Romance Author Hotspot

Meet Adrien-Luc Sanders!

Senior Editor at Entangled Publishing!

First question:

Eggnog or Mimosas? Are you old enough to drink?

Eggnog. I hope I’m old enough to drink. Do I look old enough to drink? Wait. Don’t answer that. I still get carded all the time. It’s so silly half the time I give up and just stay sober. Designated driver’s the life of the party, right?

We’re also taking pictures with Santa, did you bring a gift for him? (Maybe a new release or a pretty book cover…)

I’ve got a few copies of our new releases, the first books to launch on our Flirt and Ever After lines, Ros Clarke’s All I Want For Christmas and Faye Robertson’s Holly’s First Noel. They’re both sweet, adorable holiday romances, great quick reads, and–hey wait. I thought Santa was supposed to bring me gifts. I’m totally not sitting in his lap. No way.

Please enter. Drinks are served by the elves in the corner.

Last time I took a drink from a short guy with pointy ears, I woke up  three states away with my underwear in my back pocket, no memory of the last seventy-two hours, and a goat in the back seat of my car. I think I’ll stay over by the refreshment table.

What’s your favorite holiday and why?

Chinese New Year. I have a lot of good memories wrapped up in that holiday, plus there’s just so much culture and tradition inherent in it, and this subtle sense of hope that comes with bringing in the lunar new year during the early budding days of spring. It’s like a breath of fresh air reminding you to refresh and restart. A very noisy breath of fresh air, but still.

That, and I just love the parades, costumes, music, and fireworks. It’s all so delightfully gaudy.

Did you ask Santa for anything good?

Hm…a new graphics tablet, Final Fantasy XIII-2, a real release date for Final Fantasy Versus XIII, books, more books, even more books, a stable 1TB laptop hard drive, the new Asus Eee Transformer Prime tablet, an autograph from Diane Duane, maybe a solid night’s sleep…

What’s your favorite place to spend the holidays?

Anywhere my mother-in-law isn’t. You think I’m joking? I’m not.

I don’t really travel much for the holidays, but I think the time I had the most fun was when my husband and I spent New Year’s in Niagara Falls. It was a total impulse trip and I can’t believe we just hopped up and drove over the border just for the hell of it, but we had a great time and I’d love to go back some day. And our tour bus driver made sure we understood the proper way to pronounce “kilometer.” Repeatedly.

What is your favorite Christmas memory?

Learning my grandmother’s recipe for the holiday stuffing she’d serve with the ham every year. Of course, once I knew what was in it I’d never eat it again, but it was never Christmas if my grandmother wasn’t in the kitchen cooking the food that even to this day, permeates my impressions of what makes Christmas. Most of the time the kids were in the way, but sometimes she’d let us hover while she showed us how she made the stuffing, the gumbo, the cornbread that always had that sweet aftertaste we could never figure out until we watched her pour the bourbon in the batter. I think it’s impossible for any family to have a holiday gathering without some kind of conflict, but it always just seemed to vanish when my grandmother was in the kitchen working her magic.

Do you have personal resolutions for the New Years? Anything interesting?

Um…finally get ahead on my work schedule? (Stop laughing.) Be a little more consistent eating healthy and exercising? (Seriously, stop laughing.) Really, my only goals for the next year involve working my butt off to build the Flirt and Ever After lines. I’m not sure what Liz slipped into my punch, but she’s got me addicted to this company and caught up in all these crazy awesome ideas.

Wait, there is one thing. I’m going to learn to crochet something more complicated than a double chain. Really. I am. What? You’ve never met a guy who crochets before?

…probably because we suck at it.

What do you do and how did you get into this industry?

Well, like my bio said, I’m the Senior Editor for Entangled’s Flirts and Ever Afters, which are two lines of novellas and novelettes that recently launched. I’m really not quite sure how I got into this, honestly. It just happened on its own. I used to be an animator, and then I ended up writing about animation for About.com / The New York times. Writing led to editing, editing led to clients, client success led to more clients…and suddenly years later I ended up working for a few digital publishers before joining Entangled. It just kind of grew on itself. I never meant for my career to turn out this way, but I’m glad it did. It’s more satisfying than animation ever was.

What do you love about your job?

Definitely the author’s reaction on launch day. I mean, it’s fun when we get through galley proofs and they’re so relieved and so happy that it’s off for those last few touches before releasing into the wild. But something about the way authors light up when they see their book up for sale, when they see the end result of what they’ve been slaving over for months to polish it into something truly amazing…I love it. It makes me grin like an absolute fool, to see how happy they are.

What type of stories do you love best?

Antiheroes, without a doubt. Any genre, any time period, any heat level, give me antiheroes–male or female, I don’t care–and I’m in heaven. I love stories that explore the character development inherent in writing an antihero, especially when it involves themes of redemption or even the danger of further damnation.

That said, though, I’m kind of an omnivore as far as books are concerned, so even though I love antiheroes I could easily say “everything” is a close second. I don’t care about a book’s label. I just care that it’s amazing, and the characters and storyline grip me to the end. Make me fall in love with the characters and the world, make me catch my breath and clutch on to the book the first time our h/h’s hands touch, and I’ll read a story about anything.

Like fly fishing. Yeah. If you can make me sit through a book about fly fishing, you’re a damned good writer.

I’ll find a submission about fly fishing in my inbox next week. I know it. I know it, and in that moment I’ll regret this.

Who are some of your favorite authors?

Diane Duane, C.S. Friedman, Victor Milan, Lisa Mantchev, Ally Condie, Richard Adams, Brian Green, Joe Hill, C.J. Cherryh, Anne McCaffrey, Julian May, Kelley York, Robin McKinley, Nora Roberts, Heather Graham, Clive Barker, Jane Austen, Guy Gavriel Kay, Byron, Charles de Lint, Shirley Rousseau Murphy, Orson Scott Card…um, tell me when to stop any time now, ’cause I can keep going for days.

What advice would you give aspiring authors?

Read widely. Read everything. Every book has something to teach you, whether you’re learning from the author’s style and structure or absorbing the information presented on the pages. Some will show you how to do things right. Others will show you how to do things wrong. But they’ll still show you the English language in action, and teach you about writing in a way that’s as instinctive and natural as breathing. That’s not something you can force. When it’s forced, it shows.

Read, and then write. Write even when you screw it up. Write when you don’t know what you’re doing. Write when you do know what you’re doing. Write until you hate the words, and keep writing until you love them again. Make a mess. Do stupid things, stumble, fall on your face, and get right the hell back up and keep writing. Close your eyes and just hit the keys. F*** it all up, then go back and do it again, right this time, and keep doing it until you know the inner workings of your craft like an unlit hallway you’ve walked so many times you can slip through unerringly in the dead of night.

You can take as many classes as you want on plotting, pacing, character development, voice…it’s all just pointers, things to mark off on a checklist. It’s useful, but it’ll never substitute for the ingrained inner knowledge that comes from reading, writing, and taking what you know in your gut to craft a book that will not only make you happy, but sell.

Are you working on anything fun right now?

Right now we’ve got sub calls out for a Valentine’s and Anti-Valentine’s collection, and I’ve been getting a few cool stories that make for a really fun opposition when positioned against each other. There’s also our geek sub call, which a lot of people seem really excited about. I’m just about bouncing in anticipation on that one, as I just adore geek-centric stories.

Links:

http://www.entangledinromance.com/2011/12/03/call-for-submissions-valentines-day/

http://www.entangledinromance.com/2011/12/03/call-for-submissions-geeks/

Any big projects for 2011?

~laughs~ I just signed on a few weeks ago, so not quite yet–but I am plotting. Oh yes indeed, I am plotting. Be afraid. Be very afraid.

What news would you like to share with your readers?

Keep an eye out on the Entangled Flirt and Ever After lines; we’ve got more special sub calls coming soon, and I’m looking to sign a few really great titles very soon. Don’t shelve that novella; send it to me, and maybe my next big announcement will be your new contract.

