Interview with Historical Romance Author Margaret Locke

Cover image for The Demon Duke by Margaret LockeToday, we’re celebrating Margaret Locke‘s newest release, THE DEMON DUKE, the first in her new Put Up Your Dukes series.

I first met Margaret through Facebook and her first series of books which were more paranormal with time travel to and from the Regency and fell in love with her sense of humor and her heroes. She’s since joined The Beau Monde chapter of RWA® and I finally get to meet her in person this summer at Nationals in Orlando! And honestly, I’m not in the least bit surprised to find we share a love of Lynn Kurland’s time travel romances!

The Demon Duke
by Margaret Locke

ASIN: B06XTXGJMKAmazon pixel
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3 Yuletide Wishes: holiday anthology interview

Cover image for 3 YULETIDE WISHES, an anthology by Deneane Clark, Alanna Lucas and Charlotte RussellThere’s less than a week until Christmas Day and if you’re like me, you’re not done shopping yet! If you’ve got a reader of Regency Romance on your list, we’ve got something that might just be a perfect fit. Join us in celebrating the holiday release from Boroughs Publishing, 3 YULETIDE WISHES, an anthology by Deneane Clark, Alanna Lucas and Charlotte Russell. I know Charlotte and Alanna through The Beau Monde chapter of RWA® and I hope to get to know Deneane Clark better in the future. I’m looking forward to some holiday reading after downloading this to my e-reader and I hope you will too!

3 Yuletide Wishes
an anthology by Deneane Clark, Alanna Lucas and Charlotte Russell

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Interview with Historical Romance Author Wendy LaCapra

Cover image for Lady Vice (A Furies Novel) by Wendy LaCapraToday, we’re celebrating Wendy LaCapra‘s debut release, LADY VICE, the first in her Furies trilogy from Entangled Publishing. I met Wendy through The Beau Monde chapter of RWA® and have been following her publishing trajectory for a while now. She’s one of the sweetest people I know and so willing to reach out and help others. I hope you come to love her and her work as much as I do!

Lady Vice
by Wendy LaCapra

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Interview with Historical Romance Author Sally Orr

Cover of Sally Orr's debut novel, THE RAKE'S HANDBOOK: INCLUDING FIELD GUIDE.Today’s guest is a fellow member of RWASD and the Beau Monde. Please welcome, Sally Orr who is celebrating her debut novel which released on November 4th!

I’ve gotten to know Sally over the last several years and love her wonderful sense of humor, so I wasn’t surprised when Deb Werksman from Sourcebooks took an interest in her manuscript that was a 2013 Golden Heart® finalist and the next two books in the series as well. Sally’s website describes her writing as “Romping Regency-Era Romance” — yup, a match well-made!

The Rake’s Handbook: Including Field Guide
by Sally Orr

ISBN: 978-1492602118
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Interview with Georgie Lee, Historical Romance Author

Cover for HERO'S REDEMPTION by Georgie LeePlease welcome Georgie Lee to the blog today to celebrate her recent release of her Regency novella, HERO’S REDEMPTION. I met Georgie through my local RWA San Diego chapter because we both had an interest in Regency Romance and she’s also a member of The Beau Monde chapter. If you can’t guess from her bio picture below, she’s a wonderfully animated person and a veritable whirlwind of energy when you get her going on topics she’s passionate about.

Hero’s Redemption
by Georgie Lee

eISBN: 9781426895913

Blurb:

London, 1817

Devon, the Earl of Malton, is a hero for his deeds at the Battle of Waterloo. But he suffers terrible nightmares, and drinks himself to sleep most nights. A habit he vows to break when he awakes one morning to find a woman sharing his bed, no memory of how she got there, and her angry brother at his door.

Cathleen is mortified when her wastrel brother and his greedy wife propose a blackmail scheme involving the earl, but as a penniless war widow she’s at their mercy. She goes along with the plan and sneaks into Devon’s bed one night, and ends up comforting him through a night terror.

Charmed by her beauty and kindness, Devon determines that rather than pay the blackmail, he will offer his hand in marriage to Cathleen. Although she is deeply attracted to the stoic earl, Cathleen cannot understand why Devon would want to marry her. What she doesn’t know is that Devon owes her a debt that can never fully be repaid…


Georgie’s a fan of many historical eras from Ancient Rome to the Golden Age of Hollywood, but let’s find out a bit more about her and why she writes in the Regency Era.

1. What drew you to writing Historical Romances in general and specifically to setting stories during the Regency Era?

I’m a history buff who loves many different eras from ancient Egypt to early America but I’ve always been drawn to British history. Jane Austen is responsible for leading me to focus on the Regency in my writing. I love Jane Austen because she captures the spirit of a very specific era with great insight, humor, wit and intelligence. Her characters are well-developed and with foibles, heartbreaks, challenges and triumphs that everyone can relate to. And, even after almost 200 years, Mr. Darcy is still very dishy.

2. What’s the strangest bit of historical trivia you’ve picked up in your research?

I’ve learned a lot of strange things, but one of the strangest is that the Sears catalogue used to sell morphine and a syringe, back when it was legal.

3. These next few questions assume that time travel is possible. I know you’ve written novels in several different time periods from Ancient Rome to Regency England to the Golden Age of Hollywood. Which era in time would you pick to visit?

