Guest Author, Francis Ray & GIVEAWAY!
by sue on Feb.28, 2010, under Book Chat
Setting: Myrtle Beach, South Carolina
Subgenre: Women’s Fiction
Hero: Rafael Dunlap
Heroine: Nathalyia Fontaine
One sentence summary: A bet between friends leads to a passionate romance and redemption..
Scene you like most and would never cut: A difficult question, but I think there are two scenes in IF YOU WERE MY MAN that I really like. Both set the tone for the book. The first scene is that of Rafael and Nathalyia’s initial meeting when he tries to entice her to go out with him to discuss the service at Fontaine, her restaurant. He strikes out big time when she hands him a menu and tells him she isn’t on it. Rafael takes her refusal as a challenge. The chase is on, but who will catch whom.
The second scene is when Jake, the bald-headed bartender and confident of Nathalyia, forgets himself and kisses Clarice, the younger, full-figured waitress he secretly yearns for. Jake has a scar on his heart as well as on his face and back-paddles as fast as he can. However, act-before you-think Clarice is not about to let that happen even if she has to resort to some unorthodox methods.
Thing your heroine would never be caught dead doing/saying: “If you don’t like the food or the service, there’s the door.” Nathalyia lives and breathes Fontaine. It is her duty and also her pleasure to make sure that Fontaine, the restaurant/bar, left to her by her late husband, succeeds. She’ll bend over backwards to ensure that her customers have an exemplary dining experience. Fontaine is more than a restaurant to her, it is a shining example that, although she came from nothing, she has succeeded beyond her wildest dreams and expectations.
What celebrity is your hero like: I think Rafael is like Denzel Washington. Both are gorgeous with a lean, muscular build, charming and charismatic. When needed, both can be a force to be reckoned with. Both have the ‘it’ factor. As a hostage negotiator, Rafael has the intelligence and steely determination to overcome any obstacle placed in his path - be it a criminal or a reluctant Nathalyia.
What celebrity is your heroine like: Nathalyia is a cross between Vanessa L. Williams, and Angelina Jolie. Like Ms. Williams, Nathalyia is stunning with a keen intelligence and quick smile. She’s been down, but hard work has taken her to the top of her profession. She knows how to win people over, but if pushed, like Angelina Jolie, she pushes back.
What is your heroines occupation, or if unemployed, what should she be doing:
Nathalyia is sole proprietor of Fontaine, a popular seafood restaurant/bar near the ocean in Myrtle Beach. The restaurant was entrusted to her by her late husband, the only person in her life who gave to her without expecting something in return. She loves Fontaine and takes her responsibility seriously. She wants nothing to interfere, least of all a man who makes her pulse pound and her body want his.
What is your heroes occupation, or if unemployed, what should he be doing:
Rafael is a hostage negotiator with S.O.R.T. - Special Operations Response Team - with the Myrtle Beach Police Department. He’s very dedicated. Even when he’s off duty he doesn’t drink alcohol because he never knows when he might receive a call from his commander.
What you think readers will like best about this book:
I think readers will enjoy watching playboy Rafael unknowingly fall in love, then have to go all out to win Nathalyia’s love. Women have always come easy to Rafael with his fallen angel looks and easy-going-manner. Not even to himself has he admitted why three weeks is the longest he stays in a relationship. Nathalyia is a woman who makes him forget all the rules he’s lived by when dating - except one - which will test both of them.
The person that readers want you to write about but you haven’t yet:
I received Emails almost on a daily basis asking about Rio. Rio was first seen in ONLY YOU, book # 5 in the Grayson Friends series, then again in THE WAY YOU LOVE ME and ONE NIGHT WITH YOU, books # 1 and #3 in the new Grayson Friends Series. Rio is the strong, silent, gorgeous type. You never know what he’s thinking. His unblinking gaze can be as cold as an ice. He’s deadly and anyone who meets him knows it. He solemnly watched his two best friends, Blade Navarone and Shane Elliott, fall in love. But home and hearth aren’t for Rio. He walks alone. Or so he thinks. There’s a woman waiting for Rio and she’s going to turn his orderly world upside down…and make him like it!!!
