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A Closer Look |
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Hi and welcome to A Closer Look! This is a new feature at Writerspace and I'm thrilled to have the opportunity to bring you A Closer Look at some of the best Romance novels that simply shouldn't be missed.
I was surfing the web recently and discovered some amazing statistics. Did you know that romance book sales generated approximately $1.37 billion in sales in 2000? And did you know there were ONLY *g* 2,289 romance novels released in 2000? That's approximately 190 books a month!! Now think about how many books You read each month. Mind boggling, isn't it? All those books and authors out there waiting to be discovered....
What are the chances that people like you and me got the opportunity to read even half of them..... okay realistically, even a quarter of them last year? I know I'm always finding new books and new authors; many of them have been around for years and I've only just discovered them recently and so glad that I did!
If you're a voracious reader like me, you probably can't get enough of romance novels and each time you discover a new author whose work you enjoy immensely, you probably get all excited and rush out to grab her entire back list. Right?
Sometimes it's an author you've always adored but when her last book came out, you didn't get a chance to buy a copy or you simply didn't realize there was a new one to be on the lookout for. Happens to me all the time. I mean, come on, seriously, how many books do you buy each month without stopping to think about those credit card or utility bills, grocery money or facing up to your own hunky hero at home - who is now your pleasure master and slave - without cringing when he catches you sneaking home with another shopping bag almost bursting with romance books? And if you're anything like me, you're hiding them in every nook and cranny your honey won't go peeking into until you can casually..... innocently...... underhandedly *g* add them to your ever increasing TBR (to-be-read) pile!!
Well, if you can relate to all of the above, A Closer Look is just the right column for you! With the kind and generous support of the publishers and authors of romance, I am pleased to bring you A Closer Look at some of the hottest and unforgettable romances the industry has to offer! Not only can you discover books you may have missed, but sometimes, you can even get a brand new autographed copy, along with some other great goodies, just for the price of postage! That's a pretty good deal, don't you think? And you won't even have to try and be sneaky or underhanded to add it to you tbr pile! *g*
I hope you enjoy this column and if you have any comments or suggestions, please drop me a line!
If you would like to have one of your previous, current or upcoming releases featured in my column, please feel free to email me at anytime. I'd love to take A CLOSER LOOK at some of your books!
A Closer Look
* Karen White
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Historical romance has a new star and her name is Kresley Cole. With her debut novel, THE CAPTAIN OF ALL PLEASURES, hitting the shelves in July 2003, romance novelist Kresley Cole has most certainly made a lastimg impression upon readers of this sub-genre of romance.
Once I read the book, I was eager to learn more about the woman who penned this highly entertaining novel. It didn't take me long to learn that aside from being beautiful and warm-hearted, Kresley also has a unique sense of humor and a natural ability to charm people without even trying. When I discovered that she had previously pursued a career as a professional athelete, I was curious to learn why and how she got started in her career as a romance author. The answer she gave me was relatively simple.
She explained that she loves to write historical romances with dark, brooding alpha-heroes. When I asked why she chose to write historical romance, she answered, "It was what I read most. And I think that historical romances lend themselves to showcasing a hero and heroine's strengths."
She didn't grow up wanting to write romance. "I actually wanted to be a meteorologist for most of my life. In fact, if I had known that weather persons today don't have to know all those scary statistics but just punch in dates and download forecasts, I'd probably be doing that somewhere right now."
LOL, well I, for one, am very glad she didn't pursue that career! I'd have missed out on her wonderful historical romance otherwise. *grin*
I think her perky yet sensitive personality is reflected very well in her debut novel, THE CAPTAIN OF ALL PLEASURES, and I'd like to invite you to take A Closer Look at it with me...
Nicole's plans are thrown overboard after Sutherland inadvertently prevents her father from sailing, yet she remains undaunted--taking to the high seas with her father's ship. But after a harrowing storm, she finds herself a virtual prisoner aboard Sutherland's vessel. And while her mind tells her she should escape, her body urges her to surrender….
"Many discerning readers have been complaining about the scarcity of the big sagas of old. If you're yearning to read something with a panoramic feel, pick up debut author Kresley Cole's first novel... if this novel is any indication, Kresley Cole has a bright future ahead of her!"
