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Showing posts with label Vicky Dreiling. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Vicky Dreiling. Show all posts

Tuesday, February 24, 2015

Book Review and Giveaways: What a Devilish Duke Desires by Vicky Dreiling

This is an interesting tale of the difficulties facing a Duke falling for a maid in Regency London.
What a Devilish Duke Desires
(The Sinful Scoundrels)

by Vicky Dreiling

  • File Size: 779 KB
  • Print Length: 416 pages
  • Publisher: Forever (February 24, 2015)
  • Sold by: Hachette Book Group
  • ASIN: B00KVK30R4
Genre: Historical Romance
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0


Book Description
Publication Date: February 24, 2015
WILL A FEW FLIRTATIOUS STEPS
Harry Norcliffe never wanted to inherit his beloved uncle's title. The rigidity of the ton, the incessant reminders from his marriage-minded mama that he must settle down with a highborn lady and produce an heir and a spare: it's all such a dreadful bore. So when his mother asks him to take part in a dancing competition, he patently refuses. The last thing he needs is another chore . . . until a beautiful, brilliant, delightfully tempting maid makes him rethink his position.
LEAD TO A SCANDALOUS SEDUCTION?
Most women would be over the moon to be pursued by a wickedly handsome-not to mention wealthy-duke like Norcliffe. But Lucy will not be any man's trophy. She could use a friend, though, and what begins innocently soon ignites into desire. As Lucy tries to resist Harry's scorching kisses, he makes an utterly irresistible offer. Enter the dance contest with him, and win a prize that could change her life forever . . . if falling in love doesn't change it first.


Review:
Harry is a likable rogue who didn’t much worry what the ton thought of him. He is grieving at the death of his uncle and terribly annoyed that he is suddenly being sought after because he has become a Duke. Now, he doesn’t much care what people think because he has enough wealth and position to ignore them. Harry knows he will have to settle down someday and provide a legacy like his other 'scoundrel' friends. But, even with his mother’s manipulations, he isn’t prepared to do that just yet...until he meets Lucy.

Lucy is a beautiful young woman whose parents have died, leaving her to care for her blind grandmother. Lucy loves to dance, a gift she learned from her mother. She dreams of having her own dance studio one day. She works as a maid and a dance assistant just to eek out wages for a dingy apartment in a dangerous part of town.

Harry comes to Lucy’s aid one night when a thief tries to rob her. He is immediately smitten although Lucy is cautious of the intentions of this unknown ‘Sir Galahad’. Lucy knows that their social status it too far apart to allow any relationship between them. But Harry pursues her, convincing her to meet him in the park where their friendly banter grows to caring.

There are many obstacles before them, including Harry’s rather haughty mother. There is some tension added by Lucy’s former employer, a drunken dance instructor, who seeks revenge, blaming her for his loss of position. Lucy herself is the most stubborn objector as she doesn’t want to bring shame and harm to Harry who is responsible for his three female cousins who are just reaching marriageable age.

The premise of the story is engaging and for the most part entertaining. I liked Harry’s devilish, yet gentlemanly, character and his determination to make Lucy his own. I liked Lucy’s determination and ability to -mostly- do what has to be done to protect herself and her grandmother. There are several sections of fun banter between the lead characters and also between Harry and his buddies.

Unfortunately the second half of the book slips in execution. There are repetitions of facts, banter, and even (lackluster) sexual encounters. There are sections of “telling” instead of “showing” and some awkward jumping of threads. It seemed to me as though the book got rushed and no one bothered to give it the final edits, tweaking and polishing it could have used. Although the story is a nice read, I felt it was not up to the standard I expected from the author and publisher. Also I admit annoyance that the blurb is not accurate to the story: Harry and Lucy never enter the dance contest, unless you stretch that to mean the dance caused by their unequal status.

I still recommend it as a fast reading, fun story with a lot of sweetness. Be sure to check out other reviews too as some are more positive than mine.

Buy Links:
Amazon
B&N
iBooks
GooglePlay
Kobo
BAM
I received this from Forever Romance (Hachette) through NetGalley for an honest review. I will include it as part of my NetGalley Challenge and W for Alphabet Soup.


About the author:
Vicky Dreiling is a confirmed historical romance junkie and Anglophile. Frequent business trips to the United Kingdom allowed her to indulge her passion for all things Regency England. Bath, Stonehenge, and Spencer House are among her favorite places. She is, however, truly sorry for accidentally setting off a security alarm in Windsor Castle. That unfortunate incident led her British colleagues to nickname her Trouble. When she's not writing, Vicky enjoys reading, films, concerts, and, most of all, long lunches with friends. A native Texan, she holds degrees in English literature and marketing.
Social Media Links:
Website
Facebook
Twitter
Goodreads

EXCERPT:

