent new series was out May, June and July with the “Men Who Walk the Edge of Honor” series. (That’s the human-traffickers I mentioned.) “When You Dare,” “Trace of Fever,” and “Savor the Danger.”

Her popular “Buckhorn Brothers” are being reissued again. End of October is a compilation of “Sawyer” & “Morgan” in “Buckhorn Beginnings.” Then in Feb 2012, “Forever Buckhorn” is being released with a “Gabe” & “Jordan” compilation.

GIVEAWAY:

One of Lori’s personal favorites of her own work is “The Watson Brothers,” a reissue of 3 of her novellas repackaged together. We’ll give away a copy of that, along with a T-shirt and some magnets and other promo stuff.

US/Canada only.

RULES:
To win you must:

1. Reside in the US or Canada and ask a question or leave a meaningful comment.

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.

Contest ends Saturday Oct. 8th 2011. Winner will be selected at random on Sunday Oct. 9th, 2011.

Mr. DiPasqua: Thanks again for being here, Mr. Foster. It was a real pleasure chatting with you! See everyone next month for my next RH chat!! Okay, folks, let's hear your comments! :)

Mr. D here! Ciao!

2011-09-29T04:17:00.000-04:00

Mr. D here! I'm in Italy with my lovely wife, enjoying the sights and having a blast! I'm even putting my limited knowledge of Italian to use---these poor people. LOL

DON'T FORGET: I'll be back in October for my next RH (Romance Husband) interview, and you don't want to miss this one! He's married to a fabulous New York Times bestselling author---and he's a great guy! I know I usually do my RH interviews the first of every month, but due to our Italian vacation, I'll be here with my RH guest on Tuesday October 4th!

See you then! Arrivederci!----Not bad, right? ;)

Mr. D

Winners! Winners!

2011-09-19T10:46:00.000-04:00

WINNERS of AWAKENED BY A KISS

kissablesweet 1

Gayle C

Ren

WINNERS of THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED

Spav

Eli Yanti

Claudia GC

Congrats, everyone! :)

To claim your prize, please email me HERE and provide your forwarding address.

Giveaway! Giveaway!

2011-09-13T14:47:00.002-04:00

Dearest Readers,

After reading A MIDNIGHT DANCE, readers have flooded my inbox with the questions, "What comes next? Luc? Simon?" (And I couldn't be more delighted that you asked!)

The answer is YES TO BOTH!

Coming, the summer and fall 2012:

THREE RECKLESS WISHES (Summer 2012): We met Luc de Moutier in A MIDNIGHT DANCE, brother of Jules de Moutier, (hero of my steamy Cinderella retelling) and he's just as sexy, and carnally talented as his older brother. ;)

He's in possession of a journal he can't stop reading. Or forget. Any more than he can forget its author. A beautiful woman he's never met. On the pages of her journal, she has made him the subject of her romantic ramblings. And object of her desire. The problem is....she's dead. Or is she? Based on Charles Perrault's fairy tale, Three Wishes----Some say the saying, "Be careful what you wish for," may have come for this fairy tale.

THREE RECKLESS WISHES, two people who were meant for each other. Three wishes that might very well destroy them both. Be prepared for intrigue, a heart-stirring love story and of course, scorching hot love scenes that will set the pages ablaze! ;)

UNDONE (Fall of 2012) -- Based on the fairy tale, Rapunzel! Devilishly handsome Simon Boulenger deserves his own story. (Jules's and Luc's friend in A MIDNIGHT DANCE). This is the most emotional story I've ever written. Seriously. The heroine I've paired Simon up with is one you'll never forget! This truly is a story about the healing power of love. Be prepared for plenty of sizzling passion, and a tale about two people who have every odd stacked against them. When the obstacles are this high, can they be overcome? What will it take?

Now I know what you're thinking: Lila, the blog post is titled Giveaway, Giveaway! Is there a giveaway today?

Absolutely! I've been cleaning and organizing my office, (I work better and more efficiently when there's less clutter around me). I realized I have copies of my books, just sitting here, that no one is enjoying. So I've decided to give away:

3 copies of AWAKENED BY A KISS

And

3 copies of THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED.

SIGNED, OF COURSE! Giveaway open WORLDWIDE.

Below are the book blurbs and video trailers for both books. All you have to do is tell me in your comment which book you prefer. Now, I can't promise your first choice, as I'll choose randomly, but I'll do my best to make you happy! :) You WILL EARN 2 EXTRA POINTS IF YOU MENTION THIS GIVEAWAY ON TWITTER AND/OR FACEBOOK AND INDICATE THE LINK IN YOUR COMMENT!

CONTEST END SEPTEMBER 18TH AT 11:59pm EST. WINNERS ANNOUNCED SEPTEMBER 19TH.

YOU MUST BE 18 YEARS OF AGE OR OLDER.

YOU MUST FOLLOW THIS BLOG THROUGH GOOGLE FRIEND CONNECT.

AWAKENED BY A KISS

Three classic fairytales—“Sleeping Beauty,” “Puss in Boots,” and “Little Red Riding Hood”—cleverly retold with enough sensual twists to prove wickedly ever after does exist…

Sleeping Beau: Five years ago, the notorious rake, Adrien d’Aspe, Marquis de Beaulain, was awakened by a sensuous kiss—and experienced a night of raw ecstasy that was branded into his memory. Years later, he spots his mysterious seductress—and this time, he has no intention of letting her go…

Little Red Writing: Nicolas de Savignac, Comte de Lambelle, has been assigned by the King to uncover the secret identity of the author writing scandalous stories about powerful courtiers. He never expected his investigation would lead to his grandmother's house, or to a ravishing woman who would stir his deepest hunger…

Bewitching in Boots: Elisabeth de Roussel, daughter of the King, is accustomed to getting what she wants—and she wants Tristan de Tiersonnier, Comte de Saint-Marcel, an ex-commander of the King’s private Guard. A recent injury has forced Tristan to leave his distinguished position, but Elisabeth is determined to make him see he's every bit the man he once was—and more than man enough for her..