Where can readers find you?

1. Twitter: @smoulderingsea
2. Facebook:
3. Website: http://www.kowloonbynight.com
4. Others:

Thank you so much for joining us at Romance Author Hotspot!

Prize: Free copies of the launch books from our Flirt and Ever After Lines, Ros Clarke’s All I Want For Christmas and Faye Robertson’s Holly’s First Noel

Meet Lori James!

COO of All Romance E-Books LLC!

First question:

Eggnog or Mimosas? Are you old enough to drink?

Definitely Mimosas….and yes, I’m old enough.

We’re also taking pictures with Santa, did you bring a gift for him? 

We actually just sent Santa an invitation to test out our new affiliate program. He’s a huge fan of contemporary romance and steampunk – the hotter the better. It gets awfully cold up in the North Pole. He and the Mrs. like to heat things up.

Please enter. Drinks are served by the elves in the corner.

*waves to the elves*

What’s your favorite holiday and why?

I’m going to have to go with Christmas. I love having the house decorated for the holidays, the Christmas Carols, my mother’s special coffee cake that she only makes this time of year. I could go on and on….

Did you ask Santa for anything good?

I’ve asked for more of my favorite Rosemary Mint Body Wash from Aveda and another tube of Blinc Mascara.

What’s your favorite place to spend the holidays?

Although I’ve lived in California for more than twenty years, I grew up in New Hampshire. So, having a little snow around Christmas brings back a lot of fond memories. I’m currently up in the mountains, looking out the window at snow-covered trees and mountains. I’ll be back in sunny San Diego by Christmas morning.

What is your favorite Christmas memory?

That would be our annual Christmas Caroling party. For years we’ve been going out with friends and neighbors – singing door to door and ending the evening with good wine and good food.

So…I heard you’re a book seller and much more! What do you specifically do?

As the COO of ARe, I oversee operations which includes IT, Marketing and Promotion, Media Relations and Publicity, Customer Service, Distribution, and Author/Publisher Services. Thankfully, I work with a great team of people and my business partner, Barb, oversees all of the other business aspects.

Digital booksellers do all of the same things as brick and mortar booksellers. Then, in addition, we provide a host of technical support services. Nobody walks into a brick and mortar bookstore and asks the staff to show them how to take a book off the shelf, open, and read it. But digital booksellers have to be prepared to answer that question and to walk customers through the process step-by-step. We have to know the various file formats, reading and operating platforms, browsers, apps, and we have to understand how they interact and work. Thank goodness we have Digimonkey! She’s amazing. Check out some of digi’s great digital tips here.

How did All Romance start? What inspired you to work with books?

Like almost everything that Barb and I do together, it started with one of us calling the other one and uttering those four little words that honestly can make both of our husbands wince: “I’ve got an idea.” In this particular instance, it was the belief that romance readers deserved their own on-line store, one place where they could find books by all of their favorite authors and publishers.

ARe wasn’t our first collaborative endeavor, we also owned Linden Bay Romance, LLC, a small independent press that was sold to Samhain Publishing, Ltd in late 2008. Although it was our experience as a publisher that initially sparked the conceptualization of ARe, it quickly became apparent that in order to establish something that was truly unique, we needed to focus on meeting the needs of three primary customers—readers, publishers, and authors. This has been very much a collaborative effort.

We started with what we knew best, Romance. Then we expanded into the entire Fiction and Non-Fiction digital market with OmniLit.com. Recently we opened AReCafe.com, a social networking site where booklovers can connect with one another, discover new and exciting reads, enter contests, catch up on the latest news, and display and organize all of their books on an unlimited, dust-free bookshelf that has tons of nifty features like annotation ability

What is your target market for the company? How many books do you carry on average?

Our target market is booklovers, pure and simple. That includes publisher, authors, readers, anyone who loves books. Our romance inventory on AllRomance.com is currently at around 65,000. We have another 395,000 fiction and non-fiction titles on OmniLit.com.

What other services does All Romance provide?

In addition to selling books on the ecommerce sites, we also have a social site—AreCafe.com. It’s a great place for readers to connect with one another and learn about everything that’s going on in the book industry. We aggregate popular blogs and pod casts, post reviews and book recommendations, have a variety of groups, videos, interviews…all sorts of crazy fun stuff.

What goals does All Romance have for the new upcoming year?

We’re constantly fielding enhancement requests from customer, publishers, and staff. We have a variety of projects planned for 2012. One unifying goal is that we are prioritizing initiatives aimed at improving user experience. That means making life easier for authors, publishers, and customers.

Stop by and visit us!

Where can readers find you?

1. Twitter: http://twitter.com/allromance
2. Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AllRomance
3. Website: http://www.allromance.com
4. Others:

Thank you so much for joining us at Romance Author Hotspot!

Prize: $25.00 in eBook Bucks which can be redeemed at allromance.com or omnilit.com

Meet Anna Campbell!

Eggnog or Mimosas? Are you old enough to drink?

You know, I don’t think I’ve ever had eggnog. It’s not huge over here in Australia. On the other hand, I really like mimosas so I’ll pick that.

We’re also taking pictures with Santa, did you bring a gift for him? (Maybe a new release or a pretty book cover…)

I brought Santa my latest e-bundle – three books in one, CLAIMING THE COURTESAN, TEMPT THE DEVIL and MY RECKLESS SURRENDER, sold at a bargain price as THE COURTESAN COLLECTION (only in Australia and New Zealand). Here’s the Amazon link: http://www.amazon.com/The-Courtesan-Collection-ebook/dp/B00642XEPG

Please enter. Drinks are served by the elves in the corner.

Excellent!

What’s your favorite holiday and why?

Christmas, definitely. Here in Australia, it’s the big family holiday and who doesn’t like goodwill to all (wo)men?

Did you ask Santa for anything good?

Snigger. That would be telling.

What’s your favorite place to spend the holidays?

At the beach.

What is your favorite Christmas memory?

As a kid, opening presents with the family under the Christmas tree.

Do you have personal resolutions for the New Years? Anything interesting?

Um, write more?

Why do you write romance?

Who doesn’t love a happy ending?

How long have you been writing for? And how would you describe your publication journey?

I’ve been writing all my life. I finished my first novel when I was 17. My journey to publication was long and tortuous but eventually I got here!

Are you a plotter or pantser? What is your routine?

Pantser. Routine? What routine?

What characteristics do all your heroes/heroines have in all your stories?

Both heroes and heroines are smart and have a sense of humor (even if sometimes quite black!). All are (or become) honorable people.

What writing resources do you abide by as a writer?

Tea in copious amounts!

What advice would you give aspiring authors?

Sit down and write. There are so many distractions these days but if you don’t get the words on the page, you can’t call yourself a writer.

What are you working on right now?

I’m about to start the second book in my first series. Can’t say much more at this stage except that the hero is a charming, Scarlet Pimpernel type guy. Sigh.

What news would you like to share with your readers?

MIDNIGHT’S WILD PASSION, my most recent release, was just nominated for a Romantic Times Reviewers Choice Award as best sensual historical romance of 2011.

Where can readers find you?

1. Twitter: https://twitter.com/#!/AnnaCampbelloz
2. Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AnnaCampbellFans?ref=ts
3. Website: www.annacampbell.info
4. Others: Goodreads http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/296477.Anna_Campbell

List other books you have out:

Claiming the Courtesan

Untouched

Tempt the Devil

Captive of Sin

My Reckless Surrender

Thank you so much for joining us at Romance Author Hotspot!

Prize: Signed copy of MIDNIGHT’S WILD PASSION (international)

Blurb:

London’s most notorious seducer, Nicholas Challoner lives solely for revenge . . .

