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/

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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.

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

What's New in the News?

It's Sunday morning and I've been catching up on all those messages that have been lingering in my various email accounts while we celebrated our anniversary over the past week.  Guess what I found out?  There are a lot of cool things going on in the world of romance!  Here are a few of the things I discovered while cleaning out ye ole inbox.

Have you discovered the romantic suspense world of Roxanne St. Claire's Guardian Angelinos?  The first book in the Guardian Angelinos trilogy, EDGE OF SIGHT (2011 RITA finalist), is available during the month of November for digital download at the very affordable price of $1.99.  Order for your Kindle here or your Nook here.  Want to know what I thought of the book?  Read my review here.


Roxanne is also participating in a very special project, SEAL OF MY DREAMS (Nov. 11th), a collection of 18 short stories, each with a Navy SEAL hero.  The proceeds of sales of this book have been pledged to the Veterans Research Corporation, a non-profit foundation that supports veterans' medical research.



Fall into Love with Christina Dodd, Lisa Kleypas and Susan Mallery.  These three authors are joining forces to give away a brand new Kindle Fire and 18 of their bestselling e-books to jump start your digital reading pleasure.  (There's an alternate prize if you live outside the U.S.)  Visit each of their Facebook pages (by clicking on their names above) to find their secret word then once you have all three words, click on the contest entry link (at any of the three Facebook pages) to enter! (The winner will be notified by email on November 15th.)


The first round of voting is underway for the Goodreads Choice Awards 2011.  Cast your vote for favorites in a variety of categories, including Romance, Mystery & Thriller, Paranormal Fantasy and many more.  Let your romance reading voices be heard!

Lila diPasqua has been sharing photos of her recent journey through Italy at her blog and giving away beautiful Venetian glass necklaces to random people who leave comments.  Tomorrow (Monday, Nov. 7th), she'll be blogging about her trip to Pompeii (I've been there.  It's incredible!) and giving away another necklace.  Click here to visit Lila's blog and while you're there, check out her husband's interviews with other romance husbands.  They're fantastic!

Wendy Wax is hosting a Fiction Bonanza Giveaway!  For six weeks (beginning last week), Wendy will be giving away a contemporary or women's fiction book to one weekly winner.  Winners will receive books from authors such as Carly Phillips, Jill Shalvis, K.J. Steele, Carol Snow, Marie Skinner and Wendy.  To enter, go to http://www.authorwendywax.com, click on Contest News: Enter Wendy’s Latest Giveaway Now, enter your email address as directed and you're entered.  Each Saturday begins a new giveaway and offers another chance to enter.

Have you fallen in love with two-time RITA finalist, Tessa Dare's writing yet? (I have!)  Here's an excellent opportunity to give one of her stories a try.  Dare's new e-novella, Once Upon a Winter's Eve, is available for pre-order at an unbelievable price of only $0.69 from the Samhain store and $0.99 from the rest of the usual suspects.  Release date is November 15th.  It only took this blurb to have me excited for a return trip to Spindle Cove! 

Some wallflowers bloom at night...
A Spindle Cove Novella

Violet Winterbottom is a quiet girl. She speaks six languages, but seldom raises her voice. She endured bitter heartbreak in perfect silence. The gentlemen aren't beating down her door.

Until the night of the Spindle Cove Christmas ball, when a mysterious stranger crashes into the ballroom and collapses at Violet's feet. His coarse attire and near-criminal good looks would put any sensible young lady on her guard. He's wet, chilled, bleeding, and speaking in an unfamiliar tongue.

Only Violet understands him. And she knows he's not what he seems.

She has one night to draw forth the secrets of this dangerously handsome rogue. Is he a smuggler? A fugitive? An enemy spy? She needs answers by sunrise, but her captive would rather seduce than confess. To learn his secrets, Violet must reveal hers—and open herself to adventure, passion, and the unthinkable... Love.

---

Product Warnings

The heroine packs a pistol, the hero curses in multiple languages, and together they steam up a cold winter’s night.

November 22nd brings us the debut of Amazon's new publishing division, Montlake Romance and the release of THE OTHER GUY'S BRIDE, the long-awaited sequel to Connie Brockway's popular 1997 novel, AS YOU DESIRE.  It's an exciting new chapter in the life of this NY Times bestselling, two-time RITA (and eight-time finalist!) award winning author.  Click here to read more about this new venture. 

Our own Anna Campbell is having a spectacular Romance Bandits contest at her website to celebrate the Bandits' move into a spiffy new Lair.  Click here for details and click here to check out the Romance Bandits new home!









That's my news.  What's yours?  Have recent reads to recommend?  Blogs you think we should check out?  Contests we need to know about?  Let's share!

~PJ

Winners!

Thanks to everyone for stopping by and visiting with author Ashley March. The winner of a copy of ROMANCING THE COUNTESS is:

VIRGINIA

(who posted a comment at 11:53 a.m.)

Congrats to you, Virginia! To claim your prize, please send your full name and address to theromancedishATgmailDOTcom with "Ashley March Winner" in the subject.

