Foreign Release Fun!

We've got scads of releases around the globe this month, but one of the cool things to happen is when someone actually gets to see them on the shelf. Claire Baxter sent me this photo a while ago, courtesy of author Trish Morey who saw it in Crete!

Now for more of our foreign releases this month:

In Germany:

WIE EINE ROSE IN DER WÜSTE von: LIZ FIELDING
Erscheinungstag:Freitag, 21. November 2008
Bestellnummer:0851080180
erscheint in: JULIA EXKLUSIV BAND 0180

Dieser Plan geht auf: Indem er die bekannte Journalistin Rose entführt, lenkt Prinz Hassan al Rashid das Interesse der Weltöffentlichkeit auf sein Emirat und verhindert so einen Umsturz. Ungeplant war, dass Roses Schönheit in ihm einen Aufruhr ganz anderer Art auslöst …

In France:

Une baby-sitter de rêve Rebecca Winters
Novembre 2008 - N° 2191

Quand son frère disparaît avec son épouse dans un accident de la route, Julie est dévastée. Mais elle ne se sent pas le droit de laisser libre cours à son chagrin car Nicky, son neveu de 5 mois devenu orphelin, a cruellement besoin d’une nouvelle maman. En tant que plus proche parente de l’enfant, c’est Julie qui est désignée pour s’occuper de lui. Mais à peine a-t-elle le temps de prendre la mesure du rôle pour le moins délicat qu’on vient de lui confier qu’elle reçoit la visite du richissime Massimo di Rocche, l’oncle de l’enfant. Celui-ci, un macho arrogant et autoritaire, tient à assurer lui-même l’éducation de Nicky et compte bien l’emmener en Italie…

In Italy:

UN SOGNO SOTTO L'ALBERO di JUMP SHIRLEY

Jessica non sa mai resistere a una richiesta di aiuto. Soprattutto se espressa da un uomo con due incantevoli occhi blu.

Non sarà un Natale facile, per Jessica Patterson. Ed è strano per lei sentirsi così poco contagiata dall'atmosfera gioiosa delle feste. Quando un attraente sconosciuto entra nel suo negozio di giocattoli, però, in cerca più di un miracolo che di un regalo, il suo cuore si rianima. Christopher C.J. Hamilton è un papà single che ha appena scoperto quanto sia difficile il mestiere di padre. Forse Jessica potrebbe dargli qualche consiglio? In fondo lei ci sa fare con i bambini, visto che sono i suoi clienti abituali. Quello di cui ha bisogno C.J. è di far trascorrere alla figlia un Natale indimenticabile. Come il sorriso di Jessica.

In Poland:

ALLY BLAKE - NAJWIĘKSZE WYZWANIE

Seria: Imperium rodzinne

Pobyt w Australii okazuje się dla Jodi na tyle przełomowy, że chętnie rozpoczęłaby tu nowe życie. Jest tylko jeden mały problem - by szybko uzyskać pozwolenie na stały pobyt, Jodi powinna poślubić Australijczyka i wytrwać w małżeństwie przynajmniej dwa lata. Zakłada zatem stronę internetową, na której zamieszcza ofertę matrymonialną. Po kilku nieudanych randkach poznaje wreszcie przystojnego i miłego ranczera, lecz on szuka partnerki na całe życie. Mimo to bez namysłu przyjmuje ofertę Jodi...

From Spain:

Cuando llega la pasión por Melissa McClone

Quizá no fuera su ideal de hombre, pero ninguno de los dos podía negar la química que existía entre ambos

La diseñadora de vestidos de novia Serena James no se conformaría con nada que no fuera perfecto y eso incluía al hombre con el que algún día se casaría. Kane Wiley no cumplía ninguno de los requisitos… salvo que era increíblemente guapo.Donde más cómodo se sentía Kane era en el cielo. Para el piloto, la libertad era no comprometerse con nadie. Pero un día, mientras llevaba a Serena a una convención, se vio obligado a hacer un aterrizaje de emergencia.Estaban juntos, solos y pasaría algún tiempo antes de que alguien respondiera a su llamada de socorro…

Spotlight in Six - Melissa McClone

This month we welcome Melissa McClone to the hotseat with her Spotlight in Six!

Where do you find new and fresh ideas?

I find ideas everywhere. Sometimes I hear a song on the radio or I'm watching a movie or show and think "what if..." Magazines, newspapers, books, even eavesdropping provide tons of fodder for book ideas, too.

The idea for my November release, Rescued By the Magic of Christmas, came from two places all related to the same news story. Three climbers went missing on Mount Hood (about an hour and a half from where I live) in December of 1996. I wanted to know more and ended up on a Pacific Northwest Climbing forum. Mountain rescuers who had been part of the search up to that point were posting. One or two had been on the mountain that day.

I thought a man like of these guys (volunteer, dedicated, using skills/talent to help others) would make a great romance hero. The only problem I thought I'd have would be finding the right story. A day or so later, I was watching the rescue mission on a cable news channel when the idea for the book hit me. I grabbed a piece of paper and scribbled out a one page synopsis.

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

I use pictures for "inspiration" all the time. I'm very visual, and though my characters are never that particular person, I need a marker so to speak. Some of my past Harlequin romance heroes have been inspired by Eddie Cibrian, Eric Close, Gabriel Aubry.