The dashing, licentious Marquess of Ranelaw can never forgive Godfrey Demarest for ruining his sister—now the time has come to repay the villain in the same coin. But one formidably intriguing impediment stands in the way of Nicholas’s vengeance: Miss Antonia Smith, companion to his foe’s unsuspecting daughter.

Having herself been deceived and disgraced by a rogue—banished by her privileged family as a result and forced to live a lie—Antonia vows to protect her charge from the same cruel fate. She recognizes Ranelaw for the shameless blackguard he is and will devote every ounce of her intelligence and resolve to thwarting him.

Yet Antonia has always had a fatal weakness for rakes . . .

Meet Justyn Perry!

Publisher and Editor-in-Chief at Breathless Press!

First question:

Eggnog or Mimosas? Are you old enough to drink?

I enjoy both (but not together). Eggnog is really good in coffee, and mimosas are good with breakfast. J

We’re also taking pictures with Santa, did you bring a gift for him? (Maybe a new release or a pretty book cover…)

I did J It’s one of our new releases this month!

Please enter. Drinks are served by the elves in the corner.

What’s your favorite holiday and why?

My favorite holiday is… ok I don’t really have a favorite holiday. I love summer break (or just the summer). I am a sun person and would love to lay in hot weather all day long. I’m in Canada, so for about 8 months of the year, we get snow; and cold weather. It’s quite depressing.

Did you ask Santa for anything good?

I asked him for more time. It seems like this year is going by fast. I’m not much for asking for things during Christmas. But there are a few things I wouldn’t mind him bringing me

What’s your favorite place to spend the holidays?

Last year, I spent it at my brother’s place. He lives in the interior of British Columbia aka mountains. We had about 5 feet of snow at his place and when we went up to the top of the mountain, it was about 10-12 feet of snow. Everything was still, white, silent. It was an amazing holiday. One that I would love to repeat.

What is your favorite Christmas memory?

My favorite memory would be when my grandmother used to come down and stay with us for the holidays. It always felt traditional to have her there with us…

Do you have personal resolutions for the New Years? Anything interesting?

Work harder, faster, and eat less LOL

Why do you publish romance?

Romance brings joy in so many forms to a lot of readers. I like it when I can see a reader who finds a new author thrilling.

What do you love in running a pub?

Running a publishing company is hard. It takes a lot of dedication, time, and effort. At times, it feels like I am being pulled in every direction but at the same time, I get to talk to people from all over the world and make new friends in countries that are “across the pond” from Canada. I like being busy and the constant deadline of something. It’s how I made it through University lol.

What advice would you give aspiring authors?

Never stop writing. Even if you get a hundred rejections, you should never stop writing. You can only get better.

Who are some of your favorite authors? 

I read a lot of science fiction and fantasy with a small mix of romance. Some of the authors I enjoy are Robert J Sawyer, Stephanie Meyer (yes, she is a decent author), LJ Smith, Jessica Lee, Piers Anthony just to name a few.

What goals do you have for the new upcoming year?

I am in the process of scheduling print book for next year. We have decided to move slowly into print. It’s an exciting time for us J

Any big projects for 2012?

To continue with the above answer, we are hoping to do 12 print books next year. We already have 5 scheduled and are on the lookout for more J

What news would you like to share with your readers?

In the past few months, we have introduced a few new lines. Naughty Nursery Rhymes (for those stories that you grew up with as a child and can now find a new amusing twist on them), Clearwater Series (an open series that anyone can write about set in the fictitious town of Clearwater), and some new anthologies. Check out our website for full details.

Where can readers find you?

1. Twitter: @breathlesspress
2. Facebook: facebook.com/breathless_press
3. Website: www.breathlesspress.com
4. Others:

Thank you so much for joining us at Romance Author Hotspot! 

Meet Camryn Rhys!

Camryn Rhys grew up on the border of Canada and the US, and still hasn’t decided which country to call home. She splits her time between the Alberta and Montana Rocky Mountains, with friends and family in both beautiful locations. After running her own restaurant for several years and acquiring advanced degrees in writing, foodie romance seemed the only logical option. When she’s not watching the Food Network, she’s reading a romance novel, or if absolutely necessary, working as a consultant. Someone has to put really excellent food on the table.

First question:

Eggnog or Mimosas? Are you old enough to drink?

Eggnog, hands down. I’m a sucker for those spicy, more complex tastes, so I’ll always pick something like eggnog over a one-note mimosa. Now, if we’re going to get creative with our drink mixing, I’d be up for a mimosa, too…

We’re also taking pictures with Santa, did you bring a gift for him? (Maybe a new release or a pretty book cover…)

I brought a pretty book cover… :pets: I hope Santa is… open-minded.

Blurb:

Mindy Edwards can’t bake to save her life, but with no where else to go, she returns to the one place she’d avoided for six years. Her boss’s son, Leo—still strictly off-limits—doesn’t help her starved libido, and what’s a girl to do when she could barely keep her job as the cook?

Leo Fortiss has never quite gotten over his first love nor did he expect her to return and pretend they didn’t have a heartbreaking past, but that didn’t mean he couldn’t save her from all the other cowboys–who definitely weren’t after her burnt buns and horrid cooking. He proposes a trade: he’ll teach her to bake bread if she’ll come to the big Barn Dance with him.

Mindy accepts, but when things heat up in the kitchen, she finds history repeating itself. Will she run or risk her heart a second time?

Please enter. Drinks are served by the elves in the corner.

:runs for the bar:

What’s your favorite holiday and why?

Thanksgiving, easily. Because of my job, Christmas tends to be a little bit of a production every year, but Thanksgiving is a great opportunity to just be with family and have some good food and watch sports. I’m definitely a sportaholic, so anytime there’s basketball or football on, I’ll take that.

Did you ask Santa for anything good?

I think I have just about everything I want this year. If Santa has a good weight loss program he can recommend, though, I’m gonna need that. I am way out of control this holiday season…

What’s your favorite place to spend the holidays?

Disneyland. There is nothing better than Christmas at Disney. Granted, it can be a bit crowded, but it really is the happiest place on earth and to be there with my family, it’s going to be amazing. Oh, did I mention I’m going to Disneyland this year for Christmas? :cheers: Can’t wait.

What is your favorite Christmas memory?

It’s not actually a memory of mine. But my grandpa used to tell this story all the time about the first time I ever saw a Christmas tree. Since my birthday is in February, I was already walking (or toddling), and I came around the corner in my grandparents’ house and saw this huge, lit and decorated Christmas tree and I stopped dead in my tracks and stared at it with wide eyes. Then my face broke into this huge smile and I started bobbing up and down and hyperventilating and laughing all at the same time. To see my grandpa impersonate me is almost as entertaining as anything I’ve ever seen. But I’ve loved Christmas ever since.

Do you have personal resolutions for the New Years? Anything interesting?

I’m going to resolve to write every single day of 2012. Some kind of writing on a book. I’m not going to set limits, because I want it to be a resolution I can keep. But I definitely want to write *something* every day.

Why do you write romance?

Because I think love is the one thing we all wait and search for, at our deepest core. And while there’s only one place we can find the truest love, we’ll take whatever love comes at us. I am a hopeful romantic. I always believe that love will win out in the end, whatever end we come to. So it’s a natural fit for me.

How long have you been writing for? And how would you describe your publication journey?

My publication journey was… strange. I always knew I wanted to write romance, but I had no idea what kind. I tried historical (of all shapes and sizes) and then tried contemporary. And I could never finish anything. (Well, I finished a historical or two, but lordy, they sucked.) But then I started to write what I knew (which was food and cooking and restaurants) and it just clicked for me. I’ve been writing foodie romance ever since. And then, I started writing historicals again and just sold my first of a Steampunk series to Ellora’s Cave. So I guess I’m still growing into my full capability, but it’s been quite a ride so far.

Are you a plotter or pantser? What is your routine?