AND ...

I'm still trying to name a winner from Lila DiPasqua's visit. Maybe the third time is the charm .... the winner of a copy of A MIDNIGHT DANCE by Lila DiPasqua is:

HELEN

Congrats to you, Helen! To claim your prize, please send your full name and address to theromancedishtATgmailDOTcom with "Lila DiPasqua Winner" in the subject.

~ Buffie

Winners! Winners!

Below are the winners from two recent author blogs.

The winner of a copy of JENNIFER'S GARDEN by Dianne Venetta is:

TRAVELER

The winner of a copy of A MIDNIGHT DANCE by Lila DiPasqua is:

LIBRARYPAT

Congrats to you!!!

Please email your full name and mailing address

to theromancedishATgmailDOTcom.

Be sure to include the title of the book you won in the subject line.

~ Buffie

Last Call for Winner!

This is the last call for the winner of a copy of A MIDNIGHT DANCE by Lila DiPasqua.

The winner is:

LEXI

To claim your prize, please email theromancedishATgmailDOTcom with your full name and mailing address. Be sure to include "Lila DiPasqua Winner" in the subject line of the email.

You have until 12 midnight (EST) on Wednesday, August 17, to claim your prize.

~ Buffie

Winners! Winners!

Thanks to everyone you stopped by and commented during visits

by authors Mia Marlow and Lila DiPasqua.

The winner of a copy of DISTRACTING THE DUCHESS by Mia Marlow is:

BARBARA E.

The winner of a copy of A MIDNIGHT DANCE by Lila DiPasqua is:

LEXI

To claim your prize, please email theromancedishATgmailDOTcom with your full name and mailing address. Be sure to include "Mia Marlow Winner" or "Lila DiPasqua Winner" in the subject line of the email.

~ Buffie

Today's Special -- Lila DiPasqua

It's Buffie and I am so thrilled to have author Lila DiPasqua joining us today. I fell in love with Lila's writing after reading her debut, AWAKENED BY A KISS. My love for her writing grew with her second release, A PRINCESS IN HIS BED. Both of these books are anthologies with each novella based on a classic fairy tale. With Lila's fiery twist of storytelling, these new fiery tales are a must have for any historical romance reader. Her newest masterpiece, A MIDNIGHT DANCE, will be released tomorrow and it is just fabulous! Check out my review here. Lila DiPasqua is quickly becoming one of my favorite authors. And did I mention she is just the sweetest person too? Yep, she is!! Please give a very warm welcome to Lila DiPasqua.



Cinderella has NEVER been retold like this!

Dearest Readers,

I have a confession: The very first romance I ever read was — Cinderella.

I believe the reason I love historical romance novels (and write them) is because of fairy tales like Cinderella. Who doesn’t love an underdog story? Especially one that offers a handsome Prince. Dazzling footwear (albeit a tad breakable *smiles*) A spectacular ball. And the best part of all—a happily ever after.

In the third installment in the Fiery Tales series, A MIDNIGHT DANCE, I’ve taken this beloved fairy tale, and all those elements we love about it, and given it my very own fresh twist.

Our Cinder-girl, Sabine Laurent is definitely a damsel in distress, but she’s not waiting for anyone to rescue her. She’s taking matters into her own hands. Upon the recent death of her father, a once prominent playwright, she’s inherited a sizeable debt. She and her family face a debtor’s prison. Desperate, she’s decided that the object of her girlhood infatuation, Jules de Moutier, a man she’d once dubbed her “Dark Prince” (because he’s tall, dark and oh so handsome) is the very man she is going to dupe and steal from. Jules’s silver treasure would solve all of our impoverished beauty’s problems. All she has to do is pose as a courtesan named Elise and feed him the tainted wine. She plans to use her acting skills in this seduction, and has enlisted the help of her eclectic blended family—which includes the balance of her late father’s acting troupe, and a “fairy godmother” in the form of a loveable, yet highly opinionated apothecary. The only appeal about this mad scheme is—she’ll be stealing from Jules—whom she blames for her predicament in the first place.

Devastatingly handsome and rich, Jules de Moutier, firstborn son of the Marquis de Blainville, was an officer in the King’s Navy and the center of attention at any noble gathering. His life was good, his future enviable, until a terrible twist of fate robbed him of his father, his family’s fortune and honor. As a result of his father’s conviction and execution for treason, the Moutier family is no longer in favor with the King. Stripped of their nobility, tossed out of the Navy and disgraced before his peers, Jules has lost everything he’s ever identified with. He’ll stop at nothing to uncover the person who framed his father, reclaim what’s rightfully his and exact revenge. It’s taken him years, but he’s now finally in a position to walk away from the privateering he took up out of necessity—intent on using his newly captured silver treasure to help him reclaim his former life and clear his family’s name. All is going according to plan, until he crosses paths with a certain blond and beautiful desperate thief.

With a devilishly seductive “Prince Charming” like Jules, it’s not going to be easy for Sabine to snatch the silver. Add a healthy dose of intrigue, surprising twists, scandalous behavior, and a couple destined to be together, and you have A MIDNIGHT DANCE—a Cinderella story that is as steamy and exciting as it is romantic. Let the seduction begin!

