The Kate Chronicles

Murder Under Cover!

2011-04-22T17:08:00.001-07:00

I'm thrilled to announce that Murder Under Cover, the latest book in my Bibliophile Mystery series, has received a *starred* review in Library Journal!!

Here's what they said ...

Brooklyn Wainwright (The Lies That Bind), San Francisco ’s bookbinder–cum–crime solver, steps away from her desk again in this smart and intriguing cozy. Steeped in San Francisco culture and characters, including the hippie commune parents and requisite gay and lesbian friends, this beach read has the bonus of spy intrigue built into its plot, and not just in Brooklyn ’s James Bond–like boyfriend, Derek Stone. BFF Robin has just returned from a trip to India bearing a valuable book for Brooklyn to restore. A handsome Ukrainian guy Robin met spends the night—but then he’s murdered execution-style in her bed. Now the bad guys are after Brooklyn , too, but why?

VERDICT There is a high body count here for a cozy, but rest assured, all killings are done off-scene. A terrific read for those who are interested in the book arts and enjoy a counterculture foray and ensemble casts. Great fun all around!

"Great fun all around!" I really do love that! And I hope you've ordered your copy or plan to buy it at your local bookstore on May 3. :-)

Next week, April 29 - May 1, I'll be in Washington, D.C. attending the Malice Domestic conference, so if you're planning to attend, please look me up!

The day after the conference, on Monday, May 2, I'll be in Oakmont, PA for the annual Festival of Mystery. This fabulous event put on by Mystery Lovers Bookstore brings together a slew of mystery authors and hundreds of readers for a fun-filled evening of interviews and book signings and giveaways. I hope I'll see some of you there!

Cheers!

THE LIES THAT BIND - Blog Tour!

2010-10-25T17:10:00.000-07:00

THE LIES THAT BIND is almost here, yippee!! And that means a book launch party! If you're in the Los Angeles area, be sure to come by The Mystery Bookstore on Saturday, November 6, 2010, at 3:00 p.m. We'll have wine, cheese, goodies and giveaways -- and books!

I'm also packing my virtual bags for a whirlwind blog tour! I'm thrilled to be visiting some of my favorite places over the next month and I hope you'll have a chance to join me at one or two of my stops along the way.

Here's the schedule so far:

Killer Hobbies - 10/21/10

Romance Bandits - Book Launch party! - 10/25/10

Desire Authors - 10/26/10

OmniMystery News - 10/29/10

Murder She Writes – 11/1/10

Jungle Red Writers – 11/6/10

Mystery Lovers Kitchen - 11/7/10

The Romance Dish - 11/12/10

Type M for Murder - 11/28/10

The Lipstick Chronicles – 12/30/10

What an exciting line-up! Hope to see you on the tour!

Cheers!

The Millionaire Goes on Tour!

2010-07-05T12:08:00.000-07:00

To celebrate the publication of The Millionaire Meets His Match, my debut romance for Silhouette Desire, I'm taking my Millionaire on a tour of some of my favorite Blogs!

Don't miss the fun! Come by and say hello. We'll be discussing important topics like love, romance and millionaires. I'll be giving away goodies like gift certificates, books, laughs and a whole lotta love. :-)

July 4, 2010 Borders True Romance

July 9, 2010 Tawny Weber's Quick Six

July 12, 2010 Romance Bandits Book Launch Party!

July 13, 2010 Silhouette Desire Blog

July 21, 2010 The Pink Heart Society

July 26, 2010 Fresh Fiction

August 18, 2010 Riding With the Top Down

Hope to see you there!

Cheers!

Romance is in the Air!

2010-07-01T08:18:00.000-07:00

Hello! Along with my mystery website, I now have a beautiful new romance website! Yes, besides writing my bibliophile mysteries, I'm writing romance now!

(Diehard mystery fans, you might want to close your eyes and cover your ears. Sing "la-la-la-la-la" for a minute so you won't have to hear this.)

THE MILLIONAIRE MEETS HIS MATCH, my first Silhouette Desire romance, is out this month! Isn't he beautiful? I mean, the cover. It's a beauty, isn't it? I love it a lot! And the book itself is a lot of fun, too. And I'm super honored that my guy is Desire's Man of the Month. The book is available right now at Harlequin and will be available everywhere--and I do mean everywhere!--in the next week or so. So be sure to rush right out and pick up your very own copy. :-)

Here's the back cover copy...

Mr. July: Adam Duke, committed to his company

His Foil: A matchmaking mother

His Future: Avoid Operation: Matrimony

The CEO of Duke Development had been on guard since he discovered his mother’s diabolical plot to marry him off. Him and his brothers. And when his desirable new assistant, Trish James, hinted she wanted more than just a business relationship, Adam figured she was in on the scheme. So the boss decided to play along and seduce the secretary...then put a stop to his mother’s meddling marriage plans once and for all. But even Adam could not have guessed Trish’s true agenda for wanting him in her bed....

Man of the Month: All he wants is to escape the marriage trap...but this boss may have finally found a deal he can’t close.

Sounds like fun, right? I love a good boss/secretary romance! Doesn't everyone?

Okay, mystery fans, you can come back now. :-) I have good news on the mystery front. My next bibliophile mystery, THE LIES THAT BIND, will be out this November, and from then on, the books will be coming out every six months. Yeah!

I guess that means I'd better get back to writing!

Cheers!

Available Now!!

2010-02-05T12:59:00.000-08:00

IF BOOKS COULD KILL is available now! You'll find it at any of your favorite bookstores, including independent mystery bookstores, Barnes & Noble, Borders and their online branches, as well as Amazon.com. You'll find links to other online sites on the Books page of my website.

My website Events page has a list of the places I'll be appearing for book signings and discussions. But I’m also thrilled to be doing a blog tour this year, visiting some of my absolute favorite blogs on the internet. Scroll down to see the list.

I hope you’ll stop by and say hello!

Murder She Writes – 2/1/10
Romance Bandits – Book Launch party – 2/2/10
The Little Blog of Murder – 2/3/10
Wicked Authors – 2/3/10
Femmes Fatales – 2/7/10
Cozy Chicks – 2/9/10
The Romance Dish - 2/12/10
Jungle Red Writers – 2/17/10
The Lipstick Chronicles – 2/20/10
Romance Bandits – 2/25/10
Pens Fatales – 2/26/10

Cheers!

Holiday Greetings!

2009-12-07T17:25:00.000-08:00

Hello from deep within the bowels of the Deadline Cave. I'm busy, busy, busy, hard at work on book three of my Bibliophile mysteries, so yes, my blogging time has definitely suffered. :-(

So, what's going on in Kate's world? Well, in October I flew off to Indiana to attend my first Bouchercon convention. Indianapolis was beautiful and I had a great time attending workshops, meeting wonderful new authors and getting to know some fabulous booksellers and librarians.

Just a few weeks ago, I spent the evening with a fabulous group of fiction readers at the Barnes & Noble in Huntington Beach. What a great group!

I gave a workshop on self-promotion at my local RWA chapter. Isn't public speaking supposed to be more scary than dying? I think I might agree with that. But since it was my home chapter and lots of friends were in the audience, I guess you could say it was scary and fun, all at the same time.

I'm thrilled to have recently sold my second romance to Silhouette Desire! Yippee!

And by the way, have you seen my beautiful cover for IF BOOKS COULD KILL? This is book two of the Bibliophile mysteries and it comes out in February 2010!

I'm on Facebook now, so please come by and visit!

And finally, I just found out that HOMICIDE IN HARDCOVER was nominated for an RT award for Best First Mystery! I'm so honored! Woohoo!!

I hope everyone who celebrated Thanksgiving had a wonderful day, and I wish you all a happy and healthy holiday season!

Cheers!

Washington D.C., here I come!

2009-07-11T15:08:00.000-07:00

This week I'm in Washington D.C. to attend the annual Romance Writers of America conference. I'll be going to workshops and parties and seeing old and new friends -- and also taking part in a few book signing events. I hope you'll stop by if you're in the area.

Tuesday, July 14, 7:00 pm - Barnes & Noble in Reston, VA. I'll be signing HOMICIDE IN HARDCOVER and with me will be New York Times bestselling author John Gilstrap who will be signing his latest thriller, NO MERCY.

Wednesday, July 15, 2009, 5:30 - 7:30 pm - I'll be taking part in the RWA "Readers for Life" Literacy Autographing at the Marriott Hotel, Wardman Park, in Washington, D.C. I'll be signing HOMICIDE IN HARDCOVER along with over 500 other authors, and the proceeds all go to literacy.

Cheers!

Library Event This Saturday in Burbank

2009-06-03T17:43:00.000-07:00

I'm excited to be part of the Sassy Sleuths panel, an event sponsored by the Los Angeles Chapter of Sisters in Crime.

It takes place at the Burbank Library (Buena Vista Branch), on June 6, from 2 - 4 p.m. The library is at 300 N. Buena Vista in Burbank, and it promises to be very fun. Sassy, even! :-)

I'll be talking about Homicide in Hardcover and my sassy protagonist, Brooklyn Wainwright. Joining me on the panel will be authors Dorothy Howell and M.M. Gornell, with moderator Jackie Vick. If you're in the area, please come by to say hello!

Cheers!

Crawling from the Cave

2009-04-29T11:00:00.000-07:00

Wow, has it really been almost two months since I last blogged? Hmm. Well, I have lots of good excuses. Really. A deadline. Then another deadline. A proposal due. Revisions to do. And more revisions. Then I traveled to San Francisco for a long weekend to attend several cool book signings and a very fun book launch party.

I even blogged! At Romance Bandits, and Orange County's RWA Chapter blog, and at the new Silhouette Desire authors' blog. But not here at Kate's Chronicles. Ah, well ...

I'm here now! And I want to say THANKS to everyone who stopped by the Sisters in Crime booth at the LA Times UCLA Book Fair on Saturday to say hello!

I’m still working on revisions to Bibliophile book two and feeling frenetic as I prepare to leave for Malice Domestic tomorrow. If you’re attending Malice, please say hello to the wide-eyed newbie who doesn’t seem to know what she’s doing or where she’s going. That’ll be me! I’m really looking forward to attending Malice for the first time and meeting readers and seeing lots of my favorite mystery authors. I’ll be on a panel Sunday called “I Hear Voices.” It promises to be a hoot!

I’ll also be signing Homicide in Hardcover at the Borders Book Store at Reagan Airport in Washington D.C. on Friday at 1:00 p.m. So if you happen to be cruising the airport—because who doesn’t love to do that?—or you’re between flights, come say hello!!

If you can't make it by the airport, you should still be able to find signed copies of Homicide at these absolutely fabulous independent bookstores:

The Mystery Bookstore, Westwood Village, California

Mysterious Galaxy, San Diego, California

"M" is for Mystery, San Mateo, California

Cheers!

Author of the Month!

2009-03-02T20:35:00.000-08:00

I'm thrilled to announce that I am one of the featured authors at the Mystery Club at Barnes&Noble.com this month! The Mystery Club moderator is the fabulous Becke Martin, so please come by and visit, leave a comment, ask questions about Homicide in Hardcover, tell me a joke, anything you want! Let's talk. I'll be there all through March!

I'm doubly excited because also featured this month is the marvelous New York Times bestselling author Karen Rose (fangirl moment--wheeee!!), so please stop by and say hi to Karen, as well!

Cheers!

This Week in My World

2009-02-25T00:30:00.000-08:00

I'm blogging at Romance Bandits today! I hope you'll come by and say hello!

And if you're in the San Diego, California area this week, I'll be signing Homicide in Hardcover at Mysterious Galaxy Books on Friday night at 7:00 p.m., with Rosemary Harris, author of The Big Dirt Nap. Hope you can make it!

Cheers!

It's the New York Times, baby!!!

2009-02-21T09:57:00.000-08:00

I'm absolutely thrilled -- and stunned! -- to announce that HOMICIDE IN HARDCOVER hit the New York Times Bestseller List!!! (#34 on the mass market paperback extended list for March 1st, 2009!)

I received the call from my agent Christina earlier this week while I was at the mall. She asked if I was sitting down and, well, no, I wasn't. But as soon as she told me the news, I immediately found a bench and sat. My knees were weak and in danger of giving out. When I was finished screaming and laughing with her, I hung up the phone, looked up -- and saw a See's Candy shop right in front of me. Talk about good luck!

So, thank you to everybody who went out and bought HIH. Thank you to the booksellers and librarians and friends and family and all my online friends and family for buying the book and talking up HIH. Somehow, all your lovely talk and interest and purchases generated enough sales to land my little debut mystery on the NYT list! How does that happen??? It's like lightning striking! It's crazy. And wonderful.

And check out these photos that PJ took at the Barnes & Noble in Huntersville, North Carolina. There's my book, third row down, next to Rosemary Harris's PUSHING UP DAISIES, which is next up on my TBR pile. I'm thrilled and honored to be appearing with Rosemary Friday night, February 27, at Mysterious Galaxy Books in San Diego, California.

And just above my book is Diane Emley's CUT TO THE QUICK, the third in her Nan Vining series. I'd say I'm in good company, wouldn't you? :-)

And isn't PJ gorgeous? (I'm coveting that cute jacket of hers!) She also wrote a fantastic review of HIH for RNTV.com. You can read it here. Thanks, PJ!

And thank you, all! I'm so grateful. Shocked, stunned, thrilled and grateful!

Cheers!

The Winnah!!

2009-02-10T00:05:00.000-08:00

The random number generator has chosen the winner of the Homicide in Hardcover Book Launch Prize Package! And the winner is ...

Helen!!

Congratulations, Helen!! Write me at katecarlisle99@yahoo.com with your snail mail address and I'll ship your goodies to you right away.

Thanks to everyone who commented last week! I appreciate all your good wishes and I love all the fun photos you took of my book on the shelf. Keep them coming! I feel the need for another contest soon. :-)

Cheers!

More Pics!

2009-02-07T10:05:00.000-08:00

Here are three very fun photos sent by Lezlie in Odessa, Texas. She told me she asked for my book at Hasting's. They didn't have it out yet but they had several copies in the back. She told the clerk that it was my first release so the clerk put my book on the New Arrivals shelf!

So check out my neighbors on that New Arrivals shelf. Can you see?

Let's get closer.

Closer.

Hello! That's right. I'm there, in between Charlaine Harris and Stephen King. Hi, neighbors!

Yo, Stephen, high five, dude!

