The More the Merrier

NEW BOOKS! On His Knees By Beth Williamson **January 2, 2007** Recently divorced, Renny Johnson is discovering how independent she can be. Her husband of ten years, Nicholas, left her with a broken heart and shattered self-esteem. When a would-be robber turns out to be Nicholas invading her new home, Renny takes the situation, and him, into her own hands. She’s going to teach him what it means to be a man… on his knees. The Prince Kidnaps a Bride by Christina Dodd Betrothed in the cradle, Princess Sorcha and Prince Rainger were destined to rule their countries together. Then revolution sent Sorcha to a remote Scottish convent—and Rainger into a dungeon so deep rumor claimed he was dead. Now danger threatens, and Sorcha must travel home with a simple fisherman as her companion—Prince Rainger in disguise. Changed by his imprisonment from a careless lad to a dangerous man, he's determined to win back his kingdom—and the woman he wants more than life itself. But can he protect a woman who believes every person she meets is her friend, every tavern is an opportunity to sing bawdy songs, and each turn in the road hides new adventure? To keep his princess safe, he must resort to his most treacherous weapon: seduction. Play with Me by Janice Maynard **Jan 2007** It begins with a toast among three beautiful best friends-Catherine, who's used to putting business before pleasure; Kallie, who's in need of a casual lover; and Gina, a former party girl who's given up on romance. Their pact is to make their naughtiest fantasies come true before their thirtieth birthdays. They have one year to make it happen-and no position is too compromising. All it's going to take is finding the right man, capturing the perfect moment, and stirring up enough courage to issue the most provocative invitation of the year. The race is on. Who's going to cross the line first? Surviving Demon Island by Jaci Burton What's America's top female action star doing on a tropical island shrouded in secrecy? To Gina Bliss, competing in a survival-type reality show is a nice change from fending off on-screen villains. Until she meets real-life action hero Derek Marks. A survival specialist in a tight black T and sexy stubble, he's arousing every bad-boy fantasy she's ever had...and testing her survival skills to the max. Martial arts, jungle warfare - Derek's done it all. But his latest mission is more dangerous than a stick of dynamite. Try telling that to the sexy, adrenaline-pumped actress who's got his libido racing off the charts. As the heat rises between them and real-life violence erupts, suddenly Derek and Gina are on the run...and when they uncover a secret so explosive it could blow the lid of their so-called reality show, these two unlikely heroes are about to discover what surviving's really about.... For the Love of a Pirate by Edith Layton He's searching for a proper bride . . . Constantine, Lord Wylde, is a gentleman beyond reproach. Now it's time for him to find a suitable gentlewoman to wed-;a well-bred, well-behaved lady, as proper as . . . well, Constantine himself. But his plans are shattered when a fierce, aging pirate invades his home with shocking news: Constantine is already engaged . . . to the brigand's lovely granddaughter, Lisabeth! But finds a perfect passion instead Wildly independent Lisabeth, however, has no desire for marriage-;certainly not to a straightlaced nobleman bound to her by some long-ago promise . . . even if she's tantalized by his manly