Choosing just one time period is tough, but I have to pick ancient Egypt during the reign of Hatshepsut and Thutmose III. She was the most powerful female ruler in Egypt and they were co-rulers for some time. Once she died, Thutmose became one of Egypt’s greatest Pharaohs. It would be wonderful to see the dynamics that made her reign possible, to watch her rise to power and to know why, so many years after her death, Thutmose decided to remove her from the historical record. Also, I’d love to know more about the ancient Egyptian’s daily lives. Although we know a great deal about their funerary practices, very little is known about their daily lives. I would love to see the court of Pharaoh, to see how he and the noble women spent their days.

4. What modern conveniences would you miss most? What would you miss least?

The modern convenience I would miss the most is modern medicine. The one thing I would miss the least is TV. I just don’t watch it as much as I used to.

5. What would be the hardest for you to adapt to in the Regency Era?

The lack of plumbing and bathrooms. I really like running water and flushing toilets. It is so convenient.

6. Where would you fit into the society?

Oh, I would definitely fit in right at the top, maybe not as Queen, but definitely as a Duchess (hey, this is all make-believe so why not aim high, right?)

7. How long have you been writing? What advice would you go back and give yourself as a beginning novelist if you could? Would this advice differ from what you’d say to an aspiring author now?

I grew up writing many different things including poetry, short stories and screenplays. I wrote a short story for a contest in sixth grade. At the time, I was fascinated by Greek mythology so I created a myth about the Greek gods and the creation of the silver swan constellation. The story won first prize.

I began my professional writing career at a small cable TV station in San Diego where I wrote marketing videos and public service announcements. I’d always dreamed of being a screenwriter, so I moved to Los Angeles and earned my MA in screenwriting. Despite my best efforts, screenwriting success proved a little elusive (OK, a LOT elusive). I’d always read romance novels and so I thought to myself, heck, I can write a romance novel. So I did. The first draft wasn’t pretty, but I learned a lot during the revision process. That story went on to become Lady’s Wager, a Regency romance and my first published novel.

The best advice I would give myself as a beginning novelist is to learn to plot. I could have saved myself a lot of time if I’d forced myself to become a plotter sooner. The best advice I can give to aspiring authors now is to keep trying and don’t give up. There were many years where I was writing and nothing was being published and then all of a sudden, one day, all the hard work began to pay off. It’s a long term career so you can’t let setbacks make you give up.

8. I know you also love the Golden Age of Hollywood and even have a novel set there. Tell us a bit about your Hollywood experience and what are the biggest differences between writing for the screen and writing for novels that you’ve found?

Ah, the Hollywood experience. I have so many whacky stories from when I worked in La-La land, there isn’t a blog post long enough to write them all. However, I also have a lot of great stories too, like the time I accidentally met Enya, my favorite singer. It was the only time I’ve ever been star struck.

The biggest difference between writing for the screen and writing novels is detail. Screenplays don’t demand a lot of detail about setting, characters etc, so when I made the switch from screenwriting to novels, I had to learn to add details and not leave them out.

9. How do you balance your writing life and with being a wife and mom?

Making time to write is key and those writing times are usually first thing in the morning when the house is quiet and I am, for the most part, awake. I’m also an opportunistic writer and I will sneak in writing time during naps, quiet play and in the evening.

10. Are you reader? What are some of your favorites?

I am a voracious reader of non-fiction history. It’s where many of my ideas for historical romances come from and something I’ve always enjoyed. I have a large library of non-fiction books covering subjects from ancient Egypt to medicine, Regency England and classic Hollywood, to period costume and dance. There are very few topics or times periods that I am not interested in reading about.

I also read a lot of fiction, but when it comes to favorites, I lean towards classics authors such as Oscar Wilde for sharp witty dialogue, W. Somerset Maugham for great insight into characters and D.H. Lawrence for well-developed internal monologue.

11. What do you find to be the most challenging part of being a writer?

The most challenging part of being a writer is marketing. However, I am really good at walking up to strangers holding a Kindle and handing them a card for my book. I have done this numerous times, much to the embarrassment of the person I’m with.

Photo of Georgie Lee, Author


About the Author

A dedicated history and film buff, Georgie Lee loves combining her passion for Hollywood, history and storytelling through romantic fiction. She began writing professionally at a small TV station in San Diego before moving to Los Angeles to work in the interesting but strange world of the entertainment industry.

Her first novel, LADY’S WAGER, and her contemporary novella, ROCK ‘N ROLL REUNION are both available from Ellora’s Cave Blush. LABOR RELATIONS, a contemporary romance of Hollywood, and STUDIO RELATIONS, a love story set in 1935 Hollywood, are currently available from Montlake Romance. Her Regency novella, HERO’S REDEMPTION from Carina Press released on July 29, 2013, and her Regency novel, ENGAGEMENT OF CONVENIENCE is coming from Harlequin Historical on October 1, 2013.

When not writing, Georgie enjoys reading non-fiction history and watching any movie with a costume and an accent. Please visit www.georgie-lee.com or http://georgielee.blogspot.com for more information about Georgie and her novels. She can also be found on Facebook, GoodReads, and Twitter.

Buy HERO’S REDEMPTION: Amazon | Carina Press

Interview with Collette Cameron, Historical Romance Author

Cover for HIGHLANDER'S HOPE by Collette CameronPlease welcome Collette Cameron to the blog today to celebrate her imminent debut release, HIGHLANDER’S HOPE. I met Collette online through The Beau Monde chapter and chat with her regularly on twitter and Facebook.