Lucy stood behind the table dressed in an apron. A cap covered all but one wisp of her red hair. She handed a glass of lemonade to a matron. When the lady walked away, Lucy lifted up on her toes.
Evidently, she was watching the dancers.
He strolled over to her table. “Lucy?”
Her green eyes widened. “What are you doing here?” she said under her breath. A blush stole over her cheeks. “Sorry, that was foolish.”
“No, it wasn’t. I escorted my mother and cousins . . . I didn’t expect to see you here.”
She wouldn’t be here if she didn’t need the coin, but she couldn’t be earning more than a pittance.
“You are working?” he said. Brilliant, you just sounded like a complete idiot.
“Yes, isn’t it obvious?”
He smiled. “Well, yes. You are well?”
“I am,” she said. “And you?”
“A few minutes ago, I would have said tolerably well, but then I saw you and brightened considerably.
“Flirting again, Your Grace?”
“Who me?” he said, putting his hand to his heart.
She looked over her shoulder and returned her gaze to him. “You had better go.”
He looked behind her.
“What are you about?” she said.
He grinned. “One of your curls escaped the cap.” She attempted to tuck it in.
“Don’t,” he said. “It’s rather fetching.”
“Please go. I cannot afford trouble.”
“No one is paying attention to us. May I have a glass of lemonade?”
“Of course.” She poured and handed the glass to him. He took a sip and puckered his mouth. “It’s
terrible, but I should have expected it. Almack’s is well known for its lackluster refreshments.”
“One would think the ton would serve decent food and drink.”
“Believe me, no one comes here for the refreshments,” he said.
“Except you?” she said in a teasing tone.
He laughed. “I saw you watching the dancers. I wish you could dance with me.”
“I’m working.” She glanced over her shoulder again. “You had better leave before someone notices you’re talking to me.”
He glanced out at the crowd. “No one is paying the least bit of attention. Everyone is focused on the dancers.
“Why aren’t you dancing?” she said.
“I would if you were free.”
“If you wish to flirt, I advise you to choose a lady of leisure. I must work.”
“I wish I could dance the rest of the night with you. I can’t, so I won’t dance at all.”
She shook her head. “I’m not the reason you’re avoiding dancing,” she said. “I know the patronesses changed the rules.”
“Yes, and I narrowly escaped dancing all night with a young lady out in her first season. I felt sorry for her. She couldn’t be a day over seventeen, making her much too young for the likes of me.”
Her eyes narrowed. “Aren’t you expected to dance?”
“I don’t care about expectations.”
She met his gaze straight on. “I wager your family does. I know courtships take place primarily on the dance floor.
“When I decide to court a lady, I will choose the time and place. I make my own decisions, and I answer to no one,” he said.
She arched her brows. “Perhaps a higher power?”
He smiled. “Or a lower one.”
Her mouth twitched in a slight smile. “Does that make you a devilish duke?”
His shoulders shook with mirth. “Clever.”
A rotund maid walked out. “Lucy, give the gentleman a glass of lemonade and be done with it.”
Lucy winced and poured a glass. “Yes, Mrs. Thompson. I’m sorry.”
“It’s not me you owe an apology.” Mrs. Thompson regarded him. “She’s new, but that’s no excuse.
He’d made trouble for Lucy, and he’d better undo the damage. “Mrs. Thompson, I beg your
pardon.” Harry gave her his best flirtatious smile. “The lady did try to discourage me. I take all the blame. "Do forgive me."
Mrs. Thompson’s eyes grew as round as carriage wheels and her face turned pink. “Imagine me forgivin’ you. Carry on, Miss Longmore,” she said, and walked off.
Afterward, Lucy leaned toward him. “Please go now. I can’t risk losing my job.”
The devil. He shouldn’t have teased Lucy. Her words worried him, because she couldn’t be earning much. That only made him wonder how she was managing.
He wandered past the other tables, stopping occasionally to watch her. She and her grandmother lived in a rough neighborhood. That fact only increased his curiosity and his concern. Most likely, she held more than one job, because she couldn’t possibly survive on whatever pittance she earned serving lemonade.
When she caught him eyeing her, she averted her gaze. A lady approached, and Lucy served her a glass of lemonade. Afterward, Lucy looked out at the crowd as if determined to avoid him.
Once again, he was struck by the contradiction of her. He told himself to walk away and forget her, but he couldn’t. She was a riddle, one that he itched to solve, but that was not all. In truth, that one kiss had only made him want more. He wanted to pull her up to her toes and kiss her senseless. He wanted to hold her in his arms. He wanted her to surrender everything to him, but he mustn’t rush her. That one kiss had assured him she was an innocent.
The orchestra ended the tune with a flourish. The master of ceremonies called for silence. The guests moved closer en mass toward the dais where the patronesses sat.
Three ladies inside the refreshment room hurried out to join the throng. Harry consulted his watch. It was half past eleven. He turned around. Lucy was alone.
When he strode toward her, she eyed him warily. He set the half-finished glass of lemonade on the table and leaned closer to her.
“I want to see you again. Meet me at Green Park tomorrow.”
“Why?”
“Because I want to know more about you.”
She shook her head. “I do not think it is a good idea.”
“Who will know but us?” he said.
She narrowed her eyes. “What if one of your friends saw me with you? I can well imagine what they would think of me.”
“They’ll be at Rotten Row during the fashionable hour. No need to worry.”
A roar went up within the ballroom, followed by thunderous clapping. Harry turned around and saw his eldest cousin Mina and Lord Everleigh standing on the dais. “I had better go.”
“Yes, go, and please do not jeopardize my job again.”
He grinned. “I will see you tomorrow.”
“You’re awfully confident, but you are bound for disappointment.”
He looked at her over his shoulder, winked, and walked into the ballroom.