Why do you think fairy tales like Cinderella continue to be popular hundreds of years after it was first written? One lucky winner will win a signed copy of A MIDNIGHT DANCE. GIVEAWAY OPEN WORLDWIDE.

~ Buffie

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
A MIDNIGHT DANCE
A Fiery Tale
Lila DiPasqua
Berkley Sensation
HISTORICAL ROMANCE
August 2011
ISBN: 978-0425241981

Inspired by the tale of Cinderella, Lila DiPasqua weaves a steamy historical romance that offers a glass slipper, a dangerous deception, and an impoverished beauty determined to find her handsome prince…and make him pay.

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…

Amazon

Nook

Other

Read a steamy excerpt of A MIDNIGHT DANCE here.

About the Author:
Lila DiPasqua writes wicked & witty historical romance for Penguin/Berkley. She lives with her real-life hero husband and three children and is a firm believer in the happily-ever-after. She loves history and enjoys traveling. She has been to four continents so far. To learn more about Lila and her books, visit her website.

Review -- A Midnight Dance

A Midnight Dance
by Lila DiPasqua
Release Date: August 2, 2011
Publisher: Berkley





As young girls growing up behind the scenes of her father’s prestigious theater, Sabine Laurent and her twin sister Isabelle enjoyed watching the comings and goings of the aristocracy and dreamed of finding their own Prince Charming. Sabine’s interest was always drawn to the tall, dark and handsome man she adequately nicknamed her Dark Prince. Years later, after the death of her father and the disappearance of her sister, Sabine is weighted down by her father’s overwhelming debt and the excessive taxing by the aristocracy. Determined not to end up in debtor’s prison or worse, Sabine decides to take her (and her family’s) future into her own small hands by stealing a large supply of silver from a band of thieves by tainting their drink and seducing their leader.

During the Fronde (civil war in France during the Franco-Spanish War), the head of the Moutier family was executed and all of the family’s lands and possessions were stripped away. For the last five years, Jules de Moutier has been doing everything in his power (including piracy) to gain silver so he can buy back his family’s land and restore the family’s dignity. Transporting his latest booty through the French countryside, Jules and his band of merry men stop to make camp for the evening. As the evening grows darker, Jules is surprised when a beautiful young woman wonders into the camp offering herself to the leader in exchanged for food and shelter. Immediately drawn to the young woman’s lovely golden hair and shapely body, Jules quickly agrees and finds himself in deeper than he expects.

Sabine is shocked to find out that the leader of the band of thieves she is planning to steal silver from is actually Jules de Moutier, head of the aristocratic family who is ruining her own family and, more importantly, the tall, dark and handsome man she remembers from her childhood. Her own Dark Prince. Torn between the hate and bitterness she feels for the Moutier family and the yearnings and dreams of a young girl, Sabine decides she can allow herself the pleasure of one night with Jules … as long as she leaves with enough silver to return wealth and status to her family. But can one night of passion with her Dark Prince be enough?

“She wrapped her arms around her legs and gazed up at the stars twinkling in the blackened sky. Though it was a serene sight to behold, she didn’t dare derive any tranquility from it. How could she? He’d be back at any moment, and the man had the devil’s touch. He’d made her scream in ecstasy. Scream. Her. She was practical. Levelheaded.

She could quash any emotion, control every reaction – except when he neared. Or when he touched her. “

I have been a huge fan of Lila DiPasqua since the very beginning. In fact, she is becoming one of my favorite authors. Her two previous books, AWAKENED BY A KISS and THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED, were anthologies of fiery tales, novellas based on famous fairy tales but with a fiery twist. A MIDNIGHT DANCE is Ms. DiPasqua’s first full-length novel and is based on the fairy tale of Cinderella. Full of rich imagery and tantalizing scenes, Ms. DiPasqua is like a master artist painting a beautiful mural, taking care to show every nuance and detail. The loves scenes are spicy, sexy and oh so delicious! But the emotional journey for Sabine and Jules steals the show for me – each struggling to restore their family but also trying to grasp their own happiness.

Simply put, this is one fabulous book!


~ Buffie


Amazon
Barnes and Noble
Book Depository
Books-A-Million
Borders

WINNERS

Thanks to everyone who joined us during Lila DiPasqua's visit.

Random.org has chosen the winner. And she is . . . .

HELEN

Congratulations Helen! You have one your choice of Lila's books

Awakened by a Kiss or The Princess in His Bed.

Please email your choice along with her snail mail address to

theromancedishATgmailDOTcom with "Lila DiPasqua Winner".

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

And thanks to all who stopped by and commented on Angela Johnson's blog.

Random.org has chosen the winners. And they are . . .

BARBARA E.

GAMISTRESS66

Please email your snail mail address to theromancedishATgmailDOTcome

with "Angela Johnson Winner" in the subject line.

You have each one an authographed copy of Angela's Vow of Deception.