form and the sensuality he can't quite disguise. Though shocked by the lady's improprieties, Constantine soon finds himself acting as lustily as any outlaw. But how does a staid gentleman win the heart of a bewitching pirate? The really interesting thing is I think this is a STAND ALONE. Jacob by Jacquelyn Frank I like the ARC cover much better... In this passionate debut--the first in a stunning new series--Frank creates an alternate world where moonlight creates a forbidden passion too overwhelming to ignore. Since time began, there have been Nightwalkers. Love with humans is absolutely forbidden, and Jacob, the Enforcer, makes certain to uphold this ancient law. For 700 years he has resisted temptation--until tonight. Original. Sun Kissed by Catherine Anderson **January 2, 2007** When Samantha Harrigan attends the local rodeo, she doesn't expect to wind up in jail. But that's what happens when she tries to stop a drunkard from abusing his horse. Tucker Coulter, a handsome local veterinarian, comes to her defense, and both of them are arrested. The charges are dropped, but Sam's troubles have only started... Salvation, Texas by Anna Jeffrey **January 2, 2007** Ever since he lost Elena, everything in Rusty's life has gone wrong. Her wealthy, influential father drove him out of Salvation, away from everyone he'd ever loved. Now he's back, elected by the people to one of the most powerful positions in the county. He isn't about to let the woman who once cost him everything get under his skin again. Not when there's a cold-blooded killer on the loose. And not unless he can find a way to live with her father and her millions. Elena Ryder knew of no better man than Sheriff Rusty Joplin-despite the fact that years back, he let her controlling father run him out of town. Now, she trusts no one else to investigate her sister's tragic death. And she won't even consider resisting Rusty's rugged presence if she gets a second chance… Pleasure for Pleasure by Eloisa James Fueled by the knowledge that notoriety is better than failure, witty, unconventional Josie does what no proper young lady should—she challenges fate. She discards her corset and flirts outrageously. She attends the horse races and allows an arrogant rakehell to whisk her behind the stables for a surreptitious kiss . . . and is caught! She doesn't want to marry the young hellion—but who's to help? Her chaperone keeps disappearing for mysterious appointments; her guardian is on his wedding trip; and his friend the Earl of Mayne is too busy staring into the eyes of his exquisite French fiancée. Can a marriage forced by stuffy convention and unwilling desire become the match of the season? And I need: Natalie Lambert's life has changed in the space of weeks—and she has no idea why. Her parents were murdered, she has her first taste of sexual desire—and she feels out of control, afraid, desperate to understand her changing world. She flees to New Orleans, hoping to lure the murderer out of the dark and bring to an end the trail of dead loved ones. Instead, she's attacked by crazed birds, swarmed by locusts, and saved by a Cajun cop who awakens all her latent desires. When Rene Broussard rescues a virgin vampire, he ends up in her bed and becomes hers for life in one lusty bite. Rene awakens the vampire within Natalie, and she awakes the passion within him. Together, they fight the evil threatening to destroy The Born vampires while they discover a treasure of love they can share for all eternity. Excerpt here

