b2b: Hello Kieran and welcome to b2b! Before I begin this interview, I want to thank you personally for pointing me to Ashley March and Romance Biggest Winner. I’m so lucky to be taking this journey with her and many of my fellow bloggers, book reviewers and some of the authors she assembled. To find out about what I’m talking about, click here.

b2b: So, Lady K. how’s your summer going? How does your typical writing day begin? What gets your creative juices flowing? If you have any tips to help other aspiring new authors out there, please SPILL!

KK: My summer’s going great! Thanks for asking! I hope you’re enjoying your RBW challenge. I admire all of you making that commitment to good health. It’s a daunting thing to take on, but exciting, too! When you’re on a team, it’s awesome to be able to lean on the others to get you through the rough spots. I can’t wait to hear about your progress!

Meanwhile, I’m changing things up myself. So first let me briefly tell you My Old Way of writing before I go on to my New Way.

Old Way: I’ve always written books sitting down. And I’d write when I could squeeze in the time. Both of those are the kiss of death for the selling, healthy writer! And those are big priorities for me—to sell and to maintain my health.

Now, I squeeze in the rest of my life around writing, with the exception of family…they always come first—but not 24/7, the way it used to be, LOL! Now I designate a block of time *just for me to write* unless someone’s having an emergency.

But I’d have to say the biggest change in my writing life is that I’m writing on a treadmill desk. I tried this about five years ago on another treadmill I had—I got the idea from the gorgeous, prolific, and immensely talented Stephanie Bond. I rigged a table between the rails of my treadmill and bungee corded it in place, but it wasn’t that great a set-up. It was unsteady, so I quit after no time.

Fast forward to now, when I’m fifteen pounds heavier. Part of that gain was the usual thing…as I age and lose muscle mass, it’s easier to gain.  I was doing nothing to correct that—no weight-bearing exercises at all. And hardly any cardio (walking with my friend and my dog was it). But exacerbating my downward spiral health-wise was my sedentary lifestyle as a writer. 

After I finished my first contract, I did a lot of reflection about how I could have improved the experience, the old “Lessons Learned” assessment we all should go through after completing a major project. I made the decision that I have to commit to this treadmill, no matter what. I told myself, “My health is too important to me. I simply will not give myself another choice. I either write on the treadmill–or not at all.”

How did I get my treadmill to become a desk? My dad took his old treadmill out of his barn (my previous one had bitten the dust) and he attached a very sturdy plywood desk on top. It’s not pretty—it’s practical. I now do all my surfing of the net, answering emails, checking Facebook and Twitter–and most importantly, writing my novels–on the treadmill.

I walk slowly so I can write at the same time (I go between 1.8 and 2.2 mph), but to make it really work for me, I set myself on a incline. I’m walking on a slight uphill slant for hours and hours and hours!!

It’s been truly freeing to be able to indulge my love of telling stories, my dedication to my professional writing life, and my commitment to health all in one place—my treadmill, which is set up adjacent to a large glass window with a ledge (which my cats like to occupy). They can’t keep away when I’m working, so I always have company. My dog isn’t fond of it, though. He stays away!

:>)

b2b: That sounds so cool! Maybe I should pitch that treadmill idea to my Boss! But he should buy me one of those; none of us are as handy as your dad. So, how’s the world of Romance treating you these days? I love all your novels, but Harry and Molly have a special place in my heart and I was thrilled for you when you got TWO nominations for RITA 2011, one for Regency Historical Romance and one for Best First Book. I was happy for the winners, Lauren Willig and Kaki Warner respectively, but boy; I brooded for couple-a-days…

KK:  Haha!!! You’re too kind (blushing) . I was very happy for those two talented ladies. I already felt like a winner, so I didn’t mind a bit not getting the final prize, although I do have one small regret…I was so fascinated by how much Meg Cabot looked like and acted like Tina Fey, I wanted to win so I could go up to the podium and say, “Who’s our MC? Meg Cabot or Tina Fey?”

It’s probably a good thing I lost—me and improv aren’t so good together, LOL!!!

b2b: Don’t say that, or you’re proving my DH right when he says chicks don’t have a sense of humor! You have now three published books and one more is coming up by the end of the year. Can you tell me briefly about all of them and what’s coming up for you in 2012? Which of those were the hardest and the easiest to write and which couple did you like the best?

KK: All four of the books make up a lighthearted Regency romance series called The Impossible Bachelors, from St. Martin’s Press. In WHEN HARRY MET MOLLY, the fun (and, of course, entirely fictional) premise is that the Prince Regent, an extraordinary hedonist, sets up a decadent wager among five elusive bachelors, one of whom will have to marry at the end of it. And that wager involves a sort of “beauty pageant” scenario among the men’s mistresses, one of whom is my virtuous heroine trapped in the contest situation. The remaining three books are the stories of the bachelors who got away…and the women who caught them!

The hardest to write was the second one…I had never taken editorial direction before, and having pretty much written in a vacuum previous to the contract (except for a few contests and brief foray into a critique group), I had a learning curve. But I don’t regret how I came up at all…my editor, Jennifer Enderlin, was the perfect person to be my mentor!!! She’s a generous, gifted editor and a wonderful human being. I feel incredibly blessed to be with her and St. Martin’s Press.

b2b: I’m sure you are, but I’m thinking they feel as much blessed as you do! I love History. Always have. Most of the time when I’m done with the book, I’d sit in front of the computer or before the ‘internets’ you’d find me in the Library, reading about the real times and places that book was referring to. Sometimes it’s more fascinating then the fiction I just finished reading. How do you do your research and do you like doing it? If not, who does it for you?

KK: I do all my own research. I use the internet constantly. The best part about the internet is being able to talk to amazing sources. I’ve exchanged emails with whisky experts in Edinburgh, sheep breeders in Yorkshire, and many other people who’ve given me insight into all sorts of plot scenarios. I’m an avid reader, so I’m always reading when I’m not writing. I’ve got an extensive collection of books on all things Regency.

b2b: That sounds like so much fun! But if you EVER find yourself in a need of a ’research assistant’, I’m here! Do you let someone read your work during your writing process? Who and why? Or do you wait ‘till it’s finished, then you let someone read it…and who?

KK: I’ve always done most of my writing alone. I tried a critique group and met some lovely writers, but the critiquing group model doesn’t suit me. I used to lose track of my own voice. These days, with my editor, I tend to show her the first 50 pages to get her take on things, even though she’s already seen the synopsis. That way, I can charge ahead knowing we’re both on the same page. And about critique groups, I remember how relieved I was when I heard Nora Roberts say she shows her work only to her editor—when it comes to critique groups, she said she doesn’t play well with others! That made me feel a lot better about myself and my needs as a writer. We’re all different, and it’s okay.

b2b: The intimate, explicit scenes in your books, how hard are they to write? Or are they hard, no pun intended, at all?