"Kresley Cole captures the danger and passion of the high seas in this electrifying debut, weaving heart-stopping adventure with scenes of scorching sensuality for a thrilling fly-through-the-pages read."
"In her truly winning debut novel, the very talented Kresley Cole takes readers on the adventure of a lifetime. A brave, bold woman matches wits with a sexy, dangerous man in this irresistible and passionate romance."
"A great debut by an author with loads of talent. . . Victorian England on the high seas is as vivid as can be pictured in this action-packed historical romance. The lead couple is a delight as they brawl, argue, and fight until they realize that they are in love.... Readers will enjoy sailing with Kresley Cole at the helm."
"Kresley Cole's debut novel, THE CAPTAIN OF ALL PLEASURES, has everything needed for a successful romance story..... With engaging dialogue, and beautiful descriptive narrative, I could almost imagine myself on the deck of the Bella Nicola, feeling the salty spray on my face. Secondary characters are well integrated into the tale, and while not playing major parts, round the tale out well. This summer, relax and enjoy THE CAPTAIN OF ALL PLEASURES."
"THE CAPTAIN OF ALL PLEASURES is a remarkably entertaining tale of love and adventure on the high seas. Debut author Kresley Cole infuses her story with energy and passion, giving the book a life of its own... [It] is both deeply emotional and highly sensual, making it one fantastic debut. Remember the name of Kresley Cole when you're craving heartfelt historical romance!"
"With THE CAPTAIN OF ALL PLEASURES sure to bring Kresley Cole's name to the forefront of romance lovers everywhere, I can hardly wait for the sequel, THE PRICE OF PLEASURE, coming out in July about Derek's brother, Grant. This lady cannot write fast enough to suit me." 4 1/2 Plugs!
"With a unique storyline, fresh dialogue and engaging characters, THE CAPTAIN OF ALL PLEASURES more than hits the mark. I highly recommend this story and I can't wait to see what this talented new author has in store for us in the future!"
"... here's a new talent coming over the horizon that you will want to read. Kresley Cole brings back the adventure of the high seas with the passion-filled romance found between the free-spirited Nicole Lassiter and the super sexy Captain Derek Sutherland. THE CAPTAIN OF ALL PLEASURES is an exciting, sensuous story that will thrill you at every turn of the page."
"Hot, hot, hot! Ms. Cole's first novel is a wild ride. Adventure, passion, a rollicking story, this book has it all. An impressive debut."
"A terrific debut for a new and very talented author. The dialog was fresh, the action was lively . . . I fairly flew through the pages. I'm looking forward to the sequel."
She lives with her husband Richard in a little town called Windermere outside of Orlando, where they moved after graduating from the University of Alabama. Since then, they attained their graduate degrees from the University of Florida.
While Richard's off working as a financial analyst, Kresley writes full time and is a mom to two marvelous labs and one feckless cat.
"When I first showed Kresley’s photo to my husband, he said, "She looks like she should be teaching Sunday school." Well. Don’t be fooled by the demure, southern belle exterior. Anyone who’s read Kresley’s love scenes knows that this girl has a wild streak a mile wide. Which is what makes her such a delightful friend. I first met her at a dinner for Pocket authors at a writing conference and by the time we ordered dessert, Kresley’s editor was asking us if we were long-lost, separated-at-birth sisters.
Kresley is a wonderful friend, both in and out of the writing arena. At first, we bonded primarily over our shared cluelessness about the publication industry ("What’s a cover flat?" "Ya got me, what the heck is ‘basket accounting’?"), then over the agonies and ecstasies of second book syndrome ("It’s been four months and I’m still on chapter five" "My contract specifies one hundred thousand words—doesn’t that sound a little…long to you?"), and now we just like to get together and dish about the latest mini-dramas in our personal lives.
She’s smart, she’s funny, she’s not afraid to belly up to the bar and order "another vodka juice and cranberry, please". She’s a serious writer who doesn’t take herself too seriously. And, most important, she can tell you all about cover flats. Just ask her sometime."
"Kresley is a truly kind individual who will bend over backwards to help her friends or aspiring authors. She has a witty, animated personality and this palpable energy that she funnels into her writing. As an author, she's an extremely talented, driven professional, but in person, she's quick to laugh and fun to be around. And happiest when she's making you smile."