~ Buffie

Today's Special - Lila DiPasqua

I am thrilled to have Lila DiPasqua with us today. It's hard to believe it has only been 4 months since I first heard about Lila. I read her debut novel, AWAKENED BY A KISS, in July just before meeting her at the RWA Conference in Orlando. Blown away by this new voice in historical romance, I was immediately enchanted by this sweet woman. If you couldn't tell by my review of Lila's latest release, THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED, (which you can read here), then I must tell you that I absolutely LOVED it. Lila's writing more than deserves the 5-star reviews I have given both of her books. Please give a warm welcome to this fabulous author and, more importantly, to one of my newest friends . . . Lila DiPasqua.

~ Buffie


That’s so twisted! ….by Lila DiPasqua

Okay, did that heading grab your attention? :) For those who don’t know me, I write wicked and witty historical romance for Penguin/Berkley. Second in my Fiery Tales series, THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED (Berkley Sensation) has just been released. Is it twisted, you ask?

Not the way you think.

In THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED I’ve taken three classic fairy tales and have given them my own romantic, sexy twists. ;) The Emperor’s New Clothes, The Ugly Duckling, and The Princess and the Pea, have been renamed and retold---quite scandalously---in “The Marquis’ New Clothes”, “The Lovely Duckling,” and “The Princess and the Pea”.

Yes, dearest readers, you get one historical romance novel with three hot historical bad boys:

Adam de Vey, Marquis de Nattes (The Marquis’ New Clothes)

Joseph d’Alumbert, son of the Duc de Vernant (The Lovely Duckling)

Mathias de Tesson, Marquis de Montfort (The Princess and the Diamonds)


These carnally gifted men, gentle readers, will do more than seduce the objects of their desire. They will also steal their hearts….and in the process, lose their own!

No scrimping on a good romance in these three tales. Oh, no. I wouldn’t hear of it! I offer up a serving of three delicious rakes, three smart, strong heroines and equal parts romance and steam in each sensuous, passionate love story in THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED!

So how exactly did I take these fairy tales and give them my own unique spin?

Well, in the original fairy tale, The Emperor’s New Clothes, two individuals are out to dupe a wealthy man (the Emperor). That’s the basis of the tale. And that’s what I took to shape The Marquis’ New Clothes. You see, Adam de Vey very smart and very sexy—tall, dark and oh so wickedly handsome—and he loves the finer things in life; he has a penchant for expensive clothes and beautiful women. And an abundance of both!

It isn’t going to be easy for Aimee to help her cousin retrieve the important ring she accidentally dropped in Adam’s pocket. Aimee is going to have to seduce this master of seduction in order to get close enough to search his pockets and locate the ring. She doesn’t know that Adam has been infatuated with her (okay, more than a mere infatuation… *smiles*) for years. She’s also unaware that he has a seduction planned of his very own! ;)

I love a good underdog story and the tale of The Ugly Ducking is just that! I wanted to write a story where my heroine was made to feel ugly all her life and blossoms into a swan—thanks to the healing power of love.

In The Lovely Duckling, I didn’t take a heroine who just needed some dressing up. Emilie de Sarron was burned in a fire as an infant. She’s put up with horrible taunts and cruel names. All her life. Worse, at her introduction into society, she was horribly teased and publicly humiliated—the hero, Joseph, regrettably a part of this fiasco. It was the final straw. For ten years, Emilie withdrew from society. Now she’s back and she’s determined to grab a bit bliss—albeit strictly physical. Believing love and marriage are unattainable, she’s convinced that at least a physical encounter is doable. How? Well, she’s going to use the anonymity of a masquerade—orgiastic—ball in order to find a willing lover, and indulge. She never expected that the very man she gives herself to is none other than Joseph.

Finally, we have The Princess and the Pea. What a fun fairy tale to twist! First, I nixed the food. When my hero and heroine are in bed, I don’t want the reader thinking about the spoiling veggies under the mattress.

Then I took the basis of the story: A princess who can’t sleep at night because there is something hard in her bed. And…well….Yup, you know I went there. *winks* What was hard in her bed and causing the poor princess to lose sleep, you ask? There are a couple things, actually—the Marquis on it…and, oh yeah, diamonds! The ones she stole from the palace and shoves under her mattress for safekeeping.

Her half-brother has gambled away his fortune at the Basset tables—a card game recently banned by the King. Knowing she has skill at the game, she dons male attire and is intent on using the royal diamonds to gamble with. If only the gorgeous man seated across from her didn’t see through her disguise! If only he wasn’t so stirring to her senses and utterly irresistible!

If only she knew he was a spy working for the Crown, his mission to enforce the ban the King has placed on the card game and see to the arrest of those who dare to play it.

As for our hero, Mathias, Marquis de Montfort, he has no idea that the woman he has thoroughly and deliciously debauched is none other than the King’s own daughter.

Let the games begin! *smiles*



QUESTION: If you were casting a fairy tale film, who would you pick to play the role of the wickedly delicious Prince Charming?

