Saturday, June 4, 2011

Today's Special -- Nalini Singh


Today, I am beyond thrilled to welcome author Nalini Singh to The Romance Dish. A few years ago I was introduced to Nalini’s writing by another romance reader and ever since I have been a huge fan. Nalini is well known for her paranormal Psy/Changeling and Guild Hunter series. Please give a very warm welcome to Nalini Singh!!!


Thank you for inviting me over to visit! It’s great to talk with you again.

Big congratulations on your latest release, KISS OF SNOW! This book is the next installment in your extremely popular Psy/Changeling series and has been highly anticipated by all of your fans because we finally get to see Hawke find his HEA. Would you share a little bit about the book with us?

KISS OF SNOW is the story of the alpha of the SnowDancer wolf pack, Hawke, and Sienna, a powerful Psy who defected to the SnowDancers with her family.

There has always been an undeniable pull between them, but several factors have kept them apart - including the gap in their ages, and the fact that Hawke believes he lost his chance to mate when the woman who would’ve grown up to be his mate, died as a child.

Their story is intense and emotional, but also playful in places – after all, Hawke is a changeling.


With all of the anticipation by your fans for Hawke’s book, did you put more pressure on yourself to write his story? Did you struggle at all with his story? Or did it come to you as naturally as the others?

No matter the pressure, when I sit down to write, it’s just me and the story – I trust my instincts and go for it. This was true with Kiss of Snow, too.

Also, I’ve been writing scenes for this book throughout the series. I think the fact that I always had a very strong vision for Hawke and Sienna’s story helped me maintain my focus despite the fact that I knew so many people were waiting for this book.

Readers have been given glimpses of Hawke in several of the books in the Psy/Changeling series. Through those glimpses, Hawke seems to be the total brooding, alpha male. While writing his story, did any of his actions and emotions surprise even you the writer?

I feel I’ve come to know him intimately throughout the series – however, my perspective on him is a little different than most people’s, as I’ve been inside his head, while in the series to date, we’ve seen him through the eyes of other people a lot of the time. In Kiss of Snow, you get to see the heart of the man he is, and yes, he might surprise you at times.

Also, I have to say that he hasn’t been all brooding alpha in the books in which he’s appeared – he does like to tease Lucas about Sascha darling. ;-)


Oh yes, the way he teases Lucas is just hilarious!!

Was it difficult to bring Hawke out of his self-protecting shell and expose his feelings?

He’s alpha and he likes to get his own way – it definitely wasn’t in any way, shape, or form easy for him to show any vulnerability. But I think that’s what makes it all the more powerful when he does lay his soul bare.

Out of all of the traits Hawke possesses, which one is your favorite and why?

I love his sense of humor – it’s a wicked, wicked one
.

Did you know from the moment you introduced Sienna in the Psy-Changeling series that she would be Hawke’s mate? If so, how?

As soon as they stepped onto the page together, the chemistry was off the charts. I knew immediately that it was always going to be Hawke and Sienna – though it might’ve been “easier” to pair them up with other people, it simply wouldn’t have worked. They were meant for one another.

KISS OF SNOW is the 10th book in your successful Psy-Changeling series. Do you see many more books in this series? And whose book is next?

I like to joke that I’ll never actually stop writing this series, that I’ll secretly write Psy/Changeling stories even when everyone else thinks the series is over, but honestly, there’s more than a grain of truth in that – I adore the world, and can’t imagine leaving it forever.

But, the series does have a very strong overarching storyline, and I know exactly where I’m going with that, and there will be a satisfying end to that arc. Once that is complete however, I would like to do some tangent books – storylines that wouldn’t have fit neatly into the main arc. So readers who are reading for the main arc will have a solid conclusion, but readers who want to continue to explore the world, will have further books to look forward to.

As to whose book is next…it features a sexy, sexy SnowDancer lieutenant whose animal form is a black wolf. His heroine is someone you’ve already met.


Ooooh, I can’t wait to read that story!!!!