READ AN EXCERPT OF AWAKENED BY A KISS: HERE

THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED

Inspired by “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” “The Ugly Duckling, and “The Princess and the Pea,” Lila DiPasqua spins three sexy tales that give new meaning to the term bedtime story…

The Marquis’ New Clothes: To save her cousin, Aimee de Miran must retrieve a jeweled ring from the most sinfully seductive man at court, the Marquis de Nattes. But to search his considerable wardrobe she’ll have to get very close to the notorious rake…and soon she finds herself very close to him indeed, with his clothes—and hers—utterly forgotten…

The Lovely Duckling: Reputed for his carnal skills, Joseph d’Alumbert prefers amorous encounters without emotional entanglement—until a quick-witted lady stirs tender feelings and hot desire. Emilie de Sarron suffered burns to her body as an infant, and keeps her scars—and her heart—well hidden. But Joseph is determined to peel away her inhibitions, one slow steamy kiss at a time, to reveal the beautiful swan inside…

The Princess and the Diamonds: Princess Gabrielle can’t sleep at night. There is something hard in her bed. No, not just the stolen diamonds tucked under her mattress, but the handsome Marquis on it….whose carnal talents she can’t resist. But he threatens her secret mission, and worse, she stands to lose far more than the diamonds---her heart is at stake….

READ AN EXCERPT OF THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED: HERE

I was close enough to kiss Gerard Butler!

2011-09-12T13:59:00.001-04:00

Yes, you read that correctly! Last evening Mr. D and I attended the Toronto International Film Festival. It's a prestigious event in the world of film and held here every September.

We Torontonians love it!

Hollywood royalty, like George Clooney, Brad Pitt, Angelina Jolie, Johnny Depp, and Gerard Butler descend on our fair city. And we go celebrity crazy. :)

This is my first time at TIFF and Mr. D and I saw Machine Gun Preacher, starring Gerard Butler. We were at the premier showing and had VIP access to the red carpet. SQUEEEEE!!!

So, yes, I got to see Gerard Butler in person! In fact, how do you like this for up close and personal!!

I held in my crazy fan girl scream. Barely. However, I will admit, with him standing so close to me, I wanted to whisper in his ear, "You want to play Jules de Moutier, my hero in A MIDNIGHT DANCE, right?" LOL

This pic below is one of Gerard Butler on the Red Carpet before he approached. See him there above the blond woman's head? He's wearing a blue shirt. And he was coming closer and closer. At this point, I'm so excited, my heart is pounding. Mr. D is standing behind me laughing, thinking this is all too amusing.

Mr. D and I were both armed with cameras. Mr. D calls this pic below, "Lila and Gerard" because those are my hands up ready to snap the shot of Gerard you see above. I allow Mr. D his humor.

In MACHINE GUN PREACHER, Gerard plays the role of Sam Childers, a man who was a criminal and a drug addict and who turns his life around and helps save the lives of children in Sudan. Below is the REAL Sam Childers. He's an inspiration. The movie, MACHINE GUN PREACHER, is a powerful film and, given that it shows the reality Sudanese children face, this isn't for the faint of heart.

Below is actor, Michael Shannon. He plays the role of Sam's friend.

Below is actress, Michelle Monaghan who plays Sam's wife (Gerard).

Before the feature began, the cast came on stage. From left to right, Gerard Butler, Michelle Monaghan, Michael Shannon, Souleymane Sy Savane, and Madeline Carroll.

Trailer for Machine Gun Preacher -- coming to theaters soon! I overheard the real Sam Childers say, "Children are still dying in Sudan." This is the kind of film that stays with you.

ANOTHER FABULOUS REVIEW OF A MIDNIGHT DANCE -- AND GIVEAWAY!

In other news: Book Binge has reviewed A MIDNIGHT DANCE is giving away THREE copies of the book! (Giveaway open until Sept. 16th).

"This was not like any other tale of Cinderella that I had read before – it was so much better." - Book Binge.

Leave a comment HERE for a chance to win your copy of my Cinderella retelling!

We have a winner!

2011-09-04T02:17:00.000-04:00

Folks, we have a winner!

Dr. MacLean's WINNER:

A signed copy of ANY book from Julianne’s backlist - READER'S CHOICE. The only one NOT AVAILABLE as part of the giveaway is Seduced by the Highlander.

lisagk

Please send your mailing address to my dear wife, Lila HERE.

ANNNOUNCEMENT:

People have been asking if there will be more Fiery Tales. If you read A MIDNIGHT DANCE and were left gasping in surprise at the end, (there are tons of twists and turns in this exciting read!) I KNOW you want more. :)
Lila wants you to know that in 2012 both Luc's and Simon's stories will be released!

WANT TO WIN ONE OF LILA'S BOOKS?

Lila will be at Books n Kisses on Monday. Want to win one of the three books in the Fiery tales series? Stop by and visit her Monday Sept. 5th HERE! The Fiery Tales series has been chosen as this weekend's SINsational Saturday Series!!

Folks, I'll see you Oct.1st with another RH interview! :)

Mr. D

My Guest, Dr. MacLean!

2011-09-01T03:12:00.000-04:00

Mr. DiPasqua: Hi everyone! I'm so happy to join you again after my run at the A MIDNIGHT DANCE Blog Party. I had a great time interviewing RHs, and I'm so flattered you demanded more! I'll be here every first of the month, so I can continue the party. ;) Before I start, I want to say thank you to all of you who took the time to email Lila. She always responds to fan mail and she's been getting so many wonderful emails telling her that A MIDNIGHT DANCE is now on your keeper shelf. Just seeing her joy, makes me joyful as well. I KNOW it's a great book! I'm thrilled others are enjoying it too. Today I have the pleasure of interviewing Dr. MacLean. He was the very first RH I ever met. We were both poolside at an RWA conference. Dr. MacLean, since we last met, I'm now official an RH. I know that your DW has been extremely busy. Can you tell us who you're married to and what she writes?

Dr. MacLean: Hi! I’m married to Julianne MacLean, and she generally writes historical fiction for St. Martin’s Press (with three Highlander romances out this year) and also recently published a contemporary mainstream book under the pseudonym E.V. Mitchell called The Color of Heaven, and also a time travel romance back to the Wild West called Taken by the Cowboy. It’s been a busy year for her!