I got a chance to read an ARC of this novel and I know you’re in for a special treat! This isn’t your typical Regency fare waltzing through the ballrooms of London, but it’s also not your usual Scottish Highlander novel filled with raids across the border and kidnapped London misses either. No, this plot takes your expectations and sets them on end through a mix of common Regency and Highland elements but with twists that pleasantly surprise. The author’s sense of humor shines through in descriptions, especially regarding the secondary characters, and in the dialogue. Yvette and Ewan’s HEA is satisfying and the tension of suspense is kept taut throughout as the heroine is chased from America, to London, to Scotland while the hero must unravel a spy ring.

If you enjoy Regency Romance romps or Historical Romance with light suspense, give this one a try! I’ll be sure to add buy links as soon as it’s available!

Highlander’s Hope
by Collette Cameron

ISBN 9781619351974

Blurb:

She was the heiress determined to never marry.

Shipping heiress Yvette Stapleton is wary of fortune hunting men and their false declarations of love. She’d rather become a spinster than imprisoned in the bonds of marriage. At first, she doesn’t recognize the dangerously handsome man who rescues her from assailants on London’s docks, but her reaction to Lord Sethwick’s passionate kisses soon have her reconsidering her cynical views on matrimony.

He was the nobleman who vowed to make her his own.

Not a day has gone by that Ewan McTavish, Lord Sethwick and Laird of Craiglocky, hasn’t dreamed of the sensual beauty he danced with two years ago; he’s determined to win her heart. On a mission to stop a War Office traitor, he unwittingly draws Yvette into deadly international intrigue. To protect her, he exploits Scottish Canon law to declare her his lawful wife—without benefit of a ceremony. Yvette is furious upon discovering the irregular marriage is legally binding, though she never said, “I do.”

Amidst murder and betrayal, Ewan attempts to win Yvette’s forgiveness. But is it too late? Has his manipulation cost him her love?

Excerpt: London Inn Scene

Ewan jolted awake. “Merde.”

He had fallen asleep with Yvette in his arms. Shooting a worried glance at the window, he recognized the first golden blush of daybreak sweeping across the hazy sky.

Sucking in a strangled breath, he grasped the inexperienced hand fondling him. Blast it. The towel had come loose while he slept, of course.

“Yvette,” he whispered as she showered kisses across his bare chest and neck. Grasping her roaming hands, he ensnared her in his embrace, and raised his voice. “Yvette, wake up.”

He gave her a gentle shake. Dark lashes trembled, rising to reveal drowsy eyes. A smile lit her face when her gaze met his. She lifted her hand, caressing his face, her fingers lingering on his scar before she raised herself up and kissed the mark. Caught up in the powerful spell, he almost forgot himself. He fought the urge to throw reason to the wind and kiss her with all the desire he was holding in check. “Yvette. . .”

Ewan knew the moment she awoke. He felt her stiffen in his arms and heard her small cry of shocked dismay. She pressed at his chest with both hands. He released her and watched her scramble across the bed. She stopped in the middle, facing him. Her hair swirled around her, settling in shimmering waves about her hips.

Dawn’s glow lit the room. He could see her expressions. Shock—followed by confusion, then complete horror as she realized the full scope of her situation.


I hope you enjoyed that excerpt, but let’s find out a little bit more about Collette herself and her writing in the Regency Era.

1. What drew you to writing Historical Romances in general and specifically to setting stories during the Regency Era where English propriety clashes with Scottish brashness?

When I was 13, a friend gave me a Barbara Cartland Historical Romance to read. I fell in love with historicals, right then and there. I do enjoy other romance genres, but historicals appeal to the romantic and the historian in me. I’m a history buff and digging into the research for a historical is something I really enjoy.

Georgian, Regency, and Victorian are my favorite eras, (all those lords and ladies, you know) so when I decided to write a historical romance, I choose the Regency era. It was such a time of transition; strict propriety strove—ineffectively, I might add— to conceal an undercurrent of immorality and entitlement.

Highlanders are the epic heroes. A bit too unrefined for the Haute Ton, but, oh, do they add a delicious element in a romance.

2. What’s the strangest bit of historical trivia you’ve picked up in your research?

I found a Scot’s Canon Law that “covered” irregular marriages—those not performed by the church. In essence, you could declare you were married, or exchange vows, in front of anyone, and you were legally married.

That law came in quite handy when I was writing HIGHLANDER’S HOPE.

These next few questions assume that time travel is possible.

3. What modern conveniences would you miss most? What would you miss least?

Bathrooms! My hubby teases me because I don’t even like to go camping unless there is hot running water and electricity so I can style my hair.

I do not know how the elite could stand not bathing. I see paintings of the most extraordinary fashions, and I’m appalled that such an exquisite outfit was donned by a stink-meister.

Telephones too, though not so much for communication, but for emergencies. You know when the coach breaks down or your horse goes lame? Just dial the 1800s version of AAA.

What else?

Refrigerators and clean water.

Water wasn’t safe to drink (which is why so many cooks had a drinking problem) and food was hard to keep from spoiling. During my research I discovered that many of the thick, rich sauces favored during those eras was actually a means used to cover the taste of half-spoiled meat and fish.

4. What would be the hardest for you to adapt to in the Regency Era?

Lack of good hygiene and availability of fresh fruits and vegetables.

