Wolfishly Yours by Lydia Dare

They are opposites and yet very much alike. Both are thought to be beneath the upper crust of English society. When they get together, the ton is in for a surprise.

This is a rough description of author Lydia Dare’s latest protagonists in WOLFISHLY YOURS. Once again Dare pairs an unusual couple for a tantalizing outcome.

Liviana Mayeux finds herself shipped off to England to live with Lord Holmesfield, a grandfather she barely knows. She’s fine running through the swamps of Louisiana with her two Lycan brothers. Now her father and her grandfather want to make a proper lady out of her.

Meanwhile, Grayson Hadley and his brother, Archer, are forced to endure Lady Sophia Cole’s lessons of proper etiquette. His half brother, Lord Eynsford, wants to make gentlemen out of them despite their Lycan ways.

Lord Holmesfield enlists the assistance of Grayson’s mother, Lady Radbourne, to help Liviana become a lady. However, he doesn’t want the Hadley ruffians around her.

Dare has created well-developed characters that are strong, but with quirks and flaws. You’ll quickly believe in the unbelievable. The story moves at a steady pace with a good mix of romance, humor, family, paranormal, and historical setting.

This is the ninth installment in the Westfield Werewolves series, but is a stand alone read. Returning fans will find familiar couples scattered throughout the story, but the references won’t leave new readers in the dark. In fact, new readers might be intrigued to learn the back stories of several of the characters involved with Grayson and Liviana’s adventure.

WOLFISHLY YOURS is a fun read that will draw you in and hold you spellbound till the end. The feisty spirit of Liviana and the sexy charm of Grayson makes for an enticing tale.

Author Lydia Dare’s website is http://www.lydiadare.com/
  
Wolfishly Yours by Lydia Dare, Westfield Wolves Series, Sourcebooks Casablanca, @2012, ISBN: 978-1402263491, Paperback, 384 Pages

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.
 
I’d like to say thanks to everyone for stopping by today. Who you enjoy stories where the paranormal seems normal?

Cowboys and Werewolves, Oh My!

I enjoy a vast array of genres with mysteries being my favorite, but I also enjoy good romance and a bit of paranormal from time to time.

Today I have the latest releases in 2 series I adore. 

ONE HOT COWBOY WEDDING by Caroline Brown 

  

Author Caroline Brown writes about characters that are realistic and lovable - the kind you want to have as a neighbor.

ONE HOT COWBOY WEDDING focuses on how far a friend will go to help another. Along the way the two discover more about themselves and each other than they ever realized.

Brown’s characters are independent and feisty, but have flaws and charm that make for intriguing interaction. She keeps the pace fast and smooth with a number of twists and turns along the way to surprise you.

Hunky cowboy Ace Riley has inherited his grandfather’s ranch and has turned it into a successful business. However, there’s a catch Ace didn’t know about to keep the ranch. He must marry within 2 years and stay married for at least a year. If not, the ranch goes to a cousin who is only after money.

Sexy Jasmine King owns and operates the local diner. She’s been burned by love and has no plans to get involved with anyone again. Being Ace’s best friend, Jasmine offers to marry him and they’ll keep it a secret from their other friends.

Plans go astray when their Las Vegas wedding gets media attention and everyone finds out. From there the turn of events are hilarious, heartwarming, and sometimes steamy as the pair work their way through a pretend marriage to a meaningful relationship.

This is the fourth installment in the Spikes and Spurs series and it just keeps getting better and better. Brown has a way of capturing the heart and soul of all things cowboy (and cowgirl), as well as good wholesome fun.

Author Carolyn Brown’s website is http://carolynlbrown.com/ 

One Hot Cowboy Wedding by Caroline Brown, A Spikes and Spurs Series, Sourcebooks Casablanca, @2012, ISBN: 978-1402253645, Paperback, 384 Pages 

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

 

THE WOLF WHO LOVED ME by Lydia Dare

Author Lydia Dare continues to create characters and situations that stir the imagination but seem realistic at the same time.

While she writes of werewolves, she does so in a way that will have you believing they are as normal as you and me. She gives them flaws and problems that we face daily, along with the extra trouble of being a werewolf. She also sets them in a historical time and setting that adds intrigue to the story.

