M&B on the BBC!

Huge thanks to Liz Fielding for passing along the following:


TIME SHIFT: HOW TO WRITE A MILLS & BOON
Sunday 2nd Nov, BBC4 at 8pm

What happens when a literary novelist tries to write popular romantic fiction? To mark 100 years of romance publishers Mills & Boon, author Stella Duffy takes on the challenge of writing for them. Romantic fiction is a global phenomenon, and Mills & Boon are among the biggest names in the business. The company welcomes submissions from new authors - but as Stella soon finds out, writing a Mills & Boon is harder than it looks. Help is at hand from the publishers themselves, a prolific Mills & Boon author and some avid romance fans, as Stella's quest to create the perfect Mills & Boon takes her from London to Italy. It's a revealing journey that's not only an insight into the art of romantic fiction, but also the joy and frustration of writing itself.


Consuming Passion – 100 Years Of Mills & Boon
Sunday 2 November, 9.00-10.30pm BBC FOUR

Funny, moving and very raunchy, Consuming Passion – 100 Years Of Mills & Boon, written by Emma Frost (Shameless), is a one-off drama that provides an insight into the world of romantic fiction, seen through the publishing phenomenon of Mills & Boon. They are two names synonymous with ripping bodices and one of the most recognisable and compelling genres in literature. So what is behind its phenomenal success?

Interweaving the stories of three very different women, Consuming Passion sheds light on the impact and influence the books have had on women's lives over the last century.

Tonight's first story, within the 90-minute drama, features Mary, wife of Charles Boon – the wheeler-dealer who co-founded the publishing imprint with his upright business partner and trusted friend Gerald Mills. Their decision to take a chance on the low-brow, high-romance genre proved to be so original and successful that it went on to alter the course of publishing history. Although Charles was brilliant at identifying the need for "romance" through literature in his publishing empire, he was less adept at identifying it at home. This story is inspired by the lives of the actual people behind the scenes.

Janet Bottomley is the heroine of tonight's second tale – an ordinary spinster devoted to her ailing mother at her own expense. Janet's life takes a U-turn when she meets a devastatingly handsome consultant, Dr Grant, who must operate on her mother. The meeting triggers Janet's fantastical yearning for romance and a comedy of errors ensues, changing her world for ever. This story is inspired by the real experience of many women in the Seventies, discovering their voices during a time of social and sexual revolution.

Finally, Kirstie's story brings the experience of Mills & Boon up to date. A university lecturer in literature and feminist studies, Kirstie is in a stagnating relationship with her partner, Nick. Thwarted, bored and frustrated, she is lecturing to students on romantic literature and its place within the literary canon when a sexy young stranger, Jack, enters her life.

Jodie Whittaker plays Mary, Daniel Mays plays Charles Boon, Patrick Kennedy plays Gerald Mills, Olivia Colman plays Janet, Patrick Baladi plays Dr Grant, Emilia Fox plays Kirstie, Nick Sidi plays Nick and OT Fagbenle plays Jack.

And the Romantic Novelists' Association take on the EGGHEADS on the Beeb on 4th November.

Foreign Releases for October

Here's a sampling of what's available in languages around the world this month!

In ITALY:

LA PRINCIPESSA SCALZA di CARA COLTER

APPUNTAMENTO A PALAZZO. Siete tutte invitate a un matrimonio da favola! Vi aspettiamo in una calda isola tropicale per celebrare delle incredibili nozze esotiche.

La principessa Shoshauna ha vissuto i suoi primi ventun anni nel massimo rispetto di tutte quelle regole che solo chi appartiene a una famiglia reale può capire. Improvvisamente, però, una minaccia alla sua persona la costringe a celare la regale identità, fingendosi una ragazza qualsiasi. Per Shoshauna è una rivelazione, si sente libera per la prima volta nella vita: può andare dove vuole, vestirsi come più le piace e trascorrere il tempo con Jake Ronan, chiamato a vegliare sulla sua incolumità. Visto che stare vicino a Jake le fa battere forte il cuore, sarà anche libera di sposarsi per amore?

In SWEDEN:

Tre böcker i en:

Lady Gabriellas hemliga liv av Liz Fielding

Den husliga adelsdamen lady Gabriella March är den perfekta förebilden och hennes krönikor inspirerar många läsare. I själva verket heter hon Ellie March och är en städare med författardrömmar. Inspirationen till krönikorna hämtar hon från det hus hon passar åt en bortrest professor.

Men när husägaren Ben Faulkner oväntat återvänder hem hotas Ellies nyvunna karriär. Och Faulkner är inte alls någon gammal tråkig akademiker utan ung, snygg och rolig. Nu har hon två goda skäl att stanna i huset. Det finns bara ett problem: Ben verkar vilja bli av med henne illa kvickt!

Oss vänner emellan av Lucy Monroe

Regel nr. 1: Inga kyssarRegel nr. 2: Inget sexGrant Cortez är inte direkt känd för att leva i celibat, men när det handlar om Zoe, hans bästa vän sedan barnsben, gäller andra regler. Inte ens en oskyldig kyss kan komma på fråga, för vänskapen får inte på något sätt riskeras. Men regeln mot kyssar bryter han snart, och det där med sex … Ja, det återstår att se!

