Ask Five with..... P.L. Parker!!!!

1. Tell us about your latest release.

"Riley's Journey" came out in print in October, 2007. "Riley's Journey" is a time travel novel, taking place during the Ice Age when Neanderthals and Cro-Magnon inhabited the earth together. The heroine is sent back in time, without her knowledge, to be the mate of a man sent back five years previously. It has hit the time travel best seller list on Amazon.com quite a few times and I am pretty excited about that. My first novel, "Fiona" was on TWRP's best seller list for quite some time and is also No. 1 on the current print sale list, as well as being No. 5 (as of earlier today) on the paranormal list for novels.

2. How long had you been writing before you sold your first story?


I haven't been writing that long. I started "Fiona" in March of 2006 and finished it in August, 2006 and contracted for publication with TWRP in late December 2006 or early January 2007. At the same time, I was writing "Riley's Journey" and I submitted "Riley's" in March 2007 and TWRP wanted that one as well. So in reality, I have been writing for just over 2 years.

3. So far, what has been the biggest thrill for you as an author?

The biggest thrill, of course, was logging onto my computer and seeing the acceptance from TWRP that they loved "Fiona" and wanted to publish it. Smaller thrills include seeing my first book, checking the internet and actually finding myself there, etc.

4. Which friends or authors have influenced you over the years, whether for their writing or for their friendship?

My husband who is also my best friend. I used to tell him these stories I made up and he kept telling me I needed to write them down and, finally, he took me out and bought a home computer and told me to get going. He is also my biggest fan and reads everything over and over to give his input. My sisters and parents are big on my list as well. Both my sisters read the finished product and do the first editing for me.

5. Finally, what is coming up next for you?

Actually I have two that I just signed contracts for with The Wild Rose Press, "Aimee's Locket" which was originally for the Faery Rose line but will come out as a Cactus Rose, and "Heart of the Sorcerer," a short story. "Aimee's Locket" is a time travel and the heroine ends up in St. Louis, Missouri, in 1847 at the start of the Oregon Trail. "Heart of the Sorcerer" centers on a portrait hanging above the mantle that draws the heroine back to her beginnings. As I said, I have signed contracts but this only happened two weeks ago so it will be some time before either of them actually hit the new releases list I expect. I am currently writing a vampire book, and it is going very well. I have had a lot of people ask about a sequel to "Riley's Journey." Though I never really looked at it having a sequel, enough interest in it has prompted me to start mentally working out the logistics for the continuing story.


You can purchase P.L. Parker's books by clicking here.

Learn more about her by visiting her website at PLParker.com

Spotlight Review: SHAMELESS by Tori Carrington

SHAMELESS – Tori Carrington
Harlequin Blaze #377
ISBN (13): 978-0-373-79381-5
ISBN (10): 0-373-79381-2
February 2008
Contemporary Series Romance
Fantasy, Michigan ~ Present Day

Nina Leonard has a reputation of dating a man for six months, then breaking up with him and being celibate for the next six months. Well, that cycle of getting involved is now about to start again, and her two best friends, Kevin Weber and Patrick Gauge (and her fellow co-owners of a business), are bemoaning that fact. All Nina wants to do is get laid and figures that once her “itch” has been satisfied, she’ll be set for the next six months. The question of who the man will be pops up -- and before Nina can take a breath, Kevin and Gauge are proposing that they be her mystery lover.

As shocking as the offer seems, Nina agrees. She cares for both of her friends, but is afraid of changing their relationship. Anonymous sex means she doesn’t know which one provided it; her “problem” is solved, and so the night of illicit sex transpires. It’s wickedly hot, fulfilling Nina’s every fantasy. But a funny thing happens -- she wants more of it, and neither man will tell her who her secret lover was. Oh, the audacity of men!

Once again, Tori Carrington has pushed the boundaries of category romance by penning a story that’s guaranteed to singe your fingers. Nina’s attitude of “sex with no commitment” is beginning to wear everyone down, including Nina. Although she sees her relationship with Gauge and Kevin as more brotherly than romantic, she has wondered what it would be like to have sex with them. As she decides, she has her little fantasies involving them, but reality proves to be better! Afterwards, she drives herself, Kevin, and Gauge batty trying to get one of them to admit who was the one to bring her to several fantastic orgasms. Just when she thinks she knows the answer, and acts upon it, the truth comes out. Oh, my, what a collision course Nina, Gauge, and Kevin are on.

SHAMELESS is wickedly hot and totally entertaining right from the first page. While the premise of two guys, one woman isn’t new, the way Tori Carrington pens it means you’re in for a terrific treat. March yourself straight to the nearest bookstore and pick up your copy of SHAMELESS.

Patti Fischer

Surrender to the Highlander by Terri Brisbin!

Don't forget we are having a chat Wednesday night in the RRT Chat Room with Terri Brisbin! Chat begins at 9pm eastern time and there will be prizes given away: two $10 amazon gift certificates and Terri is throwing in a Scottish gift for each of those two winner also!!!

Just go to http://www.romrevtoday.com/ and click on RRT Chat to join the fun.

Hope to see you there! In the meantime, enjoy the review of Surrender to the Highlander by our own RRT Staff reviewer:

SURRENDER TO THE HIGHLANDER – Terri Brisbin
Harlequin Historical #886
ISBN: 978-0-373-29486-2
February 2008
Historical Romance
Scotland – 1356

At one time, Rurik Erengislsson, an exiled warrior from the Northlands, only wanted his powerful father’s approval and a place in his home. But as a bastard, Rurik and his mother were easily forsaken, and Rurik left the north and made a home for himself in Scotland with his mother’s family, the Clan MacLerie. Now, his father, who has ascended to the high position of Earl of the Orkneys and rules over the Orkneys and lands in Sweden and Norway, wants Rurik to return and take over control of his lands in Sweden.