I used to be a major pantser. In fact, I was trained to write short fiction and flash fiction, and had published several shorts (under 2K) as an MFA student. And it’s really hard to hit the right note for how to tell those shorts. In fact, one of my MFA profs said that it’s harder to write flash fiction than to write novels, and in some ways, I think I agree. It’s hard to write really well in such a short space. There is no room for failure. But you really have to learn to trust your gut to write that short. And in a lot of ways, it hamstringed me as a novelist. I had to unlearn all my pansty ways in order to write novels (and I’m sure my editors would still like to unteach me a few things I learned doing that, haha). Now, I’m more of a plot-ser. I plot all the major plot points ahead of time and do the minor ones as I go. It works better, but it’s also a new muscle for me, so it takes longer. But I think it makes my books better.

What characteristics do all your heroes/heroines have in all your stories?

A love of food. Both of them aren’t always nuts about it. In fact, in my first book (The Barn Dance), my heroine was a horrifying cook, and my hero saved the kitchen. But since I write foodie romance, one of them is typically a foodie or chef or cook of some sort.

What writing resources do you abide by as a writer?

A lot of people poo-poo this, but I use Wikipedia a lot. I always check the resources, and if I have time, I often read or research from those resources (especially for my historicals). And I always try to verify the information I get on Wikipedia. But I use it a lot, and by and large, it’s incredibly helpful as a jumping-off-point. As a trained academic, I have a tiny bit of shame for admitting that, but it’s true.

What advice would you give aspiring authors?

Two things.

First. Write. There is no substitute for experience, and the more you write, the better you’ll get. You can have 10,000 followers on Twitter, and if you don’t get a book out, it won’t matter. You can have 1000 blog hits a day and a super huge platform, but if people don’t want to read your books, you might as well pick your toenails. Don’t neglect social media. But it’s not going to make you a better writer.

Second. Listen. You’re surrounded by people who know a lot about the industry. Listen to them. Don’t ever value your work so highly that you can’t take criticism. Despite what everyone says about listening to your gut and it’s your book, you’ll not last long if you can’t take criticism and don’t listen. Especially to your editor. Sometimes, you are not the best judge of what your book does and doesn’t need. Your gut might lead you astray, so make sure you’re always listening.

What are you working on right now?

I’m writing a series of Western foodie romances for Decadent Publishing in a super secret project, which I guess I just outed. But there will be more information coming soon (keep an eye on my blog for more info). This is the most fun I’ve had writing, maybe ever. I adore collaboration. And I was lucky enough to get to collaborate with writers I admire and editors I respect and adore. We’re going to be open for submissions soon.

I’m also writing sequels to this book (Off the Record) and the book I’m releasing with Liquid Silver in 2012, in addition to the final book in The Barn Dance series. And I’m plotting (or plot-sing) my second and third Steampunk books. It’s a fun place to be right now.

What news would you like to share with your readers?

I have several books coming out in 2012 and I hope you’ll enjoy them all! I have a sports-themed erotic novella (Every Time I Think of You) coming out from Liquid Silver and the foodie Western coming out in February from Decadent. Then, my Steampunk Erotic novel (my first full-length novel!!) coming out from Ellora’s Cave in 2012. So, lots coming from me. I hope you love them all as much as I do.

Where can readers find you?

1. Twitter: @camrynrhys
2. Facebook: @Camryn Rhys
3. Website: http://camrynrhys.com
4. Others: http://dirtybirdiesauthors.com

List other books you have out:

The Barn Dance and Off the Record

Thank you so much for joining us at Romance Author Hotspot!

Prize: As part of my release party, I’m giving away one $50 Amazon Gift Card to one commenter on my blog or any of my guest posts, and a copy of Off the Record to two other commenters, randomly selected.

Meet Caridad Pineiro!

Eggnog or Mimosas? Are you old enough to drink? Mimosa and yes, definitely old enough to drink.

We’re also taking pictures with Santa, did you bring a gift for him? (Maybe a new release or a pretty book cover…)  I definitely brought a gift for him – a great new book cover!

Blurb:

Rey Peralta has been sent to persuade Paola Lopes to return to Brazil and take up her place as Priestess of the Guardians, protectors of the sacred realm hidden deep in the Amazon rainforest. He knows Paola is the one they need to ensure their survival—but he doesn’ t expect the instant blast of desire that sparks between them. Her beauty and power call to him, enticing him to merge with her physically and spiritually; a desire that only increases when they give in to their passion and make love. Can he convince Paola to accept her destiny and stay with her people—and by his side?

Please enter. Drinks are served by the elves in the corner.

What’s your favorite holiday and why?

Definitely Christmas!  I love having family and friends over on Christmas Eve and spending time with them.

Did you ask Santa for anything good?

I asked Santa for free time so that I could get some writing done.

What’s your favorite place to spend the holidays?

My favorite place is home with my family and friends.

What is your favorite Christmas memory?

My favorite memory is one of coming down and finding that my sister and I finally had new bikes!  It had snowed, but only an inch or so.  It wasn’t enough to stop us from rushing out with our new bikes and taking them for a spin.

Do you have personal resolutions for the New Years? Anything interesting?

First resolution is to lose weight.  Second is to finish the first book in the new REBORN series (the relaunch of THE CALLING Vampire Novels featuring Diana Reyes and Ryder Latimer).

Why do you write romance?

I love the happily-ever-after.  I definitely believe that with love all things are possible and I want to show that in my stories.

How long have you been writing for? And how would you describe your publication journey?

I wrote my first book in the fifth grade but didn’t really set out to get published until after my daughter was born.  I wanted to show her that you should always keep reaching for your dreams and I’m glad that I was able to finally to get my dream fulfilled.  As for the journey, I started by taking an adult class to improve my writing and then finishing a book that I started sending around.  It took about six years, but I finally sold a book to Kensington Publishing.

Are you a plotter or pantser? What is your routine?

I’m an in-betweener.  I do lay out the major aspects of the story (beginning, climax and end) and then start writing.

What characteristics do all your heroes/heroines have in all your stories?

My heroes are all honorable men who respect the heroines and treat them as partners.  My women are all strong and empowered women who stand as equals to their men.

What writing resources do you abide by as a writer?

The Hero’s Journey and for dialogue, You Just Don’t Understand by Deborah Tannen.

What advice would you give aspiring authors?

Never give up.  The publishing industry is tough even after you get published, but you can’t let it get you down.

What are you working on right now?

I am working on the relaunch of THE CALLING Vampire novels as THE REBORN (coming from Entangled Publishing in 2013) and also another 5 erotic paranormal romance novellas for Nocturne Cravings.

What news would you like to share with your readers?

I love hearing from readers and look forward to getting to know you!  Look for my new Nocturne Cravings novellas in 2012 as well as more novels in THE CALLING and THE REBORN vampire novels.  Finally, the SIN HUNTER series continues with THE CLAIMED in May 2012.  I think you will love this story which really develops the Hunter mythology and is action-packed and romantic.

Where can readers find you?

1. Twitter: @caridadpineiro
2. Facebook: www.facebook.com/caridad.author
3. Website: www.caridad.com and www.thecallingvampirenovels.com
4. Others:

List other books you have out:

THE LOST, August 2011

A VAMPIRE FOR CHRISTMAS, October 2011

NOCTURNAL WHISPERS, February 2012

Thank you so much for joining us at Romance Author Hotspot!

Prize: Copy of AZTEC GOLD paranormal novella.

Meet Cathy Maxwell!

Bestselling novelist Cathy Maxwell, a storyteller since childhood, embraces her writing romance as a way to express her belief that “loving well is the greatest adventure of all,” and to explore her fascination with the Regency period.

The author of twenty-five historical romance novels and four novellas Cathy’s latest THE SEDUCTION OF SCANDAL, the fifth of her Scandals and Seductions novels, has just been published. The others, also set in the Regency period, are quintessential Cathy Maxwell—traditional historicals with a contemporary sensibility and a touch of humor. They are A Seduction at Christmas, The Marriage Ring, The Earl Claims His Wife, and His Christmas Pleasure.  Each has appeared for multiple weeks on The New York Times Best Seller list.