Thanks, Lezlie! This is very cool! :-)

Reminder: I'll be picking at random the winner of the HOMICIDE IN HARDCOVER Book Launch Prize Package tonight and will announce the winner tomorrow!!

Cheers!

Homicide in Hardcover - First sightings!

2009-02-06T00:05:00.000-08:00

Here are the first sightings of Homicide in Hardcover!! I know I'm a geek for showing all the pics, but hey, it's my first time. :-)

Here's what Homicide in Hardcover looks like on the bookshelf at my local Borders in LA!!

And now I'm holding it in my hot little hands.

And here's my friend Julie, holding her very own copy.

Silver James sent me these pics from Oklahoma City! This one's from the Barnes and Noble on N. May Avenue...

...and this one on the right was taken at the Borders on Northwest Expressway.

You might've noticed that the shelf is empty. I think Silver got the last copy. But the clerk said they'd be re-ordering. Yeah!

More pics tomorrow!

Come to My Launch Party!

2009-02-04T00:10:00.000-08:00

I'm at Romance Bandits today! We're having an elegant party in the country and I'm giving away books! Oh, and there's a murder to be solved.

Dear Uncle Cuthbert is dead.

Who done it?? Join us and help solve the crime!!

And hey, have you seen my cool book trailer? It's on my website Books page. Check it out!

I'll be picking a random winner for my Book Launch Party Package later this week!

Cheers!

Today's the Day!!!

2009-02-03T06:14:00.000-08:00

Not that I'm excited or anything! But today is my official publication day and my books should be on book shelves in bookstores everywhere!

Go forth, my friends, and buy!!!

There was a sighting in Florida yesterday. And I'll be checking out my local Borders to see if it's there. I'll take a picture.

If anyone sees the book and takes a picture, I'll post it here on the blog!

And don't forget to check out my book trailer here!

And YIKES! Pay no attention to my website this morning. It's been taken over by a friendly poltergeist. We've got the Ghostbusters on the case!

Cheers!

A Fabulous Review!

2009-01-31T11:50:00.000-08:00

PJ Ausdenmore wrote an absolutely fabulous review of Homicide in Hardcover at RNTV. Check it out! It's awesome!!!

The countdown continues! Four more days and Homicide in Hardcover will be on the book shelves at a store near you!!

My friend and fellow Bandita Nancy Northcott already got her copy in the mail today! How'd she do dat? :-)

And don't forget, the Book Launch Prize Package contest is still running! Check out the details below.

And click here to see the Homicide in Hardcover book trailer, in case you missed it!

Cheers!

Homicide in Hardcover -- the Book Trailer!

2009-01-29T08:02:00.001-08:00

Join me today at Romance Novel TV as the Banditas invade the premises with wild stories and witty repartee! There will be prizes!

And my contest here at Kate's Chronicles continues. Leave me a comment between now and February 3 and be eligible to win a lovely Book Launch Prize Package of books, gift cards, chocolates and more!

Tick ... tock ... tick ... tock ... just 5 more days and my book will be on the shelves!! To celebrate the launch of Homicide in Hardcover, I've got a book trailer up at YouTube. Check it out! Watch it again! *g* Tell all your friends. It's fun!

Cheers!

Countdowns and Deadlines ... oh my!

2009-01-28T06:13:00.000-08:00

Six days and counting!! Six more days and HOMICIDE IN HARDCOVER will be out in the book stores! If you have a chance to buy it at your local independent mystery book store, that's always good for business. :-) It's also available at all the usual online suspects, too, wherever fabulous books are sold! *g* And I thank you. **End of commercial.**

And don't forget! I'm in the middle of the big countdown to publication and my contest is still going strong! Be sure to leave me a comment and you'll be eligible to win my Launch Party Package of books, gift cards, chocolates and more!

I'm also in the middle of a deadline. My second book in the Bibliophile Mystery series is due any day now. Talk about pressure! But it's a pressure I've wanted for so long, I wouldn't dream of complaining. Well, you might hear a little moan escape now and then, but no whining! When I look at the big picture and think of how many years I worked to get my books published, it's thrilling to have such problems.

One thing that helps is that I have wonderful romance writer friends who post things like ... this! I love my romance writer friends!

So ... are you under pressure? On a deadline? Racing around trying to get things done? Tell me all about it! I can relate.

The Countdown Continues!

2009-01-26T00:15:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder that I've got a contest running all week in anticipation of Homicide in Hardcover arriving on bookshelves February 3. That's barely a week away! Leave me a comment and you'll be eligible to win a Launch Party Package of books, $25 Barnes & Noble gift certificate, chocolates, and more!

Okay, today I'm wondering if anyone remembers those questions James Lipton always asks at the end of The Actors' Studio. I really like those questions and always wanted to answer them for myself. Let's try one here today.

What profession other than your own would you like to attempt?

I'd like to be a spy. I think I'd make a really good spy. And nobody would ever know I was spying on them -- because I'm invisible.

How about you? What would you like to be?

Cheers!

Countdown to Book Launch!

2009-01-25T00:05:00.000-08:00

Welcome to Kate's Chronicles, my beautiful, new, professionally designed blog. Isn't it fabulous? Now that you know the way here, I hope you'll come by often to say hello!

You're also getting a sneak preview of what my newly designed website will look like. The website will be unveiled in the next few weeks but meanwhile, the images you see here are all connected to my new Bibliophile Mystery series which features Brooklyn Wainwright, a bookbinder specializing in rare book restoration. Brooklyn lives and works in San Francisco and that impressive looking tool you see up there belongs to her. No, it's not an instrument of torture, it's a book press, a bookbinders' tool!

Speaking of the Bibiophile Mysteries, the first book in the series, Homicide in Hardcover, is on the book shelves February 3. That's barely a week away! To start the celebration rolling, I'm blogging at Romance Bandits today, all about my book launch party next week. I hope you'll come by and help me plan the party. You could win an Amazon gift certificate!

And if you leave a comment here on Kate's Chronicles anytime this week, you'll be eligible to win a launch party package of books, Barnes & Noble gift certificate, chocolates and lots more fun stuff!

Let the party begin!

Free Books!

2009-01-13T17:04:00.000-08:00

No, not mine! Not yet. Soon. But not yet. :-)

But my buddy Maureen Child is giving away a few copies of her latest fabulous paranormal, BEDEVILED! Stop by her blog sometime this week and leave here a comment, and you might win.

By the way, besides lots of fabulous buzz, BEDEVILED got a **starred review** in BOOKLIST, so you won't want to miss the chance to win it for your very own! The cover alone is worth the price of admission. Yum!

Cheers!

Blogging with Maureen Child

2009-01-06T07:14:00.001-08:00

I'm interviewing the fabulous and prolific Maureen Child on the Romance Bandits blog today. She's talking about her latest book, BEDEVILED, and giving away two copies. Please come by and say hello!

Cheers!

4-1/2 Stars from RT Book Review!!!

2008-12-24T14:07:00.000-08:00

I got my first review from Romantic Times Book Review and it's wonderful!! Four and a half stars, their highest rating. What the reviewer said about Homicide in Hardcover made my week, so I want to share it with you!

This first in a new series is going to launch Carlisle to a bestselling position and have readers looking forward to the next installment of delightfully eccentric characters, droll dialogue and a meticulously planned crime. Bibliophile heroine Brooklyn Wainwright is brilliant, feisty and funny.

Summary: Just when rare book expert Brooklyn has the opportunity for a reunion with her mentor and fellow book restorer, the world goes a little crazy at a party for San Francisco's elite. Stumbling over the dying man lying in a pool of blood, Brooklyn tries to figure out the cryptic message he gives her -- along with the priceless and supposedly cursed copy of Faust. But Brooklyn becomes the target of the murder investigation after a stuffy -- and sexy -- British security guy finds her standing over the body. (OBSIDIAN, Feb., 304 pp., $6.99) Pat Cooper

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays, everyone!!

Cheers!

Website Under Construction

2008-10-31T07:47:00.000-07:00

Homicide in Hardcover will be coming out in just three months, so my website is undergoing some changes! I'll be posting information and news and photos here on the blog, so please stop by for all the latest scoop.

Meanwhile, I'm at work on book two in the Bibliophile Mystery series and preparing for the holidays.

Holidays? Already? Uh, yes. See the date? It's Halloween! And that means it's time to set the clocks back this weekend. Seriously, where does the time go? Ooh, did that question make me sound old? I'm not old! Really! But maybe I need to sit down and rest. Where's my rocking chair?

And speaking of holidays, I'll be spending Thanskgiving with family in Buffalo, New York! Brrrrr!!

How about you? What are you doing for the holidays?

Cheers!

Blogging!

2008-08-18T07:05:00.001-07:00

I'm blogging today at Orange County chapter's blog. It's a short post because I'm back in the cave, writing my second book, but I've posted a few photos from the RWA conference in San Francisco. Sorry I couldn't share them all, but certain friends whose identities cannot be revealed blackmailed me into submission. :-)

Come by, see a few photos, and say hello!

And it's History Monday at Maureen Child's blog!

Scroll down to see my beautiful book cover!

Cheers!

I Have a Cover!

2008-07-01T06:37:00.001-07:00

Isn't it beautiful? I love it!!

I also have an Amazon page here! Who knew? When I stumbled across it, I was blown away--even though there's no cover photo, no description, just my book's name and my name as author. Still, I laughed, I cried, I told everyone in my family who quickly rushed off to pre-order a few copies!

I've been have lots of surreal moments like that, lately. I'll let you know what happens next.

Meanwhile, tell me what you think about my cover. And what about that cat? Suspicious? Innocent? He's staring at the knife ...

Cheers!

Coming Soon!

2008-05-27T08:17:00.001-07:00

A website makeover! And my first book!

Yes, it's been awhile since I've updated things. I had to write a book *g* ... and do a proposal for the next book ... and now I'm in the midst of revisions on the first book. It's all very exciting but just a bit time-consuming, you might say.

My first book, HOMICIDE IN HARDCOVER: A Bibliophile Mystery, will appear on bookshelves near you in February, 2009. There will be parties! Contests! Prizes! Appearances! Blogs! and all sorts of other fun stuff! So stay tuned for all the latest news and updates.

Cheers!

Happy Holidays!

2007-11-20T07:36:00.000-08:00

I have so much to be thankful for this holiday season, including ... deadlines! So if I'm not around here too often, that's one of the reasons why.

But wait! You can always catch up with me at my RWA Orange County chapter's blog, A Slice of Orange, where I blog on the 18th day of every month.

Or stop by Romance Bandits on the 25th day of every month when I'm blogging. In fact, come by anytime. We have some of the most fabulous up-and-coming authors in the biz hanging out there every day, so come on by and check out those wild Banditas and their latest hi-jinks. *g*

Cheers!

More on "The Call" ...

2007-10-25T12:17:00.000-07:00

I'm blogging about "The Call" over at Romance Bandits today. Come by and say hello!

Cheers!

More Goodies!

2007-10-19T07:51:00.001-07:00

I'm still dancing on air over my book sale, but what's really blowing me away is how wonderfully sweet my friends are. Every time I turn around, someone has given me something wonderful and I'm so thankful and touched by their generosity.

Just look ...

Gorgeous flowers from Cherry Adair and Rhonda Pollero. That vase is a stunning dark red! Very dramatic!

And a spa basket from the delightful Amy J. Fetzer. I think I'll be needing that soothing eye mask very soon. Fabulous!

And I don't have pictures, but Jen Apodaca gave me a box of chocolate truffles, yum!

And Michele Cwiertny gave me a beautiful journal to write in. I think that's because whenever she sees me taking notes at our Orange County RWA meetings, I'm usually writing on a napkin!

Some girlfriends took me out for more champagne the other night, and I'm still getting happy screaming phone calls from friends as they hear the news. It gets me excited all over again.

So ... it's been a thrilling few weeks and, um, I need just one more truffle, please. Then ... hmm ... I guess I'd better start writing! :-)

Thanks, everyone!

Cheers!

I SOLD!!!!!!!

2007-10-14T15:36:00.000-07:00

A three-book deal to NAL for my new mystery series!!! I'm over the moon with excitement and joy!! Here's the Publishers Marketplace announcement:

Fiction: Mystery/Crime – Kate Carlisle's HOMICIDE IN HARDCOVER: A Bibliophile Mystery, a cursed copy of Goethe's Faust leads a rare book restorer into a murder investigation that only she can solve -- with the help of clues she uncovers in a valuable first edition, and three other books in the series, to Kristen Weber at NAL, by Kelly Harms and Christina Hogrebe at Jane Rotrosen Agency (world English).

Sounds very exciting, doesn't it? It's going to be so much fun!

And I'm doubly thrilled and honored because my fabulous friends sent me so many wonderful goodies!

Look at this adorable fuzzy bear from Susan Mallery, along with a gorgeous congratulatory cake ...

And beautiful flowers from Maureen Child. And yes, they ARE in an oversized martini glass. I don't know why she thought that would be appropriate for me. *g*

More flowers from my darling husband ...

Champagne, of course, from my brother and sister-in-law, Jim and Jane ...

And so many good wishes and treats from family and friends all over the world, I can't thank everybody enough! I'll be back to share some more details this week.

It's a good week to be Kate!!

Cheers!

Where in the World is Kate Carlisle?

2007-08-31T12:38:00.000-07:00

I'll be around to fill you in on all the latest scoop whenever I've got some...but meanwhile, you can always find me at my group blog, Romance Bandits. We're a fabulous group of writers -- if I do say so myself! We talk about fun stuff and interview bestselling authors and give away goodies like books and gift certificates and Johnny Depp tee shirts and chocolate. Stop by and say hello!

Cheers!

What's Happening Out There?

2007-07-25T08:00:00.001-07:00

Well, for one thing, Golden Heart winner and Romance Bandit buddy Trish Milburn has SOLD!!!!!! A two-book deal!! Check out her story here!

And the very talented and brilliantly funny Susan Mallery is blogging today at Riding With The Top Down! She's talking about her upcoming book, Accidentally Yours, and she's sharing stories about pitching books to agents and editors.

And by the way, don't miss Susan's fabulous conclusion to the Buchanan series, Tempting!

And my group blog, Romance Bandits, has an amazing line-up of special guest bloggers in August. Come on by and win free goodies!

That's it for now!

Cheers!

Romance Bandits

2007-07-19T00:06:00.001-07:00

I'm blogging at Romance Bandits today, all about my Thirteen Tips on how to have a fun-filled RWA conference experience. Stop by and say hello!

Cheers!