5. Where would you fit into the society? Where would you like to visit most?

I’m a teacher so most likely, I’d be a governess or an instructor at a school for young girls. Though perfectly respectable, neither position was enviable. Most women who filled those roles did so because they had no other recourse. There were very few jobs available for decent women, which is why the prostitution rate was so ghastly high.

I’ve been to London and Paris, but I’d love to go back. Right now, I’m trying to figure out a way to finagle a visit to Scotland. I have a six-book saga about highlanders in the planning stages, so a trip for research is a must, don’t you think?

6. How long have you been writing? What advice would you go back and give yourself as a beginning novelist if you could? Would this advice differ from what you’d say to an aspiring author now?

In February 2011, I plopped myself in front of my computer, on a whim really, and decided to write a romance novel. It took me six months—I taught the whole while—and when it was done, I realized I had only really begun. Two major rewrites, including cutting 73,000 words, and two title changes occurred before it was ready to submit.

I didn’t have critique partners for my first novel. I do now, and they make a huge difference in the revising and polishing of my work. I also hadn’t read any books on the craft or attended any workshops. I wasted a lot of time learning stuff after my manuscript was finished.

I think it is extremely important that a writer stay true to their own voice and creativity. Learn from others, but make sure your writing reflects you as the artist.

7. Your blog prominently features blue roses and you have a wonderful explanation with some gorgeous pictures there, but how did your series become the Blue Rose Series? Did you consciously set out to include them and build around that idea, or did your character(s) make the suggestion?

When I first dove into the whole publishing thing, everyone kept saying you need an author platform. A what?

You need to create your branding? My what?

I came up with the blue rose for my branding because my favorite color is cobalt blue, and anyone that knows me, knows I’m nuts about flowers. There are only two rooms in my house that don’t have floral wallpaper. I’ve pictures of flowers on my walls, and yes, I do have scads of flowers in my yard.

My dishes actually have a blue rose pattern so it was a natural transference to my author branding.

Now, as far as the Blue Rose Trilogy, I named the trilogy before I started writing it. My reasoning was as a new author, I needed a way for readers to identify me. Each of the books has multiple references to blue roses in them.

I’m actually thinking about having a blue rose contest after Highlander’s Hope releases and asking readers where blue roses are mentioned in the book.

Oh, I also have a really fun Blue Rose Romance page on Pinterest, in case anyone would like to take a peek.

8. Between writing and teaching, you manage to find time for a number of hobbies: amateur photography, bird watching, gardening, interior decorating, rock-hunting, and salmon fishing on the Columbia River. Not to mention three adult children, and five miniature dachshunds. How do you balance it all?

You know that thing called sleep? I don’t get much of it.

It’s all about prioritizing. What’s most important right at this moment?

Because I’m a substitute teacher, my teaching is more flexible. I also utilize my time really well. It helps that I’m a very organized and disciplined person. I don’ t spend as much time gardening, bird watching or fishing as I used to. My focus at present is launching my writing career.

9. Are you reader? What are some of your favorites?

I am a reader. I don’t know any authors that aren’t.

I don’t really have any favorites though. If a story appeals to me, I read it. I did name my daughter after Brianna in THE FLAME AND THE FLOWER by Kathleen Woodiwiss.

10. What is the most challenging part of being a writer?

I think the promo and marketing are what I find the most challenging. I’m not a natural at either, and both make me uncomfortable.

Also, developing a thick skin is a must. That comes with time, I think.

Not everyone is going to like my writing; I don’t like some books that I’ve read—yes, even some romances. I’ve not had any reviews yet, but I hope to respond with dignity and grace when poor reviews come in because, it’s inevitable, they will.

Photo of Collette Cameron, Author


About the Author

A life-long Oregonian, Collette Cameron was born and raised in a small town along the northern Oregon coast. Today she makes her home in a rural community, 30 minutes west of Portland. Her Victorian farmhouse sits on a one-acre certified wildlife habit, interspersed with a plethora of gardens: English, rose, butterfly, rock, water, and of course, vegetable.

A voracious reader of romance since her teens, she even named her daughter after a heroine in her favorite romance novel. An enthusiast of times gone by, and anything related to romance, she writes Historical Romance, with a dash of inspiration, a pinch of humor, and a liberal portion of suspense.

Having dabbled in interior decorating in her youth, Collette returned to school, graduating summa cum laude from Oregon State University, and went on to obtain her Master’s Degree in Teaching. She is member of Romance Writers of America, Rose City Romance Writers, The Beau Monde, and Love Faith and Hope, Inc., and a whole slew of other author/writer groups.

Some of Collette’s favorite things include unique blends of coffees and teas, trivia, Cadbury Milk Chocolate, inspirational quotes, and scented candles. Her Christian faith, husband, three adult children, and five miniature dachshunds round out her life quite nicely! When she’s not teaching or writing, she is a content and copy/line editor for an Ebook publisher, enjoys amateur photography, bird watching, gardening, interior decorating, rock-hunting, boating or fishing on the Columbia River, and reading of course.

To connect with Collette, please visit http://collettecameron.com/ or http://www.blueroseromance.com/. She can also be found on Facebook, Pinterest, Google+, Linkedin, Goodreads, Twitter, and the Soul Mate Publishing Author’s Blog.

Buy HIGHLANDER’S HOPE: Amazon

Another Interview with Historical Erotic Romance Author: Sorcha Mowbray

Cover for LOVE REDEEMED, by Sorcha MowbrayPlease welcome Sorcha Mowbray back to the blog today! We’re celebrating her upcoming release of LOVE REDEEMED, which will be available on November 27th from Decadent Publishing.