Personally, I am in awe of the complex world you have created. I know that you currently have two series going – the Psy-Changeling series and the Guild Hunter series. Do you find it difficult juggling these two worlds as you write?


Because the two worlds are so different from one another, I don’t have a problem with keeping them separate in my mind. I love stepping into each one.

Many authors who have long series keep a “bible” of facts for the series. Do you have such a “bible” for either one of your series?

Yes, I have one for each series. It helps ensure internal continuity. I also always refer back to the printed books if I need to double-check something.

As a resident of New Zealand, have you ever considered writing a book or series set in New Zealand?

I did actually set three of my Silhouette Desire novels in New Zealand. It all depends on the needs of the story as to what setting works best.

I'm going to have to see if I can find those books!

From your website I see that you have traveled around the world and have seen some beautiful sites. What is the one place you haven’t been to that is at the top of your list?

There are so many places I still want to visit! Russia definitely, and Alaska, too – I’d love to see the Northern Lights dance across the sky.

Since you are coming to the United States this summer to attend a few conferences and book signings, are you planning to visit any areas of the country which you have not previously visited?

My tour and conference schedule will take me to a number of cities, including New Orleans, Chicago and Cincinnati, none of which I’ve ever before visited. I’m very much looking forward to the trip!

Dang! Sure wish you were coming to Atlanta. Maybe next time.


Quick Six Time!

High heels or sneakers?
Sneakers
Beach or mountains? Beach
Summer or winter? Summer
Mexican or Italian? Mexican
Diamonds or Pearls? Diamonds
Plotter or Pantster? A combination of both. I like to just go for it and do a fast first draft rather than planning the whole book out before I put fingers to the keyboard, or pen to paper, so in that way, I’m an organic writer (sounds much nicer than pantser!). However, since I write series with overarching storylines, I do plan ahead to ensure the series arc remains strong and cohesive.


Nalini, thank you so much for taking the time to answer my questions (and for being so sweet!). Now it’s your turn—is there a question you would like to ask our readers?

Thank you for the wonderful interview!

My question is – what upcoming books are you looking forward to reading?

You ladies are really lucky today. One random commenter will win a copy of KISS OF SNOW.

Check out Buffie's review below.





~ Buffie

31 comments:

  1. Hello Nalini, Congratulations on your new release. This sounds like a wonderful series.

    I love the paranormal genre and I know I can always ouunt on The Dish to introduce authors who are new to me. Thanks!

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  2. Whoo Hoo waving Hi to Nalini and Buffie

    I am soo looking forward to Kiss of Snow it should arrive in the mailbox from The Book Depositry any day now they have posted it then I can dive into it. So at the moment this is the book I am really looking forward to reading LOL and I am also looking forward to Dimitri's story in The Guild Hunters Series I so love your stories
    Have a great time in The States Nalini and I do hope you can make it back to Australia soon then I will be able to get Kiss of Snow signed I love my signed collection of Nalini Books they are very carefully looked after on the book shelf.

    Thanks Dishes for inviting Nalini today

    Have Fun
    Helen

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  3. Hi Nalini!

    I'm so with u on Russia &Alaska! Russia b/c of those awesome fancy buildings with color, spires, and dome tops. Alaska cuz of the northern lights, whales, and I wanna dog sled lol. Santorini is my other dream vacay; I'd love to see those white buildings with blue tops n doors, and the pretty sea.
    I've just started KOS and looking forward to Dimitri's story in GH series too. Of course Bluebell has my heart though:)
    Other books I'm dying to read are Bloodlines and Succubus Revealed by Richelle Mead, Crossed by Ally Condie, and The Many Sins of Lord Cameron (Highland Pleasures series, book 3) by Jennifer Ashley :D

    Btw, great questions Buffie!

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  4. Hi! I've never been to New Orleans, Chicago, or Cincinnati either (airports don't count). One of these days, I will though.

    Congrats on "Kiss of Snow"! I was astounded to see the abs in hardcover! I nearly licked it!