What’s next: Coming March 30 is FOREVER YOURS, a reissue and the first book in the Taggart/Falcon series. FOREVER YOURS is a marriage of convenience story. Victoria Chandler needs to marry or lose her chain of lingerie stores, Lavender and Lace. She wants a malleable man who will sign a pre-nup, then get lost until time for the divorce a year later. She gets Kane Taggart, a man who can be controlled as easily as a twister, a man who will settle for nothing less than a lifetime.
****
Thank to Borders for the opportunity to blog. It’s always a pleasure to connect with readers. To thank those who stop by I’m giving away three (3) books in a random drawing. A winner will be selected from blog posts. First prize: a first edition copy of Fallen Angel, my first book published in 1993. Second prize is a copy of UNTIL THERE WAS YOU - the first book in the Graysons of New Mexico series. Third prize is a copy of ONLY YOU, the book in which Rio makes his first appearance. Winners will be notified by email.
I’m always interested in learning what readers think about characters, especially the hero and heroine. I do my best to write about men we can fall in love with and women we can root for. Since I write contemporary romances, I’d like to know your thoughts on the most endearing or annoying characteristic a hero or heroine can exhibit? In other words, what makes you sigh or makes you want to grit your teeth. LOL. Please do not provide specific names, titles or author’s names in your answer.
Thanks again for allowing me to spend time with each of you and I hope that you will write and let me know what you think of IF YOU WERE MY MAN at www.francisray.com.
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About Sue & Borders True Romance Blog
Sue G - Borders True Romance Host - Borders Romance Buyer, reads romance. For her JOB. No, really. You can email Sue at sgrimshaw at bordersgroupinc dot com.
Borders True Romance Blog is a community, developed for you, the romance reader, to find out more about the books you love; the authors who write them & where to buy them :) Borders.com
Previously published as Wishes No Matter How Fast You Run. . .The newborn baby boy is beautiful, perfect, and hers for the asking. All Kate Summers has to do is agree to one condition--she must disappear from Boston and never breathe a word about the adoption to anyone. Or How Far You Go. . .Fifteen years later, Kate has built a good life for herself and her son, Jon, in Hopewell, Oregon. Still, she is haunted by the fear that he will somehow be taken away. Then Daegan O'Rourke arrives in town and strikes up a friendship with her and Jon. But Daegan has his own past to hide--one with shocking ties to hers. A Killer Will Always Find You. . .Someone is watching Kate, watching her son, and is willing to go to any lengths to claim him. And the one man Kate is tempted to trust has dangerous secrets that could change her world forever. Soon the past Kate thought she could outrun will explode, unearthing a legacy of lies and treachery, and a fury powerful enough to kill. . .
Friend Feed
June 21st, 2010 on 2:49 pm
I like this post, as well as this whole website. it is very well constructed and the information that you have presented here is also top notch and a powerful read for me. Please keep writing such great material. Thanks alot.
March 12th, 2010 on 8:17 pm
Great blog and post, keep it up i will be subscribing to your feed!
March 3rd, 2010 on 9:40 pm
Ladies,
The winners:
1st place - 1st edition autographed copy of FALLEN ANGEL
Janice Thomas
2nd place - autographed copy of UNTIL THERE WAS YOU
Estella
3rd place - autographed copy of ONLY YOU
L. Jones
Because I’m late
4th prize - autographed copy of UNTIL THERE WAS YOU
Chocolate Bunni
5th place - autographed copy of UNTIL THERE WAS YOU
Gayle
6th place - autographed copy of YOU AND NO OTHER
Kaetrin
Please send your mailing address to:
francisray@aol.com
Again, thanks to everyone for coming.
Hugs,
Francis
March 3rd, 2010 on 11:33 pm
OOOOH..Ms. Ray..I am sooooooooo over joyed…ThankQ!!!!