TWO GIVEAWAYS!
RAFFLECOPTER GIVEAWAY:

a Rafflecopter giveaway

ONE PRINT COPY GIVEAWAY
Graciously provided by the publisher:


(Don't forget to fill in the form for entry!
I have noticed a few commenters who forgot to enter through the Form.)
For 3 Extra Bonus entries  (a) comment on the review, OR
(b) Answer this Question: 
Which would you choose? A Wicked Earl, a Reckless Rouge or a Devilish Duke?
OR
(c) visit THE AUTHOR'S WEBSITE and tell me something you like/learned there.

* This contest is open to US/CANADA only for Print Copy.
* This contest will close 5 PM (Central) March 2, 2015.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED after March 2, 2015.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond on the winners form linked in the announcement or by email.

Saturday, June 1, 2013

8 Days of Desire Blog Tour with Vicky Dreiling and Jennifer Haymore -- #Giveaway

8 DAYS OF DESIRE with JENNIFER HAYMORE & VICKY DREILING
@JenniferHaymore
@VickyDreiling
@ForeverRomance

TWO WINNERS CAN WIN A SET OF BOTH BOOKS! Sponsored by Forever Romance.
MUST HAVE US ADDRESS to win.
 ENTRY THROUGH RAFFLECOPTER FORM
a Rafflecopter giveaway


Extra Entries:
  • 2 Extra Bonus PER AUTHOR - if you comment on the Author's 5 Top picks and name your top pick actress and/or actor. Please leave comment on the review posts.
  •  For 2 Extra Bonus entries Visit Vicky Dreiling website and tell me something you find of interest.
  •  For 2 Extra Bonus entries Visit Jennifer Haymore website and tell me something you find of interest.
* Contest is open to anyone over 13 years old
* US mailing address (no PO Boxes).
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on June 14, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED on June 15, 2012.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

#Author Feature and Book #Review: What A Wicked Earl Wants by Vicky Dreiling

This story has wonderful characters, fun dialogue and good conflict that makes it engaging.
What a Wicked Earl Wants (Sinful Scoundrels)
by Vicky Dreiling


  • Mass Market Paperback: 448 pages
  • Publisher: Forever (May 28, 2013)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1455522872
  • ISBN-13: 978-1455522873
Genre: Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0


Book Description
Release date: May 28, 2013 | Series: Sinful Scoundrels
WILL A RAKE'S WICKED WAYS
Andrew Carrington, Earl of Bellingham, believes in being a gentleman, whether it's fishing a soggy stranger out of the Thames or assisting a fetching lady into his bed. If the stranger becomes a friend and the lady a mistress, all the better. He certainly welcomes the opportunity to help Laura Davenport, a dazzling young widow with a rebellious stepson. Her gratitude, he hopes, will take an amorous form. But from the moment he sets foot in her drawing room, he gets far more than he bargained for ...
LEAD THE LADY ASTRAY?
It was a moment of desperation. On the brink of losing her stepson, Laura turned to the notorious Lord Bellingham for help. Suddenly she, a vicar's daughter, is in the precarious position of resisting his tantalizing advances. How Bell earned his wicked reputation is clear; the surprise is how much more there is to him than the gossip sheets could possibly reveal. Now every moment with this dangerously desirable man puts Laura's good name at risk-and promises pleasure unlike any she has ever known ...


Review:
Andrew is a notorious rake who has vowed never to marry. He lost his parents and younger brother to an accident when he was away at University. Although he has never thought it through he apparently figures if he doesn’t get close to anyone he can’t suffer the pain of loss. So all of his relationships are superficial and that is the way he likes it.

Laura is a young widow with a teenage stepson. She loved her husband, although he was twenty four years older. When he became sick shortly after their marriage Laura cared for him through his illness and became mother to young Justin. Justin is now 17 and pushing the boundaries with the wrong friends. He is drinking, carousing and staying out all night.

Andrew, the Earl of Bellington and known as "Bell" is attracted to the beautiful widow. He spots her son hiding a flask at a ball. The next day he calls on Laura to return the flask. They are interrupted by a visit of the boy's uncle and guardian, Montclief, who threatens to take Justin away if he discovers he is misbehaving. In an effort to assure Montclief that she can handle the boy, and he will have male guidance, Laura announces that she and Andrew are engaged.