Rurik will no doubt miss his clan, but he cannot deny his heart’s desire, and so he begins his journey north with high expectations. Yet a delay in the form of one young woman soon has him frustrated. Rurik is not the only exile being called home. The daughter of his father’s most trusted advisor has lived at a Scottish convent for the past ten years, and Rurik is assigned the task of escorting her home. However, Margriet Gunnarsdottir is not what Rurik anticipated. She is not the young girl he envisioned; she is unwilling to return to her father, and she is a nun. What’s more, Rurik is highly attracted to her. He must find a way to temper his unholy desire for her, but as their journey progresses, he only becomes more captivated with Margriet until he begins to question what it is his heart truly wants.

Margriet carries a deep secret that makes a reunion with her father one that she dreads. However, there is no doubt Rurik will deliver her. He is a strong and honorable warrior and as she learns more about him, Margriet wishes they had met at another time before the circumstances in her life grew dire. She is also regretting her impetuous decision to masquerade as a nun. With Rurik, she longs to shed her disguise and trust him with all her secrets, but to do so would risk his scorn as well as her heart.

SURRENDER TO THE HIGHLANDER is a seductive, vivid love story between a sexy hero and a strong heroine. Rurik and Margriet are so well depicted and their circumstances are so sympathetic that readers are immediately caught up in their journey, both the figurative one and the literal one. Rurik’s predicament over his feelings for a “nun” is an interesting trial for a hero and one that creates all sorts of turmoil for Rurik and Margriet. The sexual tension runs high between the two, but both are desperate to repress it. This adds to the inner burdens that they already carry. Rurik is struggling to find his place with his family and Margriet’s secret is huge, one that could cost her much. Her plight is particularly poignant, pulling at the heartstrings so much so that readers cannot help but care for her.

Rurik and Margriet are, in effect, star-crossed lovers with seemingly insurmountable obstacles hindering their way to happily ever after. This, however, makes for a highly emotional tale that is vastly entertaining. It’s rich in historical detail, laced with the perfect amount of passion, and enhanced with intrigue coming from Rurik’s crafty but villainous half-brother. Thorfinn’s devious scheming leads all the players to a climactic moment in the book when Margriet’s secret is revealed, Rurik’s loyalties are tested, and agonizing choices are made.

Ms. Brisbin continually delivers highly satisfying romances and SURRENDER TO THE HIGHLANDER is another winning effort from her; don’t miss it.

Sandra Brill

Spotlight Review..and a contest! EROS ISLAND

See below for a contest to win EROS ISLAND!

EROS ISLAND - Lucinda Betts, Dawn Thompson, Devyn Quinn
Kensington Aphrodisia (Trade Paperback)
ISBN-10: 0-7582-2214-9
ISBN-13: 978-0-7582-2214-5
February 2008
Erotic Paranormal Anthology

Three of today’s hottest authors put their own sexy spin on tales in which gods and goddesses feature. If you like your stories a little different, a bit dangerous, and most of all, deliciously steamy, then this anthology was created just for you.

Centaur Heart - Lucinda Betts
Crete - Ancient times

Two men vie for the right to be Princess Akantha’s Champion. King Lycurgus is the sensible choice as an alliance with him should bring peace to her people, but then there’s Chiron, the King of the Centaurs. Chiron believes Lycurgus has an alliance with a god of death and destruction, and he’s determined to save Akantha or die trying. But Akantha has difficulty picturing a centaur as her consort. Can the Mother Goddess convince Akantha to follow the path to true love, or will chaos reign in Crete?

The Dream Well - Dawn Thompson
Land’s End and the Celtic Otherworld - The Past

Gar Trivelyan is lucky to make it to land after the ship he’s traveling on wrecks. Unfortunately, it appears as if his luck has run out, for if Gar’s wounds aren’t soon tended, death is sure to claim him. Stumbling upon a Celtic Dream Well, a thing Gar didn’t really believe existed, he makes a wish for healing. When a beautiful goddess rises out of the well and grants Gar his wish, she also gives him one more surprise, as it’s Samhain, she’s entitled to choose someone to sate her lust, and she’s chosen Gar. This could be a case of be careful what you wish for, or it could be the dream of a lifetime, only time will tell.

Thunderstruck - Devyn Quinn
Near Hartford, Connecticut and Mount Olympus - Present day

When Danicia Ryan, a talented sculptor, completes her latest piece, a statue of the Greek god Herakles, she should be satisfied, after all, it’s the most exquisite piece she’s ever done. But, creating the superb statue has cost Dani more than just two years of her life, it cost her a marriage as well. And when Herakles comes to life, ready, willing, and able to satisfy her most carnal desires, Dani has to wonder, has her creation absconded with her sanity as well? Can statues really come to life, or has an artist’s fevered dreams led her to believe that the impossible can become reality?


Gods and goddesses are, just like mortals, each unique individuals. Some are merciless, others seek only to give pleasure, beautiful, handsome, noble or sneaky, you never know what can happen when humans become embroiled with them. After reading these three fantastic tales, you may decide to run the other way if you ever stumble into a deity's path, or you might just be inspired to take the chance of a lifetime and follow wherever they lead. Don’t miss EROS ISLAND, a book where dreams come to life and your darkest fantasies are but a heartbeat away.

Lori Ann

Editors Note: Sadly Dawn Thompson passed way on February 2, 2008

***

Win a copy of EROS ISLAND by posting in this thread. Do you want this book? Why? I will draw a winner on SUNDAY night, March 2nd!

Chat Wednesday night with Terri Brisbin!!!!

Come chat Wednesday night (Feb 27th) in the Romance Reviews Today chat room with fabulous author TERRI BRISBIN as she talks to readers about her newest release from Harlequin SURRENDER TO THE HIGHLANDER

Chat begins at 9pm eastern time in the Romance Reviews Chat Room.