God Bless U!!!
Janice Thomas
11 Copeland Street #101
Boston, Ma 02119
March 1st, 2010 on 10:05 pm
A huge hug to everyone who stopped by. I appreciate you so very much. You stuck with me though my plane trip from Columbia at the SC Book Festival back home through today to give people living in different time zones a chance to blog. You are the greatest.
Now, to the contest winners. I must apologize. I didn’t get a change to write all the names down and draw. I think some authors have another system, but I’m going to draw names the old-fashioned way.
I’m finishing up a redo on the front page of my web site, seeing the final cut for my book trailer - which should be up on my web site http://www.francisray.com -by tomorrow, a cool eblast and other promotional things to try and see that IF YOU WERE MY MAN sells well.
Not to disappoint, I’ll list the winners Wednesday. To make up for my lateness, I’ll have 6 winners instead of 3.
Night and wishing you every happiness,
Francis
March 1st, 2010 on 2:35 pm
Hi Ms. Ray,
I just love your books. I fell in love with your writing when I first read “Heart Of a Falcon”. I been on the hunt for your books ever since. That was in 2006 and I can say that have read everything except “Incognito” which I am still un the Hunt for.lol I can’t wait until tomorrow so I can head to Borders to get “If I Were Your Man”.
God Bless and continued success,
Vera D.
March 1st, 2010 on 9:49 pm
Vera, you just made me sigh. In fact, as I read over all the wonderful comments I realized how blessed I am, and so thankful to be able to do something I love. And the big reason is the support of readers. Book sales are crucial, and even more so in the first week of release. In this tough economic climate I appreciate the support even more. I don’t take it lightly.
March 1st, 2010 on 1:04 pm
Hi again, Francis,
I wanted to ask “How do you feel when you see your new book for the first time at Borders or other bookstores? Do you ever get used to that feeling? I know you have had that happen several times now.”
A friend had that happen last week and was so excited.
March 1st, 2010 on 9:44 pm
Seeing a new book on the shelf is a high, but also frightening. You’re proud, but also and scared that no one will buy it. Being published is a roller-coaster of emotions. Fans, readers are what keeps you grounded and makes it all worthwhile. Family support is crucial - at least it is for me.
March 1st, 2010 on 12:57 pm
Hi Francis Ray,
Sorry to be late. Had to come read the blog anyway.
Liked how this blog was set up with the questions and your answers.
I like when he kisses her and her heart is moved.
I really liked how you described your hero and herione.
Denzel Washington and Vanessa Williams-Angelina Jolie.
That will be a good way for people to imagine them as they read: IF YOU WERE MY MAN
March 1st, 2010 on 9:41 pm
Glad you could make it, Janet. A good kisser is important! If nothing moves - move on. LOL.
March 1st, 2010 on 1:31 am
I love when the hero looks at the woman wit love! N I hate it when the hero thinks “well she’s not as beautiful,kinda plain” ugh why can’t the guy be plain n the woman beautiful? Lol oh well haha
March 1st, 2010 on 9:40 pm
Vickey, a beautiful/handsome face might attract you or make you take a second look, but it’s what’s inside that counts. Beauty is no substitute for an ugly heart. Kane, my hero in FOREVER YOURS, isn’t handsome, but his strength of character, his no-nonsense way and his unfailing loyalty to family and friends makes him irresistible.
March 1st, 2010 on 1:09 am
Hugs to everyone who stopped by, Because of the different time zones I’m going to wait until March 01 to select the contest winners. Winners will be notified by mail.
I had a wonderful time and hope you did as well. Thanks to Sue and Borders for allowing me to chat with you about my books, and the release of IF YOU WERE MY MAN on Tuesday March 02.
February 28th, 2010 on 11:57 pm
Hi! I’ll definitely be looking for your book the next time I’m at Border’s. I enjoy reading about a heroine who has a passion in her life that does not involve a man and Nathalyia sounds great.