KK: Haha!! I never used to write explicit scenes…I wrote very sweet manuscripts (they still are—I can’t help it! It’s the way I am, the way I see the world). But I decided to give writing sex scenes a shot, and it turns out I really enjoy it! Sometimes I have family and friends joke around and say, “Let’s get some wine, and I’ll write those scenes for you.” Everyone, it seems, wants to give it a try. But I tell them that sex scenes are absolutely no different from any other scene in the book. You, as the writer, have to know what’s going on in the characters’ heads and how this scene will affect the relationship.  Sex scenes also reveal your voice as a writer as much—if not more—than the other scenes in the book. I love writing them and look forward to each and every one! :>)

b2b: And we love reading them, so more power to you in writing them! Cover Art in my humble opinion is really very important, and your covers are just gorgeous! I just wondered how much input are you allowed during this process.

KK: Thanks for the compliment, which I will pass on to Danielle in the Art Department at St. Martin’s Press! I love my covers, too. I asked that all my heroines in the Impossible Bachelors series look intelligent and fun, all at the same time. I think Danielle did a marvelous job fulfilling that wish. I also think the colors and tone of the covers, from the position of the characters’ bodies to the font of the title, stress that my books are romantic, lighthearted reads.

b2b: Well, you both have certainly done just that! I’m sure a lot of people have already asked you this one, but humor me. Your titles are unique to this genre, and I for one would like to know how in the world do you come up with them?

KK: I knew I wanted attention-grabbing titles, and I’ve always been a sort of maverick. I decided to throw my version of crazy fun into the Regency historical market—maybe I’d pick up interest from younger readers who’d never tried the genre–so in my proposal for a 4-book series, I came up with four titles based on movies, the first of which was WHEN HARRY MET MOLLY. We actually didn’t use the other three, but together Jennifer Enderlin and I came up with the rest, based on other pop culture references. I have to give Jen total credit for DUKES TO THE LEFT OF ME, PRINCES TO THE RIGHT and IF YOU GIVE A GIRL A VISCOUNT. We have a lot of fun brainstorming together!

b2b: I bet you do. It is very difficult for me to choose my favorite author or a book, but if I was put on a rack I’d be screaming from the top of my lungs ‘LAURA KINSALE and FLOWERS FROM THE STORM’! How about you? Are you willing to fess-up?

KK: You’re so funny–and so passionate about romance, both qualities I love about you!! If I were on that rack, I’d have to scream, “Mistress of Mellyn, by Victoria Holt!” It’s a Gothic, but the romantic tension was incredible!!! It was probably my first “grown-up” novel with a love story attached. As a young teen, I also fell in love with the love story between Laura and Almanzo in the Little House series. I cut my teeth on historical romance with LaVyrle Spencer. I still think she ranks at the very top when it comes to writing amazing love stories.

b2b: Can you believe I never read LaVyrle? I’m going to have to correct that. What do you like to read and what’s on your TBR now?

KK: Oh, my goodness. I read constantly, and often I read two or three books at a time, both fiction and non-fiction and in many genres. I just finished the HUNGER GAMES trilogy, which was simply astonishing and compelling. I couldn’t put the books down…read all three in a week. Right at this moment, I’m reading a truly wonderful book called A WOMAN’S BOOK OF STRENGTH, by Karen Andes. It’s old, but it’s a real inspiration for any woman who wants to become strong in all senses of the word, including physical, spiritual, emotional, and more! It’s helping me progress with my newfound dedication to getting some muscles on this weakling body! At the same time, literally switching off several times a day, I’m reading Mary Balogh’s A SECRET AFFAIR. I tend not to read nearly as much Regency as I did before I was published—Debbie Macomber told me she reads mainly out of her genre, too, which is why she likes Regencies, LOL!—but I’ve been with Mary Balogh since I was young, and she’s an exquisite storyteller, the master I aspire to be someday if I’m so fortunate to be blessed with her gifts (hey, God! That’s a request I’m putting in!)

b2b: OMG! Don’t even start me on Ms. Balogh! I just read her ‘The Secret Mistress’ and just loved it! I have yet to read a book by her that I didn’t love! Now, that ends up our ‘professional’ portion of this interview. Are you ready to get personal? Or are you going to chicken out on me?

KK: Bring it on!

b2b: Okay, Lady K. let’s get Personal: Why don’t you tell us a bit about yourself, something personal that you’d like us to know…anything that makes you comfortable…or not…like how many times did you fall in love? What’s your favorite meal of the day (food)? Flannels or Silk? Do you like to cook? What’s your favorite spot in the house? Cats or Dogs? Champagne or Beer?  Your favorite time of the year?

KK: I didn’t have my first boyfriend until I was a freshman in college. My next one was in college, too, a Scotsman who wore a kilt on special occasions! That was during my junior year at the University of Strathclyde in Glasgow.

My husband is two years younger than I am…he was one of my younger sister’s best friends in high school. I gave up my CIA career to be with him.

I love breakfast. If I could eat eggs, bacon, buttered toast, grits, and coffee with lots of cream and sugar every day, I would!

I am definitely a flannel girl. I know nothing of Victoria’s Secret. It’s truly pathetic. I feel like I’m an alien from another planet when I venture into that store. I think I need a sexy, silky, romantic lingerie makeover! My husband doesn’t care either way, he told me to tell you. He just takes off whatever I’m wearing…

Oh, he’s so good at saying the right things, isn’t he?!? <G>

I can’t choose between cats and dogs. I’m like the crazy girl on that viral cat video who cried when describing how much she loves cats to potential eHarmony dates. When I think about homeless cats—or dogs, for that matter—I get depressed and teary. I love cats and dogs so much, I can’t live without them in my house.

I love champagne AND beer. I do like red wine, but if I had a choice, champagne first, beer second (only if it’s served in a frosty glass), then red wine.

I do like to cook and think I’m really good at it, but my cooking time has been reduced drastically since I’ve gone under contract. Which isn’t a bad thing! Other family members are picking up the slack.

Plus, we’re changing what constitutes a meal. I know this sounds a little weird, , but for lunch today, I broke up a few leftover taco shells into chips, scooped up some leftover Busch’s baked beans onto them, and spooned some guacamole on top. In our family these days, we’re thinking, “Lighter, faster, simpler.” Simple, rustic, unprocessed peasant food, and not a lot of one thing—we’re mixing it up, dabbling, experimenting, making do!!