Just click the link and then RRT (if it does not automatically go there)

And, as an added bonus……

I’ll be giving away $10 Amazon egift certificates to TWO lucky winners!

Please join us for this exciting chat!

Ask Five with...Phyllis Campbell!!

Meet Phyllis Campbell, author of Danger in Her Arms, available now from The Wild Rose Press. The cover is gorgeous!


1. Tell us about your latest release.

Danger In Her Arms is my latest release.
I'm anxious to hear how readers feel about this story since it's my first romantic suspense. So far, I've received two great reviews. Long And Short Reviews, and one from Love Romances and More, which gave me 5-Hearts!! Here is the blurb:

Taylor Marshal and her daughter need protecting, yet the bodyguard assigned is the one man she fears the most.

Three years earlier, Taylor gave her heart and body to stranger. After a whirlwind affair of unbridled passion, her hopes were crushed when she finds out her lover, Cory Ross, is a hit man. When she witnesses him take another man’s life then watches her new found love fall from a cliff after being shot, her heart shatters. The only thing left to soothe Taylor’s broken soul is the little life growing inside her. The last thing she expects to find is Cory Ross alive – and back in her life as her own personal bodyguard.

Cory thought his luck had changed after his near death experience in the Bahamas. But when he looks into the eyes of the woman who he suspected had something to do with his accident, he realizes his new assignment to protect Taylor and her young daughter will be pure hell. But to fall in love all over again with Taylor Marshall will be sheer torture.

2.How long had you been writing before you sold your first story?

About six years, I believe. When I first started writing, I did it for fun and never in my wildest dreams thought I would be published. After about four years of writing like this, I finally decided to become serious. I met a woman who studied women's fiction and she was my mentor. Then I joined the Internet world and found crit groups. I've never looked back, and I enjoy working toward a better future!

3. So far, what has been the biggest thrill for you as an author?

Hearing other people say how much they've enjoyed my stories. It thrills me to no end to get a great review, but when I hear readers actually say they've read my book and love it... Yes, that makes writing worth every second of my time.

4. Which friends or authors have influenced you over the years, whether for their writing or for their friendship?

Too many to count. Although, if it wasn't for Kathleen E Woodiwiss's A Rose In Winter I would not have loved historical romance. After reading all of hers, I moved to another author, Judith McNaught. Then LaVryle Spencer. Then Johanna Lindsey. Yes, these are the authors I admired even before I started writing.

5. Finally, what is coming up next for you?

This is the first time since I sold my first story four years ago, that I don't have anything contracted for the months ahead. Currently, one of my books is with my publisher, The Wild Rose Press, for consideration, and if that gets taken, then I'll get a release date. But right now, I don't know how it's going... However, it is my goal this year to get my foot in the door with a big publisher. So I'm putting all my focus on that and won't give up until I get a contract. As we speak, three agents are looking over my American Historical, Spanish Eyes, and a big company is reading the full story of my historical, My Heart Belongs To You. I really feel this is going to be my year!

Learn more about Phyllis Campbell by visiting her website www.phyllismariecampbell.com

New Reviews Posted!

Romance Reviews Today,
Issue 54, Volume 3, February 20 2008

http://www.romrevtoday.com/

In this issue, we have 26 new reviews for your reading pleasure.

Don’t forget to stop by the Contest page and enter the February drawing! Drawing will be held on February 29th and winners announced in the March 1st issue of RRT.

Visit the RRTBlog to see what Patti is up to – and what books she’s giving away. If you aren’t on the RRTChatters loop you’re missing out on some great conversations – and prizes.


Happy Reading!
Terrie Figueroa
Owner/Webmistress
Romance Reviews Today
RRTErotic

Anthologies
TEX APPEAL - K. Raye, A. Kent, C. Summers - Patti - Contemporary Romance

Contemporary Fiction
THE HISTORY OF LUCY'S LOVE LIFE IN TEN AND A HALF CHAPTERS - Deborah Wright - Jennifer
WHAT GOES AROUND - Susan Diamond - Sandra

Contemporary Romance
SATISFACTION - Marianne Stillings - Darling Detectives, Book 2 - Sinclair

Inspirational Reviews
BAYOU CORRUPTION - Robin Caroll - Deborah - Romantic Suspense
SUMMER OF JOY - Ann H. Gabhart - The Holyhill Series, Book 3 - Marilyn -Contemporary Fiction

Historical Fiction
ALL FOR LOVE - Amanda Elyot - The Scandalous Life and Times of Royal Mistress Mary Robinson - Jani

Historical Romance
SIR PHILIP ASHTON'S EYES - Sahara Kelly - Kate - Short Story

Mystery
TOO PRETTY TO DIE - Susan McBride - A Debutante Dropout Mystery - Terrie

Paranormal Fiction
MIDNIGHT REIGN - Chris Marie Green - Kathy

Paranormal Romance
BEAUDRY'S GHOST - Carolan Ivey - Courtney
DEMON NIGHT - MelJean Brook - The Guardians, Book 5 - Lori
LIKE A CHARM - Candace Havens - Charmed series, Book 4 - Terrie
PANDORA'S BOX - Natale Stenzel - Jane - Romantic Comedy
THUNDER MOON - Lori Handeland - A Nightcreature Novel, Book 7 - Sinclair

Regency
MISS QUINN'S QUANDARY - Shirley Marks - Jane
NEVER LET ME GO - Blaise Killgallan - Jane

Romantic Comedy
UNPREDICTABLE - Eileen Cook - Lisa

Romantic Suspense/Thrillers
ERRATIC - N.D. Hansen-Hill - Kathy - Fantasy
EXTREME DANGER - Shannon McKenna - Carolyn
SPY GAME - Sue Swift - Jennell

Series Romance
TAMING CLING WESTMORELAND - Brenda Jackson - Westmoreland Saga, Book 13 - Sinclair - SD #1850
THE TEXAN'S CONTESTED CLAIM - Peggy Moreland - A Piece of Texas, Book 6 - Nickole - SD # 1844

Time Travel Romance
MASTER OF THE HIGHLANDS - Veronica Wolff - Lisa
TRAIN TO YESTERDAY - Nell Duvall - Deborah
TUMBLING THROUGH TIME - Gwyn Cready - Deborah

For authors:
In this issue, you’ll find information on how to request a review, or find out if your book is on the review schedule. We’ve tightened our belts – in the hope that none of our reviewers goes blind - and have only about 100 slots per month for reviews – so get your requests in early.