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?

Dr. MacLean: Yes to all the above. My day job is as an MD. I work with the Federal government in Canada as a staff physician, and also do some OR assisting evenings and weekends. I’ve always been athletic, and competed in various sports including triathlon, volleyball, mountainbiking and running. These days I still run the occasional half-marathon, bike through the woods in Nova Scotia, and am working on grading for a brown belt in karate next month if all goes well.

My wife’s creativity has rubbed off on me. I’ve also been a freelance writer for the past ten years, and have numerous writing and photography credits in a handful of different magazines/newspapers. I’ve written a documentary for the CBC on Titanic’s so-called “Unknown Child”, and am currently co-writing a feature screenplay for which we have development funding from Telefilm Canada.

I also co-own a production company, and we have finished some short films (including both of Julianne’s book trailers which are viewable on her website), the above documentary and currently working on and busy pitching various feature film projects in development. I hope to adapt one of Julianne’s books for the big screen one of these days.

Mr. DiPasqua: Julianne must be very excited at the prospect of seeing one of her books on the big screen. I wouldn't be surprised to see you in a starring role :) Where did you and your wife meet? What convinced you that she was THE ONE?

Dr. MacLean: I met her at Frosh week at our university; I was part of a group of upperclassmen who decided to throw young women into the icy cold waters of the Atlantic Ocean. We threw Julianne in, I felt bad for her, especially since she looked like she was hyperventilating and about to drown, so I stayed to make sure she was OK. She appreciated that…

We were friendly after that, but didn’t see each other much after university, until we met eight years later at a video store on a Friday night. We hit it off, she recommended a movie to watch (Jacob’s Ladder), and we decided to meet with friends a few days later at a bar, and hit it off even more… and the rest, as they say, is history.

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?

Dr. MacLean: I was home and she called me from the RWA conference in 1999 to tell me that Harlequin was buying her book. She was an unpublished author at the time, so it was amazing for her and created a lot of buzz. The fact she heard for the first time at such a great conference was definitely a bonus. It took her six years to sell that first book (called Prairie Bride), so we were both REALLY happy. She’s done well since then, too.

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.

Dr. MacLean: I want to say (a), but really, since I don’t carry a massive sword, don’t have massive pecs and rippling biceps, nor do I spend my time lopping off people’s heads off, probably more a combination of b and d (hehe).

Mr. DiPasqua: LOL! 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.

Dr. MacLean: I tend to be more charming in a family pet sort of way, so I’ll have to say 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.

Dr. MacLean: definitely b… though a close second is d, Julianne has written a lot about lavish British balls in her Regency and Victorian period romance novels, and we’ve watched a number of period movies involving the aristocracy, most of which I do enjoy.

Dr. MacLean: Since 1994 or so when Julianne first started writing seriously. As far as general advice, get ready for a number of questions at parties that usually involve an added “wink, wink, nudge, nudge” at the end of it.

Example: “Where does your wife do her research (snicker, snicker)? Is it from you?” Make sure you have some quick-witted answers ready to go, or a simple “of course” usually works for me and gets a few laughs (hehe).

Otherwise, it’s a tough road and not easy to get published or to keep publishing and write stories that are fresh and that people want to read. It takes commitment and discipline to do what she does day after day, week after week. It is a job for her, one that she loves, and beats being an office zombie.

As far as deadline times, I strongly advise to offer as much support as possible: take over meals, replenish the coffee mug, walk the dog, do the dishes, do the cooking, wash the clothes and don’t complain about minor issues.

Mr. DiPasqua: 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.)

Dr. MacLean: See my response above… as an aside, I wrote an article that was published several years ago that discussed my wife’s profession and some of the more unusual comments and questions that I have gotten… if I can find it, I can share with you. It was rather funny.

Mr. DiPasqua: I' d love to read it! Which character in your wife’s books would she say most resembles you and/or your personality?

Dr. MacLean: Probably the hero’s wimpy man-servant or the skinny, awkward gardener, or maybe even an aristocrat’s family dog (hehe).

Julianne piping in here: He is most like Kirk in The Color of Heaven.

Mr. DiPasqua: Tell me something about your wife that her fans would be surprised to learn.

Dr. MacLean: She used to be a DJ at one of Halifax’s trendiest bars during her university days. She was the only woman in a regional DJ competition, where she was beat-mixing with three turntables (yes it was a few years ago). She came in third.

Mr. DiPasqua: Hey, that's awesome! You’ve been a great sport, Dr. MacLean! One last question: What would you like us to know about your wife’s latest or upcoming release?

Dr. MacLean: Wow, with five books out this year, that should be a tough one… actually, I think the The Color of Heaven is her best book yet for my tastes. It is more mainstream, it’s very emotional, there are some parts that are inspired by true events in our lives, and it was a very inspiring read. It’s gotten lots of buzz, United Talent Agency (UTA) is a Hollywood agency that is shopping it around for film rights, it has sold at auction for foreign translation rights in Germany and Portugal and Indonesia so far. I’d love to adapt it into a feature film. She’s gotten fan mail for many of her books in the past, but the type of fan mail has been more passionate, with numerous people saying it was the best book they’ve ever read--that it struck them emotionally--and many connected to it on different levels. Some said they had lost loved ones and that the book helped them come to terms with their own loss. It’s a very different tone and writing style from her other books and is written in the first person. Bring a box of Kleenex when reading, but it also has a wonderful, uplifting message at the end.

As for her Highlander trilogy out this year, the first two books released in February and March have done very well (the second Claimed by the Highlander hit the USA today bestsellers list), the third one comes out next month and is a great and exciting conclusion. Definitely more action than some of her other books.

For those wanting to be whisked back the Wild West, her time travel romance is called Taken by the Cowboy. She originally wrote it in the 1990’s, though it came close, it never sold to a publisher. She polished it off, cleaned it up and updated the writing and self-published it a few months ago, and it’s a lighter and fun read.