The attraction between them sizzles but Laura has no plans to marry again. If she did she would want a forever kind of man, not a short term love. Andrew realizes that Laura, as a Vicar’s daughter, is not a woman to dally with. But Andrew allowed the pretend engagement and has committed to help with Justin. The pair spend time together allowing a friendship to grow. The proximity becomes hard to resist and Laura begins to think she will regret it if she doesn’t follow her heart and at least have a short time with Andrew.

I really liked Laura and Andrew. The chemistry between them is wonderful and the dialogue is playful and fun. Montclief’s threat and the emotional walls of the couple keep the story interesting as it moves along. Montclief is a good villain and Laura's friend, Lady Atherton, is lovely secondary character. There is some sexual interaction but it is only a small element of the story that is much richer by reason of the well developed characters and conflict. The story is engaging and the love that grows is sweet and full. I recommend this to romance readers who love it when a rake falls in love! I look forward to more books in this series.

I received this book from Forever/Hachette for an honest review.
I am happy to be participating in a Blog tour for this title and The Duchess Hunt by Jennifer Haymore.


Vicky shares her TOP 5 Favorite Period Actresses with us:
1.       Jennifer Ehle in BBC version of PRIDE AND PREJUDICE
2.       Emma Thompson in SENSE AND SENSIBILITY
3.       Kate Winslet in SENSE AND SENSIBILITY
4.       Gwynneth Paltrow in EMMA
5.       Maggie Smith as the Dowager Duchess in DOWNTON ABBEY (I just love the outspoken matriarchs!)


Learn more about Vicky at:
VickyDreiling.com
Twitter @vickydreiling
Facebook.com/vicky.dreiling

Thursday, April 5, 2012

Book Review and Giveaway: How to Ravish a Rake by Vicky Dreiling

What happens when a bright but shy maiden gets stuck with a bold, devilish rake?


  • Mass Market Paperback: 400 pages
  • Publisher: Forever; Original edition (April 1, 2012)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0446565407
  • ISBN-13: 978-0446565400
Genre: Historical Romance
My Rating:4.25 of 5.0

Publication Date: March 27, 2012
SCANDALOUS DESIRES . . .
Amy Hardwick has one last Season to shake off her wallflower image and make a love match. If she can't, she'll set aside her dreams of romance and return home to a suitor who can provide security-if little else. What she doesn't count on is the inappropriate-and irresistible-attention lavished on her in a darkened library by rake extraordinaire Will "The Devil" Darcett . . .

DEVILISH DELIGHT
When Will is caught in a tryst with the ton's shyest miss, he knows he must offer for her hand. Yet Amy is not the shrinking violet she seems to be. Passion lies beneath her prim exterior and Will is eager to release it. But winning Amy isn't simply a matter of seduction; first, Will must convince her that he's mended his wicked ways . . .


Review:
Amy spent several years as a wallflower but is determined to make this season a success. She is designing remarkable fashions which have already caught the eyes of her friends, other ladies and even some of the men. Even with her cleverness and artistic success, Amy still gets tongue-tied around the gentlemen. The only man that doesn’t intimidate her is the ton “devil.”  She sees right through his arrogant charm.

Will escaped his large family for four years of traveling on the Continent. Now he’s back in town and well known as a ‘devil’ of a rake.  He wants to avoid his family meetings where his elder brother and three sisters meddle and nag. Will plans to go back traveling until his brother asks him to be his steward and tells him the money won’t be provided for more traveling. Will sets out to win the money but ends up with a large debt instead.

Will approaches Amy at the next ball thinking perhaps he can compromise her.  She rebuffs his advances but at a ball a few nights later they are accidentally compromised and forced to wed. Will does the honorable thing proposing to Amy. She is swept along into the marriage but isn’t prepared to consummate the union until they are better acquainted. Will and Amy establish a wager that requires him to court her for three weeks. Will they be able to build a relationship to let their marriage of convenience become a marriage of love?  And what will happen to their fragile trust if they learn of the secrets they are each hiding?