Julens finaste gåva av Jennifer Taylor (åter i tryck)

Trots att hon själv inte har någon större erfarenhet av julfirande går Emma med på att hjälpa Daniel att göra julen minnesvärd för hans systerdotter. Daniels bedjande blickar går ju knappast att motstå och lilla Amy är en riktig sötnos. Det blir en tid av glädje och känslor – Emma inser snart att hon inte vill att deras tid tillsammans ska ta slut!

In PORTUGAL:

Quando se encontra o amor (Minissérie: As flechas de Cupido) por Susan Meier

Nem toda a gente procura o amor… mas e se o amor andar à procura das pessoas?

Surpreendentemente, Bel Capriotti decidiu casar-se com Drew Wallace, todavia, segundo alguns rumores que circulavam pela cidade, por causa da sua ex-mulher, Drew não via o casamento com bons olhos. Embora houvesse outros rumores que diziam que havia um bebé a caminho.

Mas o que toda a gente se perguntava era: porque é que de repente Drew reparara em Bel, que toda a vida estivera apaixonada por ele? Teria Bel conseguido finalmente fazer com que Drew se apaixonasse por ela? Ou estava a acontecer mais alguma coisa...?

In POLAND:

NA ETACIE ŻONY - JESSICA HART

Tyler jest człowiekiem sukcesu, jednak uważa, że gdyby założył rodzinę, jego status i wiarygodność jeszcze by na tym zyskały. Stać go na wynajęcie specjalisty, który znajdzie mu odpowiednią kandydatkę. Zleca to zadanie Mary, poznanej na przyjęciu samotnej matce, zajmującej się rekrutacją pracowników. W końcu bycie żoną to praca na pełnym etacie... Po kilku spotkaniach Mary uznaje, że Tyler żyje w sztucznym świecie, dlatego nie jest gotowy do założenia rodziny. Postanawia zaprosić go go pod swój dach, by przekonał się na własnej skórze, jak wygląda zwykłe, codzienne życie...

In FRANCE:

Un pari sur l'amour de Shirley Jump

Echaudée par l’échec de son premier mariage, Callie se méfie des hommes, et hésite à s’engager de nouveau. Jusqu’à ce qu’elle fasse la connaissance de Harry Faulkner, un chercheur aux allures de top model dont le charme sexy la séduit dès le premier regard. Très vite, les rendez-vous s'enchaînent et pourtant, Callie a l’impression que son compagnon, s'il se dit très amoureux, hésite à donner un tour plus sérieux à leur relation. Intriguée, elle cherche à en savoir plus et ne tarde pas à découvrir que leur rencontre ne doit rien au hasard, et que Harry s'est servi d'elle...

In SPAIN:

Atrapada en el pasado (TRAMA: AMNESIA) por Lucy Gordon

Jamás habría sospechado que aquella pobre inglesa sin memoria pudiera sacarlo de la oscuridad de su vida

Cuando el conde Pietro Bagnelli vio a aquella joven con su vieja maleta a la puerta de su palazzo italiano, supo al instante que debía ayudarla. Le había dado la espalda al mundo, pero no podía ignorar a aquella criatura empapada y abandonada.

Ruth había vuelto a Venecia para recuperar la memoria que había perdido, pero encontró un gran consuelo en aquel conde herido por la vida. Mientras el Carnaval invadía la ciudad, dentro del palazzo se desataba la pasión…

In the NETHERLANDS:

LIEFDE DE BAAS / ITALIAANSE BRUID
Door: JESSICA STEELE, REBECCA WINTERS

Liefde de baas

Liefde en werk gaan niet samen, vindt Taryn Webster, ook al is ze tot over haar oren verliefd op haar baas, de aantrekkelijke Jake Nash. Hij doet er alles aan om haar ook buiten het werk te ontmoeten. Om haar om zich heen te hebben, wringt hij zich in de raarste bochten. Maar zal het hem ook lukken haar ervan te overtuigen dat ze haar principes moet laten varen?

Italiaanse bruid

Ally Parker vertrekt naar Italië om vragen beantwoord te krijgen over het verleden van haar overleden man. Via Gino, hertog van Montefalco, hoopt ze de geheimen die haar teisteren te ontsluieren. Gino stelt echter iets heel anders voor: een huwelijk. Daarmee hoopt hij zijn familie en het familiekapitaal veilig te stellen. Ally staat in dubio, want intussen is ze van hem gaan houden. Maar hoe zit het met zíjn gevoelens

In GERMANY:

INSEL, AUS TRÄUMEN GEBORENvon: CAROL GRACE

Wird auf Hermapolis die Liebe neu erwachen? Hier, auf der traumhaft schönen Insel in der Ägäis, lagen sie einander das erste Mal in den Armen – und hier will Jack seine Frau Olivia zurückerobern! Seit zwei Jahren leben sie getrennt, aber es verging kein Tag, an dem er sich nicht nach ihr gesehnt hat. Und dann stehen sie gemeinsam am weißen Strand, eine warme Brise streichelt ihre Haut, und ihre Blicke versinken ineinander. Stürmisch erwidert Olivia seinen Kuss, doch plötzlich wendet sie sich ab – verzweifelt fragt Jack sich: Gibt sie unserem Glück keine zweite Chance?