*** UPDATE: THE WINNER OF THE EBOOK
COPY OF LOVE REVEALED IS:
JEAN!!
CONGRATS! ***

Blurb:

Love Redeemed (Book 2, The Market Series)
by Sorcha Mowbray

Brennan Whitling wants for nothing but the love of a good woman. He has a close family, good friends, and a successful textiles import business. But, a beautiful and elusive young woman he has only seen from afar haunts him. Until a chance meeting leads to far more than dinner.

Serena Freemont has only ever known the life of a prostitute. When an invitation to dinner by a handsome gentleman provides her an opportunity to experience life as a young lady, it’s too tempting to pass up. Much like the man issuing it. After a night of passion she must disappear or face his reaction when the truth is revealed.

To find happiness Serena must shed her past long enough to realize she is worthy of a future. To win her heart, Brennan must show her the redemptive power of love.

Excerpt:

“Are you all right, Miss?”

For a moment, for this moment, she was a normal young woman experiencing the attentions of a handsome young man. Heat crept up her cheeks as he held her hatbox out, and the burning had nothing to do with the sun. “I-I— Yes, I am. Thank you.” His blue-gray eyes seemed to bore into her.

“I am so glad. I was sure you were a goner there for a moment.” He flashed a brilliant grin liquefying Serena’s insides instantly. “Please let me introduce myself. I’m Mr. Brennan Whitling of Whitling Textiles Importers and Wholesalers.”

“How do you do, Mr. Whitling?” Serena allowed her lips to curve up ever so slightly. “I am Miss Serena Freemont.”

“It is a pleasure. Might I interest you and your”—he glanced around the bustling street as his grin faded in confusion— “chaperone in a cup of tea?”

A wave of horror swept over Serena. Chaperone? Harlots did not require one of those. “Oh, Aunt Henrietta is in the bookstore, and I fear she will be in there a very long time. I am certain she won’t notice if we slip off for a quick spot of tea.”

“Excellent! There is a lovely little shop just up the street.” A beautiful smile spread across his face, causing her pulse to quicken.

He escorted her up the block where they stopped at a quaint little teashop. They settled in at a table and ordered a pot of tea.

“What has you on Bond Street today, Mr. Whitling?” They sat in semi privacy at the back of the shop.

“Oh, I was visiting some of my customers and taking new orders. I am very glad I was there to help you, and by virtue of said assistance make your acquaintance.” Did his already deep voice grow huskier? Their tea service arrived, dispelling the moment.

“As am I. Landing on my backside in the middle of the street would have been rather embarrassing. But in truth, thank you for your assistance today, and now the tea.” She lifted her freshly prepared cup to her lips and took a dainty sip from the delicate china. Through lowered lashes, she watched his graceful movements as he prepared his own.

“It is my pleasure on both accounts. You seem familiar to me. Have we met somewhere before? A ball perhaps?”

Gotta have it? You’ll be able to buy it from Decadent Publishing on Nov 27th!

If you missed my previous interview with Sorcha, you may want to read it first for some background and to see where some of these follow up questions came from. Don’t worry, we’ll wait for you to read it and then come back…

So, now that you’re all caught up, let’s put Sorcha back in the hot seat and grill her with some new questions!

1. Last time you visited, you mentioned you had a minor in history in college and that you loved doing research. What are some of your favorite research resources?

I don’t really have particular books I go to all the time. I use the web A LOT mostly because it’s so handy.

2. What’s the strangest question you’ve had to get answered in the name of research?

Oh definitely the questions about sex toys. It’s fascinating to consider how long they’ve been around and in use. Our modern civilization does not have the corner on the kinky market. LOL! For the series I needed to use a dildo and well, frankly some of the materials used in early dildos was downright terrifying. For example wood. All I can imagine when I think of wooden dildos is a really awful splinter in the wrong place. *shudders*

3. Do you plan to make use of your discovery of the Victorian’s fascination with tattoos in your Market series?

No. Strangely, I have not tattooed any of my characters in this series. Maybe in a future book, if I write any more set at The Market, or in another Victorian era series.

4. Where did you get the idea for The Market as a high class bordello? What was the biggest challenge in accurately portraying life in such an establishment and still managing to write the story you wanted?

I needed a brothel and I love naming things in kind of obvious ways at times. It is rather like a meat market, and I just kind of went…oh! I like it! Also, I guess I like the idea of writing a story (or series of stories) that makes prostitutes more accessible as people. Yes, they sell their bodies for money, but they are people too. They have hopes and dreams, and long to fall in love just like anyone else.

5. You said before, your favorite type of hero was an alpha. How is the hero in Love Redeemed different from your typical alpha hero?

Oh, he came scary close to being beta. I remember at one point as I was writing it wondering who the hell this guy was and how did he wander into my damn story! Then his alpha tendencies came to light and I breathed a lot easier. I guess he’s a kinder gentler alpha than I am used to writing and liking. And that was hard to get used to. I kept reading the book and thinking, everyone is going to hate this story. Eventually I got to a place where I felt better about Brennan as my hero and so did Serena. 🙂

6. How would you describe your heroines? Do they have similar traits that drew you to them? Would they get along well together or would they dislike each other?