If you want to request a review, or to find out if your book is already on our schedule email: terrie_figueroa@romrevtoday.com

If your book is not listed on the New Release Page, send and email to Chris (jrobe10689@aol.com) and ask her to add your book.

If you want to participate in our Monthly contest by donating prizes email: terrie_figueroa@romrevtoday.com

We are running a special on advertising – Beginning February 1 and running through June 30 – all advertising space is $10 if you BYOB (bring your own banner). If we design your banner, the price is $25 but includes the space as well as the design fee. (Normal cost is $25 for design only).

We have author spotlight space available in February, April, May & June. The cost is discounted to $150.00 and includes the author page & banner design. The normal cost is $185.00.

Banners available for your site http://romrevtoday.com/Web%20Pages/banners%20and%20buttons.htm

Spotlight Review: Kiss of Fire by Deborah Cooke

KISS OF FIRE – Deborah Cooke
A Dragonfire Novel
Signet Eclipse
ISBN-13: 978-0-451-22327-2
ISBN-10: 0-451-22327-6
February 2008
Paranormal Romance
Ann Arbor, Michigan – Present Day

When Sara Keegan loses her parents and her beloved Aunt Magda in quick succession, she decides it's time to reevaluate her life. She quits her accounting job, moves to Ann Arbor, and takes over her aunt’s New Age Bookstore. Sara is still adjusting to her new life; she was always a great team player, gaining much inspiration from collaboration with her co-workers. Aunt Magda, though much beloved, was the family psychic, and Sara is not sure she believes in the paranormal. Her well-ordered world is about to be tested. Dragons are in the world, and they are after Sara.

Quinn Tyrrell is a loner -- the way he prefers his life. He practices an almost lost craft as an art form; he is a blacksmith. He usually prefers not to be involved with people, but one night he finds himself rescuing a woman being attacked – by dragons! Who better to rescue the lovely Sara than a man who is a dragon shape-shifter himself, a Pyr? Quinn gets an unexpected surprise when he touches Sara; he feels the beginning of the firestorm -- meaning that Sara is his lifemate, something all dragons long for. Though Sara is grateful for the rescue, she does not believe in dragons or firestorms. Reality has a way of knocking you over the head when you least expect it. Sara has met the sexiest, most wonderful man; she might be crazy because she sees dragons and the ghost of her Aunt Magda -- what can happen next? How would she know, she isn’t a Seer, is she?

KISS OF FIRE is the first of a tantalizing new fantasy series by Claire Delacroix, a veteran author writing as Deborah Cooke. In a delicious twist on the usual man/woman personality conflicts, Sara is the down-to-earth numbers cruncher, Quinn the sensitive, loner artist. Sara has experienced a lot of loss; she understands Quinn without being tripped up by her emotions. She always looks for a solution to a problem, no matter how large or weird, something her father taught her. She is a little powerhouse who bowls the studly Quinn over without breaking a sweat. Quinn may want to protect her, but she is not about to be left out of the action. In the classic battle of good and evil, it’s better to have friends you can count on. Ms. Cooke creates a familiar world, and with the introduction of ghosts and dragonshifters, it becomes a new landscape. There are a few unexpected twists of the plot, as well as a lot of action, but it flows smoothly and logically. It was a pleasure to read. KISS OF FURY, the second book, comes out in August 2008 and KISS OF FATE, the third book, in February 2009.

Lisa Baca

A Perfect 10: IMMORTAL by Traci L. Slatton

IMMORTAL - Traci L. Slatton
A Perfect 10
Delta Trade Paperback
ISBN: 978-0-385-33974-2
February 2008
Historical Fiction
Florence, Italy - 1324 to approximately 1500

Luca Bastardo lives on the streets of Florence, stealing, begging, and hiding. Abandoned or kidnapped as a young child, the golden-haired boy only knows that he is different from the rest of the street urchins, for people have told him of a well-dressed lady who was frantically looking for her lost son years before. When he is betrayed by a boy he thought of as a friend, Luca finds himself in the clutches of Bernardo Silvano, owner of the most notorious brothel in the area. What happens to Luca, and the rest of the children that Silvano "buys" or "rescues" from the streets, is despicable and depraved, but Luca learns to shut out the horrors by thinking of the beautiful paintings and frescoes he's seen. Soon he comes to realize that he doesn't age like the rest of the children. Silvano holds the secret to Luca's past, and uses the threat of that knowledge to keep Luca bound to him.

One day Luca saves the lives of a Jewish man and his daughter, and the man tells him to come to him if he ever needs help. That point arrives on the day that Luca finally escapes from the brothel after twenty years of hell. But in his leaving, Luca makes a life-long enemy of the Silvano family. Luca flees to the relative obscurity of the Jewish quarter, where he lives with the kindly man he rescued. Taught to read and write, Luca's world opens to him. His meeting a mysterious alchemist will change how he deals with his future. Even at nearly thirty years old, Luca still looks no older than an adolescent, and he must be careful of the suspicious people who wonder why he hasn't aged. The alchemist tells him of the Cathars and how they differ from other Christians. Were his parents connected to this race? If so, how? And why was he abandoned?