March 1st, 2010 on 12:13 am
Thanks. Nathalyia lives and breathes Fontaine. It is her duty and her pleasure to see the restaurant thrive. She’s there when it opens, the last one to leave when it closes. Nothing has ever remotely gotten in the way - until Rafael, a man who refuses to take no, a man who sees her as more than a conquest, a man who is willing to do whatever it takes for her to trust him.
February 28th, 2010 on 11:27 pm
Hi Francis
I can’t wait for my copy of If you Were My Man and since I pre-ordered it from Borders, I hope seeing you here is good sign it will arrive shortly. I have been reading your books since 1992 when I discovered Fallen Angel but I must admit Turning Point is my all time favorite book but whatever you write I will always buy so keep on doing what you do and I will always be a fan for life.
February 28th, 2010 on 11:49 pm
Tina, thanks for stopping by. Hopefully your copy of IF YOU WERE MY MAN will arrive Tuesday with your mail. Borders is great.
February 28th, 2010 on 11:14 pm
Wow, a new author I just added to my TBR pile! Awesome! I love strong and witty characters, people I can relate too. I love the stories with police or seals in them, so this one sounds awesome. Thanks for the great giveaway, I would love a chance to read one of your past editions!
February 28th, 2010 on 11:46 pm
Thanks for the post. You’ll see Rafael in action as a negotiator in IF YOU WERE MY MAN. Good luck in the drawing.
February 28th, 2010 on 10:34 pm
Mrs.Ray, I’m pleased to say that I own all of your books and love, love, love them. Your writing style is very engaging and each book leaves me wanting more. I can hardly wait for If you Were My Man I know it will be another great read. Can’t wait to see what you have in store for Ruth Grayson’s story. She needs some romance in her life!!!!
Much continued success and if you keep writing I’ll keep buying.
A Fan Forever,
Darla
February 28th, 2010 on 11:06 pm
Thanks, Darla. It’s time for Ruth to have the same happiness she ensured for each of her 5 children, plus a few more couples. She did need Sierra’s help with Duncan and Raven in ONE NIGHT WITH YOU, but Ruth put the ball in motion. The question is who the man for her will be. The suggestions from readers keep coming.
I appreciate the continued support and will do my best to keep you happily turning the pages.
February 28th, 2010 on 10:34 pm
Ms. Ray,
I’ve been a fan for most of my adult life and will continue to be. I pre-order all your books now. Some of them I have more than one copy of because if I see it in Walmart before it shows up in the mail I just have to buy it. A friend realized I do this and decided to get her own copy (cause i ain’t sharing). Now she just as addicted to your splendid books. Thank you!
February 28th, 2010 on 10:59 pm
I just had to laugh about your comment of not sharing, Good for you, Thanks for getting your friend hooked. Way to go.
February 28th, 2010 on 10:30 pm
Hi Ms. Ray,
Enjoy reading your books and am waiting anxiously for the next installment to the Invincible Women series, “If You Were My Man”. Look forward to your upcoming book signing in Dallas this coming weekend.
February 28th, 2010 on 10:34 pm
Thanks, Deborah. I’ll have prizes at each signing. One is a mouse pad with the cover of IF YOU WERE MY MAN. Sexy! LOL. I do love this cover. It is so right on of Nathalyia and Rafael’s hot romance.
February 28th, 2010 on 10:23 pm
I just had to write and say that I have been a long time reader of Francis Ray. She is one of the reasons that I decided to write. I read The Turning Point/Trouble Don’t Last Always at least twice a year.
March 1st, 2010 on 12:22 am
THE TURNING POINT/TROUBLE DON’T LAST ALWAYS will always have a special place in my heart for very personal reasons. It was my first mainstream. After writing the book I established The Turning Point Legal Fund to assist women of domestic violence. I’m glad the book touched you. A writer with heart and passion is the best kind to read.
February 28th, 2010 on 9:56 pm
Hi Ms Ray!