I don’t think they would dislike each other, but I am not sure they would get along famously either. Kat is rather bookish, and while Serena is intelligent she is more street smart. I mean, she likes a good book too, but not so scientifically oriented. I think all the heroines I write are strong women. Maybe not always in a blatant way, but every one has a core of steel that helps them survive all the things I do to them.

7. Do you find there are any recurring themes in your books that you seem to keep coming back to?

No. In fact, Love Redeemed (book two of The Market Series) was surprisingly different from Love Revealed (book one). And book three is different yet again. I guess the one common theme is that love really can conquer all, but that is such a broad theme and really, it generally applies to the whole genre of romance.

8. I have to ask, and I’m sure people out there want to know as well, will we get to read Madame Marchander’s book at some point?

Ha! Of course you will. She’s book three and it is with the publisher right now for review. I have to say she was something of a challenge to write, but I will save that conversation for later.

9. What next? More stories set around The Market or something new?

I’m actually working on a post-apocalyptic m/m/f/m romance. It’s in the super early stages…plotting, writing a scene or two to get a feel for everyone, etc. I also have a second short story in the One Night With A Cowboy series I hope to get edited and released in the next few months. But, I am not anticipating anymore Market books for now. Doesn’t mean forever, but I need a break from writing historical for a bit.

10. Are you excited about reading an excerpt at the Lady Jane’s Salon San Diego in November?

I am! I always love to share my work with readers, and to have the opportunity to do it in person is pretty awesome. Let’s just hope I don’t blush too much as I read. I’m actually pretty shy about reading the sexy parts. I suppose I’ll get better at it as I do it more often. LOL!

Sorcha Mowbray - scorching the sheets one page at a time.Sorcha Mowbray is a mild mannered office worker by day… okay, so she is actually a mouthy, opinionated, take charge kind of gal who bosses everyone around; but she definitely works in an office. At night she writes romance so hot she sets the sheets on fire! Just ask her slightly singed husband.

She is a long time lover of historical romance, having grown up reading Johanna Lindsey and Judith McNaught. Then she discovered Thea Devine and Susan Johnson. Holy cow! Heroes and heroines could do THAT? From there, things devolved into trying her hand at writing a little smexy. Needless to say, she liked it and she hopes you do too!

Be sure to connect with Sorcha Mmowbray online:
Website | Twitter | Facebook | Pintrest | GoodReads | Kindlegraph
She’s also got more dates for her blog tour listed under EVENTS on her website.


Love Redeemed Blog Tour Banner
At each stop of the blog tour, Sorcha will give away a copy of Love Revealed (Book 1 of the series). At the end of the 11 day tour, a grand prize of a $25 All Romance eBooks (ARe) store gift card and one copy of her back list will be given away to one lucky winner.

Rules (Cause you know there have to be rules!)
1. Winners of the individual blog stops will not be eligible to win the grand prize
2. One comment per stop will be eligible for the drawings (so be sure to answer my questions!)
3. The contest is open internationally
4. Commenters must include a valid email so they can be contacted (Just in the form is fine, don’t have to share with the world!)
5. Any prize not claimed within 48 hrs will be subject to forfeiture and a new winner drawn

YOUR TURN: Sorcha asks, “Do you prefer alpha heroes, beta heroes, or some combination thereof?”

Interview with Regency Romance Author Valerie Bowman

Cover for Valerie Bowman's SECRETS OF A WEDDING NIGHTI originally met Valerie Bowman online through the Beau Monde’s RWA Chapter and Twitter. Then I got to meet her last Christmas while I was in Florida visiting family. Time just flew by as we sat in Starbucks chatting about writing and our experiences so far. It was great catching up with her at Nationals and watching the buzz and excitement grow as her release date approached.

So to celebrate her debut novel, SECRETS OF A WEDDING NIGHT, I’d like to welcome Valerie and thank her for taking the time to answer some questions. I hope you guys find her answers as interesting and informative as I did.

AND we’ll be doing a giveaway! One random commenter today will receive a copy of SECRETS OF A WEDDING NIGHT!

*** UPDATE: THE WINNER OF THE COPY OF
VALERIE BOWMAN’S
SECRETS OF A WEDDING NIGHT IS:
MAY!!
CONGRATS! ***


1. What drew you to writing Historical Romances in general and specifically to setting stories during the Regency Era?

VB: I’ve been a life-long fan of historical romance and a total anglophile so when I decided to write a novel, there just wasn’t any question. Every romantic story in my head was based in the Regency. Despite the Napoleonic wars, it was such a time of fun and revelry. To me, it’s the perfect backdrop to stories of love and romance.

2. What’s the strangest bit of historical trivia you’ve picked up in your research?

VB: I’m not sure if it’s the strangest but one of my favorites (and I intend to write a blog post about the details of this for www.DashingDuchesses.com soon) is the fact that the Prince Regent himself married a woman, Maria Fitzherbert, and everyone knew it and was strangely ok with it, but she was Catholic so it wasn’t technically legal and so when he married Princess Caroline no one batted an eye. I just find that so crazy.

These next few questions assume that time travel is possible. And I know you were recently photographed by the New York Times as part of the Beau Monde’s soiree at the RWA National Conference in Regency garb, so I know you’d be able to handle dressing the part. So, if you could go back to Regency England…

3. What modern conveniences would you miss most? What would you miss least?

VB: Oh, what a fun question! Without a moment’s hesitation I have to say I’d miss air conditioning the most. I grew up in Illinois in a home without it, but now that I live in Florida, I’m strangely addicted to it.