And now for one more personal thing…my late sister Megan was severely mentally and physically challenged, and I have a special place in my heart for those among us who are vulnerable in the way Megan was. I think of those people as angels among us, sent to remind the rest of us to be kind and loving…and to remember joy.

b2b: Wow, that last one just broke my heart. You said it. I think God gives us those Angels for just that purpose.

KK: I’d like to give away one signed copy of WHEN HARRY MET MOLLY and one signed copy of CLOUDY WITH A CHANCE OF MARRIAGE to two different commenters who tell us something that really matters personally to them. I love to get to know other writers and my awesome reader friends better!! Thanks so much for having me here today, Melanie, and I wish you and all your team amazing success on RBW!! XOXO

b2b: I’ll pass along your wishes to my RBW team ‘Pink Ladies’. We’re doing great and my first month ended by me dropping a total of EIGHT pounds and I’m so pumped up now!

Today’s guest author is Lila DiPasqua, who writes lush and sexy historical romance with a fairy tale twist.  In fact, she writes “Fiery Tales,” classic fairy tales cleverly reimagined into sensual and sophisticated romances.  The first in her Fiery Tales collection is Awakened by a Kiss, which retells Sleeping Beauty, Puss In Boots, and Little Red Riding Hood.  This debut collection got great reviews, including a 5 star review from The Romance Dish:

“Every now and then a debut author knocks my socks off with her first novel. . . AWAKENED BY A KISS is a magnificent debut!!!! …Purchase it right now!!!” — The Romance Dish

I have to tell you, I love the idea of taking classic fairy tales from our childhood and retelling them as sensual and romantic adult tales.  It’s one of those great high concepts that makes a writer think…damn, I wish I’d thought of that!

Here’s the book trailer for Awakened By A Kiss, which gives you a sense of what these stories are about.

Lila’s second collection of Fiery Tales is The Princess in His Bed, which got phenomenal reviews including this one from Publishers Weekly:   “Ripe with steamy affairs, these lusty stories are hot enough to warm the coldest winter night.”

Wow!  Or steam things up on a hot summer night too, eh?  Romance Junkies gave the collection a coveted 5 ribbon review:

“Lila DiPasqua weaves another sumptuous collection. The heroines are ladies in every way, the heroes just rakish enough to be adored… I recommend this to all adult fairytale lovers. – 5 RIBBONS!

For historical romance lovers, what could be more enticing than all those handsome princes from days gone by, coming back to life as sexy romance heroes between the pages of Lila’s books – fun!

Lila has a new book coming out in August. A Midnight Dance is a full-length historical romance, inspired by the tale of Cinderella.

Of all the fairy tales we know, Cinderella is perhaps the most romantic and just perfect for Lila’s unique talents.  Here’s the blurb:

Born into wealth, Sabine Laurent and her twin sister lived a life of luxury, their father’s prestigious theater frequented by royalty and aristocracy alike. And Sabine dreamed of her own prince charming—the devastatingly handsome Jules de Moutier.

That was before the loss of her sister and her family’s fall from grace—a disaster Sabine blames on the Moutier family. Now, with her father’s death, she’s inherited his sizable debt and the responsibility of caring for his spoiled long-time mistress and her two wastrel daughters. But with the help of Sabine’s eccentric friends—the balance of her father’s acting troupe—she plans to get very close to her old infatuation, seduce the rake—and make away with a fortune.

Resisting Jules’s skillful mouth and tantalizing touch is not as easy as Sabine supposed. And soon she must decide whether her desire for vengeance is greater than her desire for her one and only prince…

Doesn’t that sound great?  Jennifer Ashley, the acclaimed New York Times bestselling author of The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie would agree:

“A MIDNIGHT DANCE is a fun, spicy, historical romp that’s sure to delight! A lovely twist on the Cinderella fairy tale, with a deliciously dark hero and a heroine who’s more than a match for him.”— Jennifer Ashley, New York Times and USA Today bestselling author

A Midnight Dance is available for pre-order on Amazon, and at all your favorite booksellers.  You can find more info about the book, including an excerpt, on Lila’s website.  And while you’re on Lila’s website, be sure to check out her amazing contest for her upcoming blog tour and party.  And here’s another one of Lila’s interesting and totally fun twists – the blog party is being hosted by her husband, and will feature interviews with the husbands of romance writers, including mine!  Yes, DH will be appearing on Lila’s blog on July 21.  Mr. DiPasqua will also be hosting the husbands of Sophie Jordan, Kris Kennedy, Kate Noble, and Kieran Kramer, among many others.  The whole thing sounds like a riot, so you’d best get yourself over to Lila’s blog and check out the details.

Lila has very graciously donated a copy of A Midnight Dance, which I will give away to one person who stops by the blog today or tomorrow morning.  Just tell me what’s your favorite fairy tale, either as a child or as an adult.

Summary:

He’s always been a player.
Dashing Lord Harry Traemore is perfectly content to live out his days in the pursuit of pleasure. But when he’s named by the Prince Regent as one of society’s “Impossible Bachelors,” Harry is drafted into a ribald romantic wager. The rules of engagement are scandalously simple: The bachelor whose mistress wins the title of “Most Delectable Companion” gets to remain unmarried. Harry is utterly unconcerned about his status…until his latest lightskirt abandons him.

Who will win this game of love?
Enter Lady Molly Fairbanks. Harry’s childhood friend—actually, “foe” is more like it—is the most unlikely companion of all. She’s attractive but hot-headed, and in no mood for games. Besides, what could the self-indulgent Harry possibly know about what makes a woman delectable? It’s time for Molly to teach him a lesson once and for all…but will it lead to “happily ever after?”

Click cover for excerpt and more info!

Review:

After seeing how many authors graced the front and back covers of Kieran Kramer’s new debut spouting all kinds of praise and hearing all the hype about her, I had high hopes for her first book to blow me away. Sadly, though the book had it’s moments, and wasn’t horrible, it wasn’t near to what I expected after reading all that praise. This was a light, funny, quite fun, easy read that sometimes dragged and was also very implausible. My biggest problem? Lack of chemistry between the hero and heroine.

At the very start, it is made clear that Harry and his sister-in-law Molly are enemies. Now, I’m a sucker for a good hate-to-love story (think Pride and Prejudice) but the romance here just felt underdeveloped. I just couldn’t see what drew these two together, except for how much they couldn’t stand (and then eventually lusted) for each other. It was one more moment I hate you then next moment I want you sooo bad! As a result, I didn’t feel particularly drawn to them and wasn’t going over the moon when it seemed they couldn’t be together.