A Quick Update

2007-07-16T08:46:00.001-07:00

I know it's been awhile, but life gets crazy sometimes, you know?
I started a new book, did lots of shopping for the conference, traveled to see my family, and let's not forget the lovely day job. Have you noticed there just aren't enough hours in the day to get everything done? But enough about my time management issues! I hope you're all enjoying a fabulous summer!

I'm just back from an amazing week at the RWA conference in Dallas and I'll be giving you the lowdown as soon as I catch my breath. It was a wild time!

Meanwhile, I'll be blogging at Romance Bandits this Thursday so please stop by and say hello.

Cheers!

Buy This Book!!!

2007-06-04T06:11:00.000-07:00

Yes, I know it’s been awhile since I’ve blogged but I couldn’t let one more day go by without telling you all to race out tomorrow and buy Maureen Child's fabulous new paranormal romantic comedy, MORE THAN FIENDS!!

I wouldn’t steer you wrong, right? So believe me when I tell you that MORE THAN FIENDS is absolutely fabulous! Maureen Child has written a warm, sexy and simply hysterical book with the sexiest hero and the funniest heroine you’ll ever meet.

But you don't have to take my word for it. Here's what two best-selling authors have to say about MORE THAN FIENDS ...

Wildly funny and sexy-as-hell ... literally! Maureen Child has a sharp, witty voice that will leave readers begging for more. -- Katie Macalister

Brilliant! ... Fun, sexy, incredibly entertaining, MORE THAN FIENDS is guaranteed to delight ... it's simply exceptional. -- Allie Mackay

And here's a peek at the back cover copy: Cassidy Burke is finding it hard to believe that she's next in a long line of demon dusters--Burke women paired with centuries-old cleaning solution to shine windows and spot demons. Sure, her "Clean Sweep" maid service is taking off, but wiping out supernatural bad guys? Come on.

But Cassie's surprised by her sudden fighting instincts and fierce new strength ... both of which she's going to need. For one thing, her teenage daughter thinks her dad is dead, but in truth he just never knew about her ... and now he's moved back to town. And after many dateless years, men are finally lining up on Cassie's doorstep.

Sadly, most of them aren't human.

This book is laugh-out-loud funny and sexy as all get-out!! So get out and buy it!!And don’t forget to stop by Maureen's blog for your chance to win an autographed copy of MORE THAN FIENDS along with gorgeous jewelry designed by talented author Amy J. Fetzer.

But more importantly, don’t let a day go by without picking up your very own copy of MORE THAN FIENDS! You’ll gonna love it!

Cheers!

Just Stopping By...

2007-05-11T09:47:00.000-07:00

... to let you know I'm blogging at A Slice of Orange today. Come on over and say hello! And have a fabulous weekend!

Cheers!

American Title Winner!!

2007-05-09T14:36:00.000-07:00

But first...hmm, I've been tagged by the diabolical Michele Cwiertny! So okay, I'm working on my list but since I'm still a little under the weather, it may be a day or so before I post everything. Stay tuned!

Meanwhile, I'm thrilled to announce who won the American Title III contest! It's the brilliant Jenny Gardiner and her chick lit novel, Sleeping With Ward Cleaver!

Woohoo, Jenny!!

Check out the adorable cover Dorchester designed for Jenny's book. Don't you love it??

Rumor has it that Sleeping With Ward Cleaver will be on bookshelves sometime in winter, 2008. I can't wait to read it!

Congratulations, Jenny!!!

And P.S., we're having a contest at Romance Bandits! Come by for your chance to win chocolate and books!!

Cheers!

Blogging at Romance Bandits

2007-05-07T12:18:00.000-07:00

I'm back from Buffalo with a bad cold -- but I'm still blogging!

Come check out my post over at Romance Bandits today. It's a short one, thanks to the aforementioned bad cold that prevents me from being my usual brilliant self. *g* But do come by to say hello and see the new blog created by a fabulous group of 2006 Golden Heart finalists. We write in every genre and we are made up of both published and unpublished writers, so there's something for everyone!

See you there!

Cheers!

Happy Friday!

2007-04-13T06:49:00.000-07:00

I'm blogging at A Slice of Orange, my Orange County RWA chapter's blog today. Stop by and say hello!

On Saturday, I'll be attending the OCC meeting, featuring speakers Taylor Wilshire and Barbara Samuel. I'm looking forward to hearing both women speak. And I can't wait to see my friends and catch up on all the latest gossip--er, industry news. Yeah, that's it. ;-)

Have a wonderful weekend!

Cheers!

TV Talk

2007-04-11T06:30:00.000-07:00

I realized last night that I’ve never blogged about my favorite television shows. Isn’t that weird? I’m such a TV fanatic. I especially love reality shows, the cheesier the better. There's American Idol, of course. I can't miss it. This season isn’t the greatest but how can you not watch? With the horror of Sanjaya singing each week, it’s like smashed cars and bodies strewn across the freeway. You can't dare look away!

And here's a dirty little secret. I watch the Pussycat Dolls auditions. Yes, I do. And I love America’s Next Top Model. And I can’t wait for the next season of Project Runway and So You Think You Can Dance. It’s a sickness, but I love them all.

So why haven't I blogged about TV?

I think it's because my favorite shows don't really match up with most of my friends’ favorites. I love my friends and want to keep them, so I usually shut up, keep a low profile and rarely mention that I think Grey’s Anatomy is boringly angsty and full of blah blah blah. And Lost? It lost me somewhere during the second show.

And I swear, I’ve tried and tried to watch Gilmore Girls but it leaves me shaking my head. Everyone says their dialogue is the best on television but all I can think is, nobody talks like that in real life. It's all too cute—not in a good way—and they talk so fast, it’s annoying. Oh, it's probably not their fault. It's me. There's something wrong with me.

But anyway, now that I’ve dumped on everyone’s favorite shows, I won’t blame you if you snort in contempt when I reveal the name of one of my very favorite shows on network television.

Boston Legal.

Is it just me, or is James Spader not the sexiest guy on TV? He is!

And William Shatner is so funny, utterly inappropriate and completely loveable.

And hello, Mark Valley! Keen Eddie, anyone? Yum! And that absolute cutie, Gary Anthony Williams. I loved him as Smart Brother in Undercover Brother. On Boston Legal, Gary plays a lawyer with multiple personalities. There's Clarence, Clarice, Clevant, and occasionally, he's Oprah. He’s hilarious and heart-breaking. And last night, Shelley Berman was back as the senile judge in the episode’s main trial scene. I love Shelley Berman! What great casting!

But the best part of Boston Legal is the last scene of the show. Every week, James Spader and William Shatner sit out on the balcony and commiserate about their day. They smoke cigars and drink scotch. The dialogue is often profound. The acting is brilliant. You know they love each other, no matter what happened earlier in the show. It is simply the best moment of the TV week and I'm pretty sure it's the reason God created Tivo.

Cheers!

Hellooo!

2007-04-05T06:49:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's me! Sorry I've been a blog slacker lately. I've got so many excuses! Deadlines, re-writes, traveling, a head cold. Okay, let's face it, I've been slacking off. But I'll be better, I promise!

For today, though, I'm blogging somewhere else! My 2006 Golden Heart buddies--a fabulously talented and fun group! More about them later!--have gotten together to start a new blog. We're not "officially" up and running with a format and logos and all, but we're posting every day, and today's my day! Come and see me here and read about how I find inspiration for my heroes.

Oh, and I should probably explain about our blog name. See, we were calling ourselves the Six-Packers because it was 2006. As in "2006-packers." And this is our interim work-in-progress blog. So that's the name of the blog. Packers Work in Progress. Get it? Yeah, whatever! Anyway, the name stuck. For now, that is. Our official blog will have a different name. Okay, it's not as complicated as I'm making it sound! *g* Just come by for a visit, will ya?

And I'll be back to blog here again this week. So check back here, will ya? All right!

Cheers!

What I'm Reading

2007-03-20T06:25:00.000-07:00

I just met a deadline, so now I get a reward, right? Okay, the fact that my deadlines are self-imposed is no reason not to reward myself, don't you think? Yeah, that's what I thought, too!

So my reward is...books! And time to read them. (What, you thought I'd go buy a car or something? Did you get the "self-imposed" part of that deadline?) Maybe on my next deadline I'll get some botox or something, but right now, I'll stick to reading! ;-)

Here's what's on my list...

Just finished The Steps by Rachel Cohn. This is a YA (middle-grade) novel about Annabel, a worldly NYC 12-year-old who goes to Australia to visit her dad and her new step-siblings. It's short (135 pages) but every page is filled with funny and sweet moments. I fell for Annabel's entire extended family and I'm looking forward to visiting them again in the sequel, Two Steps Forward.

Now I'm reading A Crazy Little Thing Called Death, by Nancy Martin. I simply adore the Blackbird Sisters! And Michael is awesome. I'm seriously hooked on him, I don't care what his family does! I confess I'm very sad to have finally read them all because now I'll have to wait months for the next book to come out! No pressure, Nancy! *g*

Next up for me is JR Ward's fourth book in the Black Dagger series, Lover Revealed. This is Butch's story and I never thought I'd say it but yes, I've become a huge fan of the Brotherhood!!

So...what have you been reading lately? And what's waiting in the wings on your TBR pile?

The Adventures of Suzette

2007-03-15T06:30:00.000-07:00

It's Thursday, which means my girlfriend Suzette is lining up her adventures for the weekend. Her boyfriend works long hours so she's always looking for something new and fun to do.

An "adventure" for Suzette can be almost anything, from a La Perla underwear party (with swag), to a mani-pedi (with cocktails), to a jog in Palisades Park (where she once bumped into Kyra and Kevin), to attending the latest Donald Trump wealth seminar for the free box lunch.

By the way, that seminar was informative and the box lunch was a real deal.

Don't get me wrong, Suzette doesn't mind paying an entrance fee, but there should be some fun swag or a cocktail or two--or a box lunch--as a reward. My girl has standards, after all!

Here's what's on her list for this weekend ... so far ...

The Sassy Spring Sale at the Fairmont Miramar in Santa Monica. Here's the deal: you pay a few bucks and you get in earlier than the crowds, plus you get free makeup and goodies from Frederick's of Hollywood. Suzette loves Frederick's of Hollywood! Plus there are all sorts of deep discounts on jeans, jewelry, clothing, makeup, plus - hello, it's the Fairmont Miramar, which is a fabulous hotel for sipping cocktails by the Koi Pond!

If the discounts aren't deep enough or the Koi Pond has been drained and Suzette feels stressed or depressed, she's thinking she might pop down the street for a little Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy. It's supposed to be better than Ambien for a good night's sleep. Check it out! And have a good weekend!

Cheers!

Come Visit Orange County!

2007-03-14T13:40:00.000-07:00

Hi, gang! I've got a short blog entry up on my Orange County RWA chapter's blog today. Come visit me!

Cheers!

Finally Friday

2007-03-09T07:08:00.000-08:00

Happy happy! The weekend's finally here! Well, almost. Just need to get through today ...

Tonight we'll have a little wine, maybe get some take-out, relax ...
Saturday I'll be at my local RWA meeting, and check this out -- Allison Brennan and Stephanie Laurens are the speakers this month. Pretty awesome lineup, right? I love my RWA chapter.

Before the meeting, I'll meet my buddy Maureen Child at Starbucks and we'll dish--er, no, we'll, uh, plot my next book. Yeah, we'll plot books and, uh, discuss publishing industry trends. Yeah, that's it. Snort.

When I get home, I'll try to get in a little house cleaning ("little" being the key word), then get ready for dinner at my brother and SIL's place. Can't wait to see them! (Hi Pammy!)

Then Sunday ... I wish I could say I'd be sitting on the deck, sleeping and reading, but that won't happen. The DH is painting the bedroom and I'll probably be cleaning out some closet somewhere. We're doing the home improvement thing and I know it'll be great once we're done, but until then, we're in heavy work mode.

But we'd much rather be sitting on the deck, sleeping and reading ... the DH smoking a cigar ... maybe sipping on an afternoon cocktail ...

Soon. Very soon.

So what's up for your weekend?

Cheers!

American Title III - The End...Almost!

2007-03-05T07:17:00.000-08:00

Hello again! Yes, I've been a bad blogger but I'm back with some news ...

Voting for the American Title Contest is officially over this week -- and we have a winner!

Congratulations!!!

Way to go!! Woo hoo!!

Oh, were you expecting me to tell you who it is? Sorry, but the winner won't be revealed until late April at the Romantic Times Convention in Houston.

Hey, it's not my rule. They won't let us tell anyone!!

Anyway, it's been a wild and crazy roller coaster ride for me and my friends and family. I've said it before but I really appreciate all the support I've received from all of you.

I've also been lucky to meet and become friends with my fellow ATIII finalists, nine talented writers whose names are all listed on my side bar. Do check out their websites and blogs and get to know their names. I've got all my fingers crossed that we will all go forth and publish and prosper in this business. Yeah!

Cheers!

American Title - The Final Round Entries!

2007-02-21T06:51:00.000-08:00

By popular demand (Ha! Can you believe it??) here is the Romantic Scene I submitted to the American Title contest from my book, The Kama Sutra Chronicles.

First, a little background ... Cane Winslow has emerged from deep cover to salvage a critical overseas mission after a photograph of their most secret operative’s twin sister turns up on a monitored internet site. If the enemy finds sexy librarian Gracie Sinclair before Cane does, Gracie could be killed in retaliation, Cane’s operative assassinated, and years of intelligence destroyed. Naturally, Cane finds her first and spirits her away to an isolated beach house ...

Gracie brings her work with her, a French, antiquarian edition of the Kama Sutra that she must translate and examine in order to authenticate its age and history ...

In close quarters, with danger threatening, the tension builds ...

“So you speak French,” Gracie said. “What else do you do?”

“If I told you, I’d have to--”

“Kill me, I know. You’re funny and violent.”

“It’s a gift.”

“Maybe you can help me translate this.”

Cane shrugged and sat at the table across from her. Gracie turned the fragile old book around and pointed to the sentence under a drawing of a man and woman wrapped up in each other.

“It’s this word. Arracher.”

Cane stared hard at the page. “Arracher. To extract. Pull out.”

“Yes, but in this context...”

“La mangue mûre,” he said, finishing the phrase. “The ripe mango? Pull the ripe mango? Weird.”

“Maybe...pluck,” she whispered. Her vision was starting to fog up, making it difficult to write.

“Yeah, pluck the ripe mango,” he said, and took a long sip of beer. “What else?”