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  5. I'm looking forward to reading the Soldier Son Trilogy by Robin Hobb. KISS OF SNOW is on my list so fingers crossed

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  6. Good Morning!

    What a terrific interview, Buffie and Nalini! I loved hearing more about the hero of Kiss of Snow. Your descriptions of him have me ready to run to the store to buy the book today!

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  7. Fsbuchler, this is one of those series that I've been dying to read but just haven't been able to find the time. Hopefully, this summer I'll be able to escape to the beach and immerse myself in Nalini's world!

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  8. Helen, I would imagine that signed collection of Nalini's books is a prized possession. It certainly would be if it was sitting on my keeper shelf!

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  9. Bella, like you I'm also fascinated with the architecture of Russia. I'd love to be able to explore it one day.

    I'm also looking forward to The Many Sins of Lord Cameron. Even if I didn't already love the series, that title would have me wanting to read the book!

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  10. Sheree said, Congrats on "Kiss of Snow"! I was astounded to see the abs in hardcover! I nearly licked it!

    Me too! Me too!

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  11. Hi Marybelle! I've never read Robin Hobb. Off to check out the books.

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  12. Hello Nalini!
    I'm looking forward to reading Kiss of Snow. Every review has been so enthusiastic.

    I'm looking forward to reading Jaci Burton's Changing the Game at the end of the Summer. I loved the first book in the series, The Perfect Play.

    I just received Dragon Bound by Thea Harrison and Collide by Megan Hart so I will be starting those ASAP.

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  13. Well, after having read this review, I am certainly looking forward to reading Nalini's new book. As well, I am off to get "Just Like Heaven" and "Lord Langley is Back in Town." It will then be a great weekend of reading!

    Connie Fischer
    conniecape@aol.com

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  14. Yay for Kiss of Snow! Its on my list of TBB's. Granted my list is pretty long. Just waiting to get some $$ before I start buying. I LOVE the Psy/Changeling series! Been waiting for Hawke's story for a long time!

    Thanks for another great interview!

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  15. Hello Nalini, congrats for the release date! Love your books and you are my author goddess, LOL

    Upcoming Book that I looking forward, of course Kiss of Snow, with all the hype, I'm dying to read about Hawke. Then, I want to read Archangel's Blade, the 4th book of Guild Hunter series. I never though Dmitri will have his own story, I can't wait to read about him too!

    Thanks for te interview (and the giveaway too ;)

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  16. I'm looking forward to reading Dead Iron by Devon Monk, the rest of Kevin Hearne's new series, Hexed and Hammered and of course, Kiss of Snow.

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  17. Hi Nalini, I am sorry to say I have not read your books before but Kiss of Snow sounds awesome. Congrats on your new release!

    I think the book I am most looking forward to right now is Kaki Warner's Heartbreak Creek, its the first in her new series. I loved the last series she wrote so I can't wait for this one.

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  18. In addition to Kiss of Snow, here are some of the summer books I’m looking forward to reading:
    Just Like Heaven (Julia Quinn,)
    Fallen (Karin Slaughter,)
    Follow My Lead (Kate Noble,)
    Hit List (Laurell K. Hamilton,)
    Spell Bound (Kelley Armstrong,)
    Flash & Bones (Kathy Reichs,)
    Disturbance (Jan Burke,)
    A Bad Day for Scandal (Sophie Littlefield)
    and Long Gone (Alafair Burke.)

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  19. Congratulations on the new release.

    I'm looking forward to reading Just Like Heaven by Julia Quinn, Money, Shot by Susan Sey and The Dark Enquiry by Deanna Raybourn.

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  20. Virginia said, I think the book I am most looking forward to right now is Kaki Warner's Heartbreak Creek, its the first in her new series. I loved the last series she wrote so I can't wait for this one.

    Virginia, I'm working on my review of Heartbreak Creek right now. I loved Warner's first trilogy (gave all three books 5 Stars) but I think this new one is even better.

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  21. fsbuchler, if you haven't read any of Nalini's books I would say you really, REALLY need to try her. She is fabulous!