THE WOLF WHO LOVED ME focuses on the misadventures of Weston Hadley and his longing for his neighbor, Lady Madeline Hayburn. Madeline is a spoiled only daughter and her father is trying to find a husband for her. Wes feels beneath Madeline in society as he has no wealth, is a bit of a rogue, and has a dark secret to match the scar on his face.

When Madeline sees Wes transform into his Lycan form, the shenanigans begin. The story is fast-pace with suspense, romance, sexy werewolves, feisty ladies, and the right amount of humor.

One of the many things I enjoy about Dare’s series is that with each new installment, readers get to know characters better from a previous story. You don’t have to read the books in order, but it does add to the enjoyment if you do.

I’m never disappointed when I pick up a book by Dare. Her stories are always entertaining and lead me to a fantasy world of fun and excitement, not to mention steamy romance.

Author Lydia Dare’s website is www.lydiadare.com

The Wolf Who Loved Me by Lydia Dare, Sourcebooks Casablanca, @2012, ISBN: 978-1402263460, Paperback, 384 Pages 

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

 

What genre do you enjoy for a change of pace in your reading? Thanks so much for stopping by today. Have a wonderful day and remember to share a book with someone.

NEVER BEEN BIT by Lydia Dare

To get completely lost in a story, feel as though you know the characters, and want to be a part of their world to me says the writer has done a wonderful job.

Author Lydia Dare has done that with her Regency Vampyre series and the latest installment, NEVER BEEN BIT, is a great example.

The storyline moves along smoothly, placing the reader in Kent in 1817. While the language may take a bit of getting use to for those new to the series, it is an essential element of the story adding flavor.

Young Sorcha Ferguson is the only member of her coven that remains unmarried. Since meeting her first Lycan, the incorrigible witch has been determined to have a werewolf for a husband. She heads to the Duchess of Hythe’s house party in hopes of finding her very own Lycan.

Alex McQuarrie had come close to dying once and been brought back among the living as an undead, a vampyre. Nothing really matters to Alex anymore, his heart had already been scattered when his true love, Caitrin MacLeod, married Dashiel Thorpe, one of those beastly Lycans. Alex is surprised to see Sorcha at the Duchess’ party. He becomes determined that he’ll not let his childhood friend get mixed up with the likes of Lycans no matter what she thinks she wants.

The journey the pair take from there is filled with laughter, frustration (for them), and sizzling sparks. As the emotions they feel begin to grow and change, the reader is drawn further and further into their world wanting to help the pair connect.

 
NEVER BEEN BIT is an enjoyable read filled with romance, humor and the understanding that love is what matters regardless of the circumstances. Author Lydia Dare has created a world where witches, vampyres, werewolves and humans all live together in a seemingly plausible reality.

This is the third installment in the Regency Vampyre series, but is a stand alone read. There is enough background for those new to the series not to be lost when references are made while at the same time reminding returning fans of the fun adventures prior to this one.

Author Lydia Dare’s website is www.lydiadare.com

Never Been Bit by Lydia Dare, Sourcebooks Casablanca, @2011, ISBN: 978-1402245138, Paperback, 384 pages

FTC Full Disclosure - I requested this book and it was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

Do you enjoy books that sometimes takes you away from the norm and creates an intriguing world of make-believe?

Sunday Salon: Vivid Adventures and Imagination

Sharing good books is one of the fun things about blogdom. Sunday Salon is a great way to find interesting new books each week that take you off on vivid adventures and stir your imagination.

Get comfortable, make sure you have your cup of favorite beverage handy, and we'll talk books. Today I have two interesting books to share. One is listed as paranormal romance, while the other is listed under historical romance but both contain mystery and suspense.

IT HAPPENED ONE BITE by Lydia Dare

When the feisty Scottish witch Blaire Lindsay went with her brothers to Loch Calavie, she didn’t have a clue how drastic her life would change.

Her older brother, Aiden, had inherited Briancraig Castle and was eager to see it. With younger brother, Brannock, in tow off they went. At the castle, Blair soon finds James Maitland, Lord Kettering, imprisoned in the dungeon. By releasing him, she also discovered though her mother shared much about being a witch - she had secrets she had not shared.