“Um...” She met his gaze. Was it getting hot in here? “I’ve got this one worked out. It’s, uh, ride the wild stallion.”

“Stallion.” He nodded. “Figures. Go on.”

She pointed to another illustration. “Driving the nail home.”

He shot her a lopsided grin. “An old favorite of mine.”

Gracie’s breath whooshed out. The man was sexy enough when he was scowling and rude, but when he smiled, she could feel her insides melting into a puddle of sexual need. She carefully flipped the page.

“Nice book,” he said, tapping the page. “And how about this?”

He was taunting her, right? How could he be carrying on a conversation? Why wasn’t he ripping her clothes off and driving the damn nail home?

She stared at her notes, trying to make sense of them through the haze of lust, then glanced back at the book. “The description’s sort of technical. The man’s got to be strong enough to bear the weight of the woman while thrusting at the same time. They recommend standing against a wall or maybe--”

“I get the drift.” He jerked his chin toward the next drawing. “And that?”

Grace turned to read the French words under a particularly obvious illustration. “Trapping the Snake.”

He pushed away from the table and paced the length of the room. “What’s going on here?”

She stared at him, confused by the anger in his voice. “I told you, I’m translating the text in order to authenticate the age of the book. After that, I’ll test the binding to determine--”

“I know, I know.” He shoved his hand through his hair and came to a halt directly behind her chair. “Aw jeez, how in hell do you translate that?”

Gracie didn’t have to look too closely at the drawing he referred to. A couple pressed together, facing opposite directions, holding each other’s ankles. She’d already spent way too much time studying it. “It’s supposed to be...more pleasurable for the woman.”

“Holy crap,” he muttered.

He was standing so close, she could feel the taut energy vibrating off him. Her nerves hummed with anticipation, anxious to be plucked.

Like a ripe mango.

“Why do you smell so damn good?” He brushed her hair aside and stroked her neck. “You’re killing me, you know that?”

“Am I?”

She gasped as Cane pulled her up from the chair and turned her to face him.

“This can’t happen,” he said, his mouth inches from hers.

She shook her head. “Absolutely not.”

He swung his arms around and grabbed her bottom with both hands and hoisted her up, then took two steps and planted her butt on the kitchen counter. Their eyes were level and she watched him frown as he studied her.

“You’re bad news, you know.”

Gracie wrapped her legs around him, forcing him closer. “I’m bad news? You practically kidnapped me and you’re rude and you changed my dog’s name and--”

“You talk too much,” he muttered, kissing her jaw line and taking little bites along the way to her earlobe.

Gracie groaned. “Yeah, well, you’re not all that--”

He pulled back and grinned. “Bull.”

She shrugged. “Not my type at all.”

He kissed her full on the mouth, consuming her instantly. He was all heat, all hardness. His tongue urged her mouth open and she tasted beer and salt and chocolate and him as she tightened her hold. The world dissolved and all that mattered was his mouth on hers, his hands gripping her bottom as he aroused and devoured her.

Her heart pounded in her ribcage as their bodies strained to get closer. Abruptly, Cane pulled back and for the briefest moment, Gracie thought he might change his mind and stop. But he gave her a look of complete focus and urgency and she could see in his eyes he had no intention of leaving her unsatisfied. You had to love that in a man.

That's it for me! Read Jenny and Kim's Final Round entries and vote at RomanticTimes.com.

Cheers!

American Title News -- Finally!!!

2007-02-19T13:55:00.000-08:00

I can finally reveal the TOP TWO finalists in the last round of the American Title Contest! They are Jenny Gardiner and Kim Howe!! Woo hoo!!! Way to go, Jenny and Kim!!

Believe it or not, I think those snarky judges liked them both, too -- for completely different reasons, as you'll see when you check their romantic scenes out at RomanticTimes.com. One scene is hot, one scene is funny! Don't forget to vote for your favorite. The winner will be revealed at the Romantic Times convention in April.

And because you all care so much, tomorrow I'll post my entry for best romantic scene -- the one that will never make it to Romantic Times! *g*

Cheers!

Face Time

2007-02-13T07:39:00.000-08:00

Have I mentioned how much I love my new agent? It’s true! So when she mentioned she’d be in San Diego and asked if I’d like to meet her there, I jumped at the chance (after a few quick calls to rearrange my schedule, LOL). We’d met before, twice, very briefly, in Atlanta, so this would be the first real “face time” we’d have together.

She was in San Diego for the San Diego Writers Conference so I drove down Sunday. We decided to get out of the hotel and drive over to the Hotel Del Coronado for lunch. At this point, she casually mentioned this was her first visit to the West Coast.

Which meant she’d never seen the Pacific Ocean.

Are you with me here, my California friends? Are you feeling my fear? The sudden responsibility falling onto my shaky shoulders? Could I handle it? What if she hated the Hotel Del? I mean, it’s really old and sort of…pompous, just sitting there on the beach. Seriously, it’s just some rambling Victorian monstrosity by the sea. They have those sorts of places all over the East Coast, don’t they?

And while I’m on the subject of fear and responsibility, I might as well admit how nerve-wracking it is, trying to look cool and intelligent while driving your new agent around a town you haven’t lived in for more than 20 years. There are brand new freeways and weird turnoffs and, hello? Where did that bridge come from? I did a MapQuest, but still…it was tricky. At least my car was clean.

And what if the hotel restaurant was closed? Or worse, what if it was open and we had lousy service? OMG, what if she got food poisoning?? It would be MY fault!! For the rest of her life, my poor agent would do all she could to avoid the West Coast. And if she were forced to attend a conference in, say, San Francisco, or maybe Seattle, she might gaze reluctantly at the glorious bay and the Pacific Ocean beyond, feeling her stomach roil as she raised her fisted hand and shouted, “Damn you, Kate Carlisle!”

Yes, I do have an active imagination. And I guess I'm more neurotic than I thought. But that makes me a good writer, right? Hmm.

So I’ll cut to the chase here. The Hotel Del was fabulous. How could it be anything but? My agent brought her camera and we took a picture by the main entrance and I took a picture of her with the ocean and the cliffs in the background. It was very cute!

As we watched the waves, a guy ran past us, then stopped a few feet away to stretch his muscles. He looked like Keen Eddie. Very nice.

Did you know the Hotel's haunted? We tried to figure out which room had the ghost. I found out later it’s room 3312. When I got home, I looked up the story of Kate Morgan’s ghost. You can read about her here. I thought it was interesting that Kate checked into the hotel using a fake name, Lottie Anderson Bernard. Everyone’s got a pseudonym, I guess.

It was fun! We talked and laughed and ate and walked along the boardwalk and talked some more, and you know what? I'm thinking she enjoyed her first visit to California. Whew!

Gas for the drive to San Diego: $23.78
New jacket for the meeting (Chico’s, on sale!): $68.00
Face time with my favorite agent: Priceless!

Hey, There's A Dead Guy in the Living Room

2007-02-12T11:00:00.000-08:00

Now that I've got your attention, there's a new group blog in town.

If you're a writer, you must rush right over to Hey, There's A Dead Guy in the Living Room - Mystery publishing, from idea to bookshelf.

The blog is geared toward mystery writing and publishing (if that wasn't clear from the subtitle, duh!) and it's got a lovely line-up of contributors:

Abby Zidle - Executive Editor Extraordinaire - Pocket Books
Bruce Bortz - Publisher of Bancroft Press
Denise Dietz - Author (Diet Club mystery series)
Gordon Aalborg - Author
Jeffrey Cohen - Author of the Aaron Tucker mysteries (he also happens to have the world's greatest agent)
PJ Nunn - Promotion (BreakThrough Promotions)
Robin Agnew - Bookseller (Aunt Agatha's Mystery Bookstore in Ann Arbor, MI)
Sharon Wheeler - Reviewer (and editor for Reviewing the Evidence online reviews)

You don't have to be a mystery writer to appreciate the great information these folks are willing to share. So check it out--and spread the word.

Cheers!

Hibernation: It's Not Just for Bears Anymore

2007-02-01T11:23:00.000-08:00

I've been hiding in my cave and hoping no one would notice.
But certain people keep nudging me to come back and blog!!! (You know who you are!)

So I've had my two weeks of rest and now I'm all fluffed and fresh and ready to get blogging. I'll be back tomorrow with a fun story--it was fun for me, anyway! I hope you'll enjoy it, too!

Meanwhile, my friend Maureen Child has a new book out and it's fantastic!!!

It's NEVERMORE, book two in her Guardian series for Nocturne, and it's dark and sexy...even though she thinks the cover looks like the audition line for West Side Story...not true! Anyway, it's what's inside that counts, and inside is an absolutely wonderful story!! Check it out today!!

Cheers!

Alpha Males, anyone?

2007-01-25T07:16:00.000-08:00

There's a funny e-mail that makes the rounds every few years or so that was supposedly written by some fed-up guys who wanted women to know "the rules" from a man's point of view. You know, so we'd know how men really think. The last time I read it, I realized that it's not so much funny as it is ... true.
I grew up with four brothers and it's pretty clear to me that guys just don't care about the same things women do.

When I'm reading a romance, I can usually tell when the author hasn't spent a lot of time around men. If the male character is too nice, too flowery, too thoughtful. You know what I'm talking about, right? it doesn't ring true. I'll usually put the book down and go find something with a little more meat to it.

That's why I like this list. I'm convinced it's how they think. I like to read it over whenever I'm trying to get into the mindset and attitude of my latest cranky alpha male.

So here they are.

The Rules

1. Men are NOT mind readers.

2. Learn to work the toilet seat. You're a big girl. If it's up, put it down. We need it up, you need it down. You don't hear us complaining about you leaving it down.

3. Sunday sports. It's like the full moon or the changing of the tides. Let it be.
4. Shopping is NOT a sport. And no, we are never going to think of it that way.

5. Crying is blackmail.

6. Ask for what you want. Let us be clear on this one: Subtle hints do not work! Strong hints do not work! Obvious hints do not work! Just say it!

7. Yes and No are perfectly acceptable answers to almost every question.

8. Come to us with a problem only if you want help solving it. That's what we do. Sympathy is what your girlfriends are for.

9. A headache that lasts for 17 months is a problem. See a doctor.

10. Anything we said 6 months ago is inadmissible in an argument. In fact, all comments become null and void after 7 days.

11. If you won't dress like the Victoria's Secret girls, don't expect us to act like soap opera guys.

12. If you think you are fat, you probably are. Don't ask us.

13. If something we said can be interpreted two ways and one of the ways makes you sad or angry, we meant the other one.

14. You can either ask us to do something or tell us how you want it done. Not both. If you already know best how to do it, just do it yourself.

15. Whenever possible, please say whatever you have to say during commercials.

16. Christopher Columbus did NOT need directions and neither do we.

17. All men see only in 16 colors, like Windows default settings. Peach, for example, is a fruit, not A COLOR! Pumpkin is also a fruit.We have no idea what mauve is.

18. If it itches, it will BE scratched. We do that.

19. If we ask what is wrong and you say "nothing," we will act like nothing is wrong. We know that you are lying, but it is just not worth the hassle.

20. If you ask a question you don't want an answer to, expect an answer you don't want to hear.

21. When we have to go somewhere, absolutely anything you wear is fine... really.

22. Don't ask us what we're thinking about unless you are prepared to discuss such topics as baseball, the shotgun formation, or golf.

23. You have ENOUGH clothes.

24. You have TOO MANY shoes.

25. Thank you for reading this. Yes, I know I have to sleep on the couch tonight, but did you know men really don't mind that? It's like camping.

Cheers!

American Title III – Drum Roll, Please…

2007-01-22T06:45:00.000-08:00

I didn’t make it to Round Four, my friends.

(A moment of silence…sniffle…I’ll be fine…)

Okay, seriously! I’m really good with this because look how far I got!! And it’s all because of my friends and family and the readers who clicked with my story, The Kama Sutra Chronicles, so thank you for your good thoughts and incredible support!! I’ve received priceless publicity and I’ve had great fun and met some wonderful new writer friends through this contest, so it’s truly a win-win for me.

The contest is still going on, so if you’d like to read the Dialogue Scenes from the Final Four contestants—and see the latest comments from our beloved snarky judges—please visit RomanticTimes.com

In the meantime, I’m posting my Dialogue Scene here since it will never make it to the magazine. Hope you enjoy it. And thanks again for your great support!! I love you guys!!!

Dialogue Scene - The Kama Sutra Chronicles

“So why the hell did you join a dating service?” Cane asked, then grimaced. He sounded like a jealous lover.

Gracie frowned. “Not that it’s any of your business, but after I broke up with Hubert, I wanted to find someone who was more willing to--” Her eyes widened and her cheeks turned rosy. "Never mind.”

He raised an eyebrow. “More willing to what?”

She blew out a breath. “Look, let’s get back to the point. I don’t have a twin sister. I’m an only child. I’m sorry this woman’s in trouble, but I can’t help you.”

“Yeah, yeah, I believe you.” He accelerated through an intersection.

“What?”

“I believe you.”

She sank back in the seat. “Thank you.”

“Doesn’t change anything.”

“Of course it does.”

“Nope. You could still pass for my agent’s twin. The mission’s still in jeopardy and so are you.”

“I don’t believe this,” Gracie whispered.

“So who’s Hubert?” he asked.

She whipped around. “What?”

Cane shrugged. “Just asking.”

She tightened her arms beneath her truly spectacular breasts. “Don’t take this the wrong way, but you’re crazy.”

“Look, Graciella, it’s--”

“I told you not to call me that.”

He heard the snap in her voice and had to admire her spunk.

“Okay, look,” she said. “Maybe I am in mortal danger, but I’ll take my chances.”

“What’s that supposed to mean?”

She straightened. “I want you to take me back to the Library.”

He checked the rear view mirror. “Sorry, babe. My mission takes priority over your wants and needs.”

“Your mission?” she said, her voice a mix of frustration and perplexity. “Just what is your mission?”

He stopped at a light and faced her. Damn, those warm whiskey eyes were going to drive him nuts. “You, Gracie. You’re my mission. God help me.”

I Told You It Was Cold!!

2007-01-18T07:07:00.000-08:00

That's right, it SNOWED in MALIBU yesterday!!!!

Everyone mocks me when I tell them I'm shivering at my desk, wrapped in blankets with my space heater blasting. All right, yes, I live in Southern California, but we get cold here, people!!!