Celebrate a Golden Milestone

This month is a very special month for one Harlequin Romance author. That's because award-winning author Jessica Hart is celebrating the release of her FIFTIETH book.

Jessica hosted a party for friends to celebrate and you can get a bit of an account and see pictures - including one of all fifty books lined up on her mantle - on her blog. And there are all sorts of guests and well wishers there, so do pop over and offer your congratulations! You might even have a chance to win something....

Now, let's get a taste of what number 50 is all about:

Last-Minute Proposal by Jessica Hart

Single city girl…

Cake-baker Tilly is taking part in a charity job-swap, and when she's paired with ex-military maverick Campbell Sanderson, they get off to a rather sticky start….

Rugged billionaire tycoon…

Campbell is all hard angles to Tilly's cozy curves. It's the winning that counts for him, and it's clear Tilly will need her hand held every step of the way….

Whirlwind wedding wish!

Despite himself, Campbell finds that something about Tilly always coaxes a smile. But he refuses to be tempted, no matter how bright and bubbly she is! That's before they share a showstopping kiss….

You can read a note from Jessica, reviews, and a cracking excerpt on her site.

Congratulations Jessica!

Do You Want to Write for Harlequin Romance?

The authors at Harlequin Romance think it's the best place in the world to be...writing heartfelt, emotional stories that pair classic themes with a contemporary feel.

The editors clearly think so too. The latest podcast at eharlequin is all about writing for the Romance line:

Editors Kimberly Young and Meg Lewis reveal the secrets to writing a Harlequin Romance. These are short, romantic reads with a lower sensuality level but contemporary and 100% relevant to today's woman.

If you're an aspiring author and want to see what makes a Harlequin Romance, just click on this link to be taken to the podcast page. It runs about 30 minutes and is chock full of great hints about writing for this fantastic line!

Spotlight in October - Ally Blake

This month our Spotlight shines on Harlequin Romance, and new Harlequin Presents author Ally Blake.

Where do you find new and fresh ideas?

Everywhere. They come to me in the shower, watching the news, talking with friends, listening to music, going for a walk. The first idea can be the smallest thing; an image of a beautiful indoor pool, a couple locked in a building in the dark, a restaurant that makes you hand in your mobile phone to the cloak room, these ideas all gave me stories.

My current Harlequin Romance HIRED: THE BOSS’S BRIDE came about after I went to a fine art auction with a friend who had a painting for sale. It was very elegant, very cool, and lots of fun!

Writers often use photos of celebrities as "casting". Do you do this, and who has inspired some of your characters?

Since my very first book, since before I even knew it was a thing writers did! I had Chris Noth of Mr Big fame very much in mind in writing my first hero, and funnily enough Charlotte from Sex and the City looked so much like my heroine it was uncanny. Having those pictures in mind to ground me has meant I’ve done the same thing on every book since! My most used inspiration would be Christian Bale. I’ve been a fan of his since I was 13 years old so I think I can claim him all for my very own!

What are your favourite and least favourite parts of writing a novel? Is there a particular section that you struggle with?

I love the beginning, when everything is new and fresh and exciting, when the page is blank, the possibilities are endless, and I feel blithely unaware of what my hero and heroine are going to put me through. (You’d think after 18 books I’d have leant by now!) I also love typing those two magical words “the end”. To have gone through the wringer with my characters and have all come out the other end in pretty much one piece is always a thrill. My least favourite part? Now that I have a beautiful 10 month old daughter, when deadlines are close I have to lock myself away for a couple of days and let my hubby get to do all the fun cuddly kissy stuff with her while I’m strapped to my computer ;).

When you are not writing, what do you do? How do you pamper yourself?

I follow my little girl around. I clean the spots atop the kitchen cupboards where she manages to fling food. I wash her clothes – which she has far more of than I do. And we read, and cuddle, and dance, and play with her little friends. And every now and then when I’m really lucky my other mum friends and I get to leave the kids at home and go on a shopping date for a whole afternoon!

Imagine you're stranded - where are you and who are you with?

You know what? I’ve love to be stranded right where I am. Snug in my home, with my husband and little girl, our plethora of pets, the sun shining, the sounds of the neighbourhood filtering through the open windows, and a cupboard full of chocolate! My star sign is Cancer. Obvious, huh?

Finally, Ally, please tell us what's up and coming for you in the months ahead!

September, October and November see three releases across North America in three months, which is really exciting.

In September THE MAGNATE’S INDECENT PROPOSAL was my first ever Harlequin Presents release. My latest Harlequin Romance, HIRED: THE BOSS’S BRIDE is out in October in the UK and North America. And A NIGHT WITH THE SOCIETY PLAYBOY is out now in the UK as a Modern Heat, and next month through Harlequin Presents across North America.

October Releases

What a fantastic lineup we have for you this month!

Found: His Royal Baby by Raye Morgan

Crown Prince Dane of Montenevada has just heard the rumors of a secret baby of regal birth. With the kingdom in an uproar, his only choice is to confront the sister of his sworn enemy—the woman who still haunts his dreams.