As a hero, Harry was just ok, though I didn’t particularly feel drawn to him, like I do with other heroes. He was a bit bland for me. I did like Molly alot though and found her feisty and sweet nature thoroughly irresistible!

The storyline was entertaining though and very fresh. I couldn’t wait to see what would come next in the competition for the Most Delectable Companion. I also enjoyed the secondary characters, exp the other mistresses Molly meets who (as one would expect) had very modern personalities and were not that lady like.

However, I couldn’t get over how Molly was able to be Harry’s fake mistress and yet go home, reputation untarnished. It wasn’t very well explained and ruined the good storyline slightly as I kept wondering how.

So overall, a fun, light read that’s something new in the romance genre but there was a lack of chemistry between the hero and heroine, which is a bummer as it might have been brilliant!

Sensuality Rating: Hot (Love scenes are long and explicit)

Verdict: A fun, fresh read but suffers from lack of chemistry and an implausible premise

Rating: 3 and a half out of 5 stars

The RWA National Conference is all about sharing. The most wonderful, warm, and accomplished collection of writers, editors, and agents get together and selflessly share their knowledge, talent, and connections. In keeping with that munificent spirit, I want to dedicate my first few blog entries to sharing what I learned at the conference. I would do it all at once, but the most important thing anyone at the conference will tell you is it’s all about writing the dang books. So I have promised myself to keep my blog entries short and my novel entries long.

Today I will cover the tips I received at the PRO Retreat:

The keynote address was given by Carolyn Pittis – SVP, Global Marketing Strategy and Operations, HarperCollins. She discussed the changing publishing industry (basically it’s still in flux and changing at the speed of light) and how the Internet is a powerful marketing tool that the savvy writer will embrace. She noted Gretchen Ruben, author of The Happiness Project, as a self-promoting powerhouse. Additionally, Ms. Pittis shared some book titles and websites of interest:

• Klout – a website that gives authors a way to measure how much market power they (or any other players) have in the market place.
• The Thank You Economy by Gary Vaynerchuk – a book about the power of social media, communities, and real people on your business and brand
• Publisher’s Lunch – a free blog from Michael Cader at Publisher’s Marketplace (note: the free version is the lean version – there is a more detailed version for members at a cost of approximately $20 a month)
• Digitalbookworld.com – an educational and networking resource regarding the digital publishing industry
• Peter Hildick-Smith – The Codex Group –codexgroup.net – a website used for author equity research
• Avon Impulse – A new Avon imprint; digital first

Ms. Pittis believes all authors should do/have/visit the following:

• A Facebook Fan Page
• Go out to other authors’ pages/websites and say “I love you” type stuff and they should do the same in return for you – give in order to get.
• Twitter
• Get consumer feedback
• Authonomy.com (HarperCollins) – a site where authors may post their writing and have it rated by fans. Those rated the highest will be read by editors at HarperCollins and possibly offered contracts.
• Watch what works for other authors
• If you choose to do self-publishing, do your homework.

Next up was Michelle Grajowski, 3 Seas Literary Agency (http://twitter.com/threeseaslit#), and Cathy McDavid (http://www.cathymcdavid.com/), author of several novels for Harlequin American and Dorchester. Their topic was the agent-author relationship. Here are their tips, along with questions authors should be asking themselves as they seek representation:

• What are your career plans/goals?
• How many books can you write a year?
• How do you want to work together/communicate with your agent?
• YOU are hiring the agent, not the other way around.
• NEVER be afraid of your agent.
• It is first and foremost a business relationship. Friendship is fine, too, but don’t lose sight of the business side of the relationship.
• Communication is vitally important.
• Is the agent knowledgeable of the current trends?
• When the agent and author disagree, the author should prevail (without being unreasonable). The relationship should feel good and never be toxic.

Michelle was asked what are the three top things she seeks in a brand new author. Her response:

• Professionalism
• Amazing, unique, strong story
• Networking and promotion

Lastly, both Michelle and Cathy emphasized the importance of not being negative. Don’t slam agents/editors, especially in public.

Next was a panel of four PAN authors, sharing their experience and ideas:

Manda Collins (How to Dance with a Duke, http://www.mandacollins.com):

• Hold out for the best deal you can get.

Renee Ryan (multi-published with Harlequin Love Inspired www.reneeryan.com)

• “Success is commitment without compromise.” (Will Smith)
• Persistence – if something doesn’t work, figure out why and fix it!
• Learn to critique your own writing.
• Love your craft.
• Act like a working writer before you become a published author – finish your manuscript, start another, and submit.

Vicki Lewis Thompson (NY Times best seller with over 100 books to her name http://www.vickilewisthompson.com/):

• You need a thick skin, plus a brave, true heart
• Be brave and keep trying
• Get the RIGHT agent
• Network and make friends

Kieran Kramer (When Harry Met Molly, www.kierankramerbooks.com):

• Love yourself. Love the little girl you were – open, happy, loved life.
• Know why you write – what do you want to say to the world?
• Find your own personal joy.

One last thing I got from the PRO Retreat, and I believe this came from Cherry Adair (multi-published NY Times bestselling author, http://cherryadair.com/) as she accepted her award for PRO Mentor of the Year: 80% of Americans say they want to write a novel. Of that 80%, only 5% actually try to do it. Of that 5%, only 2% actually finish a manuscript (I’m not sure if all of that 2% actually submit it to a publisher). But, wow, wasn’t that an inspirational piece of information? So for those of us who have finished our manuscript, congratulations! We are in elite company. For those of you who haven’t finished one yet, keep going! We can’t wait for you to join us!

Wow. See how long this entry turned out to be anyway? And that was just one session! Granted, it was a long one, lasting all afternoon. My next entries, focusing on workshops I attended, will be shorter. I promise!

I’m still trying to process the past week of my life. To say that it was revolutionary, a mountaintop experience, a turning point, is so clichéd, but nothing else really applies. RWA Nationals 2011 was the greatest event of my professional life, and I’m including both my day career as a lawyer and my writing life. The only things that surpass it are a few deeply personal experiences, like marrying the Lord of the Far Junior College and having my babies.

What was it? Was it the incredible workshops, where the best and brightest of the field gave me actual, “here’s how you do it” advice? Maybe the booksignings and photo-ops with people whose names have graced my keeper shelf for years? Or the chance to pitch to my dream editor, and to hear her say, “Send me the full”?

Oh, Gosh yes, RWA11 was all of those, and more. One of the few things I remember from the bleak hours I spent in FSU science classes those many years ago is a professor saying “the sum is greater than the parts thereof.” Still don’t know what that had to do with the subject of the class (physics, biology, chemistry, who knows?) But it describes the energy generated at the Marriott Marquis over the past week.