GIVEAWAY: A signed copy of ANY book from Julianne’s backlist - READER'S CHOICE. The only one NOT AVAILABLE as part of the giveaway is Sedeuced by the Highlander. GIVEAWAY OPEN WORLDWIDE.

RULES:
To win you must:

1. Ask a question or leave a meaningful comment.

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 Sept. 4th, 2011.

Mr. DiPasqua: Thanks again, Dr. MacLean! I wish you and your DW all the very best. It was a lot of fun chatting with you again. And it was great that Julianne was able to jump in! Okay, folks, let's hear your comments! :)

I'm baaaaaack....tomorrow! :)

2011-08-31T15:26:00.001-04:00

Hi folks!

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.

Looking forward to chatting with him again!

See you tomorrow! (And every first of the month.)

Mr. D.

WARNING: Masssive Romance Reader SQUEE Moment Ahead!

2011-08-27T03:32:00.000-04:00

Dearest Readers,

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”):

Lisa Kleypas

Julia Quinn

Elizabeth Hoyt

Cynthia Eden

Julie Garwood

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!

Congrats to our WINNERS!

2011-08-21T04:24:00.000-04:00

Mr. DiPasqua here!

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

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.

Check HERE TO SEE IF YOU WON! :)

As I mentioned on Friday, I'll be back once a month (by popular demand!)--ON THE FIRST OF EVERY MONTH to interview more RH's!

I'll see you all Sept. 1st!

Thanks again, everyone, for the warm reception you've given me! I've had a blast!!

Remember to visit Lila tomorrow at Lovin' Me Some Romance.

Mr. D

THE GRAND FINALE!

2011-08-19T05:26:00.001-04:00

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!

My Guest, Mr. Hoyt!

2011-08-18T03:11:00.001-04:00

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!

My Guest, Mr. Jordan--or is it Mr. Kohler!

2011-08-17T02:58:00.001-04:00

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've GOT TO READ THIS REVIEW of 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?

WICKED IN YOUR ARMS

by Sophie Jordan

ISBN-13: 978-0062032997

Publisher: Avon

Release date: July 26th, 2011

Available at:

Amazon.com

Barnes and Noble

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 . . .

NIGHT FALLS ON THE WICKED

by Sharie Kohler

ISBN-10: 1451611412

ISBN-13: 978-1451611410

In Stores August 30, 2011

Available now for pre-order at Amazon.com | Barnes and Noble

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.

Vanish

September 6th, 2011

Harper Collins

ISBN-10: 0061935107

ISBN-13: 978-0061935107

Available for pre-order at:

Amazon.com

BN.com

Indiebound

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 Prize listed 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. :)

My Guest, Mr. Allen!

2011-08-16T03:00:00.000-04:00

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. 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.

Buy at Amazon.com

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! :)

My Guest, Mr. Grant!

2011-08-15T03:19:00.000-04:00

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.”

To read and EXCERPT and find buy links, visit: www.DonnaGrant.com/shadowhighlander

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! ;)

Congrats to our Winners!

2011-08-14T03:21:00.000-04:00

Mr. DiPasqua here! We have this week's winners!

Mr. Day's WINNER:

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!

Is this your Glass Slipper?

2011-08-13T03:12:00.000-04:00

Mr. DiPasqua here! Now, I know you'll think I'm totally bias when I say A MIDNIGHT DANCE is fabulous. (Yes, I've read every sensual delicious word).

But don't take my word for it. Here's what others are saying.

"Jules de Moutier is the prince charming all women dream of!" — Fresh Fiction

"[A] fantastic heroine... [A] fantastic hero!" Night Owl Reviews — REVIEWER'S TOP PICK!

"A deliciously dark hero and a heroine who's more than a match for him! Sure to delight!" — Jennifer Ashley, New York Times and USA Today Bestselling author

"Wickedly passionate . . . a sensual treat."— Sylvia Day, national bestselling author

"Lila DiPasqua's 'Fiery Tale' version of Cinderella sets the classic story ablaze!" — Anna Campbell, award-winning author.

Oh, and I love this one: "The love scenes in A Midnight Dance are unbelievably hot. I mean HOT. There's passion and desire, and tons of chemistry between the Jules and Sabine . . . When it's the two of them on the page, magic happens." Seductive Musings.

“Simply put, this is one fabulous book!!” — The Romance Dish---My thoughts exactly!

All these people can't be wrong. If you haven't purchased A MIDNIGHT DANCE, I hope you'll try it. You won't be disappointed. :)

Folks, we're down to our final week at this ball. I've had a great time meeting the RHs and reading and responding to your comments. This Friday is the big finale, and as I mentioned I'll be answering the same questions I've asked the other RHs...Yes, I've been working away at them! :) And, don't forget about the special something I'll be revealing that day!

But before we get to the final day, we've got a week filled with more interesting RHs. Trust me, you don't want to miss these men. Or what they have to say!

Now, last Saturday I asked for you to give me a question to add to my interview. You pour out great questions! I need one more question to add to my list. So, leave a question you'd like me to answer. It can be about me...or my DW, Lila.

A random commenter will win this final glass slipper. GIVEAWAY OPEN WORLDWIDE. And, Lila has agreed to sign the box!

So ask away!

Oh, and be back tomorrow for the announcement of this week's winners!

Mr. D.

My Guest, Mr. Silver!

2011-08-12T03:04:00.001-04:00

Mr. DiPasqua: It's Friday already and A MIDNIGHT DANCE Blog Party is only a week away from MY interview and a VERY SPECIAL BIG REVEAL! I can't wait to share both with you... Today I have two special surprises.

First, my DW, Lila is at the SOS Aloha Blog today -- giving away 2 copies of A MIDNIGHT DANCE! If you don't have a copy yet, pop on over there and leave a comment.

Secondly, we have another great interview for you. Please join me in welcoming Mr. Silver. Mr. Silver can you tell us who you’re married to and what she writes?

Mr. Silver: I’m married to Eve Silver and her latest release, BODY OF SIN, is the fourth in her dark, gritty urban fantasy/paranormal romance Otherkin/Sins series.

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. Silver: Father. Art Director. Sculptor. Gamer. Kayaker. Fisherman. Runner. Bodybuilder. Animal lover. Road tripper. Comic geek. Action-figure geek. Conan fan. Avid movie-watcher.