The chemistry between Blaire and James is entertaining and keeps your pulse pounding from one encounter to the next. Though their history sees them enemies, they are perfect for each other.

IT HAPPENED ONE BITE is the first in author Lydia Dare’s new vampyre series. A number of characters from the author’s Westfield series help make the transition from werewolves to vampyres smooth. Readers don’t have to have read the Westfield series to keep up, but will be missing out on a lot of enjoyable reading if they don’t.

Blair and James, along with members of her coven, face not only the secrets from long ago, but demons chasing James. This is a fast pace adventure that will draw you in and keep you breathless till the end. Another tantalizing series with characters you can’t wait to learn more about.

Author Lydia Dare’s website is http://www.lydiadare.com/

It Happened One Bite by Lydia Dare, Sourcebooks Casablanca, @2011, ISBN: 978-1-4022-4507-7, Paperback, 416 pages

FTC Full Disclosure - I requested this book and it was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

HIGHLAND HEAT by Mary Wine

Acting first and thinking later has gotten Deirdre Chattan into trouble. This time she’s disgraced herself and her clan.

When her father gives her dowry to the church, there’s nothing left for Deirdre except to go to the convent where her sister, Kaie, is studying to be Mother Superior. Deirdre won’t become a nun, but at least she has a place to stay.

Highlander Quinton Cameron arrives at the convent searching for Joan Beaufort, queen of Scotland. It appears there are those who would hold the queen hostage in order to control the boy King, her son.

Deirdre and Quinton share a brief past or rather one passionate kiss. Sparkles once again fly between the two. Quinton, it seems, doesn’t disapprove of Deirdre but finds her independent streak intriguing.

Later the queen does arrive at the convent and ask Deirdre for help. The queen is trying to make her way to the man she loves. Since Deirdre looks a lot like the queen, she agrees to lead those who would harm her on a merry chase. Thus the adventure begins.

The chemistry between Deirdre and Quinton is electrifying. Author Mary Wine puts a great deal of feeling into her characters. In addition, her detailed description of the land and the era will have you believing you’re there. While the Scottish dialect is a little difficult at first, it adds authenticity to the story.

HIGHLAND HEAT will grab your attendance from the first paragraph and hold you captive until the very end.

Author Mary Wine’s website is http://www.marywine.com/

Highland Heat by Mary Wine, Sourcebooks Casablanca, @2011, ISBN: 978-1-4022-3739-3, Paperback, 384 pages

FTC Full Disclosure - I requested this book and it was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

Any good books you'd like to share? What are you reading today?

Author Lydia Dare Visits

I’m please to welcome back author Lydia Dare, the dynamic writing duo of Tammy Falkner and Jodie Pearson, as the special guest blogger here today at Thoughts in Progress.

Lydia’s latest release, THE TAMING OF THE WOLF, just recently hit the store shelves. Thanks to Lydia and Danielle at Sourcebooks, I have a copy of this intriguing paranormal romance book to give away to 2 lucky visitors who comment on this post between now and 8 p.m. (EST) on Wednesday, Dec. 1. Be sure to include your e-mail address if it’s not included in your profile.

Lydia (aka Tammy and Jodie) stop by today to answer some questions for me about THE TAMING OF THE WOLF and other things.

Mason -- When you began your Westfield Brothers trilogy, did you see this new series coming from that or did it just develop as you went along?

Hey! Thanks for having us today. Since there are two of us who make up Lydia Dare, we’ll try to make sure it’s clear which of us is speaking.

Lydia/Jodie – We are not plotters, so we don’t have any idea what will happen in the next chapter, let alone the next book. When we wrote A CERTAIN WOLFISH CHARM things just unfolded as far as secondary characters, and they kept unfolding throughout TALL, DARK AND WOLFISH and THE WOLF NEXT DOOR. So this book, as well as the trilogy due out next spring and fall, is the culmination of all of that has come before it. As we’re writing we tend to think, will THIS character be a good one later on down the road to have a story of his/her own?

Lydia/Tammy – Each book sparked a new book! I remember when we started playing around with the first book. I don’t think either of us expected it to go anywhere. It was more like a game of round robin. But since neither of us was mired in a project we both said “Why not?”  The Westfield wolves were born, and the rest is history.