Cathy received recognition from the start with her first novel, All Things Beautiful.  Published in 1994, it was nominated for Best First Book by the Romance Writers of America and for Best First Historical by Romantic Times magazine. It also received first place recognition as Best Read of 1994 from the Reader’s Voice

Born in Olathe, Kansas, Cathy’s family roots go back to the Mayflower and the Revolutionary War.  She has long called Virginia home, noting she is “a Virginian by choice, but a Kansan by nature.” She worked in television news and spent six years in the Navy. She attended Air Force intelligence school, worked in the Pentagon and did a tour with Naval Intelligence.

Cathy began her writing career in 1991. Now, twenty years later, she is the author of sixteen national bestsellers and her novels appear regularly on The New York Times and USA Today bestseller lists.  Her books include In the Highlander’s Bed, Bedding the Heiress, In the Bed of a Duke, The Price of Indiscretion, Temptation of a Proper Governess, and The Seduction of an English Lady.  She is a member of Romance Writers of America, Washington Romance Writers, Virginia Romance Writers, and Novelists Inc., and she is a frequent speaker at writers’ conferences, libraries and special events.

She lives in rural Powhatan County with her rescued dogs Rico and Maya and with her son during college breaks, and is just a few miles from her horses, Duncan and Dinero. 

First question:

Eggnog or Mimosas?

Both. Mimosas in the morning and eggnog around the fire in the evening. 

We’re also taking pictures with Santa; did you bring a gift for him? (Maybe a new release or a pretty book cover…) 

I’m bringing the same thing I bring every year—gratitude for a life worth living, for family and friends to love, and for enough bounty to share with others.

Please enter. Drinks are served by the elves in the corner.

What’s your favorite holiday and why?

St. Valentine’s Day.  It’s the only one devoted to love.

Did you ask Santa for anything good?

Yes. Good health, good times, good friends, good family and good grace.

What’s your favorite place to spend the holidays?

At home with as many of my loved ones as possible.

What is your favorite Christmas memory?

The sound of children singing, especially when they’re raising their voices to join in with songs such as Silent Night, The First Noel and Oh Holy Night.

Why do you write romance?

I have no choice.  They had me at “I love you.”

How long have you been writing for? And how would you describe your publication journey?

I’ve always been a storyteller.  When I was a kid, I used to spend the day on the backyard swing set telling stories to myself.  I’d start swinging and develop my own world based on books I was reading, television shows, and movies.  Anything that captured my attention.  I was really taken with the Roman Empire and the Civil War.  Trust me, it was very odd behavior!  But I turned out okay.  I also wore out three swings.

My writing journey has been a satisfying one.  I’m still swinging and I don’t plan to stop.

What characteristics do all your heroines have in all your stories?

All my female characters share a common trait—they are not happy with their lives and they realize if there is to be a change, it is up to them.  I believe each of us has the power to make our lives better if we are willing to toss expectations to the wind and seize living with everything we have.

What writing resources do you abide by as a writer?

Books, books, and more books.  I have a super research library.  However, the point of a romance is not the history.  It’s the dynamic between two people who are falling in love—and that doesn’t change whether we are talking about ancient Rome or light years into the future.

What are you working on right now?

I’m busy with the second book in my Chattan Curse series.  The first, LYON’S BRIDE, is coming out in May ’12. I hope you love it as much as I already do!

What news would you like to share with your readers?

My first bits of news for 2012 are the on sale date for the newly repackaged and republished edition of WHEN DREAMS COME TRUE—it’s March 27^th.  Then come LYON’S BRIDE reaches stores to go on sale April 24^th.

Where can readers find you?

1. Facebook:   http://www.facebook.com/pages/Cathy-Maxwell-Fan-Page/144546442251787

2. Website: www.cathymaxwell.com

List other books you have out:

THE SEDUCTION OF SCANDAL, the fifth and last Scandals and Seductions novels joined A Seduction at Christmas, The Marriage Ring, The Earl Claims His Wife, and His Christmas Pleasure in September 2011. Other bestsellers include In the Highlander’s Bed, Bedding the Heiress, In the Bed of a Duke, The Price of Indiscretion, Temptation of a Proper Governess, and The Seduction of an English Lady.  Please go to http://www.cathymaxwell.com/books/printable-book-list/ for a list of all of my novels.

Thank you so much for joining us at Romance Author Hotspot!

Prize: A “hot off the press” copy of her latest republished novel, BECAUSE OF YOU.

Blurb:

The Seduction of Scandal

September 2011 (On Sale August 30), 0061772127 ● 978-0061772122

It’s never wise to blackmail a highwayman.

Lady Corinne, rebellious daughter of the duke of Banfield, refuses to marry Lord Freddie Sherwin. Yes, he’s the catch of the Season and the man her father chose for her. He’s also the most despicable male of her acquaintance. With her wedding only weeks away, she flees and finds herself a prisoner of the notorious Thorn!

Who says the devil isn’t a woman?

 The rich and powerful tremble at the highwayman’s name, while England’s villagers rejoice in his bold exploits. His identity is a secret; his life a mystery— until Lady Corinne tumbles into his arms. If the Thorn wants her silence, he must hide her until her wedding day passes. It’s a devil’s bargain and one that can only lead to a hangman’s noose.

Corinne believes it’s the perfect plan—until her highwayman reveals a passionate lover’s heart, and she realizes that in the seduction of scandal, she may have found the hero she’s been waiting for her whole life.

Excerpt:  CATHY MAXWELL’S THE SEDUCTION OF SCANDAL EXCERPT 

He turned, ready to eat her up alive with his tongue.  If it hadn’t been for her foolishness, he wouldn’t have had to spend the night traipsing back and forth fetching bandages, worrying if he was doing the right thing, worrying if she’d stay alive.

The tongue lashing he’d wanted to deliver evaporated from his mind at the sight of Lady Corrine standing in the narrow doorway between the two rooms wearing little more than one of his shirts.

Dear God.  He leaned forward onto his knees.  He remembered too clearly how soft her skin was and how full, how perfect, how luscious her breasts were.

It had been his penance to undress her, to keep his hands off of her.

And it didn’t help his sorry state to have her standing there as proud and demanding as a Teutonic goddess.   Her pale blonde hair caught the beams of sun coming in from the back room, creating a halo of light around her.  The backlight also delineated the shape of her amazingly long legs, which could be seen clearly beneath the sheer, fine material of her petticoats.

Her feet were bare and as perfectly formed as the rest of her.

She was The One.  The Incomparable.

The Unattainable … and whoever had christened her such had named her right.  The lure of a siren mixed with the scorn of a harpy in the duke of Banfield’s willful daughter.

Will came to his feet, needing his extra height to keep her, and his lust, at bay.

Her intelligent blue eyes swept his person.

“You appear the worse for wear, Reverend.”

He was conscious that he needed a shave.  His beard was such that he looked quite vicious if he didn’t keep it under control.  And there were probably circles under his eyes that matched the weariness in his bones.  Yesterday had been a very demanding day before he’d made an appearance at his foster father’s dinner table.  Certainly his hair must have been going every which way now.

In contrast, she appeared well rested and amazingly fresh and lovely.

“I needed to see to your welfare, my lady.  You are lucky I discovered you injured on the side of the road on my way home last night.”  If there was a chance she didn’t remember anything after being shot, Will was going to play it.

“And my undressing?”

“Necessary for attending your wound.”

“So you didn’t believe Major Ashcroft would return for me?”

There was an edge to her voice.  “You remember,” he said.  He might as well lay it all on the table.  He had to remember how willful she was, how bold.  Dislike and distrust were good foils for lust.