Alexandra Acredonna has always feared her precious son would be taken from her. Now Dane is furious that she's kept the result of their lost week of passion from him. He offers her an ultimatum, one that will keep her identity hidden from their feuding families. But Alexandra wants more: a place at his side…as his beloved bride.

Read Excerpt

Bride at Briar's Ridge by Margaret Way

Sought-after bachelor Linc Mastermann is used to women falling at his feet. But past experience has taught this handsome sheep baron that women aren't to be trusted. Daniela Adami has come to beautiful Briar's Ridge to escape from her life in London. She's been hurt and her heart is guarded, but when Linc strides into her world he turns it upside down….

Linc only wants to marry to produce heirs to his fortune. He isn't interested in falling in love. Or so he thinks….

Read Excerpt

The Millionaire's Nanny Arrangement by Linda Goodnight

A supersuccessful businessman, the only thing Ryan Storm can't quite get a handle on is his daughter, Mariah. All she really wants is a mom. So he hires the next best thing…. Pregnant, widowed Kelsey Mason isn't Ryan's idea of the perfect nanny, but little Mariah bonds with her straightaway.

Even Ryan starts to fall under Kelsey's spell as she tempts the workaholic to take time off to enjoy his family—a family that might grow into something even more special if Ryan can open his heart again….

Read Excerpt

Last-Minute Proposal by Jessica Hart

Single city girl…

Cake-baker Tilly is taking part in a charity job-swap, and when she's paired with ex-military maverick Campbell Sanderson, they get off to a rather sticky start….

Rugged billionaire tycoon…

Campbell is all hard angles to Tilly's cozy curves. It's the winning that counts for him, and it's clear Tilly will need her hand held every step of the way….

Whirlwind wedding wish!

Despite himself, Campbell finds that something about Tilly always coaxes a smile. But he refuses to be tempted, no matter how bright and bubbly she is! That's before they share a showstopping kiss….

Read Excerpt

Hired: The Boss's Bride by Ally Blake

Mitch Hanover needed someone to bring life to his business!

When Veronica Bing roared up in her pink Corvette, waltzed in wearing skinny jeans and high boots and told him she was the girl for the job—Mitch couldn't help but agree!

But he hadn't bargained on her bringing him back to life!

Veronica had learned the hard way that relationships at work were a bad idea. And gorgeous Mitch had "Bad News" written across his forehead. Even if the attraction zinged between them, and his kisses made Veronica melt, Mitch had lost his beloved wife—and sworn never to love again….

Unless this sassy brunette could change his mind!

Read Excerpt

The Single Mom and the Tycoon by Caroline Anderson

Handsome millionaire David Cauldwell is blown away by sexy and lovely single mom Molly Blythe. He can see she and her young son need his love as much as he yearns for theirs. But falling in love and raising a family means taking risks—for both of them—and first David must face the secret that changed his life….

Read Excerpt

Our September Winner!

Congratulations to Kathleen Evans, our Spotlight in Six prize winner!



Kathleen has won a signed copy of Trish Wylie's THE MILLIONAIRE'S PROPOSAL. Kathleen - if you can e-mail the blog (hrablog@hotmail.com) with your mailing address, we'll pass it on to Trish and she'll send out your prize!

Association of Mills and Boon Authors - Fiona Harper

People think being an author is glamorous. Believe me, if you saw the way I look most of the time I’m writing (trackies, no make-up, hair in a frizz), you’d change your mind. But once in a while, we get to go out, eat nice food, drink nice wine and, best of all, talk! September 18th was one of those days as it was the Association of Mills & Boon Authors lunch, followed by a ‘Toast to the Authors’ by HM&B.

I arrived at Brown’s restaurant near Leicester Square in London a little early to find a few authors already chatting and, before long, the place was buzzing with romance novelists. Harlequin Romance authors were thin on the ground this year, with only Lucy Gordon, Natasha Oakley, brand-new signing Nina Harrington (and me!) in attendance. I really missed meeting up with some of my other ‘Romance’ friends, but there was plenty of laughter and gossip anyway.

I listened in on an interesting discussion between some Presents authors who were competing as to who had the hottest covers. You realise the difference between the cover art in their line and ours when their heroes get to have bare chests and wear nothing but sheets. My latest hero is wearing a cable-knit sweater. Lovely cover, but I don’t think I can compete in the ‘hotness’ stakes. No, siree. But I could definitely triumph in a cover contest based on the ‘Awwwww’ factor.

Dinner was served in one of the old courtrooms above the main restaurant, complete with judge’s bench and chair. On the menu was:

Warm Goat’s Cheese with mixed salad, fig relish and basil oil

Chicken Breast served with mixed roasted pepper tomato Provencal

Rich Chocolate Truffle with raspberry coulis (and yes, it was as good as it sounds!)

After coffee we had speeches from some of the senior staff at Harlequin Mills & Boon. Karin Stoecker, editorial director of M&B, filled us in on how the various series had been doing in the previous twelve months and outlined exciting future plans and projects. Harlequin Romance seems to have been doing well, and ever since the ‘Brides of Bella Lucia’ series, continuities are still proving popular. The current ‘Wedding Planners’ series is doing well and the wonderful blog the authors have created to go along with it was mentioned.