Luca's search for his roots is the premise of this fascinating novel set during the Renaissance. During his long, turbulent, and eventful lifetime, Luca meets and befriends such luminaries as the artist Giotto, powerful politicians and bankers in the Medici family, and the brilliant, precocious Leonardo da Vinci, who, as a child, attaches himself to Luca, well aware that there is something incredibly fascinating about him. All along, Luca carries with him a dream of meeting a special woman, and he goes for decades searching for her. Will he find her?

Ms. Slatton's debut novel is an amazing, incredibly detailed account of the life of a man who could hold the secrets to religious history. A tortured soul, Luca manages to overcome the horrors of his life and learn to love when he is able, trust whom he can, and face an uncertain future, all the time hoping that someday he will learn about his origins. Historical details are wound through this intricate story. The research is impeccable; the characters, even the evil ones, will leap off the pages of this novel, demanding the reader's attention. Great dialogue and beautifully written, IMMORTAL should be on everyone's bookshelf. It's a remarkable story.

Jani Brooks

Drew another winner...........

Okay, Stacia did not contact me for her blog win of RIDING WILD, so I have chosen another winner...

It is..............JANE!


Congrats Jane. Please email me at pattifischer@yahoo.com with your name and mailng address. Thanks!

By the way, if you are looking for book giveaways, the RRT Chatters loop does book giveaways on occasion. I have one going on right now for Exotica by Eden Bradley. :) To join, click the link below:



Click to join RRTChatters

Ask Five with......MANDY M. ROTH!!!

Say a warm welcome to Mandy M. Roth!!!!

1. What is the title of your latest release and what’s it about?

Magnetic Attraction is the second book in the Droid Wars Series. It follows Dr. Conell Ballou and the feisty ship mechanic, Kiwi.

Blurb--

No matter how many light years you run, the past is never far behind.Tired of a life on the run, Kiwi has put down roots on a science vessel. She finds more than she bargained for in the form of cocksure, overachieving, too-sexy-for-his-own-good Dr. Conell Ballou. His arrogance is infuriating—which, strangely, makes her want him more.Since the tiny spitfire of a mechanic boarded his vessel, Conell hasn’t been able to focus on much of anything except her. Kiwi’s mere presence pulses through every synthetic and humanoid part of his body. And, unknown to both Kiwi and Conell, her past is entwined with his.But a deranged captain of the Vanos, the alien race from which they’re defending mankind, is still hunting for Kiwi. Against all the odds, Conell and Kiwi have a second chance at happiness—if the enemy doesn’t find them first.Warning, this title contains the following: explicit sex, graphic language, kick ass, strong-willed heroine, partially rebuilt sexy alpha males with bionics, who are bigger, stronger, faster and a hell of a lot harder to deal with.

2. Writing is sometimes a lonely occupation...how do you stay motivated?

I’m very driven so it’s more a matter of taking time out to stop and enjoy life than needing to stay motivated. My brain seems to be in a constant state of thinking about the next story angle, or the next line of dialogue I just can’t wait to get down on paper. I love my job but you’re right, it can be very lonely at times. I do my best to stay connected to people via the phone and the internet. Readers are fabulous and often take time out to drop me a line. That’s always welcome!

I have a group of friends that aren’t afraid to abduct me and drag me to the local coffee shop to assure I get out of my writing cave and blow the stink off. They’re settling for once a month now but I’m guessing they’ll riot soon enough and get twice a month out of me… that or just start showing up with the coffee which would mean I’d never have to get out of my pajamas again. LMAO!

3. Which authors have influenced you over the years, whether for their writing or for their friendship?

I cut my reading teeth on Anne Rice, Stephen King, Clive Barker, John Saul. Once I started in the industry I found myself falling in love with romance books. Authors like Jaci Burton, Lauren Dane, Melani Blazer, Shannon Stacey, Kimberly Kaye Terry, Jacquelyn Frank and so many I’ll forget to list, extended their hands to me and have been amazingly supportive and wonderful influences. Not to mention, I’m in total lust with their books. Last but certainly not least writing afforded me the opportunity to meet, work with and become extremely close friends with Michelle M Pillow. The friendship is totally selfish on the part of me… I’m close to her just to get first read rights to her next books. LOL. I’m kidding.


4. What’s the most interesting thing about you that very few people know?

It’s hard to come up with something that people don’t know about me. If I had to say one thing, I’d go with the fact I’m a great big science geek who loves everything to do with it. I can’t be sure but I think I write to be able to afford my reference book habit.

5. Finally...looking into the crystal ball, what is coming up in the near future for you?

Total world domination. Oh, crap… was looking at wrong crystal ball. Hmm, I hope that I’ll be able to keep doing what I love to do.

Be sure to visit Mandy's website to learn more!

Winner of RIDING WILD is....

***********STACIA******************

Please email me at pattifischer@yahoo.com with your name and mailing address within 48 hours. Congratulations!!!

Be sure to check out the RRT and RRT Erotic sites for your latest romance novel reading pleasure!

Chat Wednesday night at RWA Online!

Interrupting the blog to make an announcement:

Join RWA Online for a chat Wednesday night at 9pm est!


Join us this Wednesday night from 9pm to 11pm EST for our first ever Valentine's Day Party Chat. This is a holiday to celebrate love and since we're all lovers of romance, it's the holiday for us! There will be prizes, including a box of Godiva chocolates and a sterling silver pair of gemstone earrings! Get ready to party and chat with our author guests on Wednesday night! And a few of our author book doorprizes,We hope to see you there! Even if you can only join us for a few minutes, do try and drop in to support your chapter!


Marly and Jenna your friendly chat divas!

Click on RWA Online Chat Room to enter the chat

RRT poll winner is...........