This is a charming story with likeable characters and an interesting conflict. I enjoyed the blossoming courage and strengths in Amy that Will helps to bring out and the hidden tenderness in Will that Amy recognizes. Other characters add interest and fun, especially Will's blunt Aunt Hester. The romance builds nicely and although Will has a healthy sexual appetite the scenes are tastefully done and do not overtake the story. Ms. Dreiling’s pleasantly descriptive writing, humorous situations and witty dialogue make this an easy and enjoyable read. This is the third in a series but would be fine as a stand alone. I recommend this to readers who enjoy when a bright young woman capture and keep the heart of a rake.
~~~~~~~~~~

Amy’s courage:
Until now, she’d thought all of her choices were gone, but she realized she did have a choice. She could decide to make a mockery of the vows she would take or she could do everything possible to make this marriage work. P 152.
Amy’s wisdom:
   “I think people form opinions of others and label them. ... We all take on these identities and let them define us. ...
   “As a child you misbehaved to get attention and took on the identity of a bad boy. You let it define who you are for years, but that is not the Will I know....” P321-322
Thank you to Forever or this book to read, review and share!
This book will be added to my ARC challenge list.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY FOR A CHANCE TO WIN ONE OF THREE PRINT COPIES:

1. Visit the Author's website and tell me something you found interesting.

2.  For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3.  For two extra entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Four total entries possible.)

THERE WILL BE THREE WINNERS.
* This contest is only open TO US and CANADA (Sorry -  I had an ebook "worldwide" clause here when first posted) These are Print copies being given away.
* Limit one win per household.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on April 20, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries and announced on April 21 with 72 hours to complete the winners' form.

Thursday, March 29, 2012

Blog Tour: How to Ravish a Rake by Vicky Dreiling April 1 - 10

Visit me on April 5 for Review and Giveaway of How to Ravish a Rake by Vicky Dreiling
Below are the other tour stops to visit.
Why Should Rogues Have All The Fun?

 
Blog Tour with Author Vicky Dreiling!
 

SCANDALOUS DESIRES . . .
Amy Hardwick has one last Season to shake off her wallflower image and make a love match. If she can't, she'll set aside her dreams of romance and return home to a suitor who can provide security-if little else. What she doesn't count on is the inappropriate-and irresistible-attention lavished on her in a darkened library by rake extraordinaire Will "The Devil" Darcett . .
DEVILISH DELIGHT
When Will is caught in a tryst with the ton's shyest miss, he knows he must offer for her hand. Yet Amy is not the shrinking violet she seems to be. Passion lies beneath her prim exterior and Will is eager to release it. But winning Amy isn't simply a matter of seduction; first, Will must convince her that he's mended his wicked ways . . .


ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Dreiling is a confirmed historical romance junkie and Anglophile. Frequent business trips to the UK allowed her to indulge her passion for all things Regency England. Bath, Stonehenge, and Spencer House are among her favorite places. She is, however, truly sorry for accidentally setting off a security alarm in Windsor Castle. That unfortunate incident led her British colleagues to nickname her "Trouble."
When she's not writing, Vicky enjoys reading, films, concerts, and, most of all, long lunches with friends. She holds degrees in English literature and marketing. A native Texan, she shares her home with her daughter and a spoiled mini-lop rabbit who lives in a slightly gnawed cardboard cottage.You can learn more at: VickyDreiling.net
 
BLOG URL                       POSTING DATE        Tour Participation 
http://maryinhb.blogspot.com    APRIL 1st    Review, Giveaway  http://romancingrakes4theloveofromance.blogspot.com    APRIL 1st    Review, Giveaway, Interview 
http://www.justanothernewblog.com    APRIL 1st    Giveaway   
http://blog.readaholic.info    APRIL 1st    Feature, Giveaway   
http://www.thebookgirl.net    APRIL 2nd    Review, Giveaway   
http://www.masoncanyon.blogspot.com    APRIL 2nd    Giveaway, Interview 
www.mybookaddictionandmore.com    APRIL 2nd    Review, Giveaway, Interview 
http://www.books-n-kisses.com/    APRIL 3rd    Review, Feature, Giveaway, Interview  http://asthepagesturn.blogspot.com/    APRIL 3rd    Feature, Giveaway   
http://saveyspender.com    APRIL 3rd    Review, Giveaway   
http://beasbooknook.blogspot.com/    APRIL 4th    Feature, Giveaway   
http://booksoulmates.blogspot.com/    APRIL 4th    Review, Giveaway 
http://www.frugalplus.com/    APRIL 4th    Review, Giveaway   
http://hangingwithbells.blogspot.com/    APRIL 5th    Feature, Giveaway   
http://paranormalromanticsuspensereviews.blogspot.com    APRIL 5th    Giveaway   
http://marthasbookshelf.blogspot.com/    APRIL 5th    Review, Feature, Giveaway   
my-book-views.blogspot.com    APRIL 5th    Review, Giveaway   
www.sosaloha.blogspot.com    APRIL 6th    Review, Feature, Giveaway   
http://teddyrose.blogspot.com/    APRIL 6th    Feature, Giveaway   
http://readingbetweenthewinesbookclub.blogspot.com/    APRIL 6th    Feature, Giveaway   
