It's Time for A Winner!!

Thank you all for your kinds comments and wishes

on my "It's Not Goodbye" blog.  

The winner of a signed copy of PARIS IN LOVE by Eloisa James is:

hrdwrkdmom aka Dianna

Congrats to you!!!!

Please email your full name and address to

theromancedish AT gmail DOT com with "Goodbye Winner" in the subject line.

Thanks again for all the wonderful memories!!!

And .... SEE YOU AROUND!

~ Buffie

It's Not Goodbye ...

I have never been a fan of goodbyes.   I think that stems from my childhood.  As a child, I said goodbye to my sister when she married and moved out of the house.   Then my parents decided to move from Florida when I was 12 years old, I said goodbye to the only friends and home I knew.   From there, I moved with my parents three times in the span of 2 years.  That’s difficult for any middle school kid, let alone a shy girl with a different name. 

To this day I still don’t like goodbyes.   Just the finality of the word goodbye gives me the chills, so I don’t say goodbye anymore.  

So I won't be saying goodbye to you today.  Instead, I am blogging to say … see you around.    

Yes, I’m leaving my cyber friends and the warm, cozy home of The Romance Dish.  

While I absolutely love blogging and reviewing here at The Romance Dish (and who could have better partners than Andrea, PJ and Gannon, right?), I realize the demands of my (and my family’s) busy schedule are becoming overwhelming.   I work fulltime in a supervisory position at a law firm.   I also have two boys who are growing up faster than my mind and heart can keep up with.   And don’t forget the loving hubby is who has always supported my love of romance novels.   It is time for me to devote more of my time to my family while our boys are home.   That is where my heart is.

But don’t think you will never see me around!!   My love for romance novels will keep me in the sphere of all things romance.  I will be stopping by from time to time to see just what is going on.   And as you know, there is always something going on here ;-)

Before I go, I would like to thank Andrea, PJ and Gannon for the years of fun at The Romance Dish.   Thank you for including me in this fantastic venture.  I have so many wonderful memories of our time together, like Russian accents *vbg*   But I thank you even more for your love and friendship.   You each have a very, very special place in my heart.  

And thank you dear readers for you encouragement and support.   You are a wonderful group of ladies with a kindness like no other.   Thank you for embracing me and The Romance Dish.

In honor of my last day here, I’m offering a wonderful prize today.   One random commenter will win a signed copy of PARIS IN LOVE by Eloisa James.    I personally attended one of Eloisa’s signings and had the book signed.   

So my dear friends, please tell me where is your favorite place to meet up with a friend you have seen in while?

Guess I'll see you around!!

~ Buffie

Hot Dish for May

First, I must apologize to everyone for not posting the Hot Dish on May 15. 

I was busy preparing for a 3-day field trip with 120 eighth grade students and it totally slipped my mind.

So in order to make it up to you, I have chosen a very special Hot Dish.

WARNING:  The following picture will make you thirsty .... among other things *VBG*

So gals, do you love milk as much as I do??

~ Buffie

We Have A Winner!

A big thank you to everyone who stopped by during author Lila DiPasqua's visit last week.  

The randomly selected winner of a signed copy of A MIDNIGHT DANCE by Lila DiPasqua and 
a signed copy of Delilah Marvelle’s ONCE UPON A SCANDAL is:

Lisa

(who posted her comment on Apr 25, 2012 07:52 AM)

Congrats to you Lisa!

Please email your full name and address to 

theromancedish AT gmail DOT com

~ Buffie

Today's Special -- Lila DiPasqua

I'm thrilled to welcome back to The Romance Dish historical author Lila DiPasqua!!  We always have a wonderful time when Lila visits and today is bound to be no exception.   Lila rewrites classic fairy tales with a fiery twist.   And let me tell you, Lila writes fiery very well indeed!!  Her latest release, UNDONE, is based on the old tale of Rupunzel.   Please join us as Lila tells us about UNDONE and discusses keeping secrets.

Excerpt from UNDONE:

Once upon a time there was a woman who was shut away in a tower.  It was said, she’d been there for years. Rumored to be a prisoner of her own making. No one knew much about the mysterious beauty. Or the secrets she guarded.  It was certain she’d live out her days cloistered.  Yet one day, out of the forest, they say her prince appeared.  One look at the lovely enchantress, and he was enthralled.  Upon hearing her ethereal voice, he was undone . . . What happened next, you ask?  Well, he scaled the tower and rescued the beauty, of course . . . Was that the end?  No, my dearlings, that was only the beginning. 

And what was to follow was stuff of fairy tales. . .

For those who know me, you know I’m a historical romance author who writes scorching retelling of favorite fairy tales.  My latest, UNDONE, is inspired by Rapunzel. 

I have a beauty in a tower – so to speak—with beautiful hair (though not long enough to climb :)  She has a stunning singing voice, too.  You see, Angelica has been hiding from her past in a convent for ten years.  She’s been keeping secrets a very long time.  And she has every intention of maintaining it that way.