4. What would be the hardest for you to adapt to in the Regency Era?

VB: The hardest thing to take would be assuming without question that men have all the knowledge, power, and rights and that women are weak and need to be taken care of. I’m pretty sure they’d kick me out of Regency England. Hopefully not before I asked a lot of questions and learned a lot though. : )

5. Where would you fit into the society? Where would you like to visit most?

VB: Wouldn’t we all like to be duchesses? But given my family name, Bowman, I’d probably be working class. And life was absolutely awful for those poor people. That’s why all the stories are about the nobility. No one wants to write about the scullery maid who spent twelve hours a day scrubbing kitchen utensils in the basement and cleaning out chamber pots. I’d most like to visit Bath (I’ve been there, but to see it during the Regency would be such a treat).

6. How long have you been writing? What advice would you go back and give yourself as a beginning novelist if you could? Would this advice differ from what you’d say to an aspiring author now?

VB: I’ve been writing since June 3, 2007. Yes. I remember the exact day. : ) If I could go back, I’d tell myself to come up with a better “hook” for that first novel and the second one, frankly. It wasn’t until I’d written two that I realized that just writing the same old story about a girl falling in love with her brother’s best friend wasn’t going to get the attention of agents and editors. I’d definitely give an aspiring author now that same advice. I’d also add to write to the market. I’ve had so many friends who are writing American Civil War historicals or other time periods that don’t tend to sell well. It’s difficult enough to break into publishing but if you’re writing a story that’s not popular in the marketplace, you’re upping the odds against yourself just that much. Of course that assumes that your goal is to be published by certain houses and that you’d rather be well-published than write the book of your heart. If those things aren’t true, then ignore that advice completely. : )

7. Which character (Lily or Devon) or which situation came to you first that made you realize you had to write Secrets of a Wedding Night?

VB: The truth is, what came to me first was the title itself. I’m pretty sure I thought of it in the middle of the night. Isn’t that always when the best ideas strike? I came up with the title and THEN I worried about the plot later. I just thought it was such an intriguing title. Soon after I realized SECRETS OF A WEDDING NIGHT was going to be the title of a very scandalous pamphlet that was selling like hotcakes about the <em>ton</em>.

8. You recently became engaged (betrothed?) and are planning a wedding of your own, any secrets to share with us? Just kidding, what describes your perfect Romance Hero?

VB: Ha! I’ll never tell. (wink) My perfect hero is TDH (tall, dark, handsome), uber smart, compassionate, and a bit humorous. And he’s almost always tortured by his past. But aren’t they all? : )

9. Are you reader? What are some of your favorites?

Perhaps not surprisingly, I’m a huge fan of historical romance. All of Judith McNaught‘s historicals, anything written by Lisa Kleypas, Julia Quinn and Suzanne Enoch are some of my favorites but the list is too long, really. My all-time favorite romance novel, however, is McNaught’s Once and Always. Just absolute perfection as far as I’m concerned.

10. What is the most challenging part of being a writer?

The most challenging part is to make myself better, every word, every book, every story. I listen to workshops, read craft books, and study other authors’ techniques every chance I get. But I always know that my work is right for me because I can honestly say that if I won the lottery—and I mean the BIG one—I would still wake up every single morning and write romance novels. And that is a true gift, to know what your calling is in life. I’m so lucky to have found mine.


About the Author

Valerie Bowman writes Regency-set historical romance novels with a focus on sharp dialogue, engaging storylines, and heroines who take matters into their own hands! Publishers Weekly calls SECRETS OF A WEDDING NIGHT, an “enchanting, engaging debut that will have readers seeking future installments” and Romantic Times Book Reviews says, “This fast-paced, charming debut, sparkling with witty dialogue and engaging characters, marks Bowman for stardom.” Booklist gave it a starred review!

Valerie lives in Jacksonville, FL with her rascally dog, Roo. You can find Valerie on the web at www.ValerieBowmanBooks.com and on Facebook and on Twitter.

About SECRETS OF A WEDDING NIGHT

HOW TO STOP A WEDDING

Young, widowed, and penniless, Lily Andrews, the Countess of Merrill, has strong opinions on marriage. When she spots a certain engagement announcement in The Times, she decides to take action. She will not allow another hapless girl to fall prey to a man—particularly the scoundrel who broke her heart five years ago. Anonymously she writes and distributes a pamphlet entitled “Secrets of a Wedding Night,” knowing it will find its way into his intended’s innocent hands…

HOW TO SEDUCE A WIDOW

Devon Morgan, the Marquis of Colton, desires a good wife and mother to his son—someone completely unlike Lily Andrews, the heartless beauty who led him on a merry chase five years ago only to reject him. When Devon’s new fiancée cries off after reading a certain scandalous pamphlet, he vows to track down the author and make her pay. But when he learns it’s his former fiancée Lily, he issues a challenge: write a retraction—or prepare to be seduced—to find out how wonderful a wedding night can be…

Secrets of a Wedding Night is the most charming and clever debut I’ve read in years!”

—New York Times bestselling author Lisa Kleypas

Publication Date: Sep 25, 2012
St. Martin’s Press
ISBN-10: 1250008956
ISBN-13: 978-1250008954
Genre: Historical Romance, Regency Romance
Length: Novel

Buy SECRETS OF A WEDDING NIGHT: Amazon | Barnes and Noble | Books a Million


Your Turn: What would you include in such a pamphlet? What do you wish someone had told you to expect on your wedding night or if you’d like share a secret about your wedding night or your hopes for that night (PG-13 please!).