    Hey Helen! I knew you would like this one ;-) You are going to just love KISS OF SNOW. Hawke is everything you want and more.

    Thanks, Bella! Glad to see you love Nalini's work too. Wasn't it interesting that the next Psy/Changeling book is about a sexy SnowDancer?? Can't wait!

    Sheree, the cover is just fabulous, isn't it? And as for licking it, well after you read the story you will find out that Hawke would LOVE for you to do that ;-)

    Marybelle, so KOS is on your list too huh? As I have already said, you are going to love it!

    PJ, someday you need to take the time and read all the books in this series. I think you would really enjoy them.

    Hi Stacie! All the reviews I have read have been fabulous too. That just because Nalini *IS* fabulous :-)

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  22. Connie, Just Like Heaven is on my list too. I hear it is fabulous.

    Hey Jennifer! Yes, it has been a long wait for Hawke's book, but it is SO worth the wait. You will want to read it over and over again.

    Hi Ren! Thanks for stopping by and joining the Nalini love fest :-)

    Hey Barbara! I haven't read those books yet, but I may just have to check them out.

    Virginia, PJ just raves about Kaki's book. I think I am going to have to give her a try.

    LSU Reader, boy you have some great books on your list. Good times ahead for you :)

    Thanks for stopping by, Penfield!

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  23. Hi,

    Congrats on the newest release!

    I'm looking forward to Kiss of Snow, of course, and Magic Slays by Ilona Andrews and Dead Reckoning by Charlaine Harris.

    Anne

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  24. Hi, Nalini! So glad you can be with us today. :) Congrats on your new release! Buffie has raved about your books, so I'm in ofr a treat when I get to them!

    I agree with Stacie--Changing the Game by Jaci Burton (LOVED the first one!) and also Head Over Heels by Jill Shalvis!! Can't wait!!!

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  25. Hi, Nalini! I'm so sorry I'm late commenting. My oldest son graduated from high school today, so we've been busy. :-)

    It's great having you here today. And I have to agree with with Sheree on the KISS OF SNOW cover---yummy! *g*

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  26. Congratulations on your new release, Nalini !

    I'm looking forward to read Hourglass by Myra McEntire :)

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  27. Hello Nalini, congrats on the new release. I have heard great things about this book. I would love to win and read so please choose me. Thanks for the giveaway and the chance to win.
    There are a few books that I am really interested in that are coming out. Like Hit List by Laurell K Hamilton, The Reluctant Vampire by Lyndsay Sands, Just Like Heaven by Julia Quinn, and the new one by Jeaniene Frost. Also Kady Cross-The Girl in the Steel Corset looks great also.
    christinebails@yahoo.com

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  28. Nalini,
    Thank you for an enjoyable interview. I read a novella of yours in a Christmas Cat Anthology (I think that was the name). All the stories introduced me to new world and characters. Yours intrigued me and I want to read the whole series. I have several of your books in my paranormal TBR pile. It is rather sad that I have more than one pile. I really need to organize them.. I didn't realize you had two series, so I'll have to take a good look at what I have and fill in the blanks in the series. I like the continuity that reading them in order brings. Best of luck with the release of KISS OF SNOW.

    As far as your question, I am so far behind in my reading, I am trying to get to books I got years ago. I just now started THE MADNESS OF LORD IAN MACKENZIE by Jennifer Ashley. I would like to get to Eloisa James' WHEN BEAUTY TAMED THE BEAST sooner than later. I want to get your Psy/Changeling series together so I can start it.

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  29. Congrats on the new release!! Looking forward to picking it up.

    I really have quite an extensive list of books I am waiting for. A couple are: Magic Slays, The Neon Graveyard, One Grave At A Time, Hexed are just a few.

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  30. I am looking forward to Hexed, Hit List by Laurell K. Hamilton, and Fate's Edge by Ilona Andrews.

    smccar1 at hotmail dot com

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  31. congrats on the new release...still in my tbr folder...

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