One lucky commenter will win a signed copy of AWAKENED BY A KISS or THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED---winner’s choice!

GIVEAWAY OPEN WORLDWIDE.


****************************************

THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED, A Fiery Tales Collection By Lila DiPasqua Historical RomanceBerkley (Sensation)
ISBN: 978-0425237007 OUT NOW!

Inspired by “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” “The Ugly Duckling, and “The Princess and the Pea,” Lila DiPasqua spins three sexy tales that give new meaning to the term bedtime story…

The Marquis’ New Clothes: To save her cousin, Aimee de Miran must retrieve a jeweled ring from the most sinfully seductive man at court, the Marquis de Nattes. But to search his considerable wardrobe she’ll have to get very close to the notorious rake…and soon she finds herself very close to him indeed, with his clothes—and hers—utterly forgotten…

The Lovely Duckling: Reputed for his carnal skills, Joseph d’Alumbert prefers amorous encounters without emotional entanglement—until a quick-witted lady stirs tender feelings and hot desire. Emilie de Sarron suffered burns to her body as an infant, and keeps her scars—and her heart—well hidden. But Joseph is determined to peel away her inhibitions, one slow steamy kiss at a time, to reveal the beautiful swan inside…

The Princess and the Diamonds: Princess Gabrielle can’t sleep at night. There is something hard in her bed. No, not just the stolen diamonds tucked under her mattress, but the handsome Marquis on it….whose carnal talents she can’t resist. But he threatens her secret mission, and worse, she stands to lose far more than the diamonds---her heart is at stake….

“…Strong-minded heroines you can relate to, breathtaking carnally gifted male leads…DiPasqua writes with a comfortable elegance and grace, and in turn, crafts a sexy collection that readers will love.” – Fresh Fiction.

“Ripe with steamy affairs, these lusty stories are hot enough to warm the coldest winter night.” – Publishers Weekly

Read an excerpt of THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED

Read an excerpt of AWAKENED BY A KISS

About the Author:

Lila DiPasqua writes wicked & witty historical romance for Penguin/Berkley. She lives with her real-life hero husband and three children and is a firm believer in the happily-ever-after. She loves history and enjoys traveling. She has been to four continents so far. Her novels, AWAKENED BY A KISS, and THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED are featured in Doubleday as well as Rhapsody Book Clubs. To learn more about Lila and her books, visit http://www.liladipasqua.com/

Review -- The Princess in His Bed

The Princess in His Bed
by Lila DiPasqua
Publisher: Berkley
Release Date: November 2, 2010








The Princess in His Bed is the second installment in the Fiery Tales collection by Lila DiPasqua and includes three stories. As I stated in my review of Awakened by a Kiss, the first installment in the Fiery Tales collection, Lila has taken the classic fairy tales of your childhood and transformed those beloved tales into sensual stories the adult woman in you will find satisfying and refreshing. And as much as I enjoyed Awakened by a Kiss, this installment is even better! Yes, these Fiery Tales just keep getting better and better.


The Marquis’s New Clothes. Thanks to the carelessness of her cousin who has lost a valuable jeweled ring, widow Aimee de Miran must now cozy up to a known libertine in order to locate the ring. Though the Marquis de Nattes is one of the most seductive men at court, Aimee detests the very thought of him. Adam de Vey is as beautiful as sin and a master at seduction, but is completely faithless. Just like her late husband. But Aimee’s love for her cousin is stronger than her dislike of Adam, so she bites her tongue and proceeds to show interest in him. Adam de Vey is shocked when his late friend’s wife shows him the slightest bit of interest. He has loved and adored Aimee from afar for many years. Now that she is interested, Adam begins to show her that the pleasures in the bedroom can (and should) be shared by both parties involved. As the two share days and nights together, their bonds of passion soon multiply to genuine feelings of love and happiness.

“Destiny may have caused their paths to cross that summer.

But it was their love that made their tale romantic, repeated through the realm.

And ensured their happily ever after.”


The Lovely Duckling. Burned badly as a baby and driven into seclusion by taunts and ridicule ten years ago, spinster Emile de Sarron has decided her aunt’s week long masquerade, which is known for its decadent diversions, is the perfect place for her to experience passion for the very first time. As everyone attending will be wearing a mask, no one will know she is even there. Well, no one but Vincent d’Alumbert, the man she has been corresponding with for several months and the only man she told she would be attending. Thankful for the companionship and their frank discussions of passion, though only by letters, Emile is anxious to finally see Vincent. Joseph d’Alumbert cannot believe that Emile has arrived at the Comtesse de Saint-Arnaud’s country estate for a week of debauchery. Ten years ago, Joseph attended a party where several men taunted Emile about her burns and thus her unmarriageable status. Driven by the need to see how she has being doing, Joseph began writing to Emile several months ago. But he signed all of the letters in his twin brother’s name – Vincent. Enjoying the correspondence between each other, Joseph has slowly fallen for Emile. And this week of masked debauchery is just the time to show Emile that she is a woman full of passion and one he desires, even with her scars.