But along comes our hero, Simon Boulenger.  Upon seeing her attacked, he does the heroic thing—and rescues her.  But this sexy privateer thinks he’s done her a great service.  He hasn’t. He’s placed her in great danger.  There is one man who can ruin her life, and Simon has inadvertently put her within striking range of this man.

My favorite kind of romance novel is the kind where the heroine brings out the best in the hero–and vice versa. It’s because of Simon that Angelica learns to really experience life.  To let down her hair. It’s because of Angelica that Simon sees himself as more than a commoner.  But it takes time and trust before either can reveal their painful secrets.

And no matter how much Angelica wants to pull away from Simon, the attraction these two characters feel for each other is intense.  Utterly magnetic.  Tall, dark and dangerous, (and a knee-weakening set of sinfully gorgeous light blue eyes), Simon is one carnally-gifted, bad boy historical hero no woman can easily resist. :)

I’ve been told by a number of readers that I made them cry or tear up in this emotional, steamy retelling of Rapunzel.  I hope you’ll enjoy it, too!

So dear reader, what was the last book you read or movie you watched that made you cry?

One random commenter will win a signed copy of A MIDNIGHT DANCE, my spicy, romantic retelling of Cinderella AND a signed copy of Delilah Marvelle’s ONCE UPON A SCANDAL.  (Giveaway open WORLDWIDE.)

~ Buffie

Visit www.LilaDiPasqua.com
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/LilaDiPasquaAuthor
Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/liladipasqua

Buy on:  (Coming soon on B&N and in print!)

Amazon:   http://tinyurl.com/ct7q3k5

Smashwords:  http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/154489

NOTE: UNDONE is a Rock*it Reads book.
Rock*It Reads is made up of traditionally published authors committed to bringing high standards and professional quality to their self-published works. Whenever readers see the RIR logo, they know the book they are purchasing is held to an excellent standard of quality. We are Authors You Love with Stories that Rock. You can visit our site and check out more great reads at http://www.rockitreads.com/

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

UNDONE

A Fiery Tale

Lila DiPasqua

HISTORICAL ROMANCE

April, 2012

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

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

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

Stock Up Saturday

If I Fall
By Kate Noble
Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Release Date: April 3, 2012

If I Fall picks up right where Kate Noble’s previous book, Follow My Lead, leaves off (though you certainly do not have to have read Follow My Lead before reading this one) with Sarah Forrester suffering betrayal and humiliation at the hands of her fiancé, the Duke of Rayne. He fell in love with someone else and Sarah graciously let him go. However, she quickly became known as the “Girl Who Lost a Duke”. In order to save face and protect her heart, Sarah collaborates with Lady Phillippa Worth, the reigning leader of the ton, to create a new persona and soon becomes the Golden Lady—the woman every man wants and every woman wants to be.

Sarah’s childhood friend, Lieutenant Jackson Fletcher has been at sea since he was sixteen. He returns to London to await new orders and is anxious to see the people he has always considered family—the Forresters. However, his dear friend Sarah is nothing like she used to be. Gone is the funny, sweet, endearing girl and in her place is someone cold, snobbish, and condescending. Jack must work hard if he’s to crack through Sarah’s façade. His hard work backfires and thrusts him into a dangerous situation that involves murder, top-secret information, and Sarah.

From the moment I closed the last page of Follow My Lead and witnessed Sarah Forrester’s heartbreak, I wanted her to have her own happily ever after. She certainly deserved it. She was a likable secondary character who became a loveable heroine in her own book. I completely understood why she put up a front and acted the way she did after The Event...why she felt the need to reinvent herself. And I simply adored how persistent Jack was to bring back the “old Sarah”.

Even when she was cold as ice to him, Jack had discovered that there was nothing that made him more awake than the presence of Sarah Forrester.

An uncomfortable realization, that.

During this process, Jack discovers something about himself that he didn’t realize and must come to terms with his own inner struggles. When he’s hit with news that he had dreaded hearing upon his return to London, he turns to the only person who understands him: Sarah. These two are so perfect for each other and I couldn’t have asked for a better hero for Sarah. Their story is filled with lovely prose, tender moments, and a very nice twist at the end. If I Fall is another terrific historical from the talented Kate Noble and if the excerpt in the back is any indication, we will soon be blessed with another. This one joins all of Ms. Noble’s
previous books on my keeper shelves and, like the others, is one I highly recommend!

~Andrea

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

CATCH ME A COWBOY

By Katie Lane

Publisher:  Grand Central

Release Date:  March 27, 2012

For the last nine months, Shirlene Johnson used retail therapy to deal with the death of her husband.   But due to her shopping sprees and lack of financial management, Shirlene finds herself without any funds and evicted from her posh mansion.  Never thinking she would have to live in her childhood home – a dilapidated trailer, Shirlene faces the fact that this tiny trailer is her new home.  The memories of her alcoholic mother and her not-so-fun childhood seem to haunt her as soon as she pulls into the dusty driveway.   Shirlene finds her luck turns from bad to worse when she discovers four runaway children have taken up residence in her childhood home and the town’s biggest redneck jerk is living right next door.   Now, not only does she have to try to set things right with the bank and try to get her home back, but now she finders herself the caretaker of the four children while trying not to succumb to the rippling muscles and sexy smile of her neighbor, Billy “Bubba” Wilkes. 