Mr. DiPasqua: Sounds like you're a fun guy! Where did you and your wife meet? What convinced you that she was THE ONE?

Mr. Silver: We met at college. Her brains and her looks convinced me she was THE ONE. We are complete opposites and, in this case, opposites attract. We communicated well. Eve is a very caring, kind, loving and supportive person who would do anything for me. We’re both the same that way. I would do anything for her. And she likes my sense of humor.

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. Silver: I was at work. When she called to tell me, I thought she was having a heart attack or an asthma attack because she was gasping and I couldn’t understand a word she was saying. Now that I think about it, she sounded like a girl at a rock concert who’s just met a mega-star and is speechless. My reaction was very excited and extremely happy and proud.

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. Silver: I haven’t had the opportunity to read BODY OF SIN yet, but all her heroes are just like me, except a little more well-spoken and many have supernatural powers that I do not. And they have a six-pack. I only have a four-pack. Still working on the last two.

Mr. DiPasqua: A four pack sure bets a one pack (aka beer belly) LOL! 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. Silver: My wife always says I was (am) most like Prince Charming. That’s why I love her so much. That’s only until I make her angry, then I become most like Prince, the family pet (to the doghouse).

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. Silver: None of the above. I think of “fetch”. That’s what you get for having two grown sons who eat you out of house and home and want you to go fetch more groceries.

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. Silver: I’ve known my wife for 27 years; we’ve been married for 23. Being married to a romance author means you need lots of patience because the business is like a roller coaster. There are ups and downs and sometimes it’s rough to be an artist. When Eve’s under deadline, I pick up the slack—grocery shopping, laundry, take care of kids and dogs. She does the same for me when I’m under deadline. I’m always here for her to bounce off ideas or to vent, usually while we’re walking the dogs. I make sure she leaves her cave and gets some physical activity because when she’s on deadline, she often forgets to do that for herself. Her deadlines are good for my sculpting and gaming, though. No interruptions.

Mr. DiPasqua: 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. Silver: I just say, “Me,” or “We do a lot of experimenting.” (This time I’m the guy smirking because it’s such a ridiculous question.)

Mr. DiPasqua: Which character in your wife’s books would she say most resembles you and/or your personality?

Mr. Silver: I asked Eve for her opinion on this, and she said, “Maybe Dagan from SINS OF THE HEART (book 1 in the Otherkin/Sins series) because he isn’t much into conversations; he just does what he needs to be done. He’s competent, strong, loyal, brave. The strong, silent type.”

Mr. DiPasqua: Tell me something about your wife her fans would be surprised to learn.

Mr. Silver: She’s afraid of spiders. She shot a Beretta, M4 and M249SAW to do research for her books. Her favorite game is BOGGLE. She loves to kayak. She has two degrees. She taught human anatomy for many years. She hates to shop for clothes, and I’m usually the one who has to pick stuff for her because she can’t be bothered (which is a good thing because she tends to dress like one of the fishermen from the Deadliest Catch if I leave her to her own devices—in her words, she “has the fashion sense of a snail.”) [Eve interjecting here to say this is all true, especially the fashion and clothes stuff.]

Mr. DiPasqua: Thanks so much for participating in the A MIDNIGHT DANCE Blog Party, Mr. Silver. One last question: What would you like us to know about your wife’s latest or upcoming release?

Mr. Silver: From the back cover:

Once the favorite son of the Lord of the Underworld, Lokan Krayl held enviable privileges and powers. Powers that led to a devastating betrayal—murder.

Resurrected by his immortal brothers, Lokan is still trapped in purgatory. He has no way to contact his family. He has no answers. In order to find the truth about his death and who killed him, he must escape his prison. And there’s only one way out: through the twelve gates of his eternal enemy, Osiris.

But Lokan has help. Bryn Carr, the woman who duped him once before, is his beautiful yet unwanted guide. She’s been sent by his brothers to aid him. She’s his last hope. Lokan must place his fate—and that of the mortal and immortal worlds—in the hands of the one woman he can never trust.

• Praise for BODY OF SIN:

“Dark, intense, passionate, and, in the end, rewarding, this tale of pain and redemption brilliantly resolves a seemingly unsolvable dilemma and adds another gleaming link to Silver’s “Otherkin” chain.”—Library Journal

“…tortured hero on a desperate & hazardous quest…Silver really hits this one out of the park!”—Jill M. Smith, RT Book Reviews, 4-1/2 star Top Pick!

“Silver’s use of Egyptian mythology is a refreshing change of pace in the genre and adds plenty of creepy atmosphere…”—Publishers Weekly

GIVEAWAY: Winner will have their choice of one signed 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). Contest is open internationally, but if a winner outside the US/Canada is chosen, the book will not be signed and will be ordered from The Book Depository.

Mr. DiPasqua: Thanks again, Mr. Silver! Let's hear your responses, folks! :)

My Guest, Mr. Ashe!

2011-08-11T01:27:00.000-04:00

Mr. DiPasqua: Today it's my pleasure to welcome Mr. Ashe to the A Midnight Dance Blog Party. Can you tell us who you’re married to and what she writes?

Mr. Ashe: I’m the proud husband of Katharine Ashe, who writes Regency Historical Romance for Avon.

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. Ashe: I’m a Professor, and teach History and French. I write books for a broad audience about a diverse (bizarre!) range of topics: Haiti, soccer, and banjos. (But they’re all secretly connected!) I was born in Belgium and grew up speaking French, and have travelled a lot in Europe (often in the delightful company of my DW), the Caribbean, Latin America, and Africa. I also have a blog about international soccer and politics.

Mr. DiPasqua: Diverse indeed! Where did you and your wife meet? What convinced you that she was "the one"?

Mr. Ashe: We met on a moonlit night beneath a trellis blooming with jasmine— No. Actually we met the first week of graduate school in a basement classroom of a dingy campus building with bad lighting. But no matter: it was love at first sight, seeming to prove the adage that opposites attract. I was a 21-year-old punk kid in overalls, Katharine a beautiful, well-dressed and professional-looking woman. I was the shy type, but luckily she wasn’t. She called me for a date a few weeks into the semester. Our first one lasted about 4 hours. I talked most of it, trying really hard to impress her. Luckily she was patient.