Still, there is one aspect of Nationals that stands out to me more than any other, and I believe it is what made everything else at the conference come together in such an overwhelming way. The camaraderie amongst RWA members is something wondrous to behold. There were people I had never met before who I now think of as close friends. There were people who are at the very top of this industry who were sitting in the bar and the restaurants at all hours, giving advice and a sympathetic ear to the rank newbies like myself. There were professionals sharing their knowledge just because they want to help others achieve their dreams. And that kind of collegiality is a rare and wonderful thing.

So, amongst the many memories of RWA, I will always cherish are these:

Two Yankees (from NY and NJ) who took me under their wings, threw me in a taxicab, and ate the most expensive soup ever with me at the Plaza, all because I needed to research a scene in my WIP. Jenn and Evangelina, I love you two, and I’ll never forget our O.I.A.B. and eating pizza and calamari under the stained glass at John’s with you!!!

Sitting next to a smiling woman at breakfast, and suddenly realizing that she wrote the fabulous book I’d been reading on the plane on the way up. I told her I was pitching that day, and she not only coached me on my pitch, but talked about an inspiration for another book. So when the editor asked “what ideas do you have for future books?” I was able to throw that one out there, and she asked for a paragraph on it along with the full for the one I pitched! Thank you, Kieran, for being so encouraging and helpful – maybe one day I’ll get to pay it forward!

Gushing like a crazy mad fangirl when I met one of my long-time favorite authors, and she not only didn’t look at me like I was a stalker, she had her assistant take our picture and gave me a “Mojo hug” for good luck on my pitch. Thank you, Jacquie – your Mojo is powerful!

Hearing that a friend had gotten an incredible 5 – yes, FIVE – requests from pitches! I know there where times when she was down and wondered why she kept on, but the answer is right there: because her stories are fabulous! Jillian, it is just a matter of time!

And of course, hanging in the hotel room, looking out at the lights of the big city and dreaming of the day we make it there, cause we can make it anywhere! Micki, it was the best – we have to do it again!!!

That’s enough, but that’s far from all. There are so many other people I want to mention: Vanessa, Vickie, Carolyn, Heather, Stephanie, Cyndi, Joye, Jamie – OMG, I know I’m leaving someone out, but I can’t list everyone who made the week one I will always treasure.

The only question is, how can I convince Hubs that I really have to go to Anaheim next year . . . .?

Back when I first started blogging, I kept coming across Sarah MacLean‘s name on a lot of other book blogs. The more time I spent on Goodreads, the more I noticed her books popping up on friends’ TBR lists. After reading so many rave reviews, I finally broke down and read her first adult romance “Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake” and promptly fell in love.

I hadn’t read any romance since I was a teenager. And even then, V.C. Andrews’ novels– what I mostly read- are more akin to  psychological terrorism than romance. (Not sure what I mean? Read My Sweet Audrina. It’s still giving me nightmares 10 years later).  After reading 2 of Sarah’s novels, I went on a bit of a romance kick. So I was completely overjoyed to hear she would be in Brooklyn the night after her newest book’s (“Eleven Scandals…”) release, with 2 other celebrated Regency romance novelists Kieran Kramer, and Maya Rodale.

I had never been to WORD in Greenpoint, Brooklyn before. But I’ll definitely be going back! It’s an incredibly cute little bookstore, and only about 15 minutes from my apartment. They host a lot of great events too, so next time an author I like is making an appearance, I won’t miss it!

The ladies of WORD had set up all kinds of fancy treats for the night’s guests. Champagne, scones, and clotted cream (which I had never tried!) were a total hit.

After a short time, a Q&A with all 3 authors began. I wish someone would have videotaped it! Sarah, Maya, and Kieran had the best chemistry of any group of authors I’ve ever encountered. They answered questions submitted over email, and told stories about deadlines, coming up with titles, and what lies in their future. Kieran especially had some crazy stories, about her time working for the CIA, and what a Scotsman *really* wears under his kilt! The entire audience was laughing throughout the night.

I was especially excited to learn that Sarah’s next series, a quartet, is about 4 scandalous men who start England’s first casino. Luckily, book one is out this December!

After the Q&A, the authors signed books and spoke to fans upstairs:

I’m so glad I got a chance to meet and talk with all three of these amazing women. Hearing the back stories behind the books, and the writing process was great! I feel like I learned a lot about what it takes to write a GOOD romance novel. Sarah, Maya and Kieran were so nice too! 

After getting my books signed and having a little chat, I got my photo taken with each author. Please pardon the crazy hair: next time it’s grossly humid, and I’m rushing to a book signing, I will look in a mirror before putting my hair in a bun! ; )

Me and Sarah.

Me and Maya.

Kieran and I.

My review of Eleven Scandals… should be up sometime in the next week. And I can’t wait to read Maya and Kieran’s newest books too. Thanks to all 3 author and WORD for such an amazing event!

Cloudy with a Chance of Marriage is the third book in her Impossible Bachelors series published by St. Martin’s Press. I am so proud of her and know this book will do well. So far, it’s my favorite. Of course I’ve said that about her other two books When Harry Met Molly and Princes to the Left of Me, Dukes to the Right. But I really mean it this time–Cloudy is my favorite. Although, I do love the pink cover of her next book If You Give a Girl a Viscount (release date Nov. 11, 2011).

The other big news, which I’m both humbled and grateful for, is that my newest manuscript Juliet’s Rogue is not just a current Golden Heart Finalist and a Marlene Finalist, but was just chosen as a 2011 Daphne Du Maurier finalist in the Single Title category.

The Daphne is presented by RWA’s Mystery/Suspense chapter, otherwise known as the Kiss of Death. But the best part is that the awards will be announced at their annual Death By Chocolate Party in New York City on Wednesday, June 29, 2011. Chocolate, champagne, and a new dress. A girl can’t ask for much more than that–other than a request for a full.

Tomorrow Kieran and I are off to the annual Washington, DC Romance Writers chapter retreat in Leesburg, VA. But first we’re headed to Kieran’s first book signing at Nora Roberts’ Turn the Page bookstore in Boonsboro, MD. It’s going to be a great weekend. Even if it’s still raining.

Sharon

Kieran’s upbeat, fun personality is reflected in her writing, and Regency England was never so much fun as under her playful pen.

The second book at the top of my TBR pile (well, Nook queue actually) is a debut from my Southern Magic chapter-mate Lexi George. Her book DEMON HUNTING IN DIXIE is a paranormal romance about a hard-edged no-nonsense demon hunter who meets his match in a spirited, sarcastic, small-town Alabama girl. Can’t you just see the sparks flying already?