http://literaryconnections.blogspot.com/    APRIL 6th    Review, Giveaway, Interview  http://takingtimeformommy.com & http://mommyreadstoomuch.com  APRIL 6th  Review, Giveaway   
http://www.cocktailsandbooks.com    APRIL 7th    Review, Feature, Giveaway   
www.boekiesbookreviews.com    APRIL 7th    Review, Giveaway   
ramblingsfromthischick.blogspot.com    APRIL 8th    Review, Feature, Giveaway   
Lushbookreviewss.blogspot.com    APRIL 8th    Review, Giveaway   
http://readingwithstyle.blogspot.com    APRIL 8th    Review, Giveaway   
http://thefictionenthusiast.blogspot.com/    APRIL 8th    Review, Giveaway   
www.stitchreadcook.com    APRIL 8th    Review, Feature, Giveaway   
karalovesreading.blogspot.com    APRIL 8th    Review, Giveaway   
http://www.sarahsblogoffun.com    APRIL 8th    Review, Giveaway   
http://bodicerippernovels.wordpress.com    APRIL 9th    Giveaway   
marygramlich.blogspot.com    APRIL 9th    Review, Giveaway   
www.demonloversbooksandmore.com    APRIL 9th    Review, Feature, Giveaway   
http://bookslikebreathing.blogspot.com    APRIL 10th    Review, Feature   
http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com    APRIL 10th    Review, Giveaway   
http://ashleysbookshelf.blogspot.com    APRIL 10th    Review, Giveaway   
http://unitedbybooks.blogspot.com/    APRIL 10th    Review, Feature, Giveaway, Interview   
www.seductivemusings.blogspot.com    APRIL 10th    Review, Feature, Giveaway, Interview

Monday, January 24, 2011

BlogTalkRadio Interview with Vicky Dreiling TODAY!

Join us as we interview
Vicky Dreiling, author of HOW TO MARRY A DUKE
Monday, Jan. 24, 2 PM ET
Publisher: Forever Romance, an imprint of Grand Central Publishing


 

BlogTalkRadio/HBG Program:
Join us as we interview Vicky Dreiling, author of HOW TO MARRY A DUKE. Vicky Dreiling is a confirmed historical romance junkie and Anglophile. Frequent business trips to the UK allowed her to indulge her passion for all things Regency England. Bath, Stonehenge, and Spencer House are among her favorite places. She is, however, truly sorry for accidentally setting off a security alarm in Windsor Castle. That unfortunate incident led her British colleagues to nickname her "Trouble." When she's not writing, Vicky enjoys reading, films, concerts, and most of all, long lunches with friends. She holds degrees in English literature and marketing. A native Texan, she shares her home with her daughter and a spoiled mini-lop rabbit that lives in a slightly gnawed cardboard cottage.

Call-in with your questions during show time to participate in the live interview @ (646) 378-0039

Listen-in or chat on the Grand Central Publishing channel on BlogTalkRadio.

If you would like your questions to be read on air by the host or if you would like to give advanced notice of your participation during the live call, email anna.balasi@hbgusa.com.
Other links:
About HOW TO MARRY A DUKE
Check out VickyDreiling.com
Read Vicky Dreiling’s Blog
“Like” Vicky Dreiling on Facebook
Follow @VickyDreiling on Twitter

Wednesday, January 12, 2011

Guest Post - How to Survive and Thrive List for Debut Authors by Vicky Dreiling

Please enjoy this guest post from Vicky Dreiling. You can get a sense of Vicky's humor from this great article! Thanks for sharing Vicky.


Vicky Dreiling’s How To Survive and Thrive List for Debut Authors
How to Celebrate Your First Sale

1.     Squee in your agent’s ear. Apologize profusely afterward.
2.     Call your friends and insist on meeting up at your favorite Mexican food restaurant for celebratory Chambord swirl margaritas.
3.     Spend part of your first advance check on something special – you earned it!
4.     Eat lots of chocolate. It is one of the basic food groups for authors.

How to Prepare for Your First Revision Letter

1.     Buy post-it notes in many colors. They are your friends and make the printed pages look pretty.
2.     You will need the printed version because the page numbers will change as you revise.
3.     Stock up on your caffeinated beverage of choice.
4.     Memorize the phone numbers and/or website addresses of Pizza Hut, the local Chinese Delivery service, and Chili’s to Go.
5.     Eat lots of chocolate. It is one of the basic food groups for authors.

How to be a Glamorous Almost Published Author

1.     Make an appointment with a photographer for your author photo.
2.     Try on several outfits and decide you deserve a new one for the photo.
3.     Smear mascara under your eyes. You’re out of practice putting on makeup since you’ve become a recluse.
4.     Ask the photographer if he can work miracles with Photo Shop.
5.     Eat lots of chocolate. It is one of the basic food groups for authors. 

How to Write Your First Dedication and Acknowledgements 


1.     Sniff a little as you dedicate your book to someone special who helped you make your dream come true.
2.     Thank your wonderful editor whose insights made your book so much better.
3.     Thank your Uber Talented agent who knew exactly how to sell your book.
4.     Sniff a little as you thank all your fabulous writing friends and family members who encouraged you along the journey.
5.     Eat lots of chocolate. It is one of the basic food groups for authors.

How to Stay Sane as You Realize You Didn’t Prepare Enough 

1.     Call your published friends and beg them to tell you what works for publicity. Friends will tell you nobody knows. Don’t freak out. And don’t overspend (Hah!).
2.  Get a professional website. Don’t skimp as this is your window shop to the world.