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. Ashe: I was at work when she got the first email from her agent. I was incredibly elated. I knew how hard she had been working and how much she deserved this. That call culminated in her first book contract. Suffice it to say we drank A LOT of champagne. Every time we get good news, I find myself reaching for the fancy French stuff at the store, rushing home to celebrate. Katharine loves champagne.

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. Ashe: a) Except for a few minor details, of course (ships, fortune, biceps)

Mr. DiPasqua: LOL...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. Ashe: From my perspective at the time, a), but looking back now probably like d), if he barks a lot.

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. Ashe: That’s easy: d), especially since there’s been a fair amount of talk in our house about (and dramatic readings from) the fabulous new Ballroom Blog that Katharine and a few of her fellow authors recently launched.

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. Ashe: I’ve been an RH for quite a long time, since Katharine has been writing since we met. Advice? To those who are lucky enough to be married to one, congratulations. To all others, go out and find one!

Under deadline, you have to cook nice dinners, usher the children out of the house for long, involved activities that leave them exhausted, and tolerate sleep deprivation!

Mr. DiPasqua: 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. Ashe: I’ve actually never been asked, but when I am I have my answer ready: “The UPS man.” She says he’s really good looking.

Mr. DiPasqua: Nice answer! Which character in your wife’s books would she say most resembles you and/or your personality?

Mr. Ashe: Well, there’s what I’d like to think – the heart-stopping gorgeousness and heroism. And then there’s what’s probably a bit more true – the emotional ups-and-downs and mysterious emotional scars. Then there’s the thing I can’t tell you about (i.e. my secret identity) because even she doesn’t know.

Mr. DiPasqua: Intriguing! Thanks so much for participating in the A MIDNIGHT DANCE Blog Party. One last question: What would you like us to know about your wife’s latest or upcoming release?

Mr. Ashe: Katharine’s IN THE ARMS OF A MARQUESS will be out on August 30. Simply put: it’s awesome! It’s already gotten a fantastic review from RT Book Reviews (the hero was named a K.I.S.S. Hero for September). Plus, proceeds from the sale of print and e-book copies will go to raising awareness and finding a cure for Ovarian Cancer. Here’s the link to Avon’s K.I.S.S. and Teal campaign: http://www.avonromance.com/kissandteal/

IN THE ARMS OF A MARQUESS

She had never forgotten him…

Miss Octavia Pierce is witty, well off, and shockingly unwed. Still, she is far too successful in society to remain on the shelf forever, and her family has hopes that Octavia will finally make the perfect match. What they do not know is that years earlier Octavia was scandalously tempted by the one man capable of sweeping her off her feet—the man now known as the Marquess of Doreé.

A third son, never meant to inherit, Lord Ben Doreé has abandoned his past and grown accustomed to his illustrious new position of wealth and power. But he has never forgotten Octavia, and now she desperately needs his help in a most dangerous, clandestine matter. Although she claims she has put the memories of the passion they shared behind her, Ben is determined to once again have her in his arms—and in his bed.

Here are the links to purchase or pre-order it, plus an excerpt from the book: http://www.katharineashe.com/books_marquess.html

GIVEAWAY: I’m giving away an autographed copy of Katharine’s last book, CAPTURED BY A ROGUE LORD. “Rakish lord by land. Robin Hood by sea. The hero of her dreams.”

Open to readers with addresses in the US and Canada only.

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 or Canada. You can still leave a comment! Your comment will *not* count toward this giveaway, but *will* count toward the Grand Prize listed 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: Great meeting you, Mr. Ashe! Okay, folks, let's hear your responses! :)

My Guest, Mr. Snow!

2011-08-10T01:52:00.000-04:00

Mr. DiPasqua: Today I have a relatively new Romance Husband with me at the A Midnight Dance Blog Party -- Mr. Snow. Mr.Snow can you tell us who you’re married to and what she writes?

Mr. Snow: I am married to Heather Snow, and she is a historical romance author with a degree in chemistry who decided she preferred creating chemistry on the page, rather than in the lab. Heather writes Regency-set historical romances with light mystery elements.

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. Snow: Business man and scholar would be apt descriptions. I have been an investment banker and bond trader for the better part of two decades now. In addition to avidly supporting my wife’s blossoming career and helping to raise two rambunctious boys, aged 3 years and 3 weeks, I will also graduate from the Olin Business School at Washington University in St. Louis with an Executive MBA in December. Still, I have been known to break out the toolbox now and then. I can fix my own car, plumb a house, trouble-shoot electricity and all that. Just don’t ask me to cook…Heather says no matter what I attempt to make, it all tastes the same. Must be because I put garlic and black pepper on everything…

Mr. DiPasqua: Ok...I won't ask about the impact of the S&P downgrade on the bond market but I will ask "whats wrong with garlic and pepper on everything???" That actually sounds good to me...Anyway, where did you and your wife meet? What convinced you that she was "the one"?

Mr. Snow: On the phone. It was love at first conversation. I was moving to KC for a new job and she rented me an apartment sight unseen at the high rise apartment building that she was managing in downtown Kansas City. She was trying to find her passion in life after leaving medical school, and she found me instead! The apartment was not that great, but I would have bought anything from her just to hear her siren’s song. We have joked for years that she could make a mint as a “phone actress!” After meeting her and experiencing the joy that she shares daily, I was hooked. After watching her with kids, it became quickly apparent that I would never father a child with anyone but Heather.

Mr. DiPasqua: So you are obviously a voice-man :) 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. Snow: When she got the offer from her agent last July, I was away in St. Louis for a week-long class. She was away, too, in Orlando for the Romance Writers of America conference, where she was a finalist in their contest for unpublished authors, the Golden Heart®. Her agent made a public offer of representation at the award ceremony of one of the two other national contests Heather won that night. I was waiting for news but knew she had two award ceremonies to juggle. So, polite and patient Romance Husband that I am, I texted her. Hey, I didn’t want her phone to ring right in the middle… I got a breathless phone call that said, “I just won the Hearts Through History contest and Barbara Poelle offered for me in front of everyone! I have to run now. I’m late for the Daphne’s!” It was many hours later, when we were both in our respective hotel rooms for the night, that I got the whole story.