I’ve been waiting a year for this book to come out. Lexi is a funny lady with a unique voice and lots of great little expressions that make me laugh. Paranormal isn’t my most-read subgenre, but I think demon hunters might just be my thing after this book!

What’s on your TBR pile?

I remember when WHEN HARRY MET MOLLY from came out last year. I immediately loved the title! Some of you may remember the movie “When Harry Met Sally” so of course when I read the title, it made it smile. But then, on the bad side, the title established certain expectations for my reading enjoyment. Lucky for me, the book lived up to my expectations.

From the back cover:

HE’S ALWAYS BEEN A PLAYER

Dashing Lord Harry Traemore is perfectly content to live out his days in the pursuit of pleasure. But when he’s name by the Prince Regent as one of society’s “Impossible Bachelors,” Harry is drafted into a ribald romantic wager. The rules of engagement are scandalously simple. The bachelor whose mistress wins the title of “Most Delectable Companion” gets to remain unmarried. Harry is utterly unconcerned about his status…until his latest lightskirt abandons him.

WHO WILL WIN THIS GAME OF LOVE?

Enter Lady Molly Fairbanks, Harry’s childhood friend–actually, “foe” is more like it–is the most unlikely companion of all. She’s attractive but hot-headed, and in mood for games. Besides, what could the self-indulgent Harry possible know about what makes a woman delectable? It’s time for Molly to teach him a lesson one and for all..but will it lead to “happily ever after”?

Poor Molly…on her way to Gretna Green to elope with the totally wrong man, she gets dumped when her “fiancé” runs off with Harry’s mistress leaving her stranded a long way from home with no way to get there.

Poor Harry…on his way to the “Most Delectable Companion” contest (at his father’s hunting box…without his father’s permission!) is left high and dry by his mistress when she runs off with Molly’s fop of a fiancé, leaving Harry stranded without a mistress for the contest and no time to get another.

Molly may be the most unlikely candidate to enter into a mistress contest, but what choice does he has? If he loses this contest, he’ll be forced to marry Anne Riordan, the woman chosen by the “club” as the woman th loses has to marry. (To be honest, I really felt for Anne. She isn’t a bad woman, and wouldn’t be a bad wife for any of these guys but OMG…I would not have wanted to be in her shoes. However, I cheered for her at the end. That’s all I say…you’ll have to read this to see how Anne handles this awkward situation.)

Molly will be ruined if it is discovered that she’s eloped with Cedric and that he’s left he without a way home.

While Molly and Harry team up to, it’s not to help the other as much as it is to help themselves. But forced intimacy has a way to changing priorities.

This is a fun read. As a debut book, I look forward to future books by Ms. Kramer.

But I’m not the only reviewer with this option. WHEN HARRY MET MOLLY is a double RITA nominee this year.

Good luck, Kieran!

To buy this book, click on one of the links below

Powell’s | Indiebound | Borders | Amazon | B & N

This meme is hosted by The Story Siren

Some of you may remember that two weeks ago I went to Chapters and bought some books. I wrote about making a difference by donating to the literacy fund that your bookstore or town may have (See Making a Difference), yet I never told you what I bought. I intended to tell you the following Sunday, but instead I wrote about my trip to Random House (See House of Random) and the books they gave me (See Books In My Mailbox Feb-5). Now, I shall finally show you the books I bought!

City of Bones by Cassandra Clare
City of Glass by Cassandra Clare
Hush, Hush by Becca FitzPatrick
Dukes to the Left of Me, Princes to the Right by Kieran Kramer

I already had the second book of The Mortal Instruments, so I walked in planning to just get the first and third. I nearly walked out without them because my copy of City of Ashes is mass market sized and these are trade paperback, but the worker told me he has never seen one like mine. I checked my book when I got back to the apartment and there was a sticker that said “courtesy of Simon & Schuster” making me think it may have been an Advance Copy that is normally sent to other authors. It seems to have the same cover as the (I think) Spanish edition.

Since I was there and y’all were talking about how great Crescendo is, the least I could do is pick up the first of the series Hush, Hush. And if I was getting that, then I might as well use my discount coupon for spending over $35 and grab a historical romance while I was at it.

What did you get in your mailbox?

Previous IMM: Feb-1, Feb-2, Feb-3, Feb-4, Feb-5

"When Harry Met Molly" by Kieran Kramer

STORY:  Dashing Lord Harry Traemore is perfectly content to live out his days in the pursuit of pleasure. But when he’s named by the Prince Regent as one of society’s “Impossible Bachelors,” Harry is drafted into a ribald romantic wager. The rules of engagement are scandalously simple: The bachelor whose mistress wins the title of “Most Delectable Companion” gets to remain unmarried. Harry is utterly unconcerned about his status…until his latest lightskirt abandons him.

Enter Lady Molly Fairbanks. Harry’s childhood friend—actually, “foe” is more like it—is the most unlikely companion of all. She’s attractive but hot-headed, and in no mood for games. Besides, what could the self-indulgent Harry possibly know about what makes a woman delectable? It’s time for Molly to teach him a lesson once and for all…but will it led to “happily ever after?”

REVIEW:  Ms. Kramer had me at: A LOVE RECTANGLE OF TRAGIC PROPORTIONS! From that moment in the book I was very well on my way to enjoying one of this year’s great début books.

We meet Molly at thirteen years of age, and she is head over heels in love with Roderick, who is engaged to marry her older sister Penelope. Harry is Roderick’s younger brother, and Molly spies him kissing her sister. Oh, how we all can relate to this predicament of such a young and tender love!  She assumes that her sister doesn’t deserve Rodericks love and sets out to write a poem, which is to be read at the annual Christmas ball. Changing names of all involved was supposed to have worked, right?   Wrong!  Everything Molly planned goes awry.  Duke’s Christmas ball comes to a crashing halt as Roderick and Harry come to blows, Molly is banished to school for girls, and poor Harry is forced into the army. For the next eight years these two develop deep animosity toward each other and never fail to be at each other’s hair at family gatherings, as Roderick has forgiven Penelope and they’ve been happily married all these years.

Eight years later we meet Molly as she’s trying to elope with Cedric Alliston. They’ve stopped at an inn while on their way to Gretna Green. Here is where all the fun begins, and it doesn’t stop until the end of the book. We’re made to connect to a girl who never had her season, spent long periods of time away from her family, and at twenty-one, feels that life is passing her by. That is until she finally gets to know a man who for the longest time, she thought, she hated and despised.