“Not the undressing,” she said.  She crossed her arms as if protecting her breasts from view.  The movement caused her to wince, but she bravely, stubbornly kept her hands where she’d placed them.  “But I remember everything else.”

“I feared you would.”  He tucked the flint and stone in his pocket.  “So what happens now?  Are you going to go running to Freddie with your discovery of who I am?  I don’t believe so.  There was a reason you were stowed away in that coach last night.”

There, straight talk for straight talk – and it worked.  A small frown appeared between her brows.

“You saw me?” she asked.

“You came from somewhere, and Ashcroft was obviously surprised at your presence.  I had been inside the coach, and you hadn’t been there.  I was very careful to ensure I’d accounted for everyone present.”

She dropped her arms, reached up, and placed a hand on her left shoulder, as if the bit of pressure relieved the pain.  “You truly are frightening as the Thorn.”

“I try to be, my lady,” he said.  “Although you don’t seem frightened now, and perhaps you should be.”

She cocked her head at his warning, considered him, then shook her head.  “You won’t hurt me.”

“Don’t be so certain.”

###

Copyright by Cathy Maxwell. Reprinted by permission of HarperCollins Publishers, Inc.   All rights reserved.

Meet Cindy Spencer Pape!

Eggnog or Mimosas? Are you old enough to drink? Mimosas, please. And I think I have shoes old enough to drink.

We’re also taking pictures with Santa, did you bring a gift for him? (Maybe a new release or a pretty book cover…) I love the cover for Yuletide Enchantment. Hope he does too!

Blurb:

The company Christmas party goes awry in an erotic way when quiet accountant Shelby Carter is magically whisked into a miniature Victorian village with the boss’s gorgeous son, Noel Holiday. Noel has always honored the policy against fraternization, but when he’s trapped for several days with sweet, sexy Shelby, he decides it’s time to start breaking the rules.

While exploring the enchanted surroundings, they delve into their deepest fantasies, even acting out scenes from a collection of erotic Victorian postcards. After all, what’s Christmas without a little magic and a whole lot of sexy fun?

Though Shelby’s crazy about Noel, she’s sure he’ll forget all about her once their interlude is over. But Noel has fallen head over snow boots in love with Shelby. Now he just has to convince her that holiday wishes can come true, and his devotion will last beyond their Yuletide Enchantment.

Please enter. Drinks are served by the elves in the corner. Ooh—cute elves. Fantastic!

What’s your favorite holiday and why? Christmas, of course. I love the decorations, the songs, the presents, and the whole sense of celebration that fills the air.

Did you ask Santa for anything good? A few nice things, and a few verrrrry naughty ones. <wink>

What’s your favorite place to spend the holidays? Wherever my family is. Snow is nice too, but I’m ready for it to be gone by mid-January. Sigh. If only it really worked that way.

What is your favorite Christmas memory? Wow, that’s tough. There are a number that stand out. Probably coming home for Christmas the year my oldest son was born. We got to spend time with lots of family we hadn’t seen in forever, and the holidays are so very different with kids in the house, even tiny ones.

Do you have personal resolutions for the New Years? Anything interesting? I refuse to jinx myself with New Year’s resolutions, but I do make a point to try new things each year.

Why do you write romance? Because it makes me smile. Real life can be hard. Fiction should make you happy.

How long have you been writing for? And how would you describe your publication journey? Seriously for a dozen years or so. I’ve been published now for five. My road was a pretty typical one, I think. I wrote a book and it was pretty awful, but it proved to me that I could do it. The next three I wrote and submitted to one or two houses, collecting rejections. Finally I decided to try e-publishing and sent one to each of three different publishers. All three sold, so I went from no publishers to three in a matter of months. Even when the first of those three folded, I never looked back.

Are you a plotter or pantser? What is your routine? Some of each. I started out as a total pantser, but now that I can sell some of my work on proposal, I have to have a synopsis to turn in, so I’m learning how to plot. As to routine, there really isn’t one. Each book grows a little differently from the one before.

What characteristics do all your heroes/heroines have in all your stories? Well both are usually smart, because that’s how I like them. And a sense of humor is there, even if the character doesn’t know it at the start of the book. They don’t have to be alpha, but do have to have an inner strength and be totally devoted to their mate.

What writing resources do you abide by as a writer? A good dictionary, the internet at my fingertips, and the support of fellow authors.

What advice would you give aspiring authors? Learn what works for you. Never believe there is only one way to do anything, but do take advice on the market and your technical writing skills. (Spelling and grammar aren’t a style issue.) After that, just keep at it and don’t give up!

What are you working on right now? The next two books in my Gaslight Chronicles series at Carina Press. Kilts and Kraken will be out in June as part of Carina’s anniversary anthology and Moonlight & Mechanicals will be a full-length novel, hopefully out next fall.

What news would you like to share with your readers? Both Steam & Sorcery from Carina Press and Eagle’s Redemption from Ellora’s Cave are EPIC award finalists. In January I’ll be a panelist at ConFusion, the Detroit science fiction convention, and…

Where can readers find you?

1. Website: http://www.cindyspencerpape.com
2. Blog: http://cindyspencerpape.blogspot.com/
3. Newsletter group: http://yhoo.it/ni7PHo
4. Twitter: http://twitter.com/CindySPape
5. Facebook: http://on.fb.me/gjbLLC

List other books you have out: Really? All 40-some? You can find the complete list on my website. J

Thank you so much for joining us at Romance Author Hotspot! Thanks for inviting me. I’d like to wish everyone a very happy holiday season and a fabulous new year!

Prize: A free download of reader’s choice.

Meet Coffee Time Romance!

Eggnog or Mimosas? Are you old enough to drink?

KarenneLyn: Mimosas! I would prefer the coffee flavor please.  Good news is that I am just barely old enough to drink (glares and whispers to my 23 year old son..shhhh if you ever want money from me again)  oh and I drug….I mean invited a few of our Coffee Crew staffers (chains are only so long) to play with us today!

Vanessa Devereaux – Mimosas, you can drink more of them than eggnog without feeling too full. And yes, I’ve been old enough to drink for more years than I want to remember, hence the need for alcohol to make me forget.

Kimberly: Mimosa, please! *ponders to think* Egads! I’m almost twice the legal drinking age!

Karen Cote: Eggnog definitely. I’ve had the pleasure of celebrating my 21st birthday twice now.

Maggie:  Eggnog, at my age I need Vitamins.  If I remember Correctly, yes I am old enough to drink.

Viki: Heck, I’m old enough to remember Boone’s Farm! Hmm. I love egg nog but I’d go with mimosas. It’s easier to slip down a few mimosas over eggnog

Virginia: Old enough? *coughsputter* I am so old, drinking is a requirement. But I like mimosa better. It is so fruity and light where as eggnog is all thick and gloopy.

Heather: Though I do enjoy fruity alcoholic drinks–this time of the year, I have to go with eggnog. I certainly hope I’m old enough to drink. There has to be some perks to being in my 30s.

We’re also taking pictures with Santa, did you bring a gift for him? (Maybe a new release or a pretty book cover…)

KarenneLyn: I did bring Santa a box of goodies.  I have a new leather whip and stilettos boots.  Did I mention they are in my size?  (wiggles eyebrows)  ho ho ho

Vanessa Devereaux – As this is for Santa, I’d like him to enjoy the cover of my first short story for Cobblestone Press’ new Blue line, and by coincidence it’s all about the jolly old man himself and titled Nicole’s Secret Santa. A warning for Santa…it’s very naughty!

Kimberly: I’m sorry, but I don’t have anything for Santa…except a kiss on his rosy cheek.

Karen Cote: It’s a long trip from the North Pole. I know Santa would love to read my new release Erotic Deception on his journey.

Maggie: No, let him buy his own book!