New books and a thankee to Dear Author

NEW BOOKS! Autumn in Scotland by Karen Ranney Abandoned by a rogue Betrothed to an earl she had never met, Charlotte Haversham arrived at Balfurin, hoping to find love at the legendary Scottish castle. Instead she found decaying towers and no husband among the ruins. So Charlotte worked a miracle, transforming the rotting fortress into a prestigious girls' school. And now, five years later, her life is filled with purpose—until . . . Seduced by a stranger A man storms Charlotte's castle—and he is not the reprehensible Earl of Marne, the one who stole her dowry and dignity, but rather the absent lord's handsome, worldly cousin Dixon MacKinnon. Mesmerized by the fiery Charlotte, Dixon is reluctant to correct her mistake. And though she's determined not to play the fool again, Charlotte finds herself strangely thrilled by the scoundrel's amorous attentions. But a dangerous intrigue has drawn Dixon to Balfurin. And if his ruse is prematurely revealed, a passionate, blossoming love affair could crumble into ruin. Pleasure Prolonged (Avon Red) by Cathryn Fox Once a mere lab assistant, Erin Shay is thrilled over her new promotion. The curvaceous, brainy, somewhat straightlaced lady has been placed in charge of an important new research project: testing a serum specially designed to substantially prolong a couple's lovemaking. With scientists Jay and Laura off on their honeymoon, Erin's been left alone in the lab . . . with her hard-bodied new assistant, Kale Alexander, a sexy stud who has "playboy" written all over him. Erin's never even had a one-night stand—but the project's success depends upon her playing the wild, wanton bad-girl to red-hot Casanova Kale. Since she's already learned the perils of leaving her heart too open to heartbreak, this time she'll be the one calling the shots. Her bad-boy partner is going to know from the git-go that this will be a brief sex-only affair—hot, torrid, steamy love in the interests of science . . . with absolutely no strings attached. But when the loving is this deliciously hot, who in her right mind wouldn't want to prolong it? The Price of Desire (Avon Red) by Leda Swann Caroline Clemens is at her wits' end. Orphaned and responsible for the welfare of her four younger siblings, she's certain it's only a matter of time before she loses everything. When she meets Dominic Savage passions ignite, and they soon strike a deal that benefits both parties. But their desire for each other soon outweighs any "business" deal between them, and the two lovers suddenly find themselves playing by an entirely different set of rules. Alluring Tales by Lisa Renee Jones, Myla Jackson, Vivi Anna, Sasha White, Sylvia Day, Cathryn Fox and Delilah Devlin A television executive lets loose when her favorite heartthrob strides into her office--and gives her the ride of her life. This one night stand may be too hot to handle for a newly single woman, but that won't stop her from enjoying every delicious second. When a mysterious package opens to reveal an oh-so-sexy, nearly naked man, these two have no choice but to hide out...for a good, long time. A minister's son harbors impure thoughts about a voluptuous stripper--and sets out to make his erotic dreams come true... A big city cop discovers that once bitten is not twice shy after spending a tantalizing night with a beautiful vampire... A sheltered young woman opens a mysterious locket--and is plunged into a legendary battle of good versus evil to set her imprisoned lover free... A seductive warlock will not rest until the powerful temptress he lusts for is begging to be dominated... Pleasure beckons and satisfaction is guaranteed in seven titillating stories of love that knows no boundaries. Surrender to the passion and follow your desires into unexplored realms of sensuous delights. Awaken the fantasy! And thanks to Dear Author's Great Pumpkin Giveaway! Harmony's Way by Lora Leigh Harmony Lancaster is of the Lion breed, created to be a huntress with a thirst to kill. But the way she seeks justice outside of the law makes her a liability to her own kind. Yet she also possesses information that they need on the existence of the First Leo - who holds the precious secrets of desire. To save her life, Harmony is paired with Sheriff Lance Jacobs, who tries to tame the killer within her, while protecting the gentle woman he longs to possess. But a dangerous cult leader, bent on destroying the Breeds, could change the way Lance looks at Harmony forever...

Where is Walt when you need him....

Dear Reader: The novels you've enjoyed over the past ten years by such authors as Kathleen Woodiwiss, Rosemary Rogers, Johanna Lindsey and Laurie McBain are accountable to one thing above all others: Avon has never tried to force authors into any particular mold. Rather, Avon is a publisher that encourages individual talent and is always on the lookout for writers who will deliver real books, not packaged formulas. In 1982, we started a program to help readers pick out authors of exceptional promise. Called "The Avon Romance," the books were distinguished by a ribbon motif in the upper left-hand corner of the cover. Although every title was by a new author, and the settings could be either historical or contemporary, they were quickly discovered and became known as "the ribbon books." In 1984, "The Avon Romance" will be a feature on the Avon list. Each month, you will find novels with many different settings, each one by an author who is special. You will not find predictable characters, predictable plots and predictable endings. The only predictable thing about "The Avon Romance" will be the superior quality that Avon has always delivered in the field of romance! Sincerely, Walter Meade President & Publisher This letter is found on the first page of China Rose by Marsha Canham published in 1984 (that I found for a $1 the other day). I have to agree with walt here and it would be nice if they could find their way back to this. I don't see why Avon can't publish the 12000 Regency Historicals every month they feel we need and do one or two books in a line like "The Avon Romance". Does anyone remember these "ribbon" books? I would be interested in seeing who else was apart of the idea. LOL maybe the idea tanked and that is why Avon became all regency all the time.