Billy Wilkes came to Bramble to settle an old family score.  Believing the long ago death of a relative in the dusty streets of Bramble has cast a curse upon his family, Billy and his brothers are determined to cancel the curse once and for all and that begins with the demise of the town.   Befriending the town’s people and acting like the biggest redneck in Texas, Billy has gained the trust of pretty much everyone.   Except his new neighbor Shirlene.  Billy is usually on task and in character all the time, but he finds himself lost in Shirlene’s eyes (and her curvatious body).   Soon he realizes Shirlene has slipped behind his guard and found a spot in his heart.  But will she understand his motives once his secret is out?

Shirlene is a woman down on her luck but determined to do the right thing and to live her life on her terms.   She’s a “go get ‘em” kind of gal and I really like her spunk.  The sarcastic yet flirty repartee between Shirlene and Billy had me giggled frequently.  Billy’s one liners and pet names for Shirlene are just priceless.   While the sarcasm and humor is fabulous, the sweet, soft moments are just as great.

This is my first Katie Lane book, and I must say it won’t be my last.   This book is such a fun, light read.   If you need a giggle or two interspersed with some sizzling sexual tension, then this one is for you!

~ Buffie

Hot Dish Winner

Thanks to everyone who stopped by and commented on my interview

with our latest Hot Dish, Jason Baca.

The random commenter who wins a signed ZED card from Jason is:

TAMI BROTHERS

Congrats to you Tami!!!!

Please email your full mailing address to

THEROMANCEDISH at GMAIL dot COM.

~ Buffie

Hot Dish

Hello, ladies!

Have I got a treat for you today … not only do I have a sexy Hot Dish for you, but this time I actually interviewed the Hot Dish.

Please give a warm welcome to model Jason Baca. Jason has been modeling for several years. He has appeared in countless magazines and has shot over 85 book covers.

Jason, please tell us how your modeling career was born?

Well it began a long time ago. I was a double in a movie called "I Know What You Did Last Summer.” The photographer of the ad/cover of the movie pulled me aside and asked if he could take some photos of me. I accepted. I'd later realize this was a huge leap in the business because of how skilled a photographer I got to work with right off the bat.

Before modeling I was running in circles. All my time I spent searching, nowhere to run to, and it got me thinking... Wondering what I could make of my life...


Wow, you were definitely in the right place at the right time. So how did you get started modeling for romance covers?

Well I came to a point in my "modeling" career where I'd gotten older for the fashion stuff. I started asking all kinds of questions to myself but never finding the answer. Then one day I walked into a bookstore to find books about how to be positive. As I walked in something caught the corner of my eye. There it was before me, a romance novel with a guy my age on the cover, standing confident.

I put down that positive thinking book and grasped the romance novel tightly by my fingertips. It was as that very moment that it was in my eye, in my heart and in my mind and it became part of my entire body that from that moment on I wanted nothing more than to be a romance novel model.


I think it is great that you saw what you wanted and you achieved it.

All of us are book lovers. Do you like to read? And what types of books do you enjoy most?

I used to read books about sports and fitness only. But now I've started reading some cool ones in suspense and romance. I just love the creativity that goes into writing these novels.


Do you have a favorite author? Have you ever read a romance novel?

There are so many authors that I can say I enjoy reading the books of. The one recently that I like is a Gena Showalter. I love her covers too by the way. I look forward being on one of hers someday soon.


Gena Showalter does write some wonderful books. And yes, her covers are fabulous! Hopefully you will be on one of hers soon.

What is the funniest thing that has happened to you during a photo shoot?

There was one time where they had me out on a field with yellow mustard flowers. There had been an old beat up tractor out in the middle of this field. The photographer said "Hey Jason, why don't you go get up on that and do a few shots sitting on it." so I did... But then I started hearing buzzing going on from inside the hood. Then all of a sudden a HUGE swarm of bees comes flying out all over! I jumped off and took off. I could have beaten any guy in a race in the Olympics at that very moment.


Oh my goodness! Sorry, but that is too funny!!

In addition to modeling, you have written a couple of books. Do you have plans to write any more books? If so, what are they about?

Well those books that I wrote are nothing compared to the books that I've been on the cover of. My books were basically written to help models be successful in the business. I provide ideas that they can live by to reach their goals in the field.

Yes, when this is all over and the last book cover of me has been displayed, I will pull out my pen and paper and write a story about how all of this went with my romance novel covers. I will explain it from beginning to end and I will take pride in it.


I think a lot of romance readers would be interested in a biography or memoir of a cover model. I know I would read it!

Now for the speed round ...