Okay, maybe it's not a bone-rattling freezing ice storm like my friend Christine Rimmer is experiencing in Oklahoma (stay warm, Chris!!) but it's pretty darn cold for us fragile California wimps. *g*

As long as it's so chilly, I hope everyone's staying warm inside, comfy and cozy on the couch, reading some good books. Maureen Child mentioned some of the books she's been reading, so I thought I'd mention a few of my latest choices.

I'm currently reading JD Robb's latest, "Born in Death" and can't wait for the new one next month. And I just finished Nancy Martin's first book in her Blackbird Sisters series, "How To Murder A Millionaire." Loved it! I stopped by the bookstore last night to buy the rest of the series. What's up next? Jennifer Apodaca's Sex on The Beach Book Club. Can't wait to read that one!

And just in case you didn't hear me the first time, it SNOWED in MALIBU yesterday!! Here's video proof!

Cheers!!

Susan Mallery is Squawking!!

2007-01-16T07:40:00.000-08:00

Today and tomorrow, do not miss Susan Mallery guest blogging at Squawk Radio!!

Today she's talking about her pets. Okay, she's actually talking about pet poop! But she does it with such flair!

Tomorrow she's scheduled to talk about writing more while writing better. This is from her absolutely brilliant workshop on managing and scheduling your writing time. It's one of the best workshops I've ever attended. Don't miss it!

Cheers!!

2007-01-14T14:21:00.000-08:00

I've been fighting off a cold all week, plus dealing with my office fire (see previous entry) and doing re-writes and preparing for my husband to leave town for a week (boo hoo, who will make my cocktails??). But I'm finally back and I've got a few little updates and news items.

First, an update on the fire in my office building. It was quickly contained but the chemicals used to clean up the mess and the huge fans necessary to blow the particles out of the air have been messing with my sinuses and throat and lungs (mine and everyone else's in the firm). We office workers (aka the little people) all agree that the Powers That Be should've closed the office for a week. Of course, the PTB never listen to the little people. *g* I'm hoping the three-day weekend will help get me back in fighting form!

Next, American Title voting will open up again next Monday, January 22. Come on back to see who made it into the final four!

Also, as you may have already noticed Deadline Diaries is closing down the blog due to more pressing commitments such as, well, deadlines! The good news is, you can still visit some of us regularly and get caught up on all the latest scoop. Christie Ridgway has started her own blog at Christie's Cabana, and of course, Maureen Child continues to blog here, and I'm still here and ready to kick it back into high gear.

Finally, be sure to stop by Squawk Radio this week to visit with guest blogger Susan Mallery. Maybe I'll see you there!

Cheers!

Fire!

2007-01-09T07:14:00.000-08:00

I woke up Sunday morning to the news that a fire had broken out in an office of one of the twin towers in Century City. It took another few hours to find out that not only did the fire break out in my office building, it was in my office!

Thanks to the fast thinking of Abby Feinman (one of my law firm's partners) and the firefighters who responded so quickly to her 911 call, the fire was fairly well contained -- but the water damage from the automatic sprinkler system was extensive.

I had nightmares thinking about all my drenched files, but when I got to work Monday morning, I found out that the sprinklers didn't go off in my area. Whew. Unfortunately, the particles of soot and the chemicals used to clean up the mess forced our office to close at noon, so I got the afternoon off. Did I say unfortunately? *grin*

In googling for more information, I found out the LA Fire Department has a blog! You can read all about the fire here. I find it totally amazing that it took the combined efforts of 95 LAFD personnel to get everything under control. And within two hours, a clean-up crew was on the scene, taking care of the aftermath. It was very impressive.

A little too impressive, really, because I'm expected back at work today.

Sigh.

American Title Update ... and Books!

2007-01-03T07:52:00.000-08:00

Voting for Round Three of the American Title contest has closed. The results are in. And I can't tell you anything!

Sorry to be such a tease. I can't say anything for three whole weeks. It's torture!!

So in the meantime, I've got a quickie review of a fabulous book I just finished.

Okay, RUN to your bookstore and buy this book!! Better yet, take the car! Go now. I mean it. Susan Mallery's Sizzling is wonderful!! I couldn't put it down, and that's no line. I laughed and I cried. That's no line, either. Reid Buchanan is simply the most wonderful hero, an ex-baseball star who finds himself the target of a disgruntled reporter who's written an article about him entitled "Good in Bed? Not so Much."

Lori Johnson is a heroine I can totally relate to. She's a nurse who's been hired to care for Reid's grumpy grandmother and ends up charming the entire household with her humor and down-to-earth charm.

You will love this book!! It's the third in Susan's Buchanan family saga and I'm waiting impatiently for book four! Don't miss the whole series!

Cheers!!

Counting Down to New Year's Day

2006-12-28T15:07:00.000-08:00

Have you voted for your favorite American Title finalist yet? **cough**me**cough**

There's still time! Voting ends December 31st. You can use that handy "Vote for Kate!!!" button over on the sidebar, or go to Romantic Times to read all the entries and the judges' comments and then vote for your favorite.

So right now, I'm busy making my list of New Year's resolutions. I'm a firm believer in New Year's Resolutions. I don't know why, because I rarely keep them. Like, never. Doesn't seem to matter. I still go ahead and write up my list and I always feel good about it because I know this year will be different. This year I'll stick to all my resolutions and life will be fabulous! Right? Damn straight!

But really, honestly, this year will be different. I'll start going to the gym five days a week to build up muscle and lose some extra weight. I'll stick to that new diet I read about in Oprah's magazine. Hey, it worked for her. I'll read more and write more and blog more and clean the house more and oh, what the hell, I'll play the lottery more. And life will be grand!

Meanwhile, back on planet earth, I have another New Year's tradition. Every New Year's Day, the DH and I take a long walk along the beach. This year I expect it to be sunny, cold and windy. And when I say cold, I'm thinking...58 degrees, maybe? Yeah, that's brutal, but we bundle up and manage to enjoy ourselves.

There's something magical about the beach in winter, and it's not just because there are less people around. The light is different, the air itself is different, the ocean is choppy and cold and the sky is so clear and blue it sparkles, and those wonderful, skinny palm trees are almost horizontal from the wind. There's simply nowhere else I'd rather be.

Do you have any New Year's traditions you'd like to share? How about resolutions? Do you make them? Do you actually keep them??

Cheers!!

Happy Holidays!

2006-12-26T08:26:00.000-08:00

I'm indulging myself, showing pics of my adorable niece and nephew for the last few days on both blogs.

We spent Christmas Eve with them and their mom and dad and a few more brothers and spouses and kids and mom and we all had a great time. The kids also performed in a Christmas play on Christmas Eve and they were brilliant, naturally!

I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas as well as a Happy Hanukah and a delightful winter solstice!!

Cheers!!

American Title II Winner's Book Coming Soon!!

2006-12-22T07:05:00.000-08:00

Gerri Russell's dream came true when her book, The Warrior Trainer, went all the way to win the American Title contest last year! Now it's coming out in less than two weeks!! You can buy your very own copy on January 2, 2007.

Meanwhile, The Warrior Trainer is getting great reviews! Here are just a few ...

Russell, the winner of RT's American Title II contest last year, debuts with an action-packed, emotion-driven story that immediately captures your attention. Readers yearning for strong heroines and masterful men will find them here, along with a carefully plotted story. Russell's fresh voice secures her a place on the to-buy list. 4 stars. --Romantic Times BOOKreviews Magazine

The Warrior Trainer is a romantic, action-packed story. Scotia is as hard as stone, except when it comes to those she loves. The characters are lovely and the storyline will keep you coming back for more. I highly recommend this debut novel from talented new author Gerri Russell. --Fresh Fiction

Using the real Scottish Stone of Destiny as the underlying base to the fine story line, Gerri Russell provides a strong fictional twist to the authentic history in which instead of English knights taking this royal regal item to Westminster, they carted off a fake. The story line is action-packed from the start when the Four Horsemen like those of the Apocalypse destroy anyone misfortunate enough to be in their path and never slows down until the final battlefield confrontation between them and the lead couple. Fans of medieval romance with a wee bit of a whimsical legend (anchored in history) will enjoy this fine tale of a daring skillful heroine and the laird who loves her. --Harriet Klausner

Don't miss this fabulous book by a wonderful new author!

And P.S., Gerri's giving away a copy of her book on the American Title II's Title Wave! Stop by, leave a comment, and maybe you'll get your very own copy free!!

Cheers!!

American Title III - What the Judges Said

2006-12-20T06:00:00.000-08:00

And once again, for everyone's enjoyment--well, except mine--here are the scary comments the judges had for me and The Kama Sutra Chronicles this month. This time around it's my Story Summary under scrutiny (you can read the summary in my last post -- just scroll down).

Flavia Knightsbridge -- Please don't tell me Gracie is going to be one of those too-naïve-to-be-believed 35-year-old virgin heroines. The prim librarian stereotype is so tired.

Hilary Ross -- The twin sister angle is unusual and if tension builds well it could be a good story.

Leslie Kazanjian -- Mysterious "twins" ... mistaken identities ... international intrigue ... and a librarian and a secret agent with cabin fever -- this sounds like a sexy explosion just waiting to happen!

Okay, I think I got off pretty easy this month, so I'll just tiptoe away before anyone changes their mind!

Seriously, I'm thrilled the judges--especially Hilary--didn't hammer me for my "twins separated at birth" subplot line, and I love Leslie's phrase about my "secret agent with cabin fever" because that's exactly what's going on! And as far as the prim librarian comment from Flavia, I got a similar comment last month so now I'll just promise you that Gracie isn't repressed!

I hope you'll stop by to read and enjoy all the entries along with the judges' comments at the Romantic Times website. The voting period for this round is December 18 - 31, so be sure to vote for your favorite now!

Cheers!!

American Title - I Made It to Round Three!!!

2006-12-18T06:18:00.000-08:00

It’s American Title Monday!! And yes, I made it through to Round Three!!!

And YES, it’s time to VOTE again!!!

But first, I have to thank everyone for voting for me. Honestly, I’m shocked and thrilled I’ve made it this far and I have to thank everyone out there who voted for me in the last round.

There's always a catch, though. Two finalists were eliminated, Meretta Pater and Lindsey Brookes. This is the worst part of the contest for me, because all the finalists have become close, so now it's like saying goodbye to my friends--but only for a minute, because we still share the common bond of being American Title III finalists, and Meretta and Lindsey are both so immensely talented, I have no doubt they'll show up in the bookstores any day now!

Okay, the voting is now open! The easiest way to vote for me is to click the button over there on the sidebar, the one that says "Vote For Kate!!!" Yes, that’s the one! Click on it, and it takes you to an email form that's all filled out and ready to go. Just hit “SEND,” and that's it! I can wait here while you vote…hmm-de-dum…okay, see how easy and fast that was? *g*

Thanks so much for voting and for spreading the word to all your friends!! Woo hoo!!

This month, your vote will determine the “Best Story Summary.” Here's my entry...

Gracie Sinclair is Librarian and Book Curator for a small, prestigious university. When she finds an antique French version of the Kama Sutra in a used book store, she’s stunned by the erotic drawings and her fantasies sparkle to life. Just once, she’d love to have a fling, but wild and willing men are scarce in her world. Her girlfriends recommend an intriguing online dating service and Gracie decides to join.

Seventy-two hours later, the biggest, baddest, sexiest man she’s ever seen shows up at the Library, and he’s not there to check out a book.

Cane Winslow has emerged from deep cover to salvage a critical overseas mission after a photograph of their most secret operative’s twin sister turns up on a monitored internet site. If the enemy finds the sexy Librarian before Cane does, Gracie could be killed in retaliation, Cane’s operative assassinated, and years of intelligence destroyed.

Gracie realizes she’s truly in danger and accompanies Cane, despite one little problem – she doesn’t have a sister.

At Gracie’s house, they surprise an intruder and find proof that the enemy has infiltrated Headquarters. Now Cane doesn’t know who to trust and he won’t risk Gracie’s safety by taking her to HQ. Gracie mentions her family’s isolated beach house and Cane agrees it’s a good hiding place.

In close quarters, with danger threatening, the tension builds until Cane and Gracie succumb to their overwhelming attraction and explore the dazzling rituals of the Kama Sutra. And vanquish the enemy, of course!

So … what will the judges have to say this month? Check out their comments and read all the entries at http://www.romantictimes.com/news_amtitle3.php

It’s the holiday season and everyone’s busy, so I truly appreciate you taking the time to vote! And if you have an extra minute, spread the word and tell all your friends to vote, too!! I need all the help I can get!!! Thanks again!

Cheers!!

D-Day Minus Two!!

2006-12-16T13:54:00.000-08:00

I think that means we find out who went forward in the American Title Contest in two days. Monday, to be exact! This has been the longest time between voting periods, I'm afraid you'll all forget there's a contest going on. Don't worry, I'll remind you on Monday! (Even if I'm not the one going forward, I'll remind you to vote! *g*)

Meanwhile, on the Good News front ... I finished my Christmas shopping!! Yay!! Of course, now I'm staring at all these piles of goodies wondering who's going to wrap everything??

Last night I watched one of my favorite Christmas movies ever--well, really, it's one of my favorite movies, period. Love Actually. I love it because it has not one romance going on but like, six! Plus, it deals with every sort of "love story" out there, including unrequited love and betrayal and buddies (OMG, Bill Nighy and his manager, LOL) and I love Natalie who works for the prime minister, whose own father calls her "Plumpy," and the wonderful stepfather and son relationship and the slightly psycho Laura Linney character, plus the hilarious scene in the American bar with Colin and the girls.

I could go on and on. And the music is fabulous, too. I'm tempted to order the soundtrack ...

I also watched Miracle on 34th Street the other night. Simply fabulous.

Hey, I didn't mean to go on and on about holiday movies because Maureen blogged about it on Wednesday, but it seems I've worked my way around to it! So if we haven't talked about it already, let me know what your favorite holiday film is!

And don't forget to come back Monday when all will be revealed on the American Title front!!

Cheers!!

Some Holiday Cheese With That Whine?

2006-12-14T18:02:00.000-08:00

I've been writing frantically for days because I've got a deadline this Monday, and I'm sick, and Yahoo is screwing up all my lists so I can't post and I can't get anyone else's posts unless I go directly to Yahoo and I don't have time to do that because--did I mention that deadline?

Yeah, so anyway, I feel totally disconnected from all my loop friends and I don't have time to fix it and I haven't done my Christmas shopping and I've run out of those yummy fudge brownies that were making me really happy and our shower was leaking and rotting out the beams under the house so it all had to be torn apart so the contractor's been here every day for the last two weeks and now our bathroom smells like tar and the tile guy can't come for a week and did I mention I was sick?