For the Love of a Pirate by Edith Layton

I have been looking for a summary for this book for a while now. And now that I found it... it is soooooooooo not what I thought it would be. What cha think? Nice of Avon to be consistent in giving us bad covers... For the Love of a Pirate by Edith Layton Release Date: December 2006 He's searching for a proper bride . . . Constantine, Lord Wylde, is a gentleman beyond reproach. Now it's time for him to find a suitable gentlewoman to wed-;a well-bred, well-behaved lady, as proper as . . . well, Constantine himself. But his plans are shattered when a fierce, aging pirate invades his home with shocking news: Constantine is already engaged . . . to the brigand's lovely granddaughter, Lisabeth! But finds a perfect passion instead Wildly independent Lisabeth, however, has no desire for marriage-;certainly not to a straightlaced nobleman bound to her by some long-ago promise . . . even if she's tantalized by his manly form and the sensuality he can't quite disguise. Though shocked by the lady's improprieties, Constantine soon finds himself acting as lustily as any outlaw. But how does a staid gentleman win the heart of a bewitching pirate?

Autumn in Scotland

Abandoned by a rogue Betrothed to an earl she had never met, Charlotte Haversham arrived at Balfurin, hoping to find love at the legendary Scottish castle. Instead she found decaying towers and no husband among the ruins. So Charlotte worked a miracle, transforming the rotting fortress into a prestigious girls' school. And now, five years later, her life is filled with purpose-;until . . . Seduced by a stranger A man storms Charlotte's castle-;and he is not the reprehensible Earl of Marne, the one who stole her dowry and dignity, but rather the absent lord's handsome, worldly cousin Dixon MacKinnon. Mesmerized by the fiery Charlotte, Dixon is reluctant to correct her mistake. And though she's determined not to play the fool again, Charlotte finds herself strangely thrilled by the scoundrel's amorous attentions. But a dangerous intrigue has drawn Dixon to Balfurin. And if his ruse is prematurely revealed, a passionate, blossoming love affair could crumble into ruin. I have posted once or twice about this book and am looking forward to reading it. I might even give into my no excerpt rule and go check her new one out. And if you are like me and try and stay away from excerpts because it screws with your OCD. Or if you just haven't been there in a bit. Go take a look see at her website has been updated and is nifty. Her FAQ's has a great a great answer to the question: "Why I write Romance". There is a message board that isn't a train wreck and she seems to answer reader questions. And her FWIW is interesting to check out. But my person fave part is what I love, love, love to see on author websites, on her books page she gives some back 'behind the scene info on her books. As she says on the front of her site: Snapshots I've always been fascinated in the history behind a book. Why those characters? Why that time? Why that place? Periodically, I'll be giving the background - or interesting facts - about some of my own books.

shocking...

From Shari with Harper Collins Those pesky rumors that keep circulating about the death of the historical are wrong, wrong, wrong! Avon is happy to announce that romance fans resoundly have announced their support of this subgenre, as part of voting for the AvonFanLit.com story premise. Given the choice between paranormal, contemporary, romantic suspense, medieval, Victorian or Regency – the Regency story idea won…by a mile! Visit to check out the online writing/voting/blogging action. Interesting that all these tech-savvy chicks are into good old-fashioned love and romance! le sigh... I love a good regency setting but really people... would it have killed you to pick something that doesn't make up 96.5% of the historical books on the shelves? Did people just not get out and vote? Or is this really really what the people want? The Story A couple of weeks back, we asked you to vote for your favorite story premise and your response was overwhelming. 2,400+ votes later, in a close election, you decided on Regency as the basis for your Avon FanLit novella. The Premise A beautiful young lady takes society by storm, fascinating the male members of the town and intriguing the female members. She claims she is a "lady," the daughter of an earl long-gone from London society, and her seductive charms seduce every gentleman she meets — all except one. This striking aristocrat doesn't believe a word she says. Is she truly a lady? Or, is she a desperate damsel in some sort of disguise?