As always I love your books and can’t wait until the new release! Be blessed. Patsy
February 28th, 2010 on 10:09 pm
Hi, Patsy. Thanks for joining us, and sending the pic.
February 28th, 2010 on 9:48 pm
Thank you for bringing back Forever Yours, Only Hers and Heart of the Falcon. I loaned mine out and never saw them again. This time they’re not leaving my house.
February 28th, 2010 on 10:08 pm
Sadly, I hear a repeat of your story all too often, It’s all right to say no. I’m gently telling all of my readers to keep their books because I’m going to be connecting characters from previous books.
February 28th, 2010 on 9:44 pm
Thanks. I’ll be sure and pick them up.
February 28th, 2010 on 10:05 pm
Great. I appreciate you.
I want to put in a plug for Borders. They have great sales on romance books and coupons. I love a bargain.
February 28th, 2010 on 9:42 pm
Keep writing and I’ll keep reading.
February 28th, 2010 on 10:03 pm
Thanks. I’m going to do my best.
February 28th, 2010 on 9:40 pm
Are you planning to write Mr. and Mrs. Albright’s story?
February 28th, 2010 on 10:03 pm
Mrs. Albright will not have a story. However, I am thinking of writing a story of the divorced parents of the McBrides. We first met them in NOBODY BUT YOU, and recently in ONE NIGHT WTH YOU. Mrs. McBride ‘thought’ the grass was greener. It wasn’t. Now she lives with the heartache and misery of divorcing a man she realized too late she loves. Only thing, the man she divorced isn’t the forgiving type.
March 1st, 2010 on 9:34 am
that would be great if you could write the mother’s story about the grass being greener into a book (just so she can be at peace one way or the other). i think the most endearing quality to a character would be living with passion, and staying true to themselves. that way they won’t have as many or any regrets. it is annoying when a character doesn’t come across as being strong in what they truly want for themselves. what makes us sigh when we read is when in the end the characters have the passion and peace that they desire. what makes us grit our teeth is when they aren’t listening to what their minds and sometimes bodies are saying, and we are just waiting for them to get to the good part. (but that is the whole storyline behind the book usually…lol)
thanks ms. ray for your qualities in your writings that make us all so happy!
February 28th, 2010 on 8:38 pm
Ms. Ray,
Thank you for being here today. Congrats on your new book and I can’t wait to read it. My one and only son is named Kane! You’re new to me so this book will be my first.
February 28th, 2010 on 8:57 pm
Thanks for stopping by. I think you’ll be very please with Kane in FOREVER YOURS due out March 30th. He’s a strong man who knows when to push and when to back off. Most of all, he knows how to treasure a woman and her love.
February 28th, 2010 on 8:24 pm
I’ve been reading you since your first book. I haven’t been disappointed yet. Can’t wait for Tuesday to get my copy of IF YOU WERE MY MAN!
February 28th, 2010 on 8:54 pm
Wonderful! Please let me know what you think of the book.
February 28th, 2010 on 8:19 pm
I adore your writing. I’m ready for all 5 books scheduled for 2010.
February 28th, 2010 on 8:53 pm
Thanks. In case anyone missed a title:
#1 IF YOU WERE MY MAN - March 02nd
#2 FOREVER YOURS March 30th
#3 IT HAD TO BE YOU April 27th
#4 ONLY HERS - August 03rd
# 5 HEART OF THE FALCON - December 7th
With readers support it is going to be a fabulous year!!
February 28th, 2010 on 8:16 pm
I absolutely love your work as an author you are truly blessed and talented. My favorite story is One Night with you and I am eagerly anticipation Rio’s story! I like how both the heroine and the hero’s in your story have realism to their characters. They are complexed people and you do an exemplary job of showing that. I love it when I can actually feel emotions from books and you draw the readers in to your books so easily. You truly are a page turner author!