1. Last movie you saw? Friday The 13th Part II (with strange disco soundtrack)

2. Favorite tv show? Survivor on CBS

3. Favorite snack food? Chocolate Fudge Brownie Balance Bars when I'm dieting, Reese's Peanut Butter Cups when I'm not...

4. Best place to vacation? I love Hawaii! But I believe the Bahamas were nice too. I also enjoy going on cruises to the tropics.

5. What's your mantra for life? My mantra is to focus my attention on one subject at a time in life and go 1000% after it. Give it your devotion and thought. The more you put into it, the more feedback you will get.


Jason, thank you so much for being with us. It has been nice getting to know a little bit about you. We wish you much success in your endeavors.

Now ladies, Jason has been kind enough to offer a signed zed card to one random commenter (US residents only). So, dream a little dream here … you are a romance cover model for a day and anything goes. Describe for me the scene of the cover you are shooting.

Here’s mine … My long dark tresses are blowing softly in the wind. My eyes are twinkling with mischief and my lips are shimmering. Clutched in the strong, rippled arms of a Highlander, whose kilt is slowly coming undone by my very own hands ….


~ Buffie

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Check out Jason’s stock photo’s here

Check out Jason’s management link here

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Joan Swan Winner

Thanks to everyone who stopped by and
commented on debut author Joan Swan's post.

Random.org has chosen the winner of a copy of FEVER by Joan Swan.

And the winner is (drum roll).....


REBEKAH E.


Congrats to you Rebekah E.!!!!!!

Please send your full name and mailing address to
theromancedish AT gmail DOT com
with "Joan Swan Winner" in the subject line.


~ Buffie

Today's Special -- Joan Swan

We are thrilled to welcome back Kensington debut author Joan Swan! Joan's debut novel, FEVER, was released on February 28, 2012. Check out Buffie's review, which is below this post. A triple RWA Golden Heart finalist as well as a double Daphne Du Maurier finalist, Joan is a lover of craft and closet-hoarder of writing craft how-to books (taken from Joan's website). Please give a warm welcome to Joan Swan as she discusses writing stories filled with suspense.



Thanks to the fabulous ladies here at The Romance Dish for having me back!

Every story—no matter the length, the genre, the style, the voice, the author, the editor, the language—has to have suspense. Without suspense, there is nothing urging the reader to turn the page. No drama for the reader to watch unfold. Nothing to take hold of the reader and not let go. In other words… boring.

Fever, my recent debut, has received fabulous reviews, which absolutely thrills me.

“An exciting, on-the-run romantic suspense tale!”~ Christie Ridgeway, BookPage, Top Pick Romance

“…a great, action-packed, sexy read.”~ Novel Reflections Review

“…all-consuming, thrilling, and passionate.”~ The Good, The Bad, The Unread

The whole point to suspense is development of drama within the story. And to create suspenseful drama a storyteller must have:

· Stakes—what will the character win or lose? Is it big enough to make the situation compelling?

· Character—do I connect enough with this person to care whether they win or lose?

· Conflict—one main character must want one thing while another wants something different – usually the opposite.

The best authors use these elements in a delicate balance. Suspense is all about the anticipation. The unknown. In fiction, suspense is built when the author proposes a story or character question, then makes the reader wait for the answer.

How long? It depends…usually on the question itself. Some questions are big and meaningful to the overall story concept. Some are small, maybe a hint about the character’s background that will foreshadow conflict. But regardless of the size (or relative importance) in the most suspenseful fiction, every time an answer is revealed to the reader, another question continues to linger or is introduced. Like that childhood game leapfrog, some question the reader needs answered to understand the story, to satisfy his curiosity, to make him want to read forward, is always in place. This is what creates that need-to-know atmosphere in the best suspense. And when it’s done well, the story skips along, with answers coming at intervals and new questions popping up, keeping the reader flying through the pages.

Timing is everything—when an author drops a new question into the story, when he answers another. It’s a skill that can be developed on a gut level. A sixth sense of sorts. Some authors have developed this sense after years of writing in the genre. Some authors come by it naturally. Many readers have an even better sense of developing tension than authors because reading is a fabulous way of gaining that sensitivity.

Generally speaking, if you, as the author, are bored...the reader will be bored. If your attention is scattered between three different story lines...the reader will also be distracted. And if you allow the suspense to linger too long, the reader will get exasperated and put the book down, but if you push it too fast, the reader has nothing to read on or wait for. Here, the gut feeling is valuable.

Some authors find it easier to write through method. In that case, this graphic might help.














Add in character questions and you get even more complexity and more levels of suspense.









There are different types of suspense a writer can employ to keep the pace moving in creative, thought-provoking ways: the dark, slowly-twining-around-your-throat suspense, the emotional, life-altering-squeezing-your-stomach suspense, and the well-known and loved physical-threat-to life-and-limb suspense. And because I write romantic suspense, I'm also twining in the romantic conflict along the way.

It's fun and challenging and when it all comes together, the result is literally breathtaking.

What was the last book you read with killer suspense?

One random commenter (US and Canadian residents only) will win a print copy of FEVER.