“Facing him were her scars, covering her back, and down the backs of her arms to her elbows. Pink to dark red blotchy skin. Thick. And raised. And uneven. And horrible to behold.

Not having the courage to turn back around to see his reaction, she waited for him to speak, her insides quivering.

She felt his lips against her shoulder first. She lurched. He slipped his arm around her waist and bent her forward, her palms bracing against the mattress. Kiss after kiss was pressed against her back as he slowly made his way down her spine. Tears welled in her eyes and fell onto the bed. She was stunned, so moved, she couldn’t believe what he was doing.

He straightened, leaned over her, and near her ear he repeated, “I just see beauty.”


The Princess and the Diamonds. Mathias Paul Thomas de Tesson, Marquis de Montfort, has volunteered with the King’s Police of Paris to infiltrate an illegal gaming center and report the members of the aristocracy who are playing the forbidden card game, Basset. While attending the first masked card game, Mathias is immediately intrigued by a young man who bets with loose diamonds and leaves immediately after winning a large sum. Running after the young man, Mathias pulls the mask away and finds the face of a beautiful young woman. Princess Gabrielle is determined to use the royal diamonds as funds for gambling in order to win back the money her younger half-brother recently lost in a Basset game. Disguised as a man, Gabrielle’s plan seems to be working well when she wins a large sum the first night of gambling. But her sense of accomplishment quickly changes when a handsome man pulls away her mask. When Mathias assumes she is her uncle’s mistress, Gabrielle does not correct this misconception. Mathias makes advances and Gabrielle finds the attention exhilarating and utterly satisfying. Once again passion pulls the emotion of love to surface. The daughter of a king usually does not marry for love but for political gain, but Gabrielle’s gamble pays off big time. Actually it pays off for a life time.

“Princess of my heart. Princess that I love. The only Princess for me.”

“And will you ride off with her, taking her from this palace, and bring her to your castle?”

“Indeed.” He brought her hand and placed it over his heart. “I will bring her to my kingdom, the one we create with our very own magic, where I shall cherish and love her – ever after.”

A promise Mathias sealed with a searing kiss.


Once again Lila DiPasqua has blown me away with her writing. Not only are these three stories heartwarming and touching, but Lila thoroughly sprinkles each one with the spice of passion.

If you only buy one book this week or this month, do yourself a favor and BUY this book! Lila DiPasqua has proven once again that satisfaction is guaranteed with her spicy, yet touching writing. Well done, Lila. WELL DONE!



~ Buffie

Lila DiPasqua Winners

Thanks to all you commented on my interview with Lila DiPasqua!!

Random.org has chosen the following winners:

Karen H in NC

gamistress66

Please email your snail mail address with "Lila DiPasqua Winner" in the subject line to

theromancedishATgmailDOTcom.

Review -- AWAKENED BY A KISS

Awakened by a Kiss
by Lila DiPasqua
Publisher: Berkley Sensation
Release Date: August 3, 2010


























Every now and then a debut author knocks my socks off with her first novel, and Lila DiPasqua has done just that with her offering of AWAKENED BY A KISS. Ms. DiPasqua has taken the classic fairy tales of your childhood and transformed those beloved tales into sensual stories the adult woman in you will find satisfying and refreshing. AWAKENED BY A KISS is a collection of three such stories.

Sleeping Beau is based on Sleeping Beauty. Adrien Christophe d’Aspe de Bourbon, an illegitimate son of the King, dreams of the sensual night of passion he shared with a vibrant redhead five years ago. Discovering Catherine is attending a house party given by a mutual friend, Adrien makes it his objective to have Catherine back in his bed. Adrien knows Catherine’s sensual kisses will awaken his libido, but he doesn’t count on her love awakening the desires of his heart.

“Catherine awoke to the sound of a steady heartbeat beneath her ear and two strong arms around her. Her cheek resting on a very masculine, solid chest, she peeked up to see Adrien fast asleep. Carefully, she rose onto her elbow and allowed herself the simple pleasure of gazing at him. His cheekbones, straight nose, jaw and kissable mouth were etched forever in her mind. It was incredible, really. She’d envisioned this very visage for years and here he was. In the flesh. In her arms. Not just a fantasy come to life, but a dream come true.”

Little Red Writing is based on Little Red Riding Hood. Nicolas de Savignac, Comte de Lambelle, is one of the King’s Musketeers and has been tasked by the King to discover the identity of a secret author writing salacious stories about the powerful men of France. When his investigation leads to the home of his Grandmother and more particularly to the three sisters living with his Grandmother, Nicolas is determined to win the King’s regard by solving the case quickly, efficiently and by any means necessary. What Nicolas did not count on is his physical and emotional reaction to Anne de Vignon, one of the sisters.

“I love you, Anne. So much. A maddening amount! I came here to do the King’s bidding. I didn’t care about you, your sisters, or the Comtesse. You’re correct there. I wanted to impress the King. I wanted a promotion. All I ever wanted was to rank highly in the Guard. But you, you have a way of affecting me.” He shoved himself off the door. “I have no understanding how you manage it. But you do!”