For my mountain rescue hero, Jake Porter, I didn't use a celebrity for inspiration, but pictures of actual mountain rescuers. Esquire Magazine provided eleventh hour help with this style spread featuring members of Portland Mountain Rescue. Some of the guys pictured helped me with my research, too!

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

I'll start with my least favorite part...the blank page. I'm what you'd call a rewriter. I much prefer revising to the actual writing part. The other part I've struggled with in the past has been chapters four and five. I seem to hit a big bump after writing the first three chapters for some reason.

My favorite part is writing the end (i.e. the resolution.) I love bringing two characters together so that they can live their happily ever after! And of course, the actual writing of "THE END" is always nice, too.

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

When I'm not writing, I'm taking care of my family. I have three children (ages 10, 8 and 5), three cats and a dog so I keep pretty busy aside from writing.

To pamper myself, I read and I climb. I discovered climbing while researching my November book and fell in love with the sport in spite of my fear of heights. It's the one thing I've found to quiet the voices in my head and allow me to get away from everything whether its for a few hours at the rock gym or a couple of days outside somewhere. The perfect pampering for a writer-mom!

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

Hmmm...I've written two stranded romance novels, and I much prefer the tropical setting in my Silhouette Romance, The Wedding Adventure to the snowy forest in my Harlequin Romance, SOS Marry Me. It's warmer and much easier to find food!

So I'm imagining my husband and I on a sunny island somewhere with the scents of salt water, cocoa butter and rum in the air. But since I hike and climb, there's a better chance I'd actually end up in stranded in a snowy forest with one of my climbing partners!

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

As I mentioned above, Rescued by the Magic of Christmas hits the shelves this month. Blind Date with the Millionaire will be out in June 2009. The book is the third in a trilogy called Blinddatebrides.com with Jennie Adams (book 1 out in April 2009) and Fiona Harper (book 2 out in May 2009.)

Melissa also has an online read going on at the Mills and Boon website! Click here to read her short story, HUSBAND MATERIAL!

November Releases

Some really great releases this month! Take a look....

Her Millionaire, His Miracle

by Myrna Mackenzie

All his life, rich and powerful Jeremy Fulton had needed no one. Now he was going blind—and he had to reveal his secret to the woman he'd once overlooked: the shy and poor Eden Byars. Accepting her temporary help would be hard— and acting on their unexpected attraction unforgivable. Jeremy claimed he had nothing to offer a woman. But Eden wouldn't give up on the man she'd loved from afar for so long. Could she find a way to bring light to this proud millionaire's heart? It would take a miracle….

Read Excerpt


Wedded in a Whirlwind (UK, NA and India)

by Liz Fielding

Miranda Grenville is a survivor—a rare beauty who's fiercely independent. While trekking in a remote island paradise, Manda is caught up in an earthquake. Stuck deep underground in an ancient temple, she finds she's not alone. Sexy adventurer Nick Jago is trapped with her. Now Manda is forced to depend on someone. She knows she shouldn't trust him, but something deep inside of her is falling for this rebel….

Read Excerpt

Rescued by the Magic Of Christmas

by Melissa McClone

Carly Bishop hasn't celebrated Christmas for six years—not since icy Mount Hood claimed her fiancé's life and left her a widow before she was a bride. But this year, handsome Jake Porter is determined she'll enjoy herself. Jake is a mountain rescuer, big-hearted and courageous, but Carly is too scared of loving him in case she loses him. In a whirl of festive fun, sleigh rides and snowball fights, Christmas starts to weave its magic. Though it's Jake who is melting Carly's heart.

Read Excerpt


Blind Date with the Boss (UK, NA and India)

by Barbara Hannay

Sally Finch has come to Sydney for a fresh start—not to flirt with her new boss, brooding Logan Black, no matter how tempting….

Logan is trying to ignore the fun and laughter Sally brings to the office. Yet when he's roped into attending a charity ball, it's bubbly Sally who helps him brush up on his dance steps! She's waltzed into his life, and Logan knows he should walk away but he can't. It takes two to tango—who will make the first move?

Read Excerpt


The Tycoon's Christmas Proposal

by Jackie Braun

With the dreaded holidays nearing, the last thing widowed businessman Dawson Burke needed was a personal shopper who wanted to get personal. What part of “I want to be left alone” didn't Eve Hawley understand? She just seemed intent on getting him into the Christmas spirit….

Eve could see Dawson had stopped wishing on the future, and he didn't know how lucky he was to be surrounded by loving family. But once she'd helped him find the joy he'd been missing, Eve couldn't help wishing Dawson would give her the best Christmas present of all—by proposing to her.

Read Excerpt


Christmas Wishes, Mistletoe Kisses

by Fiona Harper

Three wishes this Christmas…

1. A new life in the country:

It has taken all of Louise Thornton's courage to start again. This will be a different life, one away from the paparazzi— and her cheating celebrity husband!

2. Someone to help decorate the Christmas tree:

Louise is determined to make this Christmas perfect for her son. But it's not until she meets meltingly attractive Ben Oliver that she starts to sparkle again.

3. A proposal under the mistletoe?

Single dad Ben puts his daughter first. But when he catches Louise under the mistletoe, Ben realizes only he can make Louise's wishes come true….

Read Excerpt

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!

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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….

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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!