The launch of the Sony Reader in the UK and the rise of the popularity of ebooks was mentioned by Tim Cooper, Director of Direct Marketing/Digital. I’m very exciteda about the whole thing, because my English Lord, Ordinary Lady is pre-loaded on every device sold in the UK at the moment. Way to go, Harlequin Romance!

There wasn’t much time between the end of the lunch and the start of M&B’s party to toast the authors. Time whizzed by so quickly and I can hardly remember all the people I talked to. Harlequin Romance had some some great achievements to toast:

Caroline Anderson
Caroline Anderson’s 75th book.

Liz Fielding’s 50th book.

Jessica Hart’s 50th book.

A RITA nomination in the tough short contemporary category for Natasha Oakley.

Bookseller’s Best win in the traditional category for Donna Alward.

Here’s to Harlequin Romance going from strength to strength in the next 12 months and I hope we have even more successes to toast next year!

Good news for Romance!

This week we're bringing you some fab reviews of this month's releases - as well as another big announcement!

From our Spotlighter Trish's book The Millionaire's Proposal: "Kerry and Ronan are perfect for each other and I fell in love with these two characters right from the beginning of the story. Bravo to Ms. Wylie for writing a romance that not only has two wonderful characters but also beautiful settings and an ending that will leave you breathless. I truly enjoyed this book and I know that it is one that I can read again and again. The Millionaire’s Proposal is a romance to treasure! " Simply Romance Reviews



From The Bridegroom's Secret by Melissa James: "A well-developed heroine, dynamic conflict and a satisfying ending." Romantic Times



Crazy About Her Spanish Boss by Rebecca Winters: "features a spectacular setting and very appealing lovers." Romantic Times



Texas Ranger Takes a Bride by Patricia Thayer: "One of my favorite kinds of books....western, Texas Rangers, cowboys, ranches....Pat definitely knows how to write my kind of novel." E-harlequin reader review



And now for our other big news....



There's a new addition to the Harlequin Romance family!



Mega congrats to Nina Harrington! Nina's debut book with Romance will be out next summer - for right now she's becoming used to that lovely new term: published author! Be on the look out for more news about Nina's debut release in the months to come.


Welcome to the family, Nina!



TIME IS RUNNING OUT! You only have a few more days to enter Trish's contest to win a copy of THE MILLIONAIRE'S PROPOSAL. Just send e-mail to hrablog@hotmail.com with the subject line TRISH to be entered! The draw is on Monday Sept 30!

Oooh la la! Foreign Releases for September!

Here is a small sample of what translations have been put out recently!

And don't forget to enter our contest to win a copy of Trish Wylie's THE MILLIONAIRE'S PROPOSAL by sending an e-mail to hrablog@hotmail.com with the subject line TRISH. This is Trish's "out of the box" book - Simply Romance Reviews said "Bravo to Ms. Wylie for writing a romance that not only has two wonderful characters but also beautiful settings and an ending that will leave you breathless." You're not going to want to miss this one!

Now on to Romance around the world...


NOZZE ALL'INGLESE di FIELDING LIZ (Italy)

Quando si è messa a organizzare un evento speciale come un matrimonio fiabesco non credeva che la sposa sarebbe stata lei!

Allestire eventi è la specialità di Sylvie Smith e inscenare un matrimonio da sogno le pare una buona idea per raccogliere fondi per una causa benefica. Certo, impersonare la parte della sposa lo rende un po' più personale, anche perché Longbourne Court, la dimora ancestrale teatro dell'avvenimento, un tempo apparteneva proprio a lei. Prima di diventare appannaggio di Tom McFarlane.

Bello, affascinante e ricchissimo Tom ha più di una cosa in comune con Sylvie. Entrambi amano la campagna inglese ed entrambi credono nella chimica immediata tra uomo e donna. Come è successo a loro due, cinque mesi prima...


Utan förpliktelser av Jessica Hart (2 in 1, Sweden)

Ekonomisk trygghet och lugn och ro …

Det är vad Lou drömmer om och anledningen till att hon hasplar ur sig frågan ”vill du gifta dig med mig” till sin förmögne chef efter några glas champagne för mycket.

Spetskantade strumpor och snäva kjolar …

Det är vad Patrick börjar fantisera om när han får en kväll på tu man hand med sin vanligtvis så korrekta assistent. Men hennes fråga överrumplar honom. Visst, med Lou vid sin sida skulle han få en värdinna att visa upp i affärssammanhang, samtidigt som deras överenskommelse skulle ge honom möjlighet att fortsätta träffa andra. Men efter några dagar i Lous sällskap börjar Patrick undra om det verkligen är vad han vill …



Coração de mãe por Melissa James (Portugal)

Amava-a realmente… ou só procurava uma mãe para os seus filhos?