Also, all comments are eligible for Joan's tour grand prize of either a COLOR NOOK or KINDLE FIRE. Stop by Joan's website and enter here.


~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Joan Swan is a triple RWA® Golden Heart finalist and writes sexy romantic suspense with a paranormal twist. Her debut novel with Kensington Brava, FEVER, releases February 28, 2012. Her second novel, BLAZE, follows in October, 2012.

In her day job, she works as a sonographer for one of the top ten medical facilities in the nation and lives on the California central coast in beautiful wine country with her husband and two daughters.

My links: Website Blog Twitter Facebook Goodreads


Book Blurb: Release Date: 2/28/12


Dr. Alyssa Foster will admit to a bad boy fetish…
But when she finds herself face to face with a convicted murderer with determination for freedom and an eye on her as his get out of jail free card, Alyssa knows she’s in deep trouble…. Not just because Teague Creek is a prisoner desperate for freedom, but because his every touch makes her desperate for more.

A man with a life sentence has nothing to lose…
Teague Creek has one shot at freedom, but his plan to escape with a hostage develops a fatal flaw: Alyssa. On the run from both the law and deadly undercover operatives who know of his strange abilities, he needs to avoid trouble, but every heated kiss tells him the fire between them could be just as devastating as the flames that changed him forever.

Buy links: Amazon Barnes & Noble Booksamillion

Review -- FEVER

FEVER
Phoenix Rising Series, Book 1
by Joan Swan
Publisher: Kensington
Release Date: February 28, 2012

He wore burgundy boxer briefs that clung to his muscular ass. He was tan everywhere but for a pale line mid thigh where he’d obviously worn shorts. She could swear every muscle was outlined in perfect relief. Her gaze traveled over the lines and dips and swells and curves. God, he was beautiful.

A beautiful, racist, murdering, escaped convict.


With only 14 days left of her year-long fellowship at St. Jude, Dr. Alyssa Foster is working every possible hour to show her dedication in hopes of receiving a permanent position as a radiologist at the medical center. Exhausted beyond words, Alyssa covers a shift for an ultrasound tech and finds she has to exam prisoners, which is her least favorite duty. Always a little uneasy around prisoners, her unease intensifies exponentially when inmate Teague Creek steps into the exam room.

Her gaze paused on the box labeled RELEASE DATE where the word life had been scribbled. Her lips pursed with an involuntary shake of her head. So young. What a waste.

Then, as her gaze shifts up and down Teague’s body, she observes a rather large man full of muscles and covered in a myriad of tattoos. The life of prison has covered this man from head to toe, literally. One minute Alyssa is reviewing Teague’s chart and the next minute she finds herself in a choke hold with scissors held to her throat.

Teague Creek is one complicated man. This former fire fighter/paramedic turned convicted murderer is not at all what he appears to be. Years ago, Teague and several other fire fighters were involved in a large fire at a government facility. Unbeknownst to the firefighters, they were exposed to some type of government chemical prototype. Each firefighter is affected by the exposure in a different way. Teague is able raise his body temperature to heat and melt items or to heal humans. Since the night of the fire, Teague’s life has spiraled out of control – being set up by some unknown group for the brutal murder of his wife, losing custody of his beloved little girl and serving life in prison for a crime he didn’t commit. While at the hospital for a medical exam and with the help of a prisoner, Teague takes control of his life and breaks free from the bonds of prison by kidnapping a doctor.

The majority of this book occurs while Teague and Alyssa are on the run. Slowly, very slowly, Alyssa begins to see past the façade Teague has built and truly sees the man behind the tattoos and the criminal record. Don’t think that Alyssa is some push over of a woman who falls in love with the man who kidnaps and holds her hostage. Oh no, that is SO far from the truth. Alyssa is one tough cookie. She gives as much as she gets.

She tossed her head to get the messy strands out of her eyes and watched him with a look that clearly said, “try it and I’ll kick your teeth in.” How could such a small woman, handcuffed and gagged, look so…formidable?

From the very beginning, Alyssa struggles with her physical and emotional reactions to Teague. She wonders how she can have any feelings for the man who has taken her hostage. Yet as the pieces of Teague’s life slowly begin to come together to form a bigger picture, Alyssa realizes she is in way deeper than even she imagined. Teague is not the criminal she first saw in the hospital, but instead a victim of some covert government cover-up. Using every single honed analytical skill learned from years of medical school and training, Alyssa takes charge of Teague’s escape and urges her attorney brother to help keep Teague out of prison. Teague is shocked and dismayed at the support Alyssa gives him. Afraid to open his heart to anyone since those he loved were taken from him in the past, Teague gives in a little and then retreats. Trust is hard to give after so much time in prison. The road to trust and love is winding, full of curves and blind spots, but the destination is SO worth the trip!

Teague pulled her earlobe between his teeth and nipped gently. “I love your passion.” He continued kissing his way down her neck. “I love your commitment. Your determination. Your courage.” His mouth moved over her should. “I love your intelligence. Your compassion.”