Bewitching in Boots is based on Puss in Boots. Recently injured while in service to the King, Tristan de Tiersonnier, Comte de Saint-Marcel, is convalescing at his home when he receives an unexpected and unwanted visitor -- Elisabeth de Roussel, illegitimate daughter of the King. Tristan thinks of Elisabeth as the spoiled brat of the French royalty and is irritated to learn she has requested a favor from the King, to have Tristan teach her how to sword fight. How in the world is Tristan suppose to concentrate on sword fighting when Elisabeth is wearing tight pants and boots up to her knees? As the lessons progress, Tristan sees a different side of Elisabeth and believes she is bewitching in her boots!

“I . . . want you.” She’d never said that to any man and meant it.

“You’re truly going to let me have you?”

“Yes.”

“I warn you, Duchess, once we begin, I’m not going to stop, so if you’re having any qualms . . .”

She shook her head, “No qualms. I won’t stop you.”

The most sensual smile lifted the corner of his perfect mouth. “Excellent. Then you’re mine.” He lowered his head.


AWAKENED BY A KISS is a magnificent debut!!!! Not only was I enchanted by each of the three classic tales which Ms. DiPasqua has turned into delectable fiery tales, but it was so refreshing to have the setting of each of these stories in France. As innocent little girls, we all loved the classic tales of a girl and her prince charming. With a little (well, a lot!) of spice added to these tales, Lila has fashioned a book you will not want to overlook. Run out now and get your copy. Better yet, just click on the Amazon widget below and purchase it right now!!! Believe me, you will not be dissatisfied.

~ Buffie

Guest Author -- Lila DiPasqua

Boy, have we got a treat for you today!!

Joining us is debut historical author Lila DiPasqua. Lila's first book, AWAKENED BY A KISS, was just released on August 3, 2010, by Berkley Sensation. It is a wonderful collection of three stories based on classic fairy tales which Lila has graciously spiced up and is calling "fiery tales". And believe me they are fiery!!! I absolutely loved the book and my review will be post here on Wednesday, August 11.

Please give a warm welcome to the delightful Lila DiPasqua!


Lila, thank you so much for joining us today. First off, can you tell us a little bit about yourself?

I was born at Toronto, Ontario, Canada. I’m married to a wonderful, totally supportive man and we have three children. I adore history and travel. I’ve been to four continents so far. Formerly a law clerk, I used to work in a high-end law firm and specialized in litigation. I quit after my first child was born. Now I’m blessed to have the best job in the world. I get to write love stories about gorgeous men and strong women in historical settings. Best of all, I get to share my historical romances with readers.


Wow, four continents? You sure do get around. I know you are very excited about the release of your debut book. Please tell us a little bit about AWAKENED BY A KISS.

AWAKENED BY A KISS is the first in my Fiery Tales series. It’s a collection of three classic fairy tales, scandalously retold. I’ve taken Sleeping Beauty, Little Red Riding Hood and Puss in Boots and have given them my own romantic and sexy twists. This steamy historical romance anthology was inspired by Charles Perrault’s fairy tales. He was the creator of The Tales of Mother Goose, and I set this book in his lifetime – when the genre of fairy tales was born!

I think the book blurb describes it best:

Three classic fairy tales--"Sleeping Beauty," "Puss in Boots," and "Little Red Riding Hood"--cleverly retold with enough sensual twists to prove wickedly ever after does exist...Once upon a wicked time...

Sleeping Beau: Five years ago, notorious rake Adrien d'Aspe, Marquis de Beaulain, was awakened by a sensuous kiss-and experienced a night of raw ecstasy that was branded into his memory. Years later, he spots his mysterious seductress-and this time, he has no intention of letting her go...

Little Red Writing: Nicolas de Savignac, Comte de Lambelle, has been assigned by the King to uncover the secret identity of the author writing scandalous stories about powerful courtiers. He never expected his investigation would lead to his grandmother's house, or to a ravishing woman who would stir his deepest hunger...

Bewitching in Boots: Elisabeth de Roussel, daughter of the King, is accustomed to getting what she wants-and she wants Tristan de Tiersonnier, Comte de Saint-Marcel, an ex-commander of the King's private Guard. A recent injury has forced Tristan to leave his distinguished position, but Elisabeth is determined to make him see he's every bit the man he once was-and more than man enough for her...


I have to say that I just love your twist on fairy tales. Where did you get the inspiration for turning classic fairy tales into sensual romance reads and why are you drawn to classic fairy tales?

Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty are the first romances I ever read. Charles Perrault was the first to write them down. Taken from folklore, he added morals to his fairy tales and soon the genre of fairy tales became wildly popular. I know a lot about the time period in this book, when fairy tales were created. It was a time that was elegant and opulent with a healthy dose of salaciousness. The realm was ruled by a lusty King, and his court, like their monarch, were connoisseurs of the carnal arts. The pursuit of sinful pleasures was a pastime. Sex, an art form. That made it easy to give these stories a sexual spin.


We LOVE call stories here at The Romance Dish. Would you share your call story with us?