February 28th, 2010 on 8:47 pm
Diana, thank you so much. I try very hard to write the best book that I can. With NOBODY BUT YOU set in the thrilling world of NASCAR, that meant lots of research. Fortunately, the wonderful marketing director at Texas Motor Speedway was kind enough to invite me to the Dickie 500. It was an incredible experience and helped bring more realism to NOBODY BUT YOU. I actually got to touch Jimmy Johnson’s car # 48. He won that day and went on win the Sprint Cup!
February 28th, 2010 on 7:45 pm
I love a hero who rescues the heroine but I don’t like heroine’s who are TSTL or who can’t help themselves at all. I like a take charge hero but not an “alphole”!
Good luck with your new book Ms. Ray. I’ve never read anything of yours before but the set up of this one sounds interesting.
February 28th, 2010 on 7:59 pm
Glad you dropped by. My heroines would never be TSTL (too stupid to live). They aren’t perfect. They have their doubts, they make mistakes. They might get down, but they never stay that way. As I’ve said, they fight for what they want, fight for those they love.
February 28th, 2010 on 6:58 pm
Ms. Ray,
I just wanted to ThankQ for the gift sharing through the years for you’ve provided some great Reads! I can hardly wait for ” If You Were My Man”! ThankQ once again! Janice/Boston
February 28th, 2010 on 7:55 pm
Janice, thanks for stopping by. Please let me know what you think of IF YOU WERE MY MAN. I admit, it was a pleasure to see Rafael have to work for a woman. When Nathalyia said she wasn’t on the menu, I laughed out loud.
IF YOU WERE MY MAN, unlike the previous Invincible Women series books, is set in Myrtle Beach. As always research was required on the setting, and on police procedure since Rafael is a hostage negotiator. The unit there is called S.O.R.T. - Special Operations Response Team unlike S.W.A.T. - Special Weapons And Tactics - in Dallas.
When I began the series and Rafael was introduced, it seemed natural for him to be a negotiator with his charm and gift for gab. But he’ll need more than charm and gab to get Nathalyia!!
February 28th, 2010 on 6:16 pm
i love, love , love anything and everything written by francis ray!!! i love the way the stories are brought about and continued on and sprouted off of the starting stories. it sometimes seems as if these are real people and this is the families that are created out of the original circle of characters. i love the way the characters are brought into matches with each other by the mother, and they have no idea that this is happening. they see when it happens to the others in their family, but they never see it happening to them. lol… thanks ms. ray for your writings and cannot wait until the new one is out!
February 28th, 2010 on 7:43 pm
Thank you. It’s always a pleasure when readers “get it.” I laugh every time Sierra (ONLY YOU) talks about finding her heart’s desire herself when we all know her mother Ruth picked out Blade Naverone for Sierra. Sierra, known as the Little General, because of her bossy but loving attitude never saw love coming until it was too late, But like a strong woman, she didn’t let Blade’s fear stand in her way. She went after her man and got him!!
February 28th, 2010 on 5:53 pm
Ms. Ray I will certainely enjoy your new book. I have been a fan for years. A few of my favorite books are,Heart of the Falcon, The Bargain and Turning Point. Although , I am looking forward to Rio’s book high on my personal wish list is Ruth story. I want her to have a love like her children. She deserves to be that someone special that has had to great loves in her life. Next on my wish list is Doctor Youngblood’s story. Ms. Ray keep doing what you do best writing entertaining and awesome books.
February 28th, 2010 on 7:38 pm
I’m going to do my best to give you everything on your wish list!! Ruth will have her love story in Book # 7 of the Grayson Friends series. Rio will meet his match in the same book. As for Richard Youngblood, he is finally ready to make his move and let Naomi know he cares, that unlike her abusive ex-husband, she can trust and love him,
February 28th, 2010 on 5:41 pm
Francis,
How are you?I am one of your biggest fans.I love your books, your storylines, and the wonderful characters you create.I can’t wait for your newest release. When will you be coming to Atlanta, GA? Also, I can’t wait for the sequel for I know Who holds Tomorrow. Thanks for all of your books.God bless you.