I was at the office on September 30th of last year when Heather called to tell me that her first book, Sweet Enemy, had received multiple offers and was being auctioned. A week later, the dust settled and Heather landed at NAL. It didn’t surprise me. I’ve always known she could do anything she set her mind to. I am just overjoyed that her dedication will allow her to share her considerable talents with others.

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. Snow: If only I were half as hunky as her literary heroes, so my answer must be C and D!

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. Snow: I was more like Prince Charming’s penniless footman. Our first date was magical, if economical. We went out for Chinese food and a movie—the quintessential cheap date. We saw Conspiracy Theory with Julia Roberts and Mel Gibson. When Mel’s character sits outside Julia’s character’s window in his taxi and watches her nightly run, Lauryn Hill’s remake of “Can’t Take My Eyes Off Of You” plays. I knew just how he felt—well, aside from the stalker part. I wasn’t able to take my eyes off of Heather, either, and haven’t been able to ever since. That song became our song, and we danced to a fun mix of it and the original Franki Valli and the Four Season’s version at our wedding.

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. Snow: I used to think of football. Now I think of beakers and ball gowns. Sweet Enemy is about a brilliant lady scientist that must embrace lace, lust and eventually love in order to solve her father’s murder. (Heather inserts~ “Hey babe, that’s great! If the market tanks, you could always write cover copy!)

Heather and I also think of our oldest son. His first word was not ‘mommy’ or ‘daddy’—it was “ball”! At 13 months old, he was able to hit daddy between the eyes with his binky from across the room. He must get his athleticism from his mother. Please remember that I am the scholarly type.

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. Snow: I have been a widower (oops, I mean romance husband) for four glorious years now. (We’ve been married for twelve, but Heather didn’t start writing until 2007.)

I strongly recommend having as many kids as you can while your wife is working furiously on deadline to fulfill her first three book contract. We had our first child as she was writing her first book, Sweet Enemy, and our second child while writing her second book. We all know how a newborn’s sleeping habits are great for Mommy’s energy and creativity…

All romance husbands should also start a 20 month masters degree program in a city 240 miles away practically the same day your wife finals in the Golden Heart®. That way, you’re completely swamped with school and work at the exact time she is signing with an agent and about to be published. Your blushing bride will always appreciate your dedication and sacrifice! She won’t mind that you’re gone most nights and weekends in class, leaving her with the children while she’s all-of-the-sudden on deadline… (Thankfully, I am almost finished with school and cannot wait to give Heather the support that she deserves.)

Seriously though, play with your kids as much as you can so that she can have as many uninterrupted writing hours as possible. Call and offer to bring home dinner, because likely, she’s forgotten to take anything out, much less cook it. If you have to, send her away! Also remember to give your bride plenty of material for her book. Keep those home fires burning.

Mr. DiPasqua: 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. Snow: Because Heather’s first heroine is a brilliant chemist who, ahem, liked to experiment, I just smirk back and tell people that we affectionately refer to our bedroom as The Laboratory! Unless you embrace your wife and her choice of careers, your buddies and colleagues will be relentless. Just flash that Cheshire cat grin like you know something that that they never will!

Mr. DiPasqua: Great advice :) What character in your wife’s books would she say most resembles you and/or your personality?

Mr. Snow: She is saving my likeness for a real rogue. Stay tuned.

Mr. DiPasqua: Since you’re married to a romance author, I’m sure fans want to know---what do you consider a romantic evening? Dinner and a movie? A quiet evening at home? The back seat of a Chevy under the stars? (Folks, we’re guys. You know I had to add that last one.) What do you think your wife’s answer would be to this same question? :)

Mr. Snow: Our ideal romantic evening includes fine dining with ample red wine and a walk under the stars—Heather would say it’s even more romantic if there are plenty of historic homes and/or buildings to look at while we walk, or better yet—ruins. While I am content to inhale her intoxicating scent here in KC, she would prefer that I surprise her with dinner and a stroll in NYC or London.

Mr. DiPasqua: Thanks so much for participating in the A MIDNIGHT DANCE Blog Party. One last question: What would you like us to know about your wife’s latest or upcoming release?

Mr. Snow: I actually have read it! And I’m very proud. Really, she amazes me—and it’s not just because I’m her husband. Other people—smart, talented people unrelated to her—have read it and loved it, too. For example:

"Historical intrigue and heart-pounding passion make Sweet Enemy a great read. Romance fans will love it."

~#1NYT Bestselling Author JULIE GARWOOD

and

"Heather Snow combines sizzling tension, witty dialogue and achingly raw emotions for a passionate love story you'll remember long after the last page."

~KATHRYN SMITH~USA Today Bestselling Author of "When Tempting a Rogue"

Sweet Enemy is Heather’s debut, coming from NAL Signet Eclipse on February 7, 2012. It’s the first in her Veiled Seduction series and the quick blurb is this:

Beakers and ball gowns don’t mix, so when a lady chemist goes undercover at a house party to investigate the earl she thinks may have murdered her father, romance isn’t part of her formula. But it only takes one kiss to start a reaction she can’t control…

Though it’s not out in stores yet, Sweet Enemy, is available for pre-order at these great retailers:

Pre-Order "Sweet Enemy" at:

Rainy Day Books (our local Indie)
Amazon
Books-A-Million
Barnes and Noble

You can find out more about Heather and her writing at www.HeatherSnowBooks.com. And be sure to follow her on Facebook for your chance at winning a complete, SIGNED backlist by Julie Garwood. You can also find Heather on Twitter.

GIVEAWAY: Since her book isn’t out yet, Heather will be giving away a decorative book-safe. You know, those nifty devices that look like old books, but you can hide things inside? One may or may not feature in her novel… She’ll also send 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! Contest is open WORLDWIDE.

QUESTION: What song did you (or do you hope to) dance to at your wedding? What is the story behind it?