Mason -- How do you create the names of your characters?

Lydia/Jodie – Oh, oh, oh! I’ll answer that one! I love naming characters. It is one of my most favorite things. I think you can tell so much about certain characters based on their names. Not that the name creates the character, but that it is all encompassing. The characters “parents” named them, not us – and that choice tells you something about those “parents” as the people who raised the hero or heroine. Does that make sense? I could honestly discuss names all day, but I’m sure I’d end up boring everyone else to death. Tammy will have to tell you what she does with names, it SO cracks me up.

Lydia/Tammy – No, Jodie, it doesn’t make sense. I learned very early on that no matter what name I chose for a character I introduced, Jodie would find fault with it. For some reason, she cares about their parents’ parents. Go figure. So, when I write a scene, I come up with the most absurd name I can think of for the character and I stick it in there. She’s going to change it regardless, so why not have fun with it? Lady Snotbox was a particular favorite of mine. Oh, and I once used Mrs. Givingbirth for a woman who was in labor, an inconsequential character. And Jodie left that one alone! Can you believe that?

Lydia/Jodie – I went back and changed Mrs. Givingbirth eventually. I was more focused on the story at that point. Very pivotal things were happening in that scene. *sigh* I suppose I’m the only one who get’s my name obsession. And through all of this, I don’t think I even answered the original question. I find names through many different sources. But my most favorite baby name book in the world – I call it my bible – is Laura Wattenberg’s THE BABY NAME WIZARD. There are charts and graphs for each name, ranking popularity from 1880 on and “sibling” names. You’ll have to look at the book to see what I mean by that. I love that book.

Mason -- Since there are actually two of you writing the story, do you ever 'role play' a scene if it's not coming together for you?

Lydia/Jodie – We’ve never done that. I’m very character driven and try to get inside my character’s minds and figure out what they would do. I find that if I listen to them, I’m usually ok.

Lydia/Tammy – My characters don’t talk to me, and I’d think I was nuts if they did. I’m much more plot driven than Jodie is.  I can’t begin to imagine role-playing a scene with Jodie. Oh my gosh, that would be hilarious. 

Lydia/Jodie – We’d probably end up strangling each other.

Mason -- With Thanksgiving tomorrow in the U.S., just a couple of fun questions. If the main characters in this story had to bring a dish to Thanksgiving dinner, what would they bring and why?

Lydia/Jodie – Oh, my goodness. I’ve never even thought of such a thing. Let’s see. Umm. Caitrin would bring something like a cherry pie because it is both sweet and tart at the same time. And Dash  - well, he IS a werewolf – so if the moon was full the previous night, he’d probably bring the turkey, you’d just have to check it for teeth marks.

Lydia/Tammy – YUCK, Jodie. Ewwww. Caitrin would check someone’s future to find out what kind of reaction they’d have to a particular food. And if she liked that person, she’d make it something they’d enjoy. If she didn’t, it’d be something that would cause a horrid reaction. Dash would bring whisky, because there’s no better repast for a Regency gentleman.

Mason -- With Thanksgiving in mind, what would each of the main characters be thankful for?

Lydia/Jodie – Before the story starts, I would say that Caitrin would be thankful for her coven and her doting father. Dashiel would be thankful to have just learned that he’s not the only Lycan in existence. After the story ends, of course, they would both be thankful for each other. You didn’t ask  - but I’ll say I’m thankful for Tammy putting up with me and for Deb Werksman for taking a chance on us when no one else knew us from Adam.

Lydia/Tammy  - Ick. Mush. I’m thankful I’m able to put up with Jodie, too. KIDDING! Cait is thankful for her gift, except for when it overwhelms her. Dash is thankful for the next skirt he can chase. Their meeting makes me think of the song I Kissed a Girl. Except in this case, it would be “I bit a girl and I liked it.”  (And so did she.) Chance meetings are always something to be thankful for.

Mason -- What can readers expect next from Lydia Dare?

Lydia/Jodie – We have a whole new trilogy out Spring/Fall 2011. There are some recurring characters, some of the other witches in Caitrin’s coven, in fact. And three very sexy vampires.

Lydia/Tammy – Then we don’t know what’s coming next, but we think maybe some more Lycans. We’ll see!