February 28th, 2010 on 7:29 pm
Thank you for stopping by. I can’t promise I’ll come to Atlanta, but I’ll certainly look into the possibility. I appreciate you wanting me to come. I know it would be a blast!!
February 28th, 2010 on 5:25 pm
Ms. Ray,
Hello. How are you? I am such a big fan of yours. I have read all.but two of your books.I look forward to your newest book release. When are you coming to Atlanta, GA? Happy writing? God’s continued blessings.
February 28th, 2010 on 5:40 pm
Atlanta, like so many wonderful cities, has loads of wonderful romance readers. Nothing is on the schedule, but you never know. If you belong to a book club or have friends who read romance, perhaps you can check with a book store to see if you can work something out. With 5 books coming out in 2010, I really want to get out and meet readers.
February 28th, 2010 on 5:23 pm
Hi Francis, I can’t wait to get my copy of “If You Were My Man” to add to my Francis Ray collection. Can’t wait to read it.
Take Care,
Gayla Clark
Cover2Cover Book Club, Houston, TX
February 28th, 2010 on 5:37 pm
Gayla, how are you? I’m coming to Houston on May 13th at the Smith Neighborhood Library* 3624 Scott Street* Houston, TX 77004* from 6-8 PM. Hope you can come out. Thanks for the fantastic support.
February 28th, 2010 on 4:51 pm
Thank you so very much for signing all of my book yesterday at the SC book festival in Colubmia.
February 28th, 2010 on 5:18 pm
It was my pleasure to sign your books. Thanks for driving up from Georgia for the SC Book Festival. It’s always fun to meet a book lover.
February 28th, 2010 on 4:46 pm
Thanks for the reply.
I hope that you will be flying around the US soon.
More questions. Would you like to have your book signings in another country?
Are any of your recent books printed in another language?
Do you know if any of your books are recorded in another language?
Thanks
February 28th, 2010 on 5:16 pm
My historical, THE BARGAIN, was printed in other languages. When I as in London I thought it would be cool to sign books there.
As far as I know, none of my contemporary books are recorded in other languages. However, some of my books have been recorded.
I learned this weekend while in Columbia that several of my books have been recorded for the blind - which takes a special prqcess. I was very proud to hear this. Especially since the hero in my first mainstream, THE TURNING POINT (renamed TROUBLE DONT LAST ALWAYS) was blind.
February 28th, 2010 on 4:26 pm
I have to say that naive or whiny heroines drive me nuts. I like heroines to be realistic and understand that not everything goes perfectly. Life is full of mistakes.
I haven’t read any of your books before, but I will definitely put them on my to-read list. Your new one sounds fantastic!
Thanks for visiting the blog!
February 28th, 2010 on 4:38 pm
Great comment. Mistakes - who hasn’t made them!! You are so right. You have to realize them, accept them, learn from them and then do better. Life can beat you down, but it’s how you respond that makes the difference. My heroines will always pick themselves up and fight for what they want - just as Nathalyia will in IF YOU WERE MY MAN.
February 28th, 2010 on 4:17 pm
Francis, thank you for stayiung true to the Romance Genre.
February 28th, 2010 on 4:34 pm
Thanks, Janice. As I said, I have the best readers!!! I never want to disappoint any of you.
February 28th, 2010 on 4:09 pm
Ms. Ray,
Well what can be said about an AWESOME writer who has from the first book I read Forever You I fill in love with Kane & Victoria from the beginning, and then Francis go on to give us the Falcon what can you say about Daniel & Dominique and last but not least those Grayson. It has been one good ride after another and I am ready to ride some more.
Smooches
Louise
February 28th, 2010 on 4:31 pm
Sending you a big cyber hug, Louise. My readers!! Wow!! You are the best. I never want to disappoint you and try very hard with each book to make you fall in love with the hero and root for the heroine!!
February 28th, 2010 on 4:07 pm
It would be wonderful for you to have a multi-city tour?