Jennifer sentia uma enorme compaixão pelo seu vizinho Noah e pelos seus três filhos. A mãe dos meninos desaparecera há já alguns anos e para o jovem pai cada dia era uma dura batalha. A única coisa que Jennifer podia fazer era tentar encher de amor e de gargalhadas a vida complicada de Noah e, quando finalmente se soubesse a verdade, ajudá-los a superar a terrível perda.Jennifer e Noah negavam há muito tempo a atracção que sentiam um pelo outro, porém de repente Noah pediu-lhe que se casasse com ele…




LINDA GOODNIGHT - TAJEMNICZY KSIĄŻĘ (Poland)

Carly marzy o karierze detektywa i dziennikarki śledczej, jednak jest zbyt niecierpliwa, by sprawdzać wiarygodność "dobrze poinformowanych źródeł". Gdy kolejna rewelacja okazuje się wyssaną z palca bujdą, załamana Carly postanawia zrobić sobie długie wakacje. Wkrótce poznaje równie atrakcyjnego, co tajemniczego mężczyznę. W ramionach Luca zapomina o całym świecie. Wszystko się zmienia, gdy odkrywa prawdziwą tożsamość ukochanego. Wie, że natrafiła na temat, który wyniesie ją na szczyty, ale jeśli ujawni prawdę, straci szansę na wielką miłość...





Le playboy amoureux / Un choix douloureux de Shirley JUMP, Carolyn ZANE (France)


Le playboy amoureux


En découvrant qu’avant de mourir, son oncle lui a légué sa fabrique de jouets, Carter Matthews ne sait comment réagir : l’entreprise est au bord de la faillite, et va l’obliger à abandonner la vie de playboy qu’il se plaisait à mener… Néanmoins poussé par un fort sentiment familial, il accepte de reprendre les rênes de la société. Et tente par tous les moyens de convaincre Daphné Williams, sa voisine, de venir travailler pour lui. Car non seulement Daphné possède toutes les compétences pour l’aider à remettre l’usine à flots, mais avec son caractère simple et spontané, elle provoque également en lui un trouble incontrôlable, contrairement aux femmes sophistiquées avec lesquelles il a l’habitude de s’afficher…


+ 1 roman réédité gratuit : Un choix douloureuxLorsqu’Adeline découvre qu’elle est enceinte, elle estime qu’il est de son devoir de prévenir le père de son futur bébé… Même si elle se doute déjà de sa réaction…



JULIA HOCHZEITSBAND BAND (3 in 1, Germany)

DEIN HERZ KENNT DIE ANTWORTvon: KATE WELSH

"Möchtest du meine Frau werden?"" Caroline ist hin- und hergerissen: Sie weiß, dass Trey nur eine Vernunftehe sucht, sie hingegen will viel mehr von ihm. Caroline fragt sich: Wird der faszinierende Arzt ihr jemals das geben, wonach sie sich so sehr sehnt?"

HAUPTROLLE: LIEBEvon: TRISH WYLIE
Verliebt, verlobt, verheiratet - so steht es im Drehbuch. Caitlin und Aiden sind die Hauptdarsteller der Realityshow. Kein Zuschauer weiß: Sie haben sich nie zuvor gesehen. Gespannt fragt Caitlin sich: Wie wird der Kuss des gut aussehenden Fremden sein?

AFFÄRE VERBOTEN - HOCHZEIT ERLAUBT!von: MICHELE DUNAWAY

Schmetterlinge im Bauch, weiche Knie und das Gefühl, die Welt versinkt um sie herum: Cecile genießt die zärtliche Nacht mit Luke, den sie gerade auf einer Hochzeit kennengelernt hat. Doch am nächsten Morgen erlebt sie eine aufregende Überraschung: Luke ist ihr neuer Boss ...

Spotlight in Six - Trish Wylie

Please welcome Trish Wylie to the Spotlight in Six this month!

A reader favourite, Trish is here to talk about writing in general and her latest Romance release, The Millionaire's Proposal, in particular.

This book is the "Fall Brides" contribution to the "Bride for All Seasons" series...Welcome, Trish!

Where do you find new and fresh ideas?

In the most random of random places frankly. Magazine articles, line from a song, a scene in a movie, a conversation with a friend. It starts with that small random thing and then has a tendency to snowball…

Writers often use photos of celebrities as 'casting'. Do you do this, and who has inspired some of your characters?

Yup. I do. And I even have a theory all my own to go with it. I call it Backwards Casting and you can learn all about it on the Tips Page of my website. These days I even make up story boards with pics of each scene to help me along. In The Millionaire’s Proposal we had the very lovely Hugh Jackman as my inspiration for Ronan and the gorgeous Emily Deschanel of Bones fame as Kerry’s inspiration… I’m a bit of a fan of the tall,dark and handsome hero so a lot of my heroes have had that combo; Kyle Chandler, David Boreanaz, Eric Bana… go Google them. You know you want to ;)

What are your favourite and least favourite parts of writing a novel? Is there a particular section that you struggle with?

My favorite part is the creative stage.The part where your imagination can let loose and run wild and free. My least favorite is of course that horrific middle section of the story when all you want to do is get to the good stuff but your word count says a big fat NO. It’s probably because it involves discipline – and I parted the ways with discipline the second I could afford to buy chocolate on my own…

When you are not writing, what do you do? How do you pamper yourself?

I’m an outdoors kinda gal so I like to go play with my horses or go for walks with the family’s gazillion dogs by the lakes or take trips abroad and go sight-seeing. It helps to balance out the many, many months I spend locked indoors tied to a computer and immobile barring the hand to mouth problem most writers suffer from. I also LOVE a day doing hair and nails followed by an afternoons shopping and dinner out somewhere with the gals. BLISS.