Oh Lydia (Jodie/Tammy), it’s always fun having you here. Sounds like Caitrin’s coven is in for some intriguing adventures. Can’t wait. Thanks for guest blogging here today and I hope both of you have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

Here’s a brief synopsis of THE TAMING OF THE WOLF : A fresh and imaginative world of noble werewolves, each of whom encounters nearly insurmountable problems in his quest to live a normal life among England’s Regency society.

Dashiel Thorpe has grown up with the sobriquet “The monster of Eynsford.” Each full moon, when he turns into a wild beast, he has been chained to the wall to protect those around him. He has never before encountered a creature like himself, until he goes to visit his university friend and encounters a family of Lycans living just next door.

When the full moon turns the pack of them into wolves, Dashiel’s feral ways bring him to near-disaster, and when he bites Caitrin McLeod he unknowingly sets off a chain of events that could lead to his ultimate destruction.

Banished to Scotland to find a mentor and get trained in how to be a proper werewolf, Dashiel must also find Caitrin and persuade her that she’s his only chance for salvation…

A little background on Lydia, the writing team of Tammy Falkner and Jodie Pearson. Both Tammy and Jodie are active members of the Heart of Carolina Romance Writers and live near Raleigh, North Carolina. They are working together on their next paranormal historical trilogy as Lydia Dare, which will be released by Sourcebooks Casablanca in 2011! For more information, visit http://www.lydiadare.com/.

Sunday Salon: The Taming of the Wolf by Lydia Dare

Just when you thought things were quieting down where the Lycans are concerned along comes Dashiel Thorpe, Earl of Brinsworth, to stir up more trouble.

But sassy Caitrin MacLeod, a beautiful Scottish witch, knows just how to handle Dashiel….or does she?

Dashiel is a rouge Lycan who seeks counsel from the Westfield werewolves in how to tame the beast inside him. Caitrin has traveled to Westfield Hall to help her sister witch, Elspbeth Campbell Westfield. A chance meeting between Dashiel and Caitrin on the night of a full moon brings about life-changing events for both of them.

As the desires of the beast overtook him, Dashiel lost control and claimed Caitrin for his life-mate with one simple nip. He never believed his heart and soul could be captured by one woman until he met and almost lost Caitrin. Meanwhile, Caitrin is confused why she can’t see a future for the dashing Englishman and even more confused by her own desire for him.

Author Lydia Dare has created characters so realistic in their emotions and interaction you begin to believe in witches and werewolves. The playful bickering between Caitrin and Dashiel is enduring. From the first page to the last, readers will be spellbound by the romance and intrigue, as well as drawn to this pair of soul-mates fighting their desires.

THE TAMING OF THE WOLF is the fourth installment in the Westfield series, but is a stand alone book. Dashiel was introduced to readers in the third installment in the series, THE WOLF NEXT DOOR, while Caitrin was introduced in the second installment, TALL, DARK AND WOLFISH. It seems author Lydia Dare has more surprises in store for readers in the coming books in the installment.

This is a savory read that will transport you to a different time and place while leading you into a fantasy world where witches and werewolves are the norm. The feisty and sexy bantering between Caitrin and Dashiel will warm the chill from a cold winter’s day.

The Taming of the Wolf by Lydia Dare, Sourcebooks Casablanca, @2010, ISBN: 978-1-4022-4437-7, Paperback, 384 pages

FTC Full Disclosure - I requested this book and it was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

BTW, I had planned on doing two reviews today, but as you’ve noticed I didn’t. Sorry, I’ll make up for it later this week.

The Wolf Next Door by Lydia Dare

Author Lydia Dare has done it again with her third installment in the Westfield Werewolf trilogy entitled THE WOLF NEXT DOOR.

Can you image your brothers selecting a husband for you just because you’re 19 and have said no to a number of suitors who proposed marriage.

That’s the predicament Prisca “Prissy” Hawthorne finds herself in. Her five brothers have decided to trick their neighbor and long-time friend, Lord William “Will” Westfield, into marriage with Prisca.