Don’t forget, one random commenter today will get a copy of SECRETS OF A WEDDING NIGHT.

Kissing Games at LuvYA Today!

A Guest Post on Kissing Games

I’m talking about the history of Kissing Games on Bria’s LuvYA blog today. This is part of the celebration of Bria Quinlan and Valerie Cole‘s Month of Kisses and Kiss-Offs.

A Contest to Enter

Bria and Valerie have planned a whole bunch of fun ways to lead up to their KISS / KISS-OFF CONTEST and I’m tickled pink to be asked to join in! I hope you’ll stop by and check out the contest too, which opens on August 31st!

Dara Young’s Inspiration for The Cancan Dancer & the Duke

Please welcome author Dara Young to the blog today. We’re celebrating her debut of THE CANCAN DANCER AND THE DUKE from The Wild Rose Press. I hope you all enjoy this story as much as I did!

Since I’m often talking about inspiration and motivation, Dara thought she’d share with us where she gets her inspiration from in general and what inspired her to write about a Cancan dancer and a Duke. Without further ado, here’s Dara!


Where do ideas come from? Well I get mine from all kinds of places. Work, people I know, movies, songs… there’s no one place I get inspiration from. I once sat in a meeting and out of nowhere a mental picture of a woman standing on a terrace of a ballroom under the stars came to me. I instantly wanted to know who she was, why she was there, and what was happening to her. That image turned into a scene that I wrote up and might eventually turn into a story.

Painting of Jane Avril, Dancing by Toulouse Lautrec
Jane Avril, Dancing by Toulouse Lautrec

THE CANCAN DANCER AND THE DUKE (Cancan) was inspired by real life. See, I was a dancer in high school. One of my teachers choreographed a ballet based on the life of Toulouse Lautrec. He is famous for his posters of the French dance hall girls, in particular the ladies of the Moulin Rouge. His posters, and those of other artists like him, were used originally as advertisements for the dance halls. They were posted around Paris to entice spectators to the establishments. In the ballet, I got to dance a very tame version of the cancan… OMG! I had no idea how cardio deficient I was until I started rehearsing that piece. LOL!

I fell in love with Lautrec’s art and of course the idea of the cancan dancers. Later after I started dabbling in writing I was struck by the idea behind Cancan. I love the idea of the headstrong lady trying to carve her own path despite society’s rules. Of course, there are always consequences. 😀

Cover art for The Cancan Dancer and the Duke by Dara Young

The Cancan Dancer and The Duke
by Dara Young

The Wild Rose Press

Can a lady on the lam and a duke on the make find love at the Moulin Rouge?

Cathedrals and museums are not Lady Charise Colton’s idea of European adventure. Turn-of-the-century Paris beckons, and she wants to grab it while she can…or rather, cancan. Flirting with fate and half of Paris, Charise eludes her chaperones and joins the cancan revue at the Moulin Rouge.

Ethan Greer, Duke of Lofton, is in Paris to settle some estate business. Chafing under his responsibilities, he discovers an enchanting distraction at the Moulin Rouge, a flirtatious dancer who stirs his lust and something more. He must have her—even if it means offering carte blanche.

Terrified of discovery, Charise tries to hold her persistent suitor at bay, though her heart has already surrendered. Will she lose him if he learns the truth, or is love enough to bind the cancan dancer and the duke?

Excerpt:

The singular sound was a soft whisper at first. The audience strained forward to catch even a note of the eerie melody carried on the fetid air of the cafe. As the song picked up, her voice grew stronger, the words more clear. Ethan relaxed into his seat and let the warm rich alto caress him. His body grew warm with the promises carried by the witch’s husky tones.

He remained unaware of anything in the room except the siren walking toward him. Each steady, unhurried step she took further drew him in. His gaze feasted on the curve of her hip, the swell of her breast. Ethan rode the knife’s edge between lust and propriety.

The song described, in lurid detail, two lovers in the throes of passion. Upon reaching him, the dancer propped the toe of her boot onto the edge of his seat—square between his thighs. The luscious creature presented impossibly sheer bloomers which hid everything and yet nothing, causing him to let out the breath he, until now, unknowingly held. His cock grew rigid, the uncomfortable throbbing causing him to shift. The desire to haul her into his arms and demonstrate every action she described with the most sensuous mouth he’d ever seen rode him hard. Her full lower lip begged for his kiss. Ethan wanted to see it slick and glowing pink from his attentions.

The wanton dancer continued to taunt him, but his good breeding won out. Forcing himself to stay seated, his fists balled and his jaw grew rigid with frustration, but his raging lusts remained leashed. The song ended, sending her into the nether regions of the cafe in a swirl of skirts.


Your Turn: We’re curious about what inspires you, be it books, people, music, whatever. What inspires you to be creative or just to get out of bed in the morning?

Thanks for stopping by to celebrate with Dara and remember to comment on each post during her blog tour for more chances to win! (Not sure what I’m talking about? Click here for more details.)

Be sure to add When In Paris to your shelf at GoodReads.

Where to find Dara Young around the web:
WebsiteFacebookGoodReadsKloutLady Jane’s Salon San Diego • LinkedIn • PintrestTwitlossTwitter