3.     Social media is not an option. Embrace it. You’ll make friends and gain name awareness.
4.    Admire your Advance Reader Copies. Keep one and give the others away on blog tours.
5.    Eat lots of chocolate. It is one of the basic food groups for authors.

How to Count Down to Your First Publication Date

1.     Remember writing comes first. Facebook and Twitter do not count as writing.
2.     If a less than positive review bothers you, take a look at the reviews for bestselling authors. You’ll be magically cured.
3.     Ignore those bestseller ranking numbers on Amazon. They bounce up and down constantly.
4.     A week or two before your first book signing, take a look in the mirror. If you scream because you look like Medusa, get thee to the hair salon pronto.
5.     It’s here – your book is on the shelves! Take photos in the bookstore and don’t forget to eat lots of chocolate!

How to Marry a DukeHow to Seduce a Scoundrel 

Vicky Dreiling is the historical romance author of HOW TO MARRY A DUKE available now. HOW TO SEDUCE A SCOUNDREL is slated for publication in July 2011.  For more information or to read an excerpt, visit her website at: http://www.vickydreiling.com/index.php

Backcover Copy for HOW TO MARRY A DUKE
Tristan, the Duke of Shelbourne is a man with a mission: find a wife he can tolerate as long as they both shall live. No love is necessary—nor desired. But how to choose amid a dizzying array of wealthy-yet-witless candidates? Hire London’s infamously prim and proper matchmaker. Then pretend she’s not the most captivating woman he’s ever met . . .
Helping a devilish Duke create a contest to pick his perfect mate is the kind of challenge Tessa Mansfield relishes. Her methods may be scandalous, but she’s determined to find the notorious bachelor more than a wife—she’ll bring him true love. Yet when Tessa watches the women vie for the Duke’s affections, she longs to win his heart herself. And after a stolen kiss confirms Tristan’s desire, Tessa knows she has broken a matchmaker’s number one rule: never fall in love with the groom.

Be sure to check out my review and enter the giveaway for a chance to win one of three copies of this fun book!

Book Review and Giveaway, Three Copies, How to Marry a Duke by Vicky Dreiling

A very fun read!
How to Marry a Duke by Vicky Dreiling

  • Mass Market Paperback: 432 pages (Really 396 + other excerpts)
  • Publisher: Forever; Original edition (January 3, 2011)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0446565377
  • ISBN-13: 978-0446565370
Price: Paperback $7.99; Kindle $7.99
Genre: Historical Romance
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0
Product Description
Tristan, the Duke of Shelbourne is a man with a mission: find a wife he can tolerate as long as they both shall live. Love is not necessary--nor desired. But how to choose among a dizzying array of wealthy-yet-witless candidates? Hire London's infamously prim and proper matchmaker. Then pretend she's not the most captivating woman he's ever met...

Helping a devilish Duke create a contest to pick his perfect mate is the kind of challenge Tessa Mansfield relishes. Her methods may be scandalous, but she's determined to find the notorious bachelor more than a wife--she'll bring him true love. Yet when Tessa watches the women vie for the Duke's affections, she longs to win his heart herself. And after a stolen kiss confirms Tristan's desire, Tessa knows she has broken a matchmaker's number one rule: never fall in love with the groom.
Review: I really enjoyed this light historical. The plot has some uniqueness and the characters and dialogue are fun with some sexy innuendo.

Tessa is a 26 year old independent heiress. She does not perceive that she will ever be good enough to marry and considers herself safely on the shelf. But she believes in love and dedicates her efforts to making matches, especially for the wall flowers who need a bit of help.

When the Duke accidently steps on her fan, he at first thinks she is just another silly chit throwing her fan or handkerchief at his feet. However her artless and witty responses throw him off guard. Then when she learns who she is, instead of increasing her flirtation she flees from him. The Duke is intrigued by her and decides that perhaps she can really find him a mate.

Tessa sets up a very unusual courtship/competition to help the Duke pick the right young lady. As she and the Duke spend time together considering the candidates and planning events they develop a friendship.  Of course, he is bound by duty to honor the candidates to select his bride. And her reputation would be ruined if she woos away the groom.

Added to the courtship complications are the machinations of Sherbourne’s mother who I found to be a delightful character even if most view her as a dragon.  Also Tessa’s childhood sweetheart and brother of her best friend suddenly returns after being thought to have been killed in war.  Tessa clearly doesn’t want anything to do with Richard and the reader knows there is a secret history between them. Richard however is relentless in pursuing Tessa even to the point of flouting the proprieties.  This behavior has the Duke on edge and trying any way he can to protect Tessa.

I was surprised that this is a debut novel as it flows so well. The plot is fun and the characters are strong with snappy repartee. I will definitely look forward to Ms. Dreiling’s release of How to Seduce a Scoundrel this summer.