I actually never got “the call”. My agent sent me “the email”. We’d been emailing back and forth that day about various projects. Then about mid-afternoon my agent sent me another email. I opened it, read it and screamed. It was summer vacation, and my kids were home. Startled, they came running into my office. After assuring them that I hadn’t fallen, seen a spider, or lost my mind – I reread the email three more times before I was sure I’d read it correctly. Berkley was interested in my historical romance AWAKENED BY A KISS! It took a few more days until the deal was finalized. I officially sold to Berkley the day before I was to attend the Romance Writers of America conference last year. I packed, jumped on a plane, and arrived in Washington still reeling. I had an amazing time at the conference. It was such a thrill getting to meet my wonderful editor and agent in person!


WOW, I bet you were on cloud nine during the entire conference. Did do anything special to celebrate your sale?

I celebrated with family and friends when I got back home. A nice restaurant. Champagne. And dark chocolate! Lots of dark chocolate.


I understand your second book THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED will be released November 2, 2010, and that you have sold another fiery tale book scheduled to be release in October 2011. Congratulations on these sales!!!

Thank you! I’m so thrilled and excited that the Fiery Tale series will continue. THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED features more scorching fairy tale retellings —“The Emperor’s New Clothes,” “The Ugly Duckling, and “The Princess and the Pea,” wickedly retold and renamed, “The Marquis’ New Clothes”, “The Lovely Duckling” and “The Princess and the Diamonds”. This book is based on fairy tales by Hans Christian Andersen.

In 2011 a very different Fiery Tale will hit the shelves! This book won’t be a collection, but a single fairy tale retelling. Which one, you ask? One of the most beloved fairy tales of all – Cinderella – as you’ve never read before! It will be just as romantic and steamy as AWAKENED BY A KISS and THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED. This Cinderella tale has a sinfully delicious hero and a strong quick-witted heroine who will make him lose his heart, not to mention some scorching hot love scenes! And yes, there is a ball, a glass slipper and a loveable, yet highly opinionated fairy godmother and a cast of eccentric secondary characters to keep the hero and heroine on their toes.


Oooooo, both of those sound utterly delicious!! I can't wait to read them!!

Since you will now have three books published in just over one year, how do you manage your daily life, what with being a writer, mother, wife, and traveler? What is a typical day for you?

I take the kids to school and grab a coffee at my local Starbucks on the way home. Coffee is a must. I walked through a snow storm to get coffee once. I do most of my writing when the kids are in school. At times the muse disappears on me. Then I visit on Facebook and Twitter until it returns. Like most mothers, I juggle career and family. And I never ever miss out on an opportunity to jump on a plane and travel. In a few weeks, I’m going to London, England. I can’t wait!


What authors do you reach for when you need to just escape life? Do you have a particular book that is a comfort read for you?

Loretta Chase, Lisa Kleypas, Elizabeth Hoyt, Cheryl Holt and Kathryn Smith, to name a few. Any of their books are a treat to my soul.


Those are some wonderful authors and ones I truly enjoy too.

You attended the RomCom Convention in Denver. How was your first experience at a conference as a published author?

It was wonderful! I had so much fun! I’ve been to the RWA conference many times, but always as an aspiring author. It was so exciting being at RomCon, and talking about my book with others who love romance! I met so many lovely people. My favorite events were Speed Dating and Sexcapades.


Speaking of RWA, it was such a delight to meet you in Orlando. Please share with us one of your favorite moments from this year's RWA?

There were so many wonderful moments that happened at RWA this year. But there was one particular moment I'm sure I'll never forget! This year I got to participate in my first Berkley signing! I didn't have books, as AWAKENED BY A KISS wasn't released until Aug. 3rd (and the signing was on July 30th). But I had bookmarks and sample chapters to sign, and well, I had to pinch myself. Looking around the room, I couldn't believe it! I, me, moi was part of a signing with these uber-talented authors --- including The Nora Roberts! I even got to speak to her briefly before the crowds came in. It was an awesome event and a dream come true!


It was a wonderful experience to meet THE Nora, but I can't imagine how you felt signing in the same room as her!!


Now it's time for the Quick Six:

1) Plotter or Panster? A 50/50 split

2) Jeans or skirts? Both.

3) Cake or pie? Cake

4) City or countryside? City

5) Coffee or Tea? Coffee

6) Baseball or Football? Hockey. (Sorry. I’m a huge fan!)


Lila, thank you so much for spending some time with us!! As I said before, it was a pleasure to meet you in Orlando and I look forward to your next collection of fiery tales. Before you go, would like like to ask our readers a question?

Do you have a favorite fairy tale movie adaptation? If so, what is it and why do you like it so much? It can be animated or not.

Two lucky commenters will win a signed copy of AWAKENED BY A KISS!

To learn more about Lila DiPasqua and her fiery tales, please visit her website.

You can read an excerpt for AWAKENED BY A KISS

here.

Check out Lila's fabulous book trailer for AWAKENED BY A KISS:



~ Buffie