Will is the middle brother of the three Westfield Lycans. He, like his brothers, has a reputation as a chaser of light skirts. He has pursued women in his attempt to forget Prissy, who he’s loved since his youth. Meanwhile, Prissy has no desire to marry anyone when her heart has always belonged to Will.

Will and Prissy have a long standing love-hate relationship that neither want to express truthfully to the other or themselves. But unbeknownst to the Hawthorne brothers, Will already has plans to claim Prissy for himself before a stranger has a chance to charm her.

Lydia Dare gives readers insight into the inner emotions of both Prissy and Will. Their feelings of self-doubt, along with their hopes bring them to life. Their trip to the altar and the marriage bed are quite comical. The sparring of the two will keep you spellbound.

THE WOLF NEXT DOOR is a stand alone book. Will’s two brothers and their wives are a major part of the story but first-time readers won’t be at a loss having not read their stories. However, after meeting Simon and Lily, and Ben and Elspbeth, first-time readers will want to know their stories as well.

The introduction of a rouge Lycan - Dashiel Thorpe, the Earl of Brimsworth - adds a new wrinkle to the story. THE WOLF NEXT DOOR features suspense, romance, paranormal events, and adventure with bits of humor well placed throughout.

Lydia Dare has created characters who will pull at your heart strings. These are characters you will want to visit again and again. From the Hawthorne brothers’ first scheming minutes to the surprising twist at the end, you’ll be enthralled with the journey Will and Prissy take to find what they both have always wanted.

Even though this is the end of the trilogy, Lydia Dare has more surprises for readers with a hint of THE TAMING OF THE WOLF at the end of the book. 

Lydia Dare blogs at Casablanca Authors and her website is www.lydiadare.com

The Wolf Next Door by Lydia Dare, Sourcebooks Casablanca, @2010, ISBN: 978-1-4022-3696-9, Paperback, 416 pages

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

Sunday Salon: Tall, Dark and Wolfish by Lydia Dare

TALL, DARK AND WOLFISH - Who could resist a title like that. When this book was offered for review, I was quickly drawn to it. It is the second installment in the Westfield Werewolf trilogy by Lydia Dare.

Even though at the time I had yet to read the first book (A CERTAIN WOLFISH CHARM), I thought this book sounded interesting. The cover and the blurb were catchy, mysterious, and had a bit of suspense to it.

Elspbeth Campbell is a fiery-red headed Scott with emerald eyes. She’s a bit of an outcast from most of the town due to the circumstances of her birth. Despite her lack of acceptance in certain circles, Elspbeth is sought after as the local healer.

Having a kind and gentle heart, Elspbeth never refuses to help anyone. She uses her healing power, along with other gifts inherited from her mother to help the people in her town. She has the aid of four close friends, each who have also inherited special gifts from their mothers.

Lord Benjamin Westfield is the youngest of three brothers. He is known for his womanizing-ways, as well as his sometimes rowdy moods. What isn’t known by many is that Ben and his brothers, like their father before them, are Lycans  - werewolves.

However, Ben has a bit of a problem he can’t bring himself to share with even his brothers. Seems the pull of the full moon has stopped pulling him to turn into a wolf.

Seeking help for his problem, Ben is sent to find the healer. But the healer he seeks (Elspbeth’s mother) is dead and he finds Elspbeth instead.

Through a series of twists, turns and out and out confusion, Elspbeth and Ben are soon fighting their attraction to one another. In addition, they carry a mysterious physical link neither can explain.

Though the description and actions of Ben would melt any female’s heart, Elspbeth is the character that steals the story. Her wit, charm and courage is spellbinding. I can’t help but compare Elspbeth and Ben to the characters Maureen O’Hara and John Wayne played in THE QUIET MAN.

To me the only way this story could have been any better is if it was an audio read by someone with a beautiful Scottish accent. The dialect and descriptions will transform you to Scotland before you finish the first chapter.

TALL, DARK AND WOLFISH is a stand alone book. There are some references, but no missing parts you need from the first book to appreciate this wonderful read. However, once you met Ben you’ll want to find out about his oldest brother, Simon. And soon you’ll be able to learn more about the middle brother, William, in THE WOLF NEXT DOOR due out next month.

Find a comfortable chair because once you start reading TALL, DARK AND WOLFISH, you won’t want to put it down until you finish the final paragraph.