I don’t think I have ever been so tense while reading a book, but in a good way. This book is full of suspense! Every chapter had me holding my breath, tensing for what was to come, hoping for tidbits on Teague’s past and anticipating the physical connection between Teague and Alyssa. It wasn’t until I finished the book that I breathed a sigh of relief. Then I immediately thought …. I wonder when the next book comes out.

I am really looking forward to learning more about the other firefighters and what exactly happened to this group.

This is one book that I would highly recommend. But please keep in mind … it is not for the light of heart.


~ Buffie


NOTE: Since finishing the book, I have seen a lot of “chatter” regarding the racial slurs used by a gritty, evil secondary character in this book. I will admit that while reading parts of this book my jaw did drop wide open at the language, but I also must admit that this did not stop me from enjoying the storyline and I was not pulled out of the story in any way. The language used by this secondary character actually made me despise him so much that I couldn't wait to read what happened next and see how would the hero and heroine get away from this evil person. It is up to each reader to decide if language affects your view of the book. For me, it was not a problem.

Hot Dish

In the immortal words of country singers Big & Rich ---

"And the girls say

Save a horse, ride a cowboy"

So, anyone else out there ready to save a horse?

I know I am!!!!

~ Buffie

Coming Attractions

March is one of my favorite times of the year. Not only is it the month when my favorite flower (daffodil) is usually in bloom, but it is also the month full of birthdays in my family. My mother, my brother and I all share March as our birthday month. And fellow Dish Gannon does too! March is going to be a fabulous month here at The Romance Dish. We have a lot in store and hope to see you throughout the month. ~ Buffie



We kick off the month with New York Times bestselling author Kat Martin on March 1. Kat’s newest romantic suspense novel, Against the Night, was released on February 28.


March 2 is the day you need to show up with a pen and paper because that is when Andrea gives us the list of New Releases for March. There are quite a few fabulous books coming out this month.

Debut historical author Leigh LaValle stops by on March 6, the day her novel The Runaway Countess releases.


Ready for a sneak peak of books coming out in April? On March 8, Andrea provides that with her Make Your Reservation blog.


On March 10, Trish Milburn/Tricia Mills shares the latest news in YA publications and movies. The Hunger Games movie will be out on March 23 … anyone else planning to see it?


I am already in full blown *ahem* research mode for March 15 when I share my latest Hot Dish pick. So many options ….


Looking for several book reviews in one single day? Well, we have got you covered! Our Stock Up Saturday Reviews will be posted on March 17.



On March 20, multi-published author Lois Greiman visits with us.

Debut romantic suspense author Joan Swan blogs with us on March 21. Her debut novel, Fever, was released on February 28. I have read this book and it is a fantastic debut!! My review will be posted this month too.




On March 24, Anna Campbell returns with her monthly review blog. Wonder what Anna has been reading lately….




All of this AND reviews and giveaways throughout the month. I think March is going to be another great month at The Romance Dish.

~ Buffie

It's Time to Indulge!

Don’t Miss the “Indulge in Our Favorite Authors” Epic Book Giveaway Contest!

If you haven’t already heard, five romance authors are holding an epic book giveaway contest of *their* five favorite romance authors’ books. But they’re not just giving away a few books—they’re giving away complete, SIGNED backlists of the following authors:

Julia Quinn (sponsored by Shana Galen)
Lisa Kleypas (sponsored by Elise Rome)
Julie Garwood (sponsored by Heather Snow)
Elizabeth Hoyt (sponsored by Lila DiPasqua)
Cynthia Eden (sponsored by Vanessa Kelly)

Yes, it’s an epic contest, and it’s being held on Facebook right now. All you have to do is visit the Facebook pages of Shana Galen, Lila DiPasqua, Vanessa Kelly, Heather Snow, and Elise Rome, and enter the favorite book (the hint is given on the contest tab) for each of these authors.

At the end of February the contest will be over—so hurry!—and five lucky winners will win a backlist of one of the amazing authors mentioned above.

Elise has said that Lisa is even signing her books after the winner is chosen for her backlist, so if you win Lisa Kleypas’ books, they’ll be personally made out to you.

Also, the five authors are giving away books of their own, too.

Good luck to everyone who enters, and don’t forget to tell your friends!


~ Buffie

Hot Dish for February

Some pictures don't call for words. And I would definitely say this picture doesn't need words. Action, maybe. *wink wink* Words, nope.

And before you ask, I do not know this gorgeous man's name. And let's be totally honest with each other ... do we really care what his name is? LOL!

I hope your Valentine was good to you yesterday. And if he wasn't, well, maybe this Hot Dish can make it a little better.

~ Buffie

Winners!!

Thanks to everyone who stopped by and answered the Quick Six Questions

during my interview with Shana Galen.

What a fun way to get to know each other!!!

The winners (chosed by random.org) of a copy of Shana Galen's upcoming release,

THE ROGUE PIRATE'S BRIDE, are:

NEWAN

(comment posted 2/1/12 @ 8:50 a.m.)