RIDING WILD by Jaci Burton....

This means that I have this book up for grabs.

This is going to be a quick giveaway, so maybe a better chance to win? I will announce the winner Wednesday evening.

48 hours from now.

Tell me....do you want this book? Have you read Jaci Burton and if you, which of her books would you recommend a new reader start with?

Spotlight Review -- COSMIC SEX y Karen Kelley

COSMIC SEX – Karen Kelley
Kensington Brava
ISBN-10: 0-7582-1767-6
ISBN-13: 978-0-7582-1767-7
February 2008
Paranormal Romance
Texas – Present Day

Quite some time ago, Kia’s cousin Mala left the planet Nerak for Earth in search of Sheriff (from Debbie Does the Sheriff), and Kia expected her to return at some point. When she doesn’t, Kia decides to go looking for her in case Mala is stuck and can’t get home. Earth doesn’t turn out to be anything like Kia expects, but Nick Scericino is one good thing she doesn’t mind in the least.

When the gorgeous and totally out-of-place woman walks into the seedy bar during his stakeout, Detective Nick Scericino knows things are about to go south. Like clockwork, one of the scruffy customers decides she’s fair game, and before too long a brawl breaks out. Nick and Kia are at the heart of it, of course, but he quickly hustles her out of the way. Good Samaritan that he is, he offers her a place to stay, and when she offers a bit more, Nick is quite happy to oblige. Then she mentions she’s from another planet, which is a somewhat wilting experience.

Kia is thoroughly happy with the sex on earth, although it’s a bit disturbing how uncomfortable Earthlings are with nudity. Chocolate is her second favorite thing, along with clothing, puppies, and...but she can’t get distracted. She came to get her cousin and then they are both heading back to Nerak, no matter that there are so many things she’s beginning to love about this planet. Now, if she could only find Mala.

COSMIC SEX continues the often hilarious, but always sexy, hijinks from the women of the planet Nerak. Kia, a professed warrior and protector on her planet, though as they have no wars, disease, or men, I’m not sure who is being protected from what, follows her cousin’s path to Earth and almost immediately misses the mark, but it brings her to Nick. Nick has a soft heart and, as his partner would say, a soft head, but when there is a girl in need, especially a gorgeous one, what’s a man to do? Still, her protestations of being an alien are, on one hand, scary, and on the other, well, scary again. She’s either insane or an alien, neither of which Nick is too crazy about. Then again, the world almost moves when they have sex, which, in his mind, forgives most idiosyncrasies. As Nick introduces Kia to Earthly pleasures (not those, get your mind out of the gutter!), the fun starts as her reaction to them is out of this world and his to her is “I want more.”

There is a bit of a suspenseful side plot with some bumbling criminals looking for a big score with the thought that Nick and Kia are their ticket. It adds a touch of additional flavor to the story, but the focus really is on Nick and Kia’s burgeoning relationship. Add in a few cute animals, and the recipe for a fun-loving romance and COSMIC SEX is complete.

Kathy Samuels

Ask Five with....JENNY GARDINER!!!

I've been following Jenny's career since before she became famous of the winner of RT's Amercian Title contest last year. Now her winning book is out! Get to meet Jenny Gardiner!

What is the title of your latest release and what’s it about?

SLEEPING WITH WARD CLEAVER is the title of my debut novel, and here's what I call Ward in a nutshell (along with a lovely blurb from the wonderful Meg Cabot):
SLEEPING WITH WARD CLEAVER, Dorchester, 2008. The funny yet poignant story of a woman at a crossroads in life, who years earlier married a man who swept her off her feet, but now finds that her Mr. Right has evolved into Mr. Always Right, and the only sweeping going on in her life involves a broom and a dustpan. As her dreams collide with reality and the one that got away shows up trying to worm his way back into her heart, she must decide if her once charmed marriage is salvageable, and if so, how she's going to go about saving it.
A fun, sassy read! A cross between Erma Bombeck and Candace Bushnell, reading Jenny Gardiner is like sinking your teeth into a big frosted chocolate cupcake...you just want more.
-author Meg Cabot




What inspired you to write it?

I suppose a number of things. I've always liked to watch people, I love to observe, pay attention to what is going on in their lives and what motivates them. And I couldn't help but notice that so many women who I remember from their wedding days, so full of hope and optimism, had settled into more of a daily grind in their marriages--life, work, kids all get in the way of sustaining that level of positive emotions you experience when you first get married. We were starting to see marriages fail, which is always so sad.
And at the same time I was really interested to see how so many women became empowered as they approached middle-age. All of a sudden their kids are getting older and more self-sufficient. Many had left jobs behind to raise their kids, so found themselves in the position of having to reinvent themselves. Sometimes being forced to reinvent yourself is a really awesome gift, really. It forces you to explore what it is you want out of life, what it is you think is missing.
And at the same time I started noticing this difference with women and men at that point in life--while women seemed to be blossoming, men seemed to become more set in their ways. It's ripe for conflict, in that regard.
It made me think that many men really do become Ward Cleaver-like. And I don't know about you, but the idea of sleeping with Ward Cleaver isn't really so appealing LOL. Hence the title came to me, and with all of these musings swimming about my head, I started working on this idea, and the next thing you know I had a book!

What advice can you give aspiring writers?

The two things I think are so very important are to read as much as you can get your hands on. Try all sorts of genres, really try to expand your horizons. By reading other writing I think you become a better writer, you start to know what you prefer, the voice in which you'd be most comfortable writing.
The other thing that is so essential is to believe in yourself. It's a business that is fraught with rejection and unless you can have that driving reminder in your gut that you're worth it and your writing is worth it, it'll be awfully hard to stay in the game. I always remind myself of the many successful writers who met with loads of rejection before ever being published. Reading is so very subjective that it's not always easy to find an agent or editor who falls in love with your writing. It's kind of like falling in love with a person. You never think about how many men you passed by or who passed you by before you got married, but it's the same thing--it's all subjective.
So it's really important to remind yourself of why you're doing it --and you should be doing it because you love to write and because you believe in yourself.