But you know what? I feel like the luckiest person in the world most of the time, including now. All of the above is just small stuff, right? You just can't sweat the small stuff.

So how YOU doin'??

And by the way, Happy Holidays!!

Cheers!!

The Cookie Sutra Chronicles!

2006-12-13T16:24:00.000-08:00

I blogged about this book yesterday at Deadline Diaries, but I just had to mention it here. It's The Cookie Sutra! Here's a shot of the cover from Amazon.

Yes, that's gingerbread people you see on the cover, exploring the mysteries of the Kama--er, Cookie Sutra ... and yes, there are more gingerbread people inside, exploring in other ways ... you know. And hey, there's also a gingerbread recipe!

To read more about how this book has changed my life and my writing, visit Deadline Diaries. *g*

And to my fellow American Title finalist, Jenny Gardiner, clued me in on this book, thanks, Jenny!

Cheers!

Cheap Attention Getting Device...

2006-12-11T11:46:00.000-08:00

Hi! Now that I've got your attention.........

(Thanks, Johnny. You rock!)

Just wanted everyone to know I'm blogging over at Deadline Diaries today! Stop by for some laughs!

Cheers!

Maureen Child's Latest - Buy it Today!!!

2006-12-09T17:26:00.000-08:00

Look what I picked up today!!! My buddy Maureen Child's latest Silhouette Desire, Beyond The Boardroom!! Isn't the cover gorgeous?

This is the final episode in the year-long Elliott family saga, and Maureen brings it to a rousing finish with warmth, humor and style!! To give you a little taste of that fabulous style, here's a mini-excerpt ...

"Okay then," Rachel Adler said, keeping her voice pitched to be heard over the thumping of running feet and the hum of the treadmill. "I've got you booked for dinner with Tawny Mason tonight at eight."

"At Une Nuit?" Shane Elliott asked, reaching for his water bottle, tucked beneath the cord at the head of the machine.

"Where else?" Rachel muttered with a little shake of her head. Why in heaven would he even ask? she wondered. Hadn't she been taking care of every detail of Shane's life for four years now?

"Good." Shane took a long drink of water and Rachel's gaze locked on the bobbing motion of his Adam's apple. Seriously, even the man's neck was sexy.

When he'd finished off the last of the water, he wiped sweat from his face with the towel looped around his neck and tossed Rachel the empty bottle. "And call ahead. Have Stash order in some flowers for, um..." He waved one hand in a silent attempt for help.

"Tawny," Rachel provided dryly as she set the empty bottle down on the floor beside her. For heaven's sake, the man couldn't even remember his date's name.

Plus, he knew as well as she did that Stash Martin, manager of Une Nuit, never missed a beat when getting the Elliott family table ready. There would, she knew, be flowers, champagne and some delicious appetizers just waiting for Shane and Tawny.

Tawny.

What kind of woman named her daughter Tawny? A stage mother, hoping for a starlet daughter? Or had the woman taken one look at her newborn baby girl and decided...future bimbo?

"Right." Shane nodded. "Tawny. She says her mother named her for the color of her eyes."

Rachel rolled her own green eyes.

Shane grinned at her and Rachel's stomach did a quick dip and spin.

If she could have managed it without looking like a complete idiot, she'd have kicked her own ass. Honestly. Why was it Shane Elliott who could turn her insides to mush with a simple smile?

Because he's HOT, that's why!!! Seriously, I can't wait to read the rest of the story! Nobody blends humor and emotion with a sexy love story like Maureen Child does, so do yourself a favor and buy this book today!!

Cheers!

For Serious Shoppers Only!

2006-12-08T05:51:00.000-08:00

My girlfriend Suzette Tabor sent me this Fashion Co-Op scoop! Shopping and Champagne?? Yeah! If you're in the L.A. - Santa Monica area this weekend, you need to check out the fun!!

Fashion Co-Op Holiday

Santa Monica Civic
1855 Main St.
Santa Monica, CA 90401
Directions

VIP Shopping Preview
Fri., Dec. 8, 2006 8pm-11pm
$19 In Advance $25 DOOR

General Admission
Sat., Dec. 9, 2006 10am-4pm
$3 with RSVP $5 at the DOOR

Fashion Co-Op offers the largest collection of emerging fashion designers on the West Coast. Shop from over 150 of the hottest up and coming designers around the world at our exclusive fashion event. This is a one-stop shopping experience not to be missed!! Fashion Co-Op offers something for everybody including women's clothing, handbags, jewelry, stationery, men's clothing and babies' clothing... all under one roof sold by the designers themselves! Everything at Fashion Co-Op is discounted up to 80% of retail prices.

FOR SERIOUS SHOPPERS - Fashion Co-Op offers a special VIP Shopping Preview. VIP customers will enjoy:

* FIRST PICK AT ALL MERCHANDISE
* Wine & Champagne Tasting from over 10 Wineries
* Skylos' Cupcake & Cotton Candy Bar
* Shopping Energy Boosts compliments of Go Girl Energy
* Complimentary Eyebrow Threading by 6 Technicians in the Spa Lounge
* Photos with our SEXY Santa
* Free Gift Wrapping
* A live DJ
* Shopping in style with no lines, no crowds and no fuss!

Click here to RSVP or Purchase Tickets

Here's what the San Francisco Chronicle says about Fashion Co-Op: "Shop till you drop: Pick up a little something from a new designer at Fashion Co-Op's big spring sale at the end of the month. The indie designer organization puts on several sales a year here and in Los Angeles. More than 50 independent designers will participate in the show. The lines went around the block last February, the last time the event came to town."

Fashion Co-Op has the cutest website here, and this is their mission: Fashion Co-Op aims to provide a community for up-and-coming designers who are seeking a network of resources in the industry, bringing together a wealth of experience and knowledge in business strategy, public relations and creativity. Fashion Co-Op also aims to provide designers with a venue to expose their lines directly to consumers and to provide consumers with a unique and exclusive opportunity to preview the creations of tomorrow's top designers.

Cheers!

What I'm Reading Now!

2006-12-04T09:58:00.000-08:00

I'm still working hard to meet my next deadline and yes, I'm still waiting to reveal who made it to the next round of the American Title III contest, but meanwhile, look what's in the bookstores now!!!

It's The Unexpected Millionaire, the second book in Susan Mallery's fabulous Silhouette Desire series, The Million Dollar Catch!

Millionaire Kane Dennison's first mistake had been carrying an injured Willow Nelson inside his home, which, as a rule, was off-limits. Of course, she'd needed his help, but his one kind gesture had her believing he was a nice man. He wasn't.

His second mistake had been surrendering to passion after warning Willow to run away. Because a woman like her deserved better than a one-night stand. She believed in soul mates. He trusted no one—needed no one. And not even Willow was going to change him!

Check out Book Two in Susan's series now!!!

Cheers!

And If It's Sunday, I Must Be a Slacker!

2006-12-03T08:44:00.000-08:00

Yes, I've been slacking off between American Title voting periods.

Well, not really slacking off, just not blogging enough. I'll be back, I promise! But I've been on a deadline for the past few weeks, writing up a partial and sending it off, then starting in on the re-writes for another manuscript I'm sending off in two weeks. So really, I've been busy!

And when do I start Christmas shopping, I ask you?? It's a mystery. For the past few years, this time of year was frantic as I polished up my Golden Heart entries and sent them off. Now that I'm not entering, I've still got deadlines! If it sounds like I'm complaining, I'm not, because I'm thrilled to have someone in NYC waiting for my work!

So I'd better get back to it, right?

I'll be back tomorrow with an American Title update and some cool links!

Cheers!

If It's Tuesday, It's MUST LOVE MISTLETOE Day!!!

2006-11-28T06:01:00.000-08:00

I've been looking forward to reading Christie Ridgway's "Must Love Mistletoe" and it's finally available today!

It's Ms. Scrooge vs. the Bad Boy of Christmas Past!

Here's the back cover copy:

Bailey Sullivan can't stand Christmas, even though her family's business is a store specializing in the perfect holiday. But now her hometown's chief supplier of rooftop Rudolphs and treetop angels is in danger of going under—it's up to Bailey to save the shop.

She has it all planned: She'll arrive on December 1 and be gone by Christmas. Plus there's always spiked eggnog to ease the pain. But "Humbug" Bailey's not the only one home for the holidays. Finn Jacobson—legendary local bad boy-turned-Secret Service agent and Bailey's long-lost high-school sweetheart—is once again the boy next door. Only this time he's all grown up, and the sparks are flying faster and hotter than ever!

Bailey believes in true love about as much as she believes in Santa Claus. But as the holiday draws closer, she's starting to think about one thing she'd like to find under her tree . . .

It's sounds delightful and romantic, doesn't it? I predict it will become a Christmas keeper! But you don't have to believe me. Listen to what Romantic Times--who gave it 4 1/2 stars!!--said:

"Ridgway delights yet again with this charming, witty tale of holiday romance. Not only are the characters sympathetic, intelligent and engaging, but the sexual tension between the main characters is played out with tremendous skill. The plot is well constructed and the characters' emotional responses are satisfyingly believable, both in dialogue and in action."

Oh yeah, I'm buying my copy today!

And P.S., Christie's giving away free books at Deadline Diaries this week. Just leave a comment and you're eligible to win!

Cheers!

American Title III - Second Round Voting Is Over!!!

2006-11-27T06:06:00.000-08:00

Yes, Second Round voting is over and two finalists have been eliminated.

But you know the drill — if I told you who was eliminated, I’d have to kill you.

Sorry, but rules are rules. (Don’t you just hate that?)

Oh, what the heck! Look, send me an email with your credit card number and I’ll slip you the results as soon as —

Would you excuse me? There’s someone at my front door …

Yes, officer … no sir, I would never suggest that anyone cheat on the American Title results …me, ask for gifts and money? ... absolutely not, sir! … um, I really don’t think those handcuffs are necessary …

Uh, hey everyone, I've gotta go.

Maybe we’ll talk later. (Psst, send me that email!)

You can still read all of the American Title III entries here.

And while you're out surfing, check out the cool contest at Deadline Diaries!! Christie Ridgway is giving away free books to celebrate her latest, "Must Love Mistletoe!" Just leave a comment anytime this week and you could win free books!!

Cheers!

Happy Thanksgiving!!

2006-11-26T10:34:00.000-08:00

I hope you all had a wonderful holiday! I took the week off to spend time with my family. We had lots of laughs and ate too much and had a great time doing it. Hope you did the same!

Today's the last day to vote in Round Two of the American Title contest, so if you haven't voted yet, what are you waiting for??? LOL. Just click on the button over there, the one that says "Vote For Kate!!!" and get 'er done!

Cheers!

ATIII - Why THE KAMA SUTRA CHRONICLES?

2006-11-17T07:04:00.000-08:00

Why did I give my romantic comedy such a….well, erotic title?

I get that question a lot.

Well, here's the thing. Even though my story is a romance with humor and a bit of light suspense, it all started with the book.

When Gracie finds an antiquarian (like, really old!) copy of the Kama Sutra in a used book store, she’s intrigued in more ways than one. Obviously, the illustrations are playing havoc with her fantasies, but beyond that, Gracie is a librarian and book curator with expertise in bookbinding. She’s fascinated by the history of the book. How old is it? Which bindery created it? Who was the original owner? How did it travel from 19th century France to 21st century San Francisco?

Who wants to steal it?

But above all the mystery and suspense and history, there’s a romance. So the really big question is, can this librarian and her secret agent live happily ever after?

All will be revealed in The Kama Sutra Chronicles. *g*

Cheers!

ATIII - Just Another Secret Agent Man?

2006-11-16T06:15:00.000-08:00

To prove that secret agent Cane Winslow, my hero from The Kama Sutra Chronicles, is not just another secret agent man, I tried to schedule an interview with him. But he gave me one of those disparaging raised eyebrow looks, then said he didn’t have time for this b*llsh*t and raced off to--I don’t know, reconnoiter, or...whatever.

So instead, here are straightlaced Librarian Gracie Sinclair’s first impressions of the man...

...He looked rugged and wild and more than a little pissed off. Gracie didn’t know why he was scowling at her, but it didn’t detract from the rough beauty of his mouth, which was wide and firm, with the bottom lip slightly fuller than the top.

She loved that in a mouth.

She was staring, knew she was blushing, but...wow. It might’ve been a long time since she’d been properly kissed, but she had a feeling a mouth like that would be up to the task.

And that would happen any day now, just as soon as hell froze over. Still, it couldn’t hurt to look. The man was hot with a capital “H.”

Blinking her way back to reality, she realized he was staring right back at her. His dark eyelashes were ridiculously long and full, yet completely masculine. His blue eyes continued to pierce Gracie with an intensity she’d never experienced, and in that moment, she felt as if she were the most important person in the entire universe.

She didn’t get that a lot.

So what was a man like him doing in the Fairview University Library at ten o’clock on a Wednesday morning? Besides causing tremors and tingles to shoot through her system like a wayward pinball, setting off bells and whistles and fireworks and ripples of pleasure in every part of her body?

Oh, for God’s sake, Gracie, the man just wanted a book.

Thanks, Gracie!

Cheers!

American Title III - Rabble Rousers and Straightlaced Heroines

2006-11-15T07:10:00.000-08:00

There was plenty of ranting and raging and rabble-rousing out here in Blog Land yesterday, and it had nothing to do with the first line of The Kama Sutra Chronicles, “Crotchless panties?” (Oops, I said it again! *g*)

No, this time the controversy revolved around a few of the comments made by the American Title judges regarding the appeal—or lack thereof—of sniper heroines and firefighter heroes. The finalists who received those negative comments are lucky to have good, loyal friends who took up the fight on their behalves.

So yes, there was lots of good old-fashioned protesting going on! It warmed my crazy radical heart to see it happening. Plus, it’s always nice to see friends standing up for their buddies.

And while all this was going on, who was there to defend my heroine Gracie? Who took up the sword to defend straightlaced Gracie’s honor when she was denigrated and ridiculed and called *gulp* prim! And repressed! Hmph!

(By the way, these photos of Helen Hunt represent my vision of Gracie!)
Okay, I’ll admit it’s all my fault. I called Gracie straightlaced when what I actually meant was, she’s all business. She’s the librarian and book curator for a small, prestigious university and she takes her job very seriously. And yes, she’s a bit of a bookworm.

But repressed? No!