Tall, Dark and Wolfish by Lydia Dare, Sourcebooks Casablanca, @2010, ISBN: 978-1-4022-3695-2, Paperback, 416 pages

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.

Guest Blogger, Lydia Dare

Please join me in giving a warm welcome to debut romance author Lydia Dare as the guest blogger here today at Thoughts in Progress.

As you can tell from Lydia’s photo, “she” is actually the writing team of Tammy Falkner and Jodie Pearson. The duo has teamed up to write “A Certain Wolfish Charm,” the first in a new paranormal historical trilogy.

If you’ll remember my review from Sunday, March 28, “A Certain Wolfish Charm” is oh, so much more than you can image. Thanks to Lydia and Danielle at Sourcebooks, I have two copies of “A Certain Wolfish Charm” to giveaway. Please see the end of the post for details.

Lydia has joined us today to talk about how she keeps her version of werewolves fresh and exciting.

When you think of a Regency-era gentleman, what do you think of? A man who is, of course, sinfully handsome, a wonderful  and passionate lover, and he’s waiting for the love of his life, who can reform him and make him want to bestow all the lessons-in-lovin’ he’s learned throughout the years upon her. 

Right? He’s probably horribly flawed, yet perfect all at the same time. After all, the heroine has to have a purpose, right? She has to transform the rake.

When you think of wolves, what comes to mind?  Wild animals that are fiercely loyal to their pack and their mate. What else do we know about wolves?

They howl at the moon for no discernible reason (to us) and we might even be led to believe they’re controlled by the phases of the moon. Their migration. Their mating rituals. It might be easy for us to have preconceived notions about all of that, right? Yet they’re still fascinating simply because of what they are. 

Now, take the wild wolf and the rakish Regency-era gentleman and combine them.

Lycans are wild men in waistcoats and starched cravats in my fantastical world. They keep all the wild properties of the wolf, but they also keep their familial faith and loyalty, their devotion to their pack, their acceptance of the pack order. Yet they adopt the very things that make men so endearing to the women who love to read romance novels. They take on a little vulnerability and keep all the sinfulness that is the human alpha-rake.

They say a wolf in sheep’s clothing will always be discovered, simply by the deeds he does. But what if he wears the clothing, walks on two feet, follows all of society’s rules (with a little give for the expected bad behavior that makes them so damn lovable), and has more money than the average bloke? Will he still be discovered? Maybe. Maybe not.

That’s what’s fresh and exciting about the Westfields. All three brothers blend into society with very little trouble. They’re handsome and witty and dearly love one another. It’s obvious despite all their griping and arguments. But then finally they each meet that one special woman who makes them want to show her all that he is. And that’s where the excitement comes in. 
Come now… how many women do you know who would not only be intrigued by a man who transforms into a wolf under the light of the moon but would fall in love with him even after finding out his sinful secret?

Simon Westfield, the dangerous Duke of Blackmoor is the oldest of the three brothers who round out the trilogy. And he finally meets Lily Rutledge, who just happens to stumble upon him right before the moon hits its fullest mark. In A Certain Wolfish Charm, Lily not only has to figure out what he is, but she has to make him come to terms with it as well.  Loving him is inevitable, but can she make him accept the beast within as readily as she can?

I hope you’ll read each of these stories to find out what happens with all of these dashing, daring, dominating men.

Here’s a brief synopsis of “A Certain Wolfish Charm” (in stores now): “He gets crankier and crankier as the moon gets full…
 
The rules of society can be beastly—especially when you’re a werewolf and it’s that irritating time of the month. Simon Westfield, the Duke of Blackmoor, is rich, powerful, and sinfully handsome, and has spent his entire life creating scandal and mayhem. It doesn’t help his wolfish temper at all that Miss Lily Rutledge seems not the least bit afraid of him, and in fact, may be as untamable as he is… 
 
A woman whose charm is stronger that the moon…
 
When Lily’s beloved nephew’s behavior becomes inexplicably wild, she turns to Simon, the boy’s cousin and guardian, for help. But Simon’s idea of assistance is far different than hers, and Lily finds herself ensconced in his house and engaged to the rogue. 
 