CLAIMING THE COURTESAN **APR 2007** now with more ho'ness

He would marry her, and possess her in every way possible. The Duke of Kylemore knows her as Soraya, London’s most celebrated courtesan. Men fight duels to spend an hour in her company. And only he comes close to taming her. Flying in the face of society, he decides to make her his bride; then, she vanishes, seemingly into thin air. Dire circumstances have forced Verity Ashton to barter her innocence and change her name for the sake of her family. But Kylemore destroys her plans for a respectable life when he discovers her safe haven. He kidnaps her, sweeping her away to his isolated hunting lodge in Scotland, where he vows to bend her to his will. There he seduces her anew. Verity spends night after night in his bed… and though she still plans her escape, she knows she can never flee the unexpected, unwelcome love for the proud, powerful lover who claims her both body and soul. No cover yet but there is an excerpt on Anna Campbell's site. This is her first book and is being released as a Avon Romantic Treasure in April, 2007 - which I guess is a big deal. (I know nothing about avon's lines)

Avon goes medievals again

Gayle Callen will be writing medievals again for Avon. Only not under Gayle Callen... her medieval name is Julia Latham. Wonder why since 'Gayle Callen' has medievals already. I haven't really liked her last few books so I hope Julia Latham will be a return of what was grand in His Bride. I have Callen's medievals tbr Do I even ask if you are gonna read it kristie ;)

Open, open, open

Avon Fanlit is open for business. Go Forth and vote for western settings! OKay fine... just anything other than regency settings or vampire novels. What, we have enough right now!?! Let your voice be heard people! Oh fine I don't even know if they have any other settings or if there are even historicals in the mix. Guess I will have to go check it out. Hey I have registered! You should too. (this means you kristie ;) ) sez I I would like to point out it says on the press release - Sign up for our Fan Fiction event! Can I call it or what ;)

Loving Mood? Online Sex?

Rachel Gibson is a new to me author who I really thought I would never get around to reading. Mind you it had nothing to do with the author as much as my heart was set on historicals. And cartoony covers do nothing but put me off, prolly just me. But I ended up with a copy of Sex, Lies and Online Dating and picked it up to skim before sendin it off to the ubs. And ended up reading it and liking it. I was surprised because I generally don't like it when the h/h lie about their identity for a good chunk of the book. It isn't a keeper but I have to say the preview for her next book caught my eye... I'm in No Mood For Love... blurb from author site Romance novelist Clare Wingate's love life is a mess. Her cheating fiance has absconded with her dog and her mother is driving her insane. Her life could not get any worse . . . then she wakes up in the arms of sexy bad boy Sebastian Vaughan and everything gets a whole lot messier. Maybe I have a thing for bad boys named Sebastian *g*. I am a sucker for childhood pals turned lovers... and it seems they have some kind of background. There is a sneak peak up on her site I am trying really hard not to read. hee you can go read it for me here summary for Sex, Lies and Online Dating from author site Burned by life and love... Detective Quinn McIntyre figures women will be the death of him someday. Then he meets Lucy Rothschild and learns that day maybe sooner than he thought. SEX... What is it about men anyway? Bad cars, bad jobs, even bad teeth, nothing convinces them that they can't snare a Size Two Babe with a D cup chest. And after way too many internet dates with men named "luvstick" and "Bigdaddy182", Lucy Rothschild should know. LIES... But sitting across from her now is hardluvman, and he seems different - sensitive, honest, and hot! He says he's a plumber, while Lucy claims she's a nurse! She's really a mystery writer, dating on line while researching her next book. Hey, everyone lies a little, don't they? AND ONLINE DATING... But Quinn's really an undercover cop hunting down a serial killer, and he sees Lucy as one of his top suspects. And while he could really go for this smart, sexy woman with the killer bod - if that's the only thing "killer" about her - he knows he needs to wine and dine her and discover the truth. Hey, he realized the dating scene can be deadly - but this is ridiculous! AAR has a great interview from Jan 2005. Have you read Gibson? Any rec's? Any thing to stay far far away from? Truly, Madly Yours looks interesting...