Which authors or friends have influenced you over the years, whether for their writing or for their friendship?

I stumbled upon author Suzanne MacPherson a few years ago (I love her voice--her books are campy fun, sort of written in the style of a fun Cary Grant movie from the 40's) when I was first attempting to get my book published. Wow, was she a godsend. She asked to read my query, then wanted to read my partial, then emailed me in the middle of the night b/c she'd finished it and wanted more and I needed to send it to her ASAP! That was so awesome. From then on, she really helped to encourage me, was the person I could go to to moan and gripe when things felt so impossible. And she always reminded me that "the last woman standing wins the publishing contract!" Ironically that actually was the case with me, as this book won the Dorchester Publishing/RT American Title III contest!

Aside from Suz's fabulous help, I have forged wonderful friendships with the 5 women with whom I share a blog, The Debutante Ball. I was so lucky that the founder of this blog, Kristy Kiernan, chose me as one of the "debs" to take over the blog from the authors who launched it last year with their debut novels. With this group I am amongst five very talented, very bright, fun women with whom it's been an honor to share a blog--I urge you to check out their upcoming debuts. (and Kristy Kiernan is a terrific author, by the way).

Other authors to whom I owe a HUGE debt of gratitude include Meg Cabot, Jane Porter, Bev Katz Rosenbaum, Lauren Baratz Logsted, all successful authors who didn't need to do diddly squat for me but did because they are all class acts.

And as far as writers who influence my writing, there are so many it's hard to pick. I love Meg Cabot's voice, I love Lolly Winston, Sandra Kring, Rick Marin, Bob Flaherty, Edward Docx. There are loads of romance writers whose books I adore as well--far too many to list, but I know I will love whatever Jill Shalvis puts out. Julia London is terrific at building sexual tension, same with Sylvia Day. Many of the authors on Lori Foster's Yahoo loop and the Scamps & Vamps loop as well. I really need to start keeping a list of my favorite authors because I always forget the names off the top of my head!



Finally, what's coming up next for you?

I just finished a novel called MARY KATE GOES OVER THE FALLS, about a woman trapped in an abusive marriage who goes out to pick up her dry cleaning and instead picks up a handsome hitchhiker on the side of the highway. The lure of him reminds her of the lip of Niagara Falls, said to tempt people to jump into the falls. They embark on a road trip of self-discovery, destination: Niagara Falls. My agent should be shopping it pretty soon ;-)


Thank you so much Patti for having me here!


You can learn more about Jenny Gardiner by visiting her website at http://www.jennygardiner.net/

Come Chat!

Friday night I'll be hosting a chat in the RRT Chat Room...
Time is 9:30pm until...?

Click here to reach the chat room.

Will there be a prize given away? Guess you'll have to come to find out... :D


Thursday night come chat at RWA Online with Kate Pearce, Aphrodisia and Vigin Cheek author, who has TWO books out in February!!!

You can reach the RWA Online chat room by clicking here.

A Perfect 10: LIGHT OF THE MOON by Luanne Rice

LIGHT OF THE MOON - Luanne Rice
A Perfect 10
Bantam Hardcover
ISBN: 978-0-553-80511-6
February 2008
General Fiction
Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, Camargue, Southern France - The Present

Forty-three years ago while on vacation to see the wild white horses of the Camargue, Margaret Connolly knelt before a statue carved from black wood in a church dedicated to the three Maries and prayed for a child. The statue was that of Sarah, an Egyptian slave girl who legend claimed came to Gaul in AD 45 aboard a rudderless, sail less boat with Mary Magdalene, Mary Salome, the mother of apostles John and James, Mary Jacoby, sister to the Virgin, and Lazarus. Now Margaret's daughter Susannah has returned to Stes-Maries-de-la-Mer to honor her mother's dying wish that she visit the Camargue. The place where Margaret believed the Gypsies' Saint Sarah performed a miracle that allowed her to become pregnant after years of trying.

Susannah is still grieving and beset with guilt at not being at her mother's bedside when she died. Her work as a cultural anthropologist had taken her to Istanbul with her mother's encouragement to see the wondrous sights for both of them. No one knew how fast the cancer would take Margaret and that her mother would die while Susannah was on the flight home.

One-time journalist now ranch owner and trainer of the famous wild Camargue white horses for tourist rides, Grey Dempsey's life has been on hold since the night five years ago when his Gypsy wife ran away with her lover, leaving a devastated daughter behind. On that night, eight-year old Sari heard her mother leaving and ran to stop her. Maria pushed her grasping daughter away so hard Sari slammed against a wall. Still, Sari chased her mother, quickly running to the barn and mounting the mare Mystère. The car her mother was in had stopped down the road. Mystère nearly caught up, but the taillights suddenly diminished as the car again sped off. Sari hadn't seen the oncoming headlights until too late. Although Sari recovered from her physical injuries from that night, Grey knows both he and his daughter are trapped in the psychological damage done. Since her mother's abandonment Sari is color blind, living in a world of black, white and gray.

Author Luanne Rice places these haunted characters in the endlessly romantic setting of Southern France with its salt marsh plains, wild white horses and equally wild bulls, its Gypsies, saints, legends and miracles, and then performs magic. Grey saves Susannah from a dangerous encounter with wild bulls, and once the connection is made between them, life changes for everyone involved. Sari's plight wrenches Susannah's heart and she tries to help, but the teenage girl is terrified of losing her father, a realization that keeps Grey single. He is unwilling to commit to any new relationship if he thinks it will hurt his daughter.