Imagine you're stranded - where are you and who are you with?

Oooohhh. Anywhere??? Can I be stranded on a Fiji island like the one out of this month’s book? I based it on Turtle Island. Doesn’t it look like heaven on earth??? And I think for conversation, mental stimulation and erm… well… you can fill in the blank here yourself… I’d quite like to be stranded with a cross between Nathan Fillion, David Boreanaz and Tom Welling.

Not asking much, am I? And now we can ALL SEE why I’m still single, can’t we?!

Finally,Trish, please tell us what's up and coming for you in the months ahead!

The Millionaire’s Proposal is the last Romance of 2008 for me, (but I do have a Presents out in the States in December). In 2009 I have a February book for the Romance line titled Manhattan Boss, Diamond Proposal. With a hint of Breakfast at Tiffany’s running through it, the book is one of several Diamond Themed books in celebration of Harlequin’s 60th Anniversary in 2009!

NOW COMES THE FUN PART! For your chance to win a signed copy of The Millionaire's Proposal, send an e-mail to hrablog@hotmail.com with the subject line TRISH! You have until the 30th, and then we'll be drawing! Good luck!

September Releases

The Millionaire's Proposal by Trish Wylie

Ronan O'Keefe has everything money can buy. He'd give it all up in an instant to keep the one thing he's losing.

The jet-setting playboy is slowly being robbed of his sight. Alone in New York, Kerry Doyle isn't feeling quite so brave about her trip around the world. Luckily, a millionaire has come to her rescue….

By the time they get to Paris, Ronan doesn't want to let beautiful, bubbly Kerry go. His secret is casting its shadow, but Kerry has lit up his life….

Read Excerpt

The Bridegroom's Secret by Melissa James

The Wedding Planners

With a glittering wedding to plan, Julie Montgomery is the happiest girl in town. Their engagement party is the talk of Boston—but then Julie discovers everyone seems to know more about her groom-to-be than she does….

Matt McLachlan wants to protect his beautiful fiancée from the complications in his life—he only wants good things for her. But Matt has to learn that marriage is about sharing everything, for better and for worse. Before he says "I do," he has to tell Julie a secret….

Read Excerpt

Crazy about her Spanish Boss by Rebecca Winters

Count Remi is a Spaniard who is as proud as he's passionate. He works the land of his ancestors and lives for the Soleado Goyo olive estate.

Jillian Gray has gone to Spain to make a fresh start. She's not sure why Remi hires her; it's clear he's a man used to doing things alone.

Amid the silvery olive groves Jillian brings new ideas and a zest for life into Remi's estate. More importantly, she's awakening her brooding boss's guarded heart….

Read Excerpt

Abby and the Playboy Prince by Raye Morgan

Prince Mychale has come to his mountain château to get away from the world. Instead, the royal bachelor finds himself playing host to runaway Abby and her adorable baby!

Mychale's duty-bound to marry someone of the royal family's choosing. Abby's far from suitable, but to his surprise she makes him feel happy for the first time in years. Abby Donair has taken her sister's baby to her heart with no hesitation, but can she expect a royal prince to do the same…?

Read Excerpt

Wedding at Wangaree Valley by Margaret Way

Master of Wangaree Homestead Guy Radcliffe is from one of the most revered families in the Outback. Now he wants a wife, and a queue of society beauties are at his door! Alana Callaghan is from the wrong side of town and doesn't fit the glamorous, pampered world of the other girls. But that hasn't stopped her from secretly being in love with Guy for years—even though she knows he'll never view her as wife material. A wedding at Wangaree will take place—but can Alana be Guy's bride?

Read Excerpt

Texas Ranger Takes a Bride by Patricia Thayer

Mallory was heartbroken when Chase left. She knew his duty was to save those in need, but he didn't ever realize that Mallory needed him most. Now she can only watch as her boy bonds with the man who once stole her heart. Mallory's bright emerald eyes have long invaded Chase's dreams, but now they hold sadness and fear. It's as though she doesn't realize that he's back to claim his bride as well as his son….

Read Excerpt

August's Winner!

Congratulations to MICHELE PAYNE who has won a copy of FALLING FOR MR. DARK AND DANGEROUS!

Michele your prize will go in the mail later this week!

Come back soon as the September releases will be blogged this week as well.

Special Releases and Contests!

Their Miracle Baby/Bonus book: Making Memories by Caroline Anderson

Centenary Products August 2008 Available in paperback

The baby they thought they’d never have...

Fran Trevellyan is counting her blessings: her marriage to Mike, her little stepdaughter, her home and friends in Penhally. Yet she is haunted by the one thing she wants most of all – a baby – Mike’s baby. After three years of trying, their marriage is taking the strain – until Mike injures his leg and has to rely on Fran for everything. The intimacy rekindles their love and their simmering passion. Can their renewed bond also give them the courage to try one more time to make the baby they’ve always longed for?

SPECIAL BONUS FEATURES INSIDE: Including exclusive free story Making Memories.

What else is cool about this book? Well, it is tied in with the August Centenary competition! Go to THIS PAGE to enter, with the promo code you'll find in Her Miracle Baby for your chance to win.