RULES:
To win you must:

1. Answer Mr. Snow's question, or ask a question of your own---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: Great chatting with you, Mr. Snow! Let's hear your responses, folks! :)

My Guest, Mr. Burns!

2011-08-09T02:51:00.000-04:00

Mr. DiPasqua: We've got another great RH today, everyone! Please join me in welcoming Mr. Burns to the A MIDNIGHT DANCE Blog Party. Mr. Burns, can you tell us who you’re married to and what she writes?

Mr. Burns: Monica Burns and she writes erotic historical and paranormal 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. Burns: Since 1986 I’ve been in the IT industry. I’ve worked in the private and public sectors, and currently I work for the State of Virginia. I’m the household geek and my wife calls me Tim Allen a lot because of all the home repairs I’ve been doing over the past 25 years. I even grunt while doing the work. When I can, I play golf and my wife was very kind to me in 2008 when she presented me with a round of golf at Pebble Beach while she was doing her conference thing in San Francisco.

Mr. DiPasqua: Where did you and your wife meet? What convinced you that she was "the one"?

Mr. Burns: I smiled at her and said hi while stocking at Kroger. She then started coming through my check-out line and after 6 (NINE! Monica interjects) months I got the nerve to ask her out. She was the first girlfriend I had that could carry a decent conversation, very intelligent, not afraid to speak her mind, and I just knew I could stop looking for anyone else.

Mr. DiPasqua: That's a great story! Hi, there, Mrs. Burns! Glad you clarified that for us. :) Mr. Burns, 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. Burns: Unfortunately, I wasn’t with her when she got the call from her agent, but I know I was very thrilled for her and I am still very proud of her accomplishments.

Mr. DiPasqua: Tell us, Mr. Burns, 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. Burns: I’d say B

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. Burns: She might disagree but I think I was Prince Charming. We had dinner, went to a movie and then we went back to her apartment. She will deny it, but she kissed me goodnight and when I left she thought she wouldn’t see me again. (There he goes again with that ridiculous story about who kissed who, when)

Mr. DiPasqua: Now, I'm not taking sides here, but she did go through your checkout line for 6 or 9 months...Clearly your charms were working for you! 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. Burns: Golf ball. I love to play and watch it. If I die first, I will be cremated, and she has to figure out how to spread my ashes over Augusta National’s Amen Corner (where the Masters are played).

Mr. Burns: I guess since I first met her in 1983 but more so when she really got serious about writing in 2002. Being married to a romance author is not what the guys at my office think it is. Where she gets some of her ideas is beyond me. I have pointed out places in her books to her, and she says NO!!!

I do a lot of the household chores so she can write, but her stress level can get really high. When a wife is under a deadline, take the kids and run far away. No joke, run fast and far. The slightest noise or simplest question (What do you want for dinner?) and she blames you for losing train of thought.

Mr. DiPasqua: 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. Burns: At the office I just smile and grin. But our friends know it’s not me, and I am ok with that.

Mr. DiPasqua: Which character in your wife’s books would she say most resembles you and/or your personality?

Mr. Burns: She says I’m most like Garrick who’s the hero in her book Pleasure Me. He’s younger than the heroine Ruth. I happen to be almost five years younger than she is. But if I were older, my heart probably couldn’t handle the stress.

Mr. DiPasqua: It's been a lot of fun talking to you, Mr. Burns! Thanks so much for participating in the A MIDNIGHT DANCE Blog Party. One last question: What would you like us to know about your wife’s latest or upcoming release.

Mr. Burns: Well, she’s got two books coming out soon. Love’s Portrait, which is a reissue of one her older books, will be available sometime in September. She’s got info on her website somewhere (NOT somewhere, Monica interjects *banging head on desk* HERE ).

She couldn’t make up her mind which one she wanted me to tell you about, so I picked Inferno’s Kiss because the guy on the cover carries a sword, and I know how much she loves swords (She collects them. I’ve no idea where she gets that from either.) She said this is the third book in her paranormal series. I know she won a big award for the last one. She was really excited about it. Got two pyramid trophies and a couple of pins to add to her shelf.

Inferno's Kiss by Monica Burns
Book 3 in The Order of the Sicari series
Penguin/Berkley
ISBN - 978-0425243145

Coming October 2011

The laws of desire…

Dante Condellaire, heir apparent to the Sicari Lords, knows that being a true leader means sacrifice. For Dante it was relinquishing all erotic pleasures. But he never expected his willpower to be tested so fiercely by Cleopatra Vorenus, expert assassin of the Order, and daughter of the man he is positioned to succeed.

The rules of battle…

Cleo prefers working alone—until she meets Dante who shares her goal: to destroy a Praetorian stronghold where Sicari women are imprisoned for devious purposes. Bringing the mission off without a hitch pumps up more than their resolve. It sets off a sexual spark too combustible to ignore.

Are all made to be broken.

As their attraction flares like an inferno, the stakes are raised. So are the risks. Before the mission is over, Dante and Cleo will be plunged into a dangerous conspiracy where a traitor threatens the very foundation of the Order, as well as the fiery bond between Dante and Cleo—warriors and lovers now torn between duty and desire.

PreOrder Links
The Book Depository (International readers/free shipping)
Amazon
B&N
Books-A-Million

Excerpt Link
Read the first three chapters of Inferno’s Kiss

Bio
An award-winning author of erotic romance, Monica Burns penned her first short romance story at the age of nine when she selected the pseudonym she uses today. From the days when she hid her stories from her sisters to her first completed full-length manuscript, she always believed in her dream despite rejections and setbacks. A workaholic wife and mother, Monica believes it’s possible for the good guy to win if they work hard enough.
Picture - http://www.monicaburns.com/images/My%20Photos/MonicaBurnsC09.jpg

Connect with Monica:
WEBSITE
Facebook
Twitter
Blog
Newsletter/Info Group

GIVEAWAY: Will be giving away a copy of Assassin’s Honor and Assassin’s Heart – Open to International, but limited to countries The Book Depository ships to.

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: This is a wonderful couple. Let's hear your responses to Mr. Burns, folks! :)