Our Hero eight years later is with his friends, all bachelors, all deep in their cups, mourning one of their own that is getting leg shackled. The Prince Regent shows up at their club and decides to hold a contest where each of their mistresses will enter a contest to win the Most Delectable Companion. The Companion who wins, enables the bachelor another year of bachelorhood. The loser however has to propose marriage to someone who the others choose. None of them are happy about this game that their King decrees, but they have no choice in the matter, so let the games begin! I was a bit disappointed in him in regards to holding a grudge towards Molly for such a long time. He was a bit older than she so I did expect him to be more mature. However it didn’t detract or distract me from enjoying him and his life story.

I’m not going to tell you the rest because I want you to read the book and find out on your own. This is a fun, exciting and sweet story with plenty of love scenes and a first for me to read of a certain “position” where Harry instructs Molly….WHOA! I had so much fun reading this book, and I can only imagine the fun that Ms. Kramer had in writing it. I giggled and LOL’d reading of tests that the mistresses were put through. The characters were all three-dimensional, the story and plot unique. I was grinning, giggling and laughing through all of their adventures and misadventures! I’ve read some reviews where the readers are questioning the realism of the plot. Really? Seriously? THIS IS A ROMANCE NOVEL!!! Enjoy it as such! I have and I applaud the author for taking me with her on this romantic romp.

I hope you get to read this book and if you do please let me know what you think. It has been my great fortune to have discovered  a bunch of new women out there that are blowing my mind with their début novels! I say more power to them! Keep an eye on Ms. Kramer, she’s got two more coming out. They’re already on my MUST HAVE list!

Kieran Kramer, a former CIA employee, journalist, and English teacher, lives in the Lowcountry of South Carolina with her family. Game show veteran, karaoke enthusiast, and general adventurer, her motto is, “Life rewards action.” When Harry Met Molly, a lighthearted Regency-set historical, is her debut novel with St. Martin’s Press. Find her on Facebook, Twitter, and at www.kierankramerbooks.com.

Q: Welcome to Beyond the Books, Kieran.  Can we start out by telling us whether you are published for the first time or are you multi-published?

A: First time.

Q: What was the name of your very first book regardless of whether it was published or not and, if not published, why?

A: Madeira, My Dear. It was a 60,000-word Regency I wrote when my two oldest kids (now 19 and 17) were toddlers. It wasn’t published probably because it contained a dog’s POV and lots of headhopping and an untraceable character arc for the main characters!

Q: For your first published book, how many rejections did you go through before you either found a mainstream publisher, self-published it, or paid a vanity press to publish it?

A: For When Harry Met Molly, I specifically targeted my agent—I knew she was exactly the right fit for me, so I didn’t go through a lot of rejections. We connected immediately.

Q: How did the rejections make you feel and what did you do to overcome the blows?

A: Well, I’d had rejections before When Harry Met Molly. And I overcame them at first by putting the manuscript in a drawer. I did that to Madeira, My Dear after one rejection. And then over a whole decade went by before I re-opened the idea that maybe I should send something out. I realize now I lost a lot of time, but the truth was, if I’d really wanted to make writing a career back then, I would have kept on submitting. I found myself more drawn to the rearing of my children and being a volunteer in the community. I wrote as stress relief and as a hobby. It wasn’t until my children began growing up that I felt this sweet daydream I’d always cherished—of being a published writer—blossom into a very deep craving that I felt I simply HAD to pursue. I realized I’d made that transition when it got to be painful for me to enter a Barnes and Noble or a Borders.  That never used to happen.

At that point, I realized, I want this. Badly.

So in that second phase of my development as a writer, when I experienced rejections, I tried to look very objectively at what I was doing wrong. I had a few manuscripts that weren’t very marketable, plain and simple, even though I knew in my gut that my voice was. So I decided to pay much more attention to finding a high concept in my next manuscript. That, along with dedication to my own voice, paid off.

Q: When your first book was published, who published it and why did you choose them?

A: I had always wanted to be a St. Martin’s Press author and work with Jennifer Enderlin. They’re such a classy publishing house, and I love how they have no guidelines. I grew up reading books published by them. Among my favorites were the James Herriot novels (he was the Yorkshire vet who began his writing career with All Creatures Great and Small).

I also love Janet Evanovich, Emily Giffin, Jennifer Crusie, and lots of other authors who have worked under the mentorship of Jennifer Enderlin. I had heard her speak at conferences, too. She has such a warm, energetic spirit, I was completely charmed by her. I determined that she was the editor I wanted to work with more than any editor on the planet!

Q: How did it make you feel to become published for the first time and how did you celebrate?

A: It felt quite surreal to get The Call!! I was in a car driving down a country road when it came. I told my agent I needed to hang up because I was so excited, I might drive off into a corn field!! When I got home, I told all my family, who were ecstatic. I think the greatest part was being able to show my kids that persistence and sheer belief in the dream pay off. And then I ran down the street telling all my neighbors. It was such a memorable day.

Yet at the same time, I felt my life was still the same in a very basic way. My priorities hadn’t changed—family and friends were what mattered most. I guess I mean to say, I was extremely grateful for this new phase in my life, but I was still the same old person. I think sometimes we think we’ll change in fundamental ways when we hit new milestones, but that’s not necessarily so, at least in my case. I made a commitment to myself that no matter what happened with my writing life, I would be okay. I think we need to remind ourselves that it’s the trying that matters most. That shows courage and faith. We are at our very best when we try, so I would have been darned proud of myself whether or not I got published. And that’s not a load of hooey I’m throwing at you, either. I was very intentional about that.

Q: What was the first thing you did as far as promotion when you were published for the first time?

A: Build a website.

Q: If you had to do it over again, would you have chosen another route to be published?

A: No. This is the way that’s best for me. I like being affiliated with a tried-and-true publishing house and having an agent to rely on for her expertise on the business side of things.

Q: Have you been published since then and how have you grown as an author?

A: I’m still working on my first contract, which is for four books. I’ve completed three and am in the midst of the fourth. I think I’ve learned a lot already. It’s hard to put into one paragraph how much I’ve learned. Writing under deadline frees you up from the constant dithering I used to do, wondering if I should change this plot point to that plot point or change a character’s motivation, etc. When the clock is ticking, you have to learn to make decisions faster and imbue them with confidence. You have to learn to trust your gut. I recommend every writer without a contract write under strict deadline. What comes from your gut is better than anything else you’ll produce.

Q: Looking back since the early days when you were trying to get published, what do you think you could have done differently to speed things up?  What kind of mistakes could you have avoided?