"Son of a gun, I thought after my first ten minute conversation with Kresley Cole, I just don't believe it. Underneath all that natural beauty, is...more beauty. I have no doubt that Kresley will brighten the romance industry the same way she brightens a room -- merely by being in it. Watching her launch a career is fun and inspiring and I know she has the drive and talent to continue to deliver sexy, fast-paced romances that will stand out with readers and reviewers. It's an honor to be in the stable of new writers at Pocket with her, and I'm looking forward to watching her rise to the challenge of our demanding career. She's definitely an author to watch and I'm delighted to count her among my romance writing friends."
"I met Kresley through the Central Florida Romance Writers and we became fast friends. She has such a terrific sense of humor. It seems like all we do when we're together is laugh. That great sense of humor and love of life translates into everything she does. She's warm, generous, and an amazingly talented athlete and writer -- a beautiful person inside and out. Whenever our chapter needs a volunteer, she's always one of the first to offer her time and talents. All this and she still manages to write winners like 'The Captain of All Pleasures.'"
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Hearing such warm and wonderful comments from her friends about her, I also wanted to know more about how Kresley's family felt about her career. She said, They are very, very supportive. I've alwasy believed my husband could be a poster child for supportive spouses, but I don't think I even realized how encouraging he was until I signed books at the RWA literacy signing this year. I thought he was going to explode he was so proud."
As I mentioned earlier, Kresley's got a wonderful sense of humor that always shines through in conversations with her. While speaking about her husband, she also commented, When I married Richard, we had to do an interview like the one in GREEN CARD, so he could get his, well, green card. Interestingly, the card is not green -- it's pink. Also interestingly, the interviewers do not appreciate sarcasm. I would advise that when they ask why you got married, you don't roll your eyes and answer, 'Silly man, for the presents!' "
Everyone was atwitter this July about the RWA conference in New York City. Kresley and I spoke briefly about attending conferences in general and she shared a humorous story with me ~
"So I'm at this conference… The 2002 Duel on the Delta conference at the Peabody Hotel in Memphis (props for a great conference). I had a fantastic editor/agent meeting with Lauren McKenna at Pocket Books and received a request for material. Now, it's Sunday. I'm deep in concentration because Lauren requested a synopsis for my second book. One problem-I'm a fly by the seat of my pants writer. Don't know where or how I'll end up. Now, I've got to plot this entire novel. So I'm thinking, and packing, and thinking. I vaguely hear Richard saying something about seeing the Peabody ducks. Ducks, schmucks; I've got plotting to do until we leave for the airport. Richard, who's a big animal lover, won't relent. Finally, I say, "Fine, let me get ready and we'll go see the ducks."
If you would like to receive a free autographed copy of THE CAPTAIN OF ALL PLEASURES, email me. Please note autographed copies of these books are only available while supplies last so act fast! Drop me a note and find out where to send your SASE.
**Only one email entry per person please.**
Kresley would love to hear from you so if you'd like to share your thoughts about her debut novel, please drop her an email. Or you can snail mail her at P.O. Box 798 Windermere, FL 34786.
Be sure to visit Kresley's website to learn more about her and stay informed on news about her upcoming releases. While you're there, don't forget to sign up for her newsletter too!
Please keep in mind that my supplies are limited and this opportunity won't last long! Grab your chance for a free autographed copy of THE CAPTAIN OF ALL PLEASURES ~ send me an email now!
Oh and one more thing -- Kresley's hosting a Summer Beach Read Contest at her website and she wanted me to let you all know about it. To celebrate the July release of her debut novel, THE CAPTAIN OF ALL PLEASURES, Kresley's giving away a sumptuous summer gift basket. Inside you'll find beach and by-the-pool reading essentials-a signed copy of THE CAPTAIN, tanning lotion, bottled water, two lush beach towels, all bundled in a Cole Haan straw tote. Luxuriate in the sun with a sexy, summer read and be a girl of summer. Enter today!
Winner announced August 23, 2003
Have a wonderful Summer and keep on Reading!! | |||||||
Previously a competitive athlete and professional coach, Kresley now concentrates on writing romance for Pocket Books. Her first novel, THE CAPTAIN OF ALL PLEASURES is a July 2003 release and her second novel, THE PRICE OF PLEASURE, will follow in July 2004.