Don't forget to shop Mills and Boon's SUMMER CLEARANCE event for some wonderful deals!

Mills and Boon has also teamed up with WOMAN'S WEEKLY for a short story writing competition! The prizes are FAB! You can find all the information you need at their webpage.

You only have a few days left to enter the SPOTLIGHT contest for a copy of FALLING FOR MR. DARK AND DANGEROUS! Just send an e-mail to the hrablog@hotmail.com with the subject line DONNA and we're drawing this weekend!

Foreign Releases for August

This month has some fabulous releases available around the world! Check it out...

And don't forget - this is the last week for you to get your name in to win August's Romance release FALLING FOR MR. DARK AND DANGEROUS by Donna Alward. Just send an e-mail to hrablog@hotmail.com with the subject line DONNA to be entered! We'll draw at the end of the week!

FASCINO E NOBILTA di HARPER FIONA

APPUNTAMENTO A PALAZZO. Siete tutte invitate a un matrimonio da favola! Vi aspettiamo nella splendida tenuta di Elmhurst Hall e nei suoi giardini incantevoli e profumati dove il tempo sembra essersi fermato.

Will Radcliffe, il nuovo proprietario di Elmhurst Hall, è l'immagine del perfetto Lord inglese. Ma, nonostante il titolo appena acquisito, sa di non essere ancora pienamente accettato dalla cerchia nobiliare cui aspira. Inoltre, avere alle sue dipendenze una donna affascinante come Josie Harrington, che lavora nella tenuta, non l'aiuterà molto. Messa al bando dall'aristocrazia a cui apparteneva per il comportamento poco convenzionale, Josie è ben felice di essere quello che è: uno spirito libero che ascolta solo il proprio cuore. E adesso il cuore le parla di Will!

WEM GEHÖRT NUR DEIN HERZ? von: LIZ FIELDING

Der Kuss des attraktiven Dr. Ben Faulker löst in Gabriella verwirrende Gefühle aus. Plötzlich brennt in ihr die Sehnsucht nach mehr. Sie möchte diesen wundervollen Mann nie mehr verlassen. Da kehrt seine Exverlobte Natasha zurück – wird Ben ihr erneut verfallen?

TWEELING ZOEKT OUDERS / ZORGEN VOOR TWEE

Door: TESSA CARPENTER, RAYE MORGAN

Tweeling zoekt ouders

Sinds ze tot voogd benoemd is van een babytweeling staat Rachels wereld op zijn kop. Al valt de zorg voor twee veeleisende baby's beslist niet mee, toch kan ze zich een leven zonder die twee druktemakers algauw niet meer voorstellen. Dan staat opeens een aantrekkelijke man op haar stoep. Hij is de andere voogd, en hij laat zich niet zomaar wegsturen...

Zorgen voor twee

De laatste persoon die Mitch Carver verwacht tegen te komen in zijn kantoor, is Darcy Connors, de vrouw die hij maar niet kan vergeten. Maar een leven samen zit er volgens hem niet in; daarvoor verschillen ze te veel. Totdat ze hem vertelt over de tastbare gevolgen van hun weekendje Parijs, enkele jaren geleden. Nee, niet een baby. Twéé baby's... een tweeling!

Directo al corazón por Natasha Oakley

Padre soltero busca esposa…

El modo en que Daniel Ramsey luchaba por criar solo a su hija hizo que Freya recordara el pasado. A pesar de su apariencia salvaje, Freya siempre había soñado con casarse vestida de blanco y un "felices para siempre". Quizá porque así había podido escapar de los problemas de su hogar.

Ahora que era una mujer adulta, bella y con éxito, sabía que podía ayudar a Daniel y a su hija, pero tenía miedo de acercarse demasiado a ellos porque aún ocultaba demasiados secretos. ¿Sería posible que después de tantos años hubiera conocido a un hombre capaz de adentrarse en su corazón?

Un père à épouser de Nicola Marsh

Brody Elliott… Depuis que cet homme énigmatique a emménagé dans la maison voisine de la sienne, Bridget Lewis ne sait comment se comporter vis-à-vis de lui.

Car si ce veuf au charme irrésistible se montre un père tendre et attentionné envers Molly, sa fille de six ans qu’il élève seul depuis la disparition de sa femme, il lui témoigne en revanche, à elle, une froideur qu’elle ne comprend pas. Et alors que, suite à sa dernière déception sentimentale, elle avait résolu de ne plus jamais approcher les hommes, Bridget décide de tout mettre en œuvre pour briser la carapace de ce voisin si mystérieux…

União perfeita por Cara Colter

Eram duas pessoas muito diferentes, mas formavam a equipa perfeita!

Dylan McKinnon era atraente, seguro de si e tinha qualquer coisa que o tornava irresistível para o sexo oposto.

A florista Katie Pritchard sabia muito bem o efeito que Dylan tinha sobre as mulheres, pois era o seu melhor cliente. E, para sua tristeza, ela também ficara fascinada com os seus encantos.

Pareciam o casal impossível e, provavelmente, eram, mas Katie sabia que o playboy era muito mais do que aparentava à primeira vista...