A: Well, I don’t think I would have attempted to speed things up. I easily could have tried to by writing more and submitting more. But each of us develops at our own pace. I really believe there’s a season for all things, and those years when I was with my children (two of whom are still school-age) were a special time. I was nurturing the dream slowly, the way you put a bottle of wine away in the cellar and let it slowly reach its full potential. I think that a lot of the time, we feel very rushed in our lives, and we’re convinced our worth is measured simply by our outward achievements. But I firmly believe we’re totally fabulous inherently, every single one of us. And our fabulousness has nothing to do with our achievements.  That gives me a certain peace. I have nothing to prove to anyone. That peace of mind, ironically, makes it easier for me to be creative.

Q: What has been the biggest accomplishment you have achieved since becoming published?

A: I’ve been thrilled with getting starred reviews from various prestigious periodicals such as Booklist, Library Journal, and RT Book Reviews magazine. But I’d have to say my greatest achievement has been balancing my writing life with my personal life. Things are never dull, and I love that.

Q: If you could have chosen another profession, what would that profession be?

A: Principal of a school or a doctor or lead singer in a great rock band.

Q: Would you give up being an author for that profession or have you combined the best of both worlds?

A:  No, I wouldn’t give up being an author for any of those professions—although it might be tempting to join a great rock band!! <G>. I’m very happy where I am.  I want to give back, though. I like being of service, so I hope as time goes on, I’ll figure out some ways to pay forward all the kindnesses shown me in my writing career.

Q: How do you see yourself in ten years?

A:  Still writing and hopefully, still publishing.

Q: Any final words for writers who dream of being published one day?

A: Yes. Make sure you’re not wasting a single second of any day pining for what you don’t have. Find the good in what you have right now. Hold onto those writing dreams, but don’t suffocate them by being anxious. Be proud of yourself for recognizing the storytelling passion inside you. Be happy that you’re moving along that road toward publication. The best stories come from people who live in the present. So have fun. Write your stories. Send them out. Celebrate every writing accomplishment. Be sad about rejections if you want to be, but after 24 hours, move on.

Don’t let anyone tell you how you should feel about this writing goal of yours. Know yourself and why you want it. And then pursue it with gusto—without any fear. And if you do, you’ve already succeeded in my view.

I believe the true measure of a person’s success is whether you’re willing to step forward with no guarantees and do it with hope, with a twinkle in your eye, and a spring in your step. Success is having your glass half-full—no matter what happens to you that day.  A person with that kind of attitude will have a lot more energy to pursue her writing goals and an extra layer of perseverance if she runs into obstacles along the way. I also happen to believe a writer with that sort of worldview will attract a lot more readers. Joy can’t be faked, and especially in romance novels, I believe there has to be a sense of joy. Love is a wonderful thing. And romance novelists celebrate that fact. I’m proud to be among their number.

Wow, this has been a lot of fun! Thanks for having me here on Beyond the Books. I really enjoyed answering your questions. And I hope everyone who’s read this and has the yen to write will pick up a pen today—or get on their computers and tap away until that story’s on the page!

Hugs to all,

Kieran :>)

Yes, I am a sappy love story kinda girl. I like a good romance novel as much as the next hot blooded female. And Kieran Kramer does not disappoint with her book When Harry Met Molly, the first book in the Impossible Bachelors series. In this historical romance novel, you will get to read about a couple who grew up together. Who despised each other, and blamed each other for the awful things they had to endure. Boarding school and the army. Pending spinsterhood and name degradation. Yep, it all stemmed from one Christmas. One poem. And one bad choice.

Harry is the bad boy of all bad boys. Bedding all that he wants. Living the “spare” lifestyle to the fullest. I really couldn’t stop myself from wondering if good ole Prince Harry isn’t like the harry in this book. While Harry is off bedding the women and serving the country, Molly is learning how to be a lady in boarding schools and taking care of her aunt. When Molly decides to run off and elope, little did she think it would lead to her running into Harry again. And even less did either of them think of falling in love.

What I liked most about this historical romance was that it was a great read from start to finish. It didn’t have any lagging parts at all, and Kieran managed to keep the humor in harmony with the action. It was a nice change of pace for me from the more paranormal, science fiction type books I grab anytime I enter Borders. And I am definitely looking out for more of Kieran Kramer! You can purchase both When Harry Met Molly and Dukes to the Left of Me, Princes to the Right (Impossible Bachelors #2) from Amazon for $7.99. You can also find them at your local bookstores!

After reading an interesting post on the Season blog, I came across a new name in romance that I simply had to check out! Voila! It’s time to introduce Kieran Kramer, a debut author with some very intriguing new books (the start of a new series!) coming out very soon…

The Books: (of the new series entitled The Impossible Bachelors)

Book One-When Harry Met Molly

Dashing Lord Harry Traemore is perfectly content to live out his days in the pursuit of pleasure. But when he’s named by the Prince Regent as one of society’s “Impossible Bachelors,” Harry is drafted into a ribald romantic wager. The rules of engagement are scandalously simple: The bachelor whose mistress wins the title of “Most Delectable Companion” gets to remain unmarried. Harry is utterly unconcerned about his status…until his latest lightskirt abandons him.

Who will win this game of love?
Enter Lady Molly Fairbanks. Harry’s childhood friend—actually, “foe” is more like it—is the most unlikely companion of all. She’s attractive but hot-headed, and in no mood for games. Besides, what could the self-indulgent Harry possibly know about what makes a woman delectable? It’s time for Molly to teach him a lesson once and for all…but will it lead to “happily ever after?”

Excerpt:

http://kierankramerbooks.com/books/when-harry-met-molly/

Due in November 2010

Book Two-Dukes to the Left of Me, Princes to the Right

Most women would not be pleased to be labeled a spinster. But Lady Poppy Smith-Barnes isn’t most women. In fact, Poppy has invented an imaginary fiancé, the Duke of Drummond, to deter unwanted suitors. A very useful fellow, this duke, until the real Drummond turns up and uses Poppy’s ploy to trap her in a betrothal.

Will their passion make it real?
A good spy flies below the radar. Which is why being named one of the Prince Regent’s “Impossible Bachelors” is so inconvenient for Nicholas Staunton. Every society female will be out to ensnare him. Nicholas needs a fiancée—and Poppy’s ruse is the answer. How could he have known she’d be a brazen, sensual siren with an irresistible taste for adventure? Now nothing less will do than to convince his fiery Poppy to revoke her spinster status…for good.

Due in December 2010

***

Lovely covers and exciting stories! Sounds like these books will be romantic comedies reminiscent of Julia Quinn

November and December are already set to be awesome months!