THANK YOU TO HACHETTE FOR PROVIDING THE BOOK FOR MY REVIEW AND FOR PROVIDING THREE BOOKS FOR GIVEAWAY.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY:
1. Visit the Author's website or check out Five Fun Facts and tell me something you found interesting;
One of these is required for entry.  If you do both it will count as two entries.

Make sure you leave your e-mail address!

2.  Two extra entries: Watch the trailer and tell me what you think of it or if you do or don't like trailers.

3.  Comment on the Author's Guest Post for another two entries.

4.  For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

5. For three entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Ten total entries possible.) MAKE SURE YOU LEAVE YOUR E-MAIL!

THERE WILL BE THREE WINNERS!
* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.
* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons.
* Limit one win per household.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on January 28, 2011.
The winners will be randomly selected from all entries.

Thursday, January 6, 2011

Blog Tour: How to Marry a Duke by Vicky Dreiling - January 10-21

I am enjoying reading this book this week! Please note the Author will be visiting as a Guest Blogger on January 12. I will also post my review and the giveaway that day.
See the full blog tour list below.



Tristan, the Duke of Shelbourne is a man with a mission: find a wife he can tolerate as long as they both shall live. Love is not necessary--nor desired. But how to choose among a dizzying array of wealthy-yet-witless candidates? Hire London's infamously prim and proper matchmaker. Then pretend she's not the most captivating woman he's ever met...

Helping a devilish Duke create a contest to pick his perfect mate is the kind of challenge Tessa Mansfield relishes. Her methods may be scandalous, but she's determined to find the notorious bachelor more than a wife--she'll bring him true love. Yet when Tessa watches the women vie for the Duke's affections, she longs to win his heart herself. And after a stolen kiss confirms Tristan's desire, Tessa knows she has broken a matchmaker's number one rule: never fall in love with the groom.

Author Image and Profile

Five Fun Facts

VickyDreiling.com

Vicky on Facebook

Follow @VickyDreiling on Twitter

Vicky's Blog

1/10/2011            http://martasmeanderings.blogspot.com            Review
1/10/2011            http://www.saveyspender.com               Review, Giveaway
1/10/2011            http://yankeeromancereviewers.blogspot.com/              Review, Giveaway
1/10/2011            http://onebookshy.blogspot.com            Feature, Review, Giveaway, Guest Post
1/10/2011            http://www.renees-reads.blogspot.com/           Review, Giveaway
1/10/2011            http://www.libslibrary.blogspot.com     Feature, Giveaway
1/10/2011            http://simplystacie.net Giveaway
1/10/2011            http://startingfreshnyc.com/     Review, Giveaway
1/10/2011            http://thebooktree.blogspot.com           Feature, Giveaway
1/10/2011            http://booksandmakeup.blogspot.com                Giveaway
1/10/2011            http://bridget3420.blogspot.com             Review, Giveaway
1/11/2011            http://maryinhb.blogpsot.com  Review, Giveaway
1/11/2011            http://threeboysandanoldlady.blogspot.com/   Giveaway
1/11/2011            http://paranormalromanticsuspensereviews.blogspot.com        Giveaway
1/11/2011            mybookaddictionandmore.wordpress.com         Feature, Review, Guest Post
1/12/2011            www.booksoulmates.blogspot.com       Giveaway, Q&A
1/12/2011 http://marthasbookshelf.blogspot.com/              Feature, Review, Giveaway, Guest Post
1/12/2011            http://book-obsessed.blogspot.com      Giveaway
1/12/2011            http://cuzinlogic.wordpress.com              Feature, Giveaway
1/13/2011            www.seductivemusings.blogspot.com  Feature, Review, Giveaway, Guest Post
1/13/2011            www.becksbookpicks.blogspot.com       Review, Giveaway
1/14/2011            http://dkay401-challenges.blogspot.com/           Review, Giveaway
1/14/2011            http://theromantictype.blogspot.com/ Giveaway
1/14/2011            http://mindingspot.blogspot.com            Feature, Giveaway
1/17/2011            www.bookwormygirl.com           Review, Giveaway
1/17/2011            http://www.urbangirlreader.com            Review, Giveaway, Q&A
1/18/2011            http://asthepagesturn.blogspot.com/   Review, Giveaway
1/19/2011            http://j-rabbits-corner.blogspot.com     Review, Giveaway
1/20/2011            http://simplyali.blogspot.com    Giveaway, Q&A
1/20/2011            my-book-views.blogspot.com   Review, Giveaway
1/20/2011            http://chrissysworldofbooks.blogspot.com/       Review, Giveaway
1/20/2011            justjenniferreading.blogspot.com            Review, Giveaway
1/20/2011            http://thefictionenthusiast.blogspot.com/          Review, Giveaway
1/21/2011            http://bookslikebreathing.blogspot.com              Review
1/21/2011            http://www.kballard87.blogspot.com    Review, Giveaway
1/21/2011            http://inthehammockblog.blogspot.com              Review, Giveaway
1/21/2011            www.tarmyblogspot.blogspot.com         Review, Q&A
1/13/2010            http://www.masoncanyon.blogspot.com            Giveaway, Q&A
1/21/2010            http://j-rabbits-corner.blogspot.com     Review, Giveaway
1/21/2010            http://teddyrose.blogspot.com/              Giveaway

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