They both may have bitten off more than they can chew when each begins to discover the other’s darkest secrets… 
 
Lydia (Tammy and Jodie), thanks so much for guest blogging here today. Simon and Lily remind me so much of the old movies with Cary Grant and Katherine Hepburn. With the push and pull between them, as well as the slight arguing they do, I couldn’t help but laugh out loud at some of the things that happened.

Now a little background on Tammy and Jodie, both are active members of the Heart of Carolina Romance Writers and live near Raleigh, North Carolina. They are working together on their next paranormal historical trilogy as Lydia Dare, which will be released by Sourcebooks Casablanca in Spring 2010! For more information, please visit them at http://www.lydiadare.com/.

Now for the giveaway. I have two copies of “A Certain Wolfish Charm” to award to visitors commenting on Lydia’s post between now and 8 p.m. (EST) Saturday, April 17. Be sure to include your e-mail address in the comments if your profile doesn’t include it.

What are your thoughts on men in wolf’s clothing - no wait that’s wolves in men’s clothing?

Sunday Salon: A Certain Wolfish Charm by Lydia Dare

A brief description of this book’s main female character caught my attention. She was only 24, but considered herself “on the shelf,” was devoted to raising her dead sister’s adolescent son alone, and seem to have spunk. I had to know

more.

Lily Rutledge soon found she needed help with her 12-year-old nephew and who better to turn to than the boy’s guardian even though he hadn’t shown any interest in the lad in six years. She was still mystified why her brother-in-law had chosen his cousin as guardian. He wouldn’t even answer her letters.

Little did Lily know that a simple, quick trip to see the Duke of Blackmoor at Westfield Hall would turn her life and the world as she knew it upside down.

Thus begins the tantalizing adventure of “A Certain Wolfish Charm” by debut romance author Lydia Dare.

Simon Westfield, the Duke of Blackmoor, has a scandalous reputation. He is rich, powerful, charming, and devilishly sexy. He keeps the gossip busy with his latest indulgence. He has no time for tedious things like correspondence.

Lily arrives on Simon’s doorstep demanding his help with young Oliver. The once sweet and gentle boy is fast becoming unruly, often given to burst of temper, and growing more rapidly than most youngsters his age. Simon quickly sends Lily away without considering what is troubling the boy. Once he fully realizes the boy’s predicament, he races after Lily to return her to his home and send for the boy.

Lily, glad Simon will finally show Oliver some attention, returns with him. Simon now wants to keep Oliver with him, but Lily will not abandoned her nephew and is determined to stay. Despite his outrageous behavior and scandalous lifestyle, she finds herself drawn to him.

Trying to keep his instincts under control, Simon is instantly pulled to Lily. Her strength and resolve stirs him and he vows to protect her from others and himself at all cost.

The attraction between the two is felt immediately. The push and pull between them only entices the reader in deeper. Add in Simon’s sinfully charming brother, Will, along with the handsome men next door and the pot begins to boil. To top it off, Lily is befriended by Prisca Hawthorne of Langley Downs who loves to stir up trouble for the Westfield men.

This isn’t a murder mystery, even though murder is threaten numerous times and you think on occasion it might happen. The book does have a mysterious element even though it’s billed as a historical romance set in Regency England. “A Certain Wolfish Charm” is oh, so much more.

While the attraction between Simon and Lily heats up, the reader is beguiled as a mystery unfolds surrounding the Westfield men, including Oliver. Lily finds a Lycan family tree and the pieces begin to fall in place.

You’ll be laughing out loud one minute, ready to choke one of the Westfield men the next, all the while loving the relationship that is growing between Simon and Lily. By the time the mystery is revealed, you’ll be a believer already fallen under the spell of “A Certain Wolfish Charm.”

Author Lydia Dare captures the feel of 1816 England while stimulating the readers romantic side and arousing curiosity about a mystery tied to the moon. “A Certain Wolfish Charm” is the first in a trilogy with “Tall, Dark and Wolfish” next and “The Wolf Next Door” to follow.

A Certain Wolfish Charm * Sourcebooks * @2010 * ISBN: 978-1-4022-36945 * Paperback * 384 pages

FTC Full Disclosure - This book was sent to me by the publisher in hopes I would review it. However, receiving the complimentary copy did not influence my review.