Repressed would better describe her ex-boyfriend Hubert, Dean of the School of Engineering. He's the one who fell asleep when all Gracie wanted to do was, er, explore the mysteries of the Kama Sutra. She thought Hubert would enjoy the various, er, possibilities, because after all, he’s an engineer. She thought if she appealed to his intellectual appreciation of movement in space…

As The Kama Sutra Chronicles begins, Hubert is history. And Gracie’s about to join an online dating service…

Stay tuned!

Cheers!

What The Judges Said

2006-11-14T06:00:00.000-08:00

That's right, they're ba-a-a-ck!!

Yesterday, the American Title III contest judges, Flavia Knightsbridge, Hilary Ross and Leslie Kazanjian, revealed their impressions of our descriptions of our Hero and Heroine.

What did we learn about our judges this time around? Well, Flavia brought new meaning to the word "snarky" and made it clear why she's playing the Simon Cowell role. She's the judge we love to hate! Everybody truly loves Leslie in her role as the kindhearted Paula Abdul, while Hilary's comments are generally down-to-earth and practical and occasionally tough, much like Randy Jackson's on American Idol.

Here's what they had to say about The Kama Sutra Chronicles' Gracie Sinclair and Cole Winslow.

Flavia Knightsbridge -- Are we still casting librarians in the prim and repressed light? And another secret agent man ... snore.

Hilary Ross -- The hero and the heroine sound like they are good foils for one another.

Leslie Kazanjian -- The straightlaced librarian and the cynical secret agent sound like a classic case of opposites attracting, but after reading the Kama Sutra, Gracie might bring a whole new meaning to "raising Cane"! These two will likely make an adorable, appealing pair.

Once again, one word bounced right out and smacked me in the head. You guessed it. "Snore." Ah well, that’s the name of the game, right? And really, despite the snoring, their comments were much nicer than I expected and way nicer than the comments some of the others received.

To check out my character descriptions as well as all the finalist entries, and to read more snark, race right over to http://www.romantictimes.com/news_amtitle3.php

Cheers!

I Made It To Round Two of American Title!!!

2006-11-13T06:48:00.000-08:00

I'm thrilled to announce that I've advanced to the next round of the American Title Contest! I owe it to all of you out there who voted for me and I'm so grateful for your support!!

And now I'm shamelessly begging you to vote again! *g*

In this round, your vote will determine the Best Description of the Hero and Heroine.

My straightlaced heroine, Gracie Sinclair, is a librarian and book curator who discovers an antiquarian copy of the Kama Sutra in a used book store and is intrigued and excited by the elegant illustrations. Her fantasies are running a little wild, but the same can't be said for eligible men in her life. Her girlfriends recommend an online dating service, so Gracie decides to join. After all, what's the worst that could happen?

She'll soon find out!

To vote for me, just click on the button over there on the sidebar. The one that says "Vote for Kate!!!" It's a direct link to an email form and all you do is hit "SEND!" It's easy!

And check out all the finalists' entries at http://www.romantictimes.com/news_amtitle3.php.

Finally, sadly, two of my fellow finalists have not advanced to this next round, Cathy Pegau and Sally Stotter. But as American Title finalists chosen by Dorchester for the contest, we're all winners, right? Who knows? Maybe this time next year, I'll be buying their books!

Thanks again for your votes and your support!!!

Cheers!

Tagged

2006-11-11T15:55:00.000-08:00

Okay, I was tagged by Dana Diamond and Maureen Child , and then when I wasn't looking, Christie Ridgway nabbed me again. So I guess it’s time to 'fess up. Here are five strange, unique and/or funny things about me.

1. I drank beer with Paul Newman. Years ago, I was invited to a small dinner party honoring a visiting White House press secretary. I was sipping on a beer when Paul Newman walked up and asked me where he could get one of those. I showed him the bar and we talked for a while, until more guests showed up. The hosts had just spent a week at the Pritikin Center so the menu featured brown rice and yams. Good thing there was plenty of beer.

2. I spit water at Chuck Barris. Many times, in fact. I worked on the Gong Show and the staff was expected to perform on the show. I was part of a three-girl singing group called The Whispers, only we didn’t sing, we didn’t do anything, we just stood on stage until Chuck finally walked out and said “Don’t just stand there, do something.” So we spit water at him.

3. Speaking of Chuck Barris, I was also a Dating Game chaperone. I took Snow White and her date to Hong Kong, and I took Daniel Boone’s son and his date to Switzerland. It was a tough job but somebody had to do it.

4. I have a pair of socks given to me by the Doobie Brothers. Hey, they were nice socks, and brand new, too! I interviewed the group at their studio for a show I was working on. They liked me. They gave me a pair of socks.

5. My grandmother was California women's golf champion through the 1920's, ‘30’s and ‘40’s. She continued to play and win tournaments up until her death at age 86. She has a golf tournament and a luncheon salad named after her at the Los Angeles Country Club. Yes, the next time you're at the country club, you can order my grandmother for lunch.

Now...tell me something strange and interesting about you!

I Took A Little Break......

2006-11-09T06:58:00.000-08:00

But I'll be back tomorrow with my TAG list! I got tagged by Dana Diamond AND Maureen Child. I'm not sure I can come up with all that many interesting things about me...that I can mention in public, anyway. *g*

Meanwhile, be sure to check out Maureen's list of strange and interesting things about herself. (Can you believe she did that to Cary Grant??)

And stay tuned...Monday I reveal the results of Round One voting in the American Title Contest!

Cheers!

American Title 3 -- And Then There Were Eight

2006-10-31T07:40:00.000-08:00

Round One is over and now the waiting begins. Two of the ten finalists have been eliminated from the contest.

Who's in? Who's out? If I told you, I'd have to kill you!! But I want to thank everyone who voted for me and my crazy and controversial first line, "Crotchless panties?" (Yes, I just had to type that one more time! LOL)

No matter what the outcome is, I am so grateful for your support!!

Voting for Round Two begins Monday, November 13 and this time you'll be asked to vote on the Best Description of the Hero and Heroine.

Stay tuned!

Cheers!

Buy This Book!!!

2006-10-29T11:40:00.000-08:00

My friend Maureen Child has a fabulous book out on the stands now! Eternally is part of the new Silhouette Nocturne line of dark paranormal romances and in my completely objective opinion, it's the best!! It's got one sizzling hot hero, one smart, funny heroine and one fabulous story you're going to love!! Hey, even the cover is sexy! And check out the back cover copy...

He was a Guardian. An immortal fighter of evil.

The sexy, sword-wielding stranger standing before Julie Carpenter claimed he was out to destroy a demon and that she was its next target. As he whisked her away to his fortresslike mansion high in the Hollywood hills, she could only hope Kieran was not the true danger.

For centuries Kieran had heard the legend of Destined Mates…but he never believed until now. He could read Julie's thoughts, sense her deepest desires. And he knew she wanted him just as he knew joining with her would make him strong enough to defeat any demon from hell. But the cost might be losing the woman who was his true salvation.

Doesn't that sound fabulous? So run, don't walk to your local bookseller and pick up your very own copy of Eternally!

Cheers!

ATIII - Round One, Week Two

2006-10-24T15:53:00.000-07:00

Five more days to vote for "Crotchless panties?"

You know you want to!

Click on webmaster@romantictimes.com, type THE KAMA SUTRA CHRONICLES in the Subject line and hit SEND! It's so simple. Do it now! You'll feel better.

What a week.

I'm only slightly brain-dead from a week of frantic emailing and begging for votes, then traveling across country and dealing with stupid jet lag. Wide awake at 3:00 a.m., realizing I didn't contact my cousin Peter in Connecticut or my alleged stepsister Tricia who's got a darling new baby and is probably on the West Coast now that I'm on the East, right? Hi Tricia!! Vote for me!!! Yo, Peter, dude, vote!

So what's new? I'm taking the online PR class given by the brilliant Louise Knott Ahern (if you have an opportunity, do not hesitate to take her class--she is fantastic!!) and I haven't posted my homework but I'm reading all the posts and have already learned a massive amount.

I'm writing every day, a YA paranormal my agent is excited about. It makes me very happy to simply focus on the writing right now.

I'm visiting my father-in-law Frank, who's 95 and wonderful. He taught music for years in the Buffalo school district and this week, he's giving my husband piano lessons.

Let me know -- What's up with you?

Cheers!

An American Title Finalist in Beautiful Buffalo

2006-10-22T11:41:00.000-07:00

In American Title 3 news, you've got one week left to vote for your favorite First Line. We all know my First Line by now, right? Let's say it together...

"Crotchless panties?"

Well said! And to paraphrase the immortal words of AT2 finalist Maria Geraci, don't get your crotchless panties in a wad!! Live dangerously! Vote for Kate!

And in other news, I took a few days off to travel and ended up here in Buffalo, home of the Great Tree Massacre of 2006. The freak storm that rendered the city snowbound and without power for days was so unexpected that some local newspapers and TV stations are actually asking the public to submit names to call the event. Some suggestions: October Surprise, Arborgeddon, The Day The Trees Died. Here are a few pictures that don't do justice to to the devastation.

American Title - Day Three - The Judges

2006-10-18T07:18:00.000-07:00

If you're here at my blog, you may have already read the judges' comments on everyone's First Line. Some comments were snarkier than others.

Here's what they had to say about THE KAMA SUTRA CHRONICLES and my first line, "Crotchless panties?"

Flavia Knightsbridge - Nothing like stripping it down to the basics, literally...seems like a fitting start given the title.

Hilary Ross - Ugh, sounds like this is going to be way beyond erotica!

Leslie Kazanjian - This book has a fun title and a fabulous, provocative opening line! I'd certainly read on.

Okay, I vote for Leslie's answer!

When I first read the judges' comments, the only word I saw was "UGH." On second/third/fourth read, I realized their comments overall weren't as harsh as I'd first thought. The only thing I'll say in my defense is, THE KAMA SUTRA CHRONICLES is a romance with humor and a touch of suspense. Not erotica! Not that there's anything wrong with erotica! LOL. But Ms. Hilary uttered the word as though it were the worst thing since...well, I won't even go there.

Their criticisms were much rougher on some of the other finalists and I'm sorry about that. But one thing we all agree on is that Raz's opening line is hilarious. To check them all out, click here...and don't forget to vote!

It's funny, it’s sexy, it’s suspenseful! Vote for THE KAMA SUTRA CHRONICLES in the American Title Contest at http://www.romantictimes.com/news_amtitle.php

American Title III - Day Two - The Bio

2006-10-17T05:49:00.000-07:00

Have you ever written a short biography of yourself? It's harder than you think (she whined).

It took me days to write the short biography required for the American Title contest. In 150 words, I was expected to explain my life and my journey and my hopes and dreams and blah blah blah. I'd sooner write another 100,000 word manuscript!

It's not that I don't take the responsibility seriously, I just can't take myself seriously. I can't look in the mirror and say, "Oh my, look at all these wonderful things you've accomplished. You should be taken seriously as an artist." If you've read the bio on my website, you'll see I don't handle these things well.

So instead, for my American Title "Short Bio," I chose to write something along the lines of the biographical monologue Dr. Evil gives in his therapy session with his son Scott -- without the the luge lessons or summers in Rangoon.

Here's my ATIII bio, and it's mostly true.

As Dr. Evil would say, the details of my life are inconsequential. My father’s idea of family outings were picnics on the infield at Santa Anita. I won the Trifecta when I was eight. I grew up and spent years working in television on Solid Gold, Midnight Special, Newlywed Game, Dating Game, The Gong Show--and no, Chuck Barris is not a spy. I traveled, gambled in Macau, snorkeled in St. Thomas, and was once treated to a lap dance in Kowloon. Aimless, I joined a cult and was forced to wear shapeless clothing made of hemp. After years of shock therapy, I found reality and a good stylist, and I love life. I’m thrilled to be a finalist in ATIII. I’ve completed four manuscripts and this year I was a triple finalist in RWA’s Golden Heart contest and my manuscript, Snooping in Stilettos, won!

Cheers!

American Title III - Voting is Now Open!!

2006-10-16T08:34:00.000-07:00

"Crotchless panties?"

Yes, that's the first line of my book, THE KAMA SUTRA CHRONICLES. And it’s time to vote for that first line!

Huh? Excuse me? You don’t know what I’m talking about? Okay, well…in case you hadn't heard, here are the details!

My manuscript, THE KAMA SUTRA CHRONICLES, was chosen among hundreds of entries to be a finalist in the American Title III contest sponsored by Romantic Times Book Review magazine (“RT”) and Dorchester Publishing.

What’s the big deal, you ask? A publishing contract with Dorchester, that’s what!

The contest works like the television show, American Idol. There are ten finalists and our books are “on stage.” So each month for the next five months, RT will post a portion of our books on their website, then three delightful judges will comment (ala Randy, Paula and Simon), and the final decision is in your hands!

Two finalists are eliminated each month. Scary? Oh yes, my friends!

If I receive enough votes, I move to the next round and we all vote again! Here’s the Voting Schedule:

- Best First Line (voting October 16 – 29)
- Best Hero/Heroine Description (voting November 13 – 26)
- Best Story Summary (voting December 18 – 31)
- Best Dialogue Scene (voting January 22 – February 4)
- Best Romantic Scene (voting February 19 –March 4)

Voting is done by e-mail – ONE VOTE PER PERSON. That’s why it’s important to tell everyone you know to VOTE!

So you’re ready to vote, right? Okay! There are two ways you can do it:

--The Easy Way: Click webmaster@romantictimes.com Type in the Subject Line: THE KAMA SUTRA CHRONICLES, and Hit “SEND!”

-- The Other Way: Go to American Title Contest, read all the entries, then vote for your favorite!

That's it. It's easy! So go vote!

Meanwhile, here's a partial view of what comes after the infamous first line of THE KAMA SUTRA CHRONICLES...

“Crotchless panties?”

“Yes.”

“And he fell asleep?”

“Mm-hmm.”

“Oh, my God.”

“Exactly.” Graciella Sinclair glanced miserably from one girlfriend to the other, then stared into her lemon-drop martini. “That’s when I broke up with him.”

“It’s about damn time.” Annabel Blake, tall and dazzling as usual in a sexy black cocktail dress, gave Gracie a tight hug. “Hubert’s a jerk and he doesn’t deserve you.”

“She’s right, Gracie,” Callie McAllister said. She dabbed her fingers on a cocktail napkin, having just polished off a lobster-stuffed blini she’d nabbed from a passing waiter’s tray. “You’re better off without him.”