There are memorable secondary characters and some interesting side trips. One to Marseilles and a cave with prehistoric art one can only enter by scuba diving, and another to a circus ranch near Las Vegas, Nevada. Each is described with an evocative vision. All these qualities add up to a Perfect 10. LIGHT OF THE MOON is a story about making choices and learning to live with them. I promise you won't regret reading LIGHT OF THE MOON.

Robin Lee

Sucker Bet winner and ... a poll!

The winner of SUCKER BET by Erin McCarthy is...........

Cathy -- the #17 (and last) poster!!!

Congratulations!!!!

Please email me at pattifischer@yahoo.com with your name and address so I can get it out to you.

Now, I want to call your attention to the little poll over on the left...Pick one...Sorry only one.... :)

It will close this coming Feb 11th and then I'll start a contest to WIN that winning book.

February Reviews Posted at Romance Reviews Today

Romance Reviews Today,
Issue 54, Volume 1, February 1 2008

http://www.romrevtoday.com/

In this issue, we have 35 new reviews for your reading pleasure. Yes, 35 – our reviewers have been busy. J

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE WINNERS IN THE JANUARY 2008 CONTEST

Matthew B. winner of KISS TOMORROW GOODBYE & AN AFFAIR BEFORE CHRISTMAS, and Colleen J. winner of LADY OF LIGHT AND SHADOWS & EDGE OF MIDNIGHT!

Don’t’ forget to stop by the Contest page and enter the February drawing!


Happy Reading!
Terrie Figueroa
Owner/Webmistress
Romance Reviews Today
RRTErotic


AnthologiesNEVER ON A SUNDAE - W. Markham, L. Messina, D. Brodsky - Jennifer - Chick Lit
WHAT YOU CAN'T SEE - A. Brennan, R. St. Claire, K. Tabke - Terrie - Paranormal Romantic Suspense

Contemporary Fiction
LIGHT OF THE MOON - Luanne Rice - A Perfect 10 - Robin
SKINNY DIPPING - Connie Brockway - Courtney
THE OPPOSITE OF LOVE - Julie Buxbaum - Astrid

Contemporary Romance
BETWEEN THE SHEETS - Robin Wells - Jennell
SLEEPING WITH WARD CLEAVER - Jenny Gardiner - Marilyn
WHAT LIES BETWEEN THEM - Jodi Lynn Copeland - Marilyn

Futuristic Romance
TIME TRANSIT - Kay Austin - Kathy

Historical Romance
EVERY NIGHT I'M YOURS - Christie Kelley - Jennifer
GUARDED HEART - Jennifer Blake - Lisa
IN THE HIGHLANDER'S BED - Cathy Maxwell - Sandra
MANGO SUMMER - Phoebe Conn - Terrie
ROSE ADAGIO - Sarah Richmond - Kimberly
SURRENDER TO THE HIGHLANDER - Terri Brisbin - Sandra - HH #886
THE BRIDE - Carolyn Davidson - Marilyn
THE GOVERNESS WEARS SCARLET - Sari Robins - Carolyn
THE NIGHT BEFORE THE WEDDING - Debra Mullins - Jane
THE PERILS OF PLEASURE - Julie Anne Long - Marilyn
THE PRIVATEER - Dawn MacTavish - Jane
THE SEDUCTION OF WIDOW McEWAN - Melissa Schroeder - Kate - Short
TO CATCH A HIGHLANDER - Karen Hawkins - MacLean Curse, Book 3 - Carolyn
TO PLEASURE A LADY - Nicole Jordan - The Courtship Wars, Book 1 - Kate

Mystery
THE SEDUCTION OF THE CRIMSON ROSE - Lauren Willig - Pink Carnation series, Book 4 - Jani – Historical

Paranormal Romance
A RUSH OF WINGS - Adrian Phoenix - Lori
COSMIC SEX - Karen Kelley - Kathy
NIGHT SEASON - Eileen Wilks - Lily Yu series, Book 4 - Courtney
THE LAST TWILIGHT - Marjorie M. Liu - Dirk and Steele series, Book 7 - Jennifer
VAMPIRES ARE FOREVER - Lynsay Sands - An Argeneau Novel, Book 8 - Terrie

Romantic Suspense/Thrillers
CUT THROAT - Sharon Sala - Sinclair
KILLING FEAR - Allison Brennan - Jane

Series Romance
SPENCER'S FORBIDDEN PASSION - Brenda Jackson - Westmoreland Family Saga, Book 12 - Sinclair - SD #1838
TEXAS BLUFF - Linda Warren - Texas Hold 'em Series - Marilyn - HSR #1470
THE DADDY DILEMMA - Karen Rose Smith - Dads in Progress series - Jane - SSE #1884

Suspense/Thrillers
BELOW THE SURFACE - Karen Harper - Diana


For authors:
In this issue, you’ll find information on how to request a review, or find out if your book is on the review schedule. We’ve tightened our belts – in the hope that none of our reviewers goes blind - and have only about 100 slots per month for reviews – so get your requests in early.

If you want to request a review, or to find out if your book is already on our schedule email: terrie_figueroa@romrevtoday.com

If your book is not listed on the New Release Page, send and email to Chris (jrobe10689@aol.com) and ask her to add your book.

If you want to participate in our Monthly contest by donating prizes email: terrie_figueroa@romrevtoday.com

We are running a special on advertising – Beginning February 1 and running through June 30 – all advertising space is $10 if you BYOB (bring your own banner). If we design your banner, the price is $25 but includes the space as well as the design fee. (Normal cost is $25 for design only).

We have author spotlight space available in February, April, May & June. The cost is discounted to $150.00 and includes the author page & banner design. The normal cost is $185.00.

Banners available for your site http://romrevtoday.com/Web%20Pages/banners%20and%20buttons.htm