Viki: Oh, yes, I think Santa would like this pretty cover of Jack Hunter (The Hunter Within) – depending which team Santa plays on. *wink…wink*

Virginia: None, yet. I have a new release coming in the spring but nothing right now. Sorry, Santa. You just get me. *kiss*

Heather: I have no book covers–nor published books but I could doodle a little something for ya. heh

 Please enter. Drinks are served by the elves in the corner.

KarenneLyn:  just keep ‘em coming!

Vanessa Devereaux – Wait, I can’t see them…

Kimberly: Thank you for having me! What a wonderful party!!

Karen Cote: Oh. I thought those were the Staff members.

Maggie:  Thanks, but I only have two hands

Heather:  I will bring a really long straw to reach that low.

What’s your favorite holiday and why?

Vanessa Devereaux – Not to sound like a cliché but it’s Christmas. What isn’t to love about it, gifts, food, people being nice even if they’re a**holes the rest of the year.

Karen Cote:  Christmas, of course. Where else are joy and hope celebrated in such extravagance. It’s the one time of year where people are fanatics about giving to others.

Maggie: July 4.  No gifts and no cards to send.

Viki: Fourth of July because I love fireworks.

Virginia: I think that Halloween is my favorite holiday because of the pretending to be something more magical than you are elements but Christmas is a close second. There is just something wonderful about snow falling as if the whole world is saying, “Hush!” and people going out of their way to help each other like they do no other time of year… Hard to resist a holiday like that.

Heather: I’m a sucker for Christmas. Not only for the day but the entire Christmas season.

After the snow falls, late at night, there is a hush that envelopes the world like a bubble.It is so crisp and fluffy white, it’s like being in a snowglobe. During the day there is this energy that flows from person to person. Hope abounds even in the weary and poor. People are a little warmer toward each other and eager for the future ahead. It’s really such an addictive feeling. It’s something that I fully immerse myself in with joyous abandon. It’s also elusive and mysterious. usually it is something that hides throughout the year but in December, it shines so brightly and blankets the world in it’s beauty.

Did you ask Santa for anything good?

KarenneLyn: You are going to laugh, but I asked for a countertop composter.

Vanessa Devereaux – I think it’s good for me…lots more contracts for my stories and more sexy guys on the covers of them.

Kimberly: Books, books and more books. My personal Santa has told me that I’ve been a very naughty girl (and that’s good in his book) so if I can be patient, I may get a Kindle Fire in February.

Karen Cote: A full year of advertising at Coffee Time Romance

Maggie:  Yes!

Viki: Besides coal in my stocking? Why be good? …this year my DH will surprise me.

Virginia: I asked him for more bookshelves. Bookshelves are important stuff around my house…

Heather: I only ask for naughty things. Define good?

What’s your favorite place to spend the holidays?

KarenneLyn: At home with my family.  Sitting in the kitchen cooking, laughing, and talking with the family.  Just makes my heart sing.

Vanessa Devereaux:  London. An awesome city any time of the year but no one does Christmas quite like my birthplace.

Kimberly: At home with my darling hubby and our canine kids. Running from family celebration to family celebration gets to be too much for us. It’s quiet and peaceful at our house with just the seven of us. We move at our own pace instead of hustling around.

Karen Cote: At home with my family and since I’m the mother, I get to host the party.

Maggie:  Away from here

Viki:  Where ever home is at the time.

Virginia: With my kiddos. The location isn’t important, not compared to that special light that a child gets in their eyes. The wonder… It is awesome.

Heather: At home with my kiddies curled up in my lap and my hubby under the mistletoe.

What is your favorite Christmas memory?

KarenneLyn: When my kids were little, I loved hearing them giggling in their rooms (because they had to stay there until we got up) trying to be quiet on Christmas morning.  It would just crack me and the hubby up!

Vanessa Devereaux – When I was five and my grandmother said she’d buy me any doll I wanted. We were in Woolworth’s…yes, remember those stores? And there was a doll on the top shelf with no clothes and no hair, just plastic waves to make it look like she had some. Despite that she was the prettiest doll in the world. On Christmas morning she was sitting in a shiny blue toy car wearing a white dress and red velvet coat and hat that my grandmother had made. And yes, I still have that doll. She sits on my bed.

Kimberly: Arriving at my grandma’s house at noon on Christmas Eve and helping her prepare for the family get together for that evening. I got to spend the entire day making candy, listening to her stories, and making dinner. It was a magickal time that I wish I could relive if even for one day.

Karen Cote: Visiting London, on to Florence and finalizing the event by flying on to New York and throwing confetti off one of the buildings. (My friend is the person who makes the confetti and then does the confetti drop at Time Square every year. He invited us to attend and after a police escort through the masses of people, we were taken up to one of the roofs above the MTV ice sculpture where we throw the confetti 20 minutes before midnight as that is how long it takes to fall.)

Viki: I’m lucky to have so many wonderful Christmas memories. Christmas Eve was our family’s celebratory night – friends and relatives would drop in for my dad’s famous brandy Manhattens. I’d bake the butter cookies – complete with red and green sprinkles on Christmas trees, wreaths and Santas. We’d dress up in our holiday dresses and open our presents. It didn’t get any better than that!

Virginia: Every year is a new and magical memory for me, so I can’t say I have a favorite.

Heather: On Christmas morning in 2004 my boyfriend got me cute, soft and cuddly bunny. While the kids and I were petting and coddling the bunny my husband got down on one knee and asked me to be his wife. Completely shocked and befuddled I stared blankly and muttered “Oh, crap.” Then after glancing at the grinning faces of my family, I agreed and we celebrated. It seems that my family had known for over a month and they were bursting at the seems over keeping such a huge secret. (P.S, we named the bunny little bunny foo-foo.

Do you have personal resolutions for the New Years? Anything interesting?

KarenneLyn: Yes!  I have a personal goal for myself and I am ready to make it happen.  I am planning on maxing out my eReader this year.  Yes it is ambitious but I am up to the task!  Please Santa give me some money or gift certificates for Christmas

Vanessa Devereaux – Just realized I’m boring because none of them are interesting! Maybe it means I’ve been too good all year. Have to think about what naughty things I can get up to in 2012. Main one is to get my first screenplay finished and off to an agent.

Kimberly: My hubby and I have reached “that age” where we are trying to eat healthier. I guess that is my New Year’s resolution: Eat healthier. We’re trying out vegan/vegetarian recipes now and we’re quite surprised by what we are finding.

Karen Cote: LOL. I don’t make promises I can’t keep.

Viki: I always have resolutions and good intentions! I have crossed off ‘exercise’ a long time ago! I do have a personal resolution to take a Tarot class and study an esoteric isms. I’ve been focused on the physical side of life – with losing weight, writing career, creative goals…and now I feel the urge to reconnected with my spiritual nature.

Virginia: I resolve to take over the world… And I will, too

Heather: To not make any resolutions. To write more frequently. To survive another semester of college.

So…I heard you’re a book seller and much more! What do you specifically do?

We do have an eBook Store.  We set this up to help defray some of the costs associated with a website and events so that we could keep our prices down for authors. We are lucky enough to get some great books for readers.  We are constantly adding eBooks from publishers.  One of the great things is that every book is on sale at 20% off for the first 30 days they are in our eBook store.  Please stop by anytime, we are always open LOL

http://coffeetimeromance.com/BookStore/

How did Coffee Time Romance start? What inspired you to work with books?

What other services does Coffee Time Romance provide?

We have a lot of events for readers and we have tons of great ways for authors to get out the word about their books. We have a lot of different things to fit every budget.

What goals does Coffee Time Romance have for the new upcoming year?

Wow!  You know, we have been working on that for a couple of months.  Needless to say, we have not set those goals LOL  Basically we just want to continue to bring honest reviews and great things for book lovers to do!

We actually are looking to expand our Coffee Crew.  We are looking for book reviewers, interviewers, moderators….just fun stuff .  So if you love books, love to laugh, and enjoy warped people, then you need to join our crew!  eMail:  staff@coffeetimeromance.com

What news would you like to share with your readers?