“I know you’re both absolutely right,” Gracie said, then frowned. “But I can’t help thinking something’s wrong with me. I mean, when a man doesn’t...”

“There is nothing wrong with you, Gracie,” Annabel stated firmly. “Well, except for your taste in men.”

Oops, that's all I can show you for now! Thanks so much for your support!

It's funny, it’s sexy, it’s suspenseful! Vote for THE KAMA SUTRA CHRONICLES in the American Title Contest today!

My Interview's Up at Title Wave!!

2006-10-15T09:31:00.000-07:00

Title Wave has been posting interviews with the American Title Contest finalists all week, and today is mine! Come by and read all about it -- er, me!

On a slightly different subject, I just want to send out some thoughts and prayers to my family in Buffalo. Here's a shot I borrowed from CNN. It was taken in Clarence, New York, a suburb of Buffalo, which is where my sister-in-law Mary Lou lives with her family. Can you believe they've got this much snow in mid-October? They can't either. Power is still out for hundreds of thousands of people in the area. The snow has been so heavy, it's caused trees to topple all over the city, which has caused power lines to fall and at least one person died from a falling tree limb.

And here's a slightly more upbeat photo -- of Brutus the dog who, while I thought at first he was lying in the snow, is actually walking through several feet high of snow.

Did I mention I'll be in Buffalo next week? *g*

Quickie Drive-By Hello and ATIII Update (of course!!)

2006-10-14T17:56:00.000-07:00

I spent the day at the Orange County RWA meeting. (See the orange? Get it? Orange County? Sometimes my brilliance frightens me.) And no, I didn't win the iPod, which is so unfair!! Okay, so I have no idea how an iPod works, having never owned one before, but must that be held against me?? Sigh. Maybe someone will buy me one for Christmas.

By the way, congratulations to the person who won. Whoever she is. I wouldn't know...since she left the meeting early!!! Hmph!! Not that I'm bitter...

Okay, enough grumbling! LOL. The meeting was wonderful, as usual. I blogged about it yesterday.

Meanwhile, here at the blog, I wanted to let everyone know that I fixed the settings on my comments section so anyone can post a comment now! For some reason, it was restricted. That's so wrong in so many ways. So leave me a comment!! Say hello! Tell me about your iPod. *Sniffle* Whatever.

And here's Big News! Tomorrow at Title Wave, I'm being interviewed!! Stop by and say hello! Leave me a comment there, please-oh-please! The wonderful Title Wave bloggers have been posting interviews of all the ATIII finalists and mine is the last one before Monday when the Voting begins. (P.S. Stop by Title Wave today and see the hilariously funny Ron/Raz's interview!!)

And don't forget to check my Good Vibrations interview on The Writer's Vibe! They posted it yesterday and as with everything else around here lately, it's all about me! All Kate all the time!

Scary, isn't it?

Cheers!

TGIF!! And Counting Down...Three Days to ATIII

2006-10-13T13:52:00.000-07:00

Monday is the big day and I'll confess, my mind keeps alternating between eerie calm and out-of-control spinning. I'm sure my fellow finalists are feeling the same way. Usually when we enter a writing contest, it's all anonymous and safe--well, in terms of your identity, anyway. You're never really safe from the slings and arrows of contest judges! But this time, we're all on display for the world to see.

On Monday, you'll read the opening line of my book, THE KAMA SUTRA CHRONICLES, and I won't be able to hide behind a wall of mystery anymore. Nope. You'll read that first line and know it's mine. And my first line is so bizarre, you might just get the wrong idea about sweet little ol' me! *g* So Monday, right here, I'm going to post the rest of the scene so you'll be able to put it all in context and continue to speak to me! LOL

Okay, it's Friday the 13th, and there's plenty of excitement and diversion out in blog land! And I need all the diversion I can get right now. Over at The Writer's Vibe, they've got the latest Good Vibrations Interview and it's all about ME! I hope you'll check it out!

And there's the cutest, laugh-out-loud funny Halloween photo over at Maureen Child's blog.

And speaking of Maureen, she blogged about displacement activities the other day and mentioned one of the best new time-wasters around, which can be found right here. (Courtesy of Jamie Denton over at the Brava Authors' blog.)

Oops! Let's not forget another classic procrastination tool you can find over at Rhonda Pollero's very fun website, namely, the Flamingo Ring Toss. This will keep you happy for hours!

Okay, that's enough diversionary tactics for now!

And if anyone is looking in from Buffalo, could you talk to the weather man? I'm flying in next Saturday and the record snowfall is just wrong! TWO FEET of snow?? Good grief! Make it stop!!!

Cheers!

American Title III...Five Days and Counting....So I’m giving away books!

2006-10-11T07:42:00.000-07:00

Yes, the contest starts in five days. That's Monday, October 16. The Fear and Panic are building, so I’m trying to think about other things...happy things. Ah, here’s something happy to think about.............

I belong to the absolutely fabulous Orange County chapter of RWA. This Saturday, we’re having our 25th birthday bash and it’s going to be huge and happy. We’ve got two incredible speakers -- RWA founder Rita Clay Estrada and T. Jefferson Parker.

Not a bad line-up, right?

The first OCC meeting I ever attended was the October meeting, almost ten years ago. (Holy *#%, was it that long ago? I was barely legal!) I was a member of Sisters in Crime (and a closet romance reader) and past president Marianne Donley invited a few of us SIC board members to attend a meeting and “mingle” with romance authors.

It changed my life.

Seriously, I’d never seen so many savvy business women in one place in my entire life. Romance writers are serious about this business, people! And they dress a whole lot better than mystery writers (a fact which mystery writers wear like a badge of honor, of course *g*).

The president of OCC at that first meeting was Amy J. Fetzer.

She shocked and amazed me with her style and ability to whip the group into shape. Talk about kick-ass! Guess it helps that she’s the wife/mother/daughter of Marines. *g*

It was the October meeting so it was their annual birthday party, which is always a special event. I sat down at one of the beautifully decorated party tables (Balloons! Free books! Chocolate!) and struck up a fun conversation with a pretty, young woman who confessed that she’d just sold her first seven books that week. Another chin-dropping moment.

The woman’s name was Jill Shalvis. I think she’s still writing books and selling them. LOL

Part of the excitement of every OCC birthday party is the raffle. I’ve never seen so many raffle baskets and fabulous prizes -- TV’s, Alpha-Smarts, iPods, DVD players, you name it, they’ve raffled it off. Plus critiques from published authors, vacations, you name it. It’s a really cool raffle. At that first meeting, I won two raffle baskets! I was hooked!

This year I hope I win the iPod. Wish me luck!

Are you a romance writer? Tell me about your RWA chapter. Are you a reader? Leave me a comment and I’ll send you a couple of Jill’s books!

Countdown to American Title!

2006-10-09T09:29:00.000-07:00

Voting for the American Title contest begins one week from today!! I've got lots to do between now and then, so naturally I woke up this morning with a nasty head cold. Sore throat, stuffy sinuses. Lovely. I had to call in sick at the day job, which I absolutely hate to do. So in honor of the truly delightful people I get to work with every day, I'm posting some of my favorite lawyer jokes!
But first a disclaimer. Some of my best friends and family members are lawyers! And they're the ones who tell the best jokes. Like these...

Do you know how to save a drowning lawyer? Take your foot off his head.

What's the difference between a lawyer and a catfish? One is a slimy, bottom-feeding scumsucker and the other is a fish.

What's the difference between a lawyer and a pitbull? Jewelry.

What do you call 5,000 lawyers at the bottom of the ocean? A good start.

How many lawyers does it take to screw in a lightbulb? One. The lawyer holds the bulb while the rest of the world revolves around him.

How do you get a lawyer out a tree? Cut the rope.

What do you have when a lawyer is buried up to his neck in sand? Not enough sand.

What do lawyers use for birth control? Their personalities.

Why won't sharks attack lawyers? Professional courtesy.

Okay, that's enough!! Or is it? Feel free to add your own!

Cheers!

American Title Contest - Update

2006-10-08T08:31:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy week for this little American Title III finalist. Now that we have a voting schedule, I've been twisting arms--er, gently persuading friends and family to vote for THE KAMA SUTRA CHRONICLES! I've been spreading the word around the various e-mail loops and letting people in my local RWA chapter know about the contest and I know all my fellow finalists are doing the same. And here's some great news! We've all been invited to blog with last year's AT finalists at their terrific blog site, Title Wave. They're posting one interview each day up until the first day of voting. FYI, my interview day is Sunday, October 15, the day before the voting starts. Check us out!

And for anyone who's been checking the Romantic Times website for information, nothing's been posted yet about the American Title Contest. I'm sure they'll be posting information soon because voting begins in one week. And once the voting period opens, I'll post a link directly to the contest site. Once you're there, you can read all the entries and vote--early and often! (Oops, one vote per e-mail address, please!)

Here's the official voting schedule:

Best First Line: October 16 - 29
Best Hero and Heroine: November 13 - 26
Best Story Summary: December 18 - 31
Best Dialogue Scene: January 22 - February 4
Best Romantic Scene: February 19 - March 4

The winner will be announced at the RT Book Lovers Convention in Houston in April!

Cheers!

My First Romance

2006-10-03T11:07:00.000-07:00

No, I'm not talking about the crush I had on Stephen White in fourth grade. I'm talking about the first romance novel I ever read.

It was only about ten years ago. I was sitting outside my office, re-reading Jane Austen's Pride and Prejudice, and a co-worker walked up and asked what I was reading. She'd never heard of Jane Austen, but I described the story and she said, "If you like that sort of book, you might like the book I just finished." And she handed me THE LION'S LADY by Julie Garwood.

LOL! Sorry Miss Austen, but I never looked back!

THE LION'S LADY remains one of my favorite romances--probably because it was my first. I've had to buy new copies because I've re-read it so many times. One thing I love about Julie Garwood's writing is her humor. In THE LION'S LADY, the heroine Christina can't stop lying to the hero. Though British, she was raised by a Native American Indian tribe and she's got so many secrets, she can't keep them all straight. The hero, Lyon, is a big, tough warrior spy whose first wife betrayed him, so of course he doesn't trust women. There are scenes in this book that are laugh-out-loud funny, and the plot has plenty of interesting twists and turns. If you've never read it, I highly recommend that you race right out and buy it!

A few years later, I finally read my first contemporary romance, Nora Roberts' BORN IN FIRE. Before that, I'd never heard of Nora Roberts. What rock was I living under?? As you can imagine, I had a lot of catching up to do. I went crazy on eBay, buying up every vintage Nora I could find. If I'd only waited a year or so, I could've bought some of the Harlequin reissues of these same books. But I couldn't wait. I had to have everything I could get my hands on!

BORN IN FIRE is still one of my favorite books, along with the other two books in the trilogy. And yes, I've had to buy new copies over the years because I re-read all three at least once a year. And I still get the same feeling I did that first time I read the opening scene with Maggie and her father driving out to Loop Head. It takes my breath away just thinking about it.

Do you remember the first romance novel you ever read? Is it still your favorite? Was it historical or contemporary? Tell me about it!

What's New...

2006-10-02T07:36:00.000-07:00

I spent the last few days scrambling to get my American Title submissions in to Romantic Times magazine. I didn’t know they wanted everything at once. I guess it surprised most of the other finalists, as well, so we all spent a few days silently panicking and editing and getting all our categories together for the contest. The categories are (1) First Line of the book, (2) Description of Hero and Heroine, (3) Story Summary, (4) Dialogue Scene, and (5) Romantic/Love Scene. They also wanted a bio and a picture.

Once I sent everything off to the senior editor, I had a whole different reason to panic. Did I choose the right dialogue scene? Is my humorous bio just stupid? It’s too late now, so I’m trying to let it go. Not so easy, but I’m trying. Deep breaths.....

So what have I been doing to distract myself? Well...

I've been reading and surfing the net and posting messages to a few of my e-mail loops.

I attended Christopher Vogler’s fabulous all-day workshop on The Writer’s Journey.

I’m starting to write a new book, which I blogged about on Deadline Diaries today.

I re-read Gina Black’s informative post about her experiences with the American Title contest last year. This didn’t exactly calm my nerves and distract me but I needed to revisit Gina's valuable advice and information.

I found out that Squawk Radio is moving to their own website, so I’ve got to remember to stop by there today. Love those chicks!

I’m reading Jill Shalvis’s Out Of This World, which I’m loving. Jill’s books are always so fun and sexy.

I listened to Janice Lynn’s RWA conference workshop on promotion. I also re-played Nora’s speech to the RWA PRO group, just for fun and inspiration.

What have you been up to? How do you keep from going crazy when you’re waiting and waiting and waiting and waiting...........

American Title III - My Worthy Opponents!!

2006-09-28T11:51:00.000-07:00

The American Title III finalists have found each other! We've started an e-mail loop to keep each other company and share the nerves and the fears—and the FUN. (Because as my old boss Chuck Barris used to say, “If it ain’t fun, don’t do it.” I think he was quoting Groucho Marx, but don’t quote me.)

And to make our loop extra special, we've got past AT winners Janice Lynn and Gerri Russell aboard for advice and counsel.

And by the way, the only reason I'm calling the finalists "my worthy opponents" is because I can use the boxing nuns photo!! I love those boxing nuns!

What we really should be called is winners -- even though nobody's won yet. In fact, the contest hasn't even started. But I figure we're all winners because Dorchester Publishing chose our manuscripts to go forward in the contest, so that means they considered all of us worthy of publication, right? Right! So that's pretty cool.

And as finalists in the American Title contest, we’re all going to be in Romantic Times magazine with our book titles and a little blurb about each of us and excerpts from our books, so that’s an exciting blast of publicity right there! So yeah, we’re winners!

Without further ado, and in no particular order, here are my worthy opponents:

Lindsey Brookes - OPERATION: DATE ESCAPE
Kim Howe – ONE SHOT, TWO KILLS
Meretta Pater – RISING SIN
Jenny Gardiner – SLEEPING WITH WARD CLEAVER
Judi Fennell – BEAUTY AND THE BEST
Sally Stotter – DARE YOU
Raz Steel - PASS THE KRYPTONITE
Linda Thomas-Sundstrom – BARBIE AND THE BEAST
Cathy Pegau - HAUNTED

Oh, and ME! Kate Carlisle – THE KAMA SUTRA CHRONICLES

So that’s us. We’ll be hanging tight for the next six months or so, sharing the joys and sorrows of this insanely amazing contest and in the end, one of us will walk away with a publishing contract with Dorchester. Wish us luck!

Cheers!