KATIE

(comment posted 2/1/12 @ 8:22 p.m.)

Congrats to you both!!!

Please send your full name and mailing address to theromancedish AT gmail DOT com with "Shana Galen Winner" as your subject.

~ Buffie

Today's Special -- Shana Galen

We are thrilled to have historical author Shana Galen joining us today. As a busy mother and frequent blogger at The Sisterhood of the Jaunty Quill (an author blog site) Shana keeps her readers coming back for more with her stories of intrigue and romance. Her latest novel, THE ROGUE PIRATE’S BRIDE, will be released on February 7, 2012, and boy is it a good one (check out Buffie’s review here). Please give a warm welcome to Shana Galen.



Shana, thank you for joining us today. Let’s jump right in. Please tell us a little bit about your newest release, THE ROGUE PIRATE’S BRIDE.
First of all, thank you for having me!

The Rogue Pirate’s Bride is the third in my Sons of the Revolution series, but it can be read as a stand-alone. It’s the story of Bastien, one of three brothers who are separated as children during the French Revolution. Bastien is a pirate, though he prefers to be called a privateer, and he is seeking revenge against a Barbary corsair who betrayed and murdered his mentor and father-figure.

Raeven is the daughter of a British Admiral and she also wants revenge. Bastien killed her fiancé, and she’ll do anything to avenge his death. It’s an exciting book with sword fights, chases, naval battles, and of course, a happy ending.
I really enjoyed reading Bastien and Raeven’s story, as you could tell from my review. There just something about a pirate, a man living life by his own rules. I absolutely love pirate books, but there seems to be a small quantity of them. What made you decide to write one?

I’ve always wanted to write a pirate book. Like you, I love pirates and can’t ever find enough books featuring pirate heroes. One of my favorite books ever is Marsha Canham’s THE WIND AND THE SEA. The hero isn’t a pirate, but the heroine is a pirate’s daughter. I started thinking about writing a book where the heroine is as knowledgeable and experienced in naval matters as the hero, and that was the beginning of the idea for THE ROGUE PIRATE'S BRIDE.

Several scenes in the book are set around Gibraltar. Did you visit the area to conduct research?
I can only hope to visit one day. I had to research online, but my sister was working in Morocco at the time, so I was able to ask her lots of questions about North African cities and markets.

While most historical romances have English heroes, Bastien is a man of French heritage. Did you consciously make an effort to write a non-English hero? And by chance are you of French descent?
For whatever reason, French heroes are not that popular with readers, so I definitely didn’t make a conscious effort to write one. The smarter move would have been to write a British or Scottish hero, but that wasn’t the book idea I had. I have always loved the period of the French Revolution, and I wanted to explore the ramifications of a revolution like that. Bastien fled the revolution as a boy and signed on as a cabin boy on the first ship he found. It turned out to be a pirate ship. The men on board became his family. He had no other family because he thinks they all perished in the Revolution.

No, I’m not of French descent. I’m Dutch and German.

I have to say that I found a French hero very refreshing. And Bastien is one hero that will have all the girls swooning!

Other than your family, who has been your greatest supporter during your writing career?

I’d have to say two people, Tera Lynn Childs and Christina Hergenrader. Both are writers and both have been there for me for the good times and the bad. Most authors go through periods when they think they might never sell another book, and both of these friends stood by me and encouraged me to keep writing during that period for me.

It is so nice to have such moral support from people in the profession.

I love the show Inside The Actor’s Studio, which is hosted by James Lipton. I enjoy the questions he ask every actor on his show and find I’m always fascinated by the answers given. Therefore, I’m going to ask you a few of Mr. Lipton’s usual questions.

What’s your favorite word? It changes, but lately it is sonorous.

What’s your least favorite word? Sucks, as in “This sucks.”

What sound do you love? Silence. I don’t get much of it.

What sound do you hate? My daughter’s crying. It must be instinctual in mothers. It doesn’t bother me when other kids cry, but when mine starts crying, I cringe.

What profession other than yours would you like to attempt? I have always wanted to work with animals, so maybe I’d be a veterinarian or run a shelter.


Now on to our Quick Six Questions.
Early bird or night owl? Early bird, definitely.
Mexican or Italian food? Tough. I think Mexican. I live in Houston, and we have great Mexican food.
Beach or mountains? Beach. The sound of the waves is relaxing.
Chocolate or peanut butter? Why not together? Chocolate over peanut butter, unless they’re together or caramel is involved
Heels or sneakers? Sneakers.
Silver or gold? Silver.

Since THE ROGUE PIRATE’S BRIDE was the last in the series, I’m sure you must be working on something fabulous. Please tell our readers what is up next for you.
I’m working on a new series about three glamorous courtesans in Regency London. They become involved with some dangerous diamonds and some equally dangerous men. It’s been a lot of fun to write and is action-packed. The first book comes out in September, and it’s titled WHEN YOU GIVE A DUKE A DIAMOND.