Thank you THANK YOU for making us strive to meet all of your needs/wants.  We do look forward to bringing you more in the near future!

Where can readers find you?

1. Twitter:  www.twitter.com/CoffeeTimeRoman
2. Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Coffee_Time_Romance__More-Official_Fan_Page/134779749873190
3. Website: www.coffeetimeromance.com
4. Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/coffeetimeromanceandmore
5. YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/CoffeeTimeRomanceMor
6. Google +: https://plus.google.com/118049803371832928834/posts

Thank you so much for joining us at Romance Author Hotspot!

Thank you so much for inviting us!

Prize: a $20 gift certificate to our eBook store.

Meet Heather Bennett!

Co-Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Decadent Publishing!

First question:

Eggnog or Mimosas? Are you old enough to drink?

Eggnog. Spiked. Old enough to know drinking too much will lay me out for a few days.

We’re also taking pictures with Santa, did you bring a gift for him? (Maybe a new release or a pretty book cover…)

I have the PERFECT gift for him, a book called Santa, Cutie by Cerise DeLand. It’s in Madame Eve’s 1Night Stand Holiday Anthology. This lovely author, Clarissa Yip, is also featured in that book. Do you know her?

Please enter. Drinks are served by the elves in the corner.

Are they naughty elves? Deanna Wadsworth permanently tweeked my vision of the merry little buggers in her Naughty North Pole book, Ms. Claus’ List. Never knew elves were that….flexible.

What’s your favorite holiday and why?
Christmas. For a number of reasons, not the least of which is the kids are off school for 2 weeks and I can sleep in (which, at our house, means 8a.m.). I also enjoy the month leading up to it; holiday music, cozy fires with stockings, buying presents, decorating, making cookies and taking plates to our elder neighbors, etc. I have tweeners, so this is an awesome age for the holiday. This year we’re doing Grinchmas at Universal Studios, too. Shall be fun!

Did you ask Santa for anything good?

This answer could go SSOOO wrong, but I’ll behave. I need a new nifty wine opener, mine wore out, and I want one of those cake-pop makers. I have a kitchen-gadget fetish. Does anyone remember the Cosby episode where Claire forbade Cliff from buying more small appliances? Yah, that’s me. *gazes lovingly at new NuWave oven*

What’s your favorite place to spend the holidays?

Absolutely at home. We don’t go anywhere on Christmas, people come to our house and we have a junk-food feast on the 24^th (taquitos, cheese and crackers, mini-weenies, mini-quiches, wings, chips, dips, etc.) and we pile in the car to go see Christmas lights. Then we’re home until the 26^th, enjoying each other’s company, watching movies, eating leftovers. Serious snuggle time.

What is your favorite Christmas memory?

When I was a little kid, we had a GIANT snowstorm on Christmas Eve. We spun out on the ice, had to get pulled out of a snow bank, but mom was determined to get to my grandparent’s house and she kept driving. Mom had me looking in the dark sky for Santa’s sleigh on the way, we ate chocolate, I know that. My grandparents lived in the country, and my uncles drove up and down the dirt road leading to their driveway for 2 hours so the road stayed clear for us. I was maybe 3yrs old, but it is a vivid memory. I woke up and had a MOUND of presents, the snow was feet deep. Picture-perfect holiday for a wee one!

As an adult, there isn’t really one, it’s just the whole experience with my husband and kids and family.

Do you have personal resolutions for the New Years? Anything interesting?

I want to remember to take more time to enjoy next year. I get really busy and forget to enjoy the little things. I answer business emails at the beach and text at the movies. Need to stop that! Is that boring? J Oh, and hire an Organization Fairy.

Why do you publish romance?

It’s what I love to read, it has amazingly talented people writing in the genre, it’s a serious but fun industry to be in, and we have THE MOST interesting conversations over cocktails.

What do you love in running a pub?

Dealing with the people every day. There is a lot of joy in seeing authors get great reviews and awards for their hard work, seeing the new ones realize their dreams, having editors tell me they enjoy their job. I had a ton of fun developing a few new lines this year, a western and a sci-fi world-building line and a few others; the creative back and forth was inspiring. I also really enjoy meeting the readers and authors at conventions and in chats.

What advice would you give aspiring authors?
WRITE WRITE WRITE! One book out there is good. Congratulations! But you need to keep going if you want a career. And, by the way, a successful career in ANYTHING is a lot of work—writing is no different. Only half of it is writing, the other half is getting out there and getting your book into the hands of readers. Also, never stop learning. Take some classes or seminars, read other people’s work, do research and write what you enjoy.

Who are some of your favorite authors?

Oh, lord. How much space do I have here?

Ok, without being biased toward Decadent authors)…Lara Adrian (whom I met this year, and she IS as cool as it gets), Sherrilyn Kenyon (fabulous world-builder), Sherry Thomas (amazing use of the language and humor), the late Kathleen Givens (epic researcher), Diana Gabaldon (2 words—Jamie Fraser), Sabrina Jeffries (sassy historicals), Susan Mallery (smart contemps), Lorelei James (smokin’ cowboys, talented at characterization), Lisa Renee Jones (I buy her off the shelf every time), Tori Carrington (fun stories, fun people), Samantha Kane (ménage master!), the older Jude Deveraux and Johanna Lindsey stuff (my first fictional loves—all of the Montgomery brothers and *fans self* James Mallory), a giant list of ebook authors, growing daily. Also Kate Douglas and Hannah Howell because they are fabulous writers and great to follow on Facebook. Of course my partner, Samantha Gail. I am in lust with her hero from Guarding the Coast.

There are more. But you will probably cut me if I keep going.

What goals do you have for the new upcoming year?

Keep building Decadent Publishing in the manner we’ve been doing—quality stories, quality authors, quality staff.

Any big projects for 2012?
I don’t think we have any SMALL project in 2012! We are branching out with a new imprint– Bono Books–for our sweeter romance, mainstream, and YA books. That should launch soon after the new year. We have several new lines open or opening; including world-building sci-fi and western romance lines, Honor Guard (stories about modern alpha men working in or around foreign embassies), The Edge (short, very hot stories), and our main line and 1Night Stand series are going strong.

We’ll be at a bunch of Cons all over the country; RT, Tucson Book Faire, Arizona Dreamin’ and the New York Book Faire. Also I will probably be at EPIC, maybe Comic-Con. Decadent authors will be at a lot more. We’ll have a Decadent Publishing team at our Relay For Life event.

We’re currently in the editing process with Bill and Susan Seaforth Hayes, more notably from Days of Our Lives. They wrote a wonderful historical fiction book that will release before April. There is another big project on the board I can’t talk much about yet, but definitely has a little celebrity tie-in.

What news would you like to share with your readers?

We have a writing contest for our Western Escape line with great prizes, including a contract for first place, a critique by Desiree Holt, one by rising star Ann Mayburn, and more. http://bit.ly/smvKhf

We also have a VERY cool blog for the holidays where someone wins prizes every day! Holiday stories, recipes, books, musings, music. http://30daysofdecadence.blogspot.com

Additionally, anyone who emails me at decadentnews@gmail.com and signs up for our newsletter will be entered to win a Decadent ebook of their choice. If you’re already a subscriber, let me know and your address will be verified and entered!

Where can readers find you?

1. Twitter: @DecadentPub
2. Facebook: www.facebook.com/decadentpublishing
3. Website: http://www.decadentpublishing.com
4. Others: http://decadentpublishing.blogspot.com
   http://30daysofdecadence.blogspot.com
   http://westernescapedecadentpublishing.blogspot.com
5. Newsletter: decadentnews@gmail.com

Thank you so much for joining us at Romance Author Hotspot!

Prize: 4 ebooks from Decadent Publishing; a 1Night Stand, a holiday novella, and 2 main line books of winner’s choice.