Wow, that sounds like another fabulous series. But, of course, that is what we expect when we pick up a Shana Galen book. It has been such a pleasure having you with us today. Thanks for taking time out of your busy schedule.

Dear reader, Shana would love to hear your response to the Quick Six Questions she answered in our interview. So are you an early bird or a night owl? Do you prefer chocolate or peanut butter? Come on, answer those six questions and let's get to know each other a little better.

Thanks to Shana, two random commenters will win a copy of THE ROGUE PIRATE’S BRIDE.

This giveaway is open INTERNATIONALLY.



~ Buffie

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Shana Galen is the author of numerous fast-paced adventurous Regency historical romances, including the Rita-nominated Blackthorne’s Bride. Her books have been sold worldwide, including Japan, Brazil, Russia, Spain, Turkey, and the Netherlands, and have been featured in the Rhapsody and Doubleday Book Clubs. A former English teacher in Houston’s inner city, Shana now writes full time. She’s a wife, a mother, and an expert multi-tasker. She loves to hear from readers: visit her website at www.shanagalen.com or see what she’s up to daily on Facebook and Twitter.

Review -- The Rogue Pirate's Bride

The Rogue Pirate’s Bride
The Sons of the Revolution, Book 3
By Shana Galen
Release Date: February 7, 2012
Publisher: Sourcebooks

In the end, he supposed it was he who learned a lesson, not to judge by appearances. An annoying boy could turn out to be a beautiful woman – a beautiful woman intent on killing him. And what was he going to do about that?


Raeven Russell is a woman on a mission. She is hell bend on confronting the man who killed her fiancé during a battle on the seas. Raeven is the only child of a British Admiral and since her mother’s death just days after Raeven’s birth, Raeven’s lifestyle has revolved around the ship and the sea. While most little girls are taught sewing and etiquette skills, Raeven’s skill set includes sword fighting, military strategic maneuvers and management of a crew. She is not your average English rose.

Rumors have swirled around Captain Bastien Cutlass for years. Some say he is a pirate. Others say he a disposed aristocrat who lost his family in the French Revolution. But Raeven calls him a murderer. A perfect opportunity for confrontation arises when both are in the same port. So Raeven disguises herself as a sailor and tracks Bastien down in a seaside tavern. While conducting business, Bastien is shocked when a boy pulls a blade and informs Bastien that he is there to kill Bastien. Seeing the boy as merely a child, Bastien doesn’t take the bait and instead tries to calm the situation. This only inflames Raeven and she directly challenges Bastien to a sword match only to find out that her skills, though impressive for a woman, are not on the level of this man. As Bastien takes Raeven’s sword as the prize for the challenge, Raeven’s hat falls off and he discovers he has just battled with a beautiful woman. Bastien is not sure what he is going to do with this woman, but one thing he does know … whatever he decides to do, it is going to happen on his ship.

I-I’m not going to take off my clothes.”

Since she didn’t appear likely to take it, he set her wine on the desk. “No? Then why are you here? And don’t tell me it’s simply to retrieve your sword.”

She clamped her mouth closed.

“You could have had another sword made.”

She cocked her head to the side. “Why do you think I’m here then?”

He shrugged, drank some wine. “Me.” He looked pointedly at the large berth.

She laughed. “Oh, really? You have a rather high opinion of yourself.”

He sat down behind the desk, lifted his glass to examine the red wine in the candlelight. “You went to a lot of trouble to see me again. Perhaps my arrogance isn’t entirely misplaced.”

As Raeven and Bastien are forced to spend more time together on the seas, similarities come to light. Bastien learns that Raeven lost her mother at a very early age and understands the lost of family. Raeven discovers that just like her, Bastien is looking for the captain of a ship who killed his mentor several years ago. She also discovers Bastien lost his family during the terror of the French Revolution. While Raeven has always had a physical reaction to Bastien, these discoveries begin to soften her heart towards him. As the layers of their lives are slowly revealed and the truth surrounding Raeven’s fiance’s death is brought to the surface, emotions of love begin to ripple through their relationship. But when happily ever after is close at hand, the opportunity for revenge finally appears and shocking family secrets are revealed. This could change everything. Will Bastien and Raeven choose revenge or each other?

I truly enjoyed reading this book. Both Bastien and Raeven are very strong, independent characters, but are so very likable. I was immediately cheering them on. I love that Raeven stands up for everything she believes in and is not afraid to tell Bastien exactly what she thinks. The chemistry between the two is smokin’ hot, but as always, the emotion connection is what gets me every time and that is what had me turning the pages as fast as I could.

If you are looking for a book that is not your normal English historical romance, then this is the book for you. Ms. Galen takes you on a whirlwind adventure on the high seas and exotic locales. Filled with humor, betrayal, intrigue, revenge and definite chemistry, this novel is one to be enjoyed by all.

This novel is the 3rd book in The Sons of the Revolution series. While I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book as a stand alone, I would recommend reading the series. I’m already tracking down copies of The Making of a Duchess and The Making of a Gentleman and I can't wait to read them.

~ Buffie


Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Book Depository

Books-A-Million