What can we do as fans/readers to get you to come to our cities and bookstores?
Also, what are you working on now?
February 28th, 2010 on 4:25 pm
I love meeting readers as I’ve said. You can contact me personally or work through a local bookstore, who will work with my publisher, to have me come to your city. Book clubs often work together to do this.
February 28th, 2010 on 4:29 pm
Sorry, I forgot to say what I’m working on. My work-in-progress is IF TOMORROW NEVER COMES. It’s a hopeful sequel to I KNOW WHO HOLD TOMORROW, voted by Book Clubs as one of the top 5 books of the year,.
February 28th, 2010 on 4:00 pm
Hi Francis,
Congrats on all your successes. My questions are 1.When you thought/created Ruth Grayson and her trying to find love for her children, is that based on a real person?
2.Matchmaking is extremely hard work, how did Ruth know she was up for the task?
3. Will Ruth have her own story?
4.How many Graysons of New Mexico stories do you plan to write?
5. Will Rio’s story be a “Friends”, “Invincible
Women”, or another series that starts another saga?
Thanks
February 28th, 2010 on 4:22 pm
Thanks for the great questions. #1 about Ruth Grayson as a matchmaker for her 5 children - I created her because I thought she would make a wonderful character as a loving mother who was tired of her children dragging their feet about getting married and decided to give them a little help. LOL.
#2 -A mother’s love and intuition guided her.
#3 There were 5 books in the Graysons of New Mexico series - UNTIL THERE WAS YOU, YOU AND NO OTHER, DREAMING OF YOU, IRRESISTIBLE YOU and ONLY YOU. Although the series ended, since we met many single friends and family members who needed to meet their heart’s desire - even if they didn’t know it - I created the Grayson Friends series. Those books are THE WAY YOU LOVE ME, NOBODY BUT YOU, ONE NIGHT WITH YOU. Book # 4, IT HAD TO BE YOU, is scheduled for release April 27, 2010.
#4 Rio. Readers love Rio and so do I. His book is #7 in the Grayson Friends series.
February 28th, 2010 on 3:59 pm
I cannot wait to read Ms. Ray’s new release. I have really enjoyed all her past novels that I have read. I know this is in the Invincible Women’s series but am also awaiting the next Grayson novel. Thanks Ms. Ray and keep up the good work.
February 28th, 2010 on 4:09 pm
It’s wonderful, caring readers like you who keep me writing, Your support keep me going when the writing gets tough.
Book #4 in the Grayson Friends series, IT HAD TO BE YOU, is due April 27. I have 5 books out this year including the reissue of ONLY HERS, August 02, and HEART OF THE FALCON, December 03, 2010.
February 28th, 2010 on 4:23 pm
Thank you for the thanks, but i truly enjoy what you write. It is fantasy with a touch of reality that kind of makes you believe that it could actually happen. I tend to get so engrossed in one of your novels that I am able to complete them in 24 hours with all the other things I have to do in my day to day. I have been, on occasion, so engrossed in one of your novels that I have stayed up until 2 or 3 in the morning trying to finish. Just cannot put it down because I am so curious of how things would end. Thanks and keep up the good work.
February 28th, 2010 on 9:56 pm
The next Grayson Friends novel, IT HAD TO BE YOU, is coming April 27th, It’s set in Playa del Carmen in the Navarone resort. It’s music producer Zach Albright, Paige’s brother, and Laurel Raineau, Sabra’s sister. I don’t know if it was the tropical heat or what, but they make a very passionate couple.
February 28th, 2010 on 3:54 pm
Hello Mrs. Ray,
I’ve been reading your books for years and I’ve loved each and everyone of them. I actually met you a couple years ago at your booksigning at Jokae’s in Dallas. I’m so ready to get the newest book. I have a reminder set on my phone to go pick it up. I will forever be a fan of your books.
Nakeisha
February 28th, 2010 on 4:04 pm
Nakeisha, thanks for stopping by. Jokae’s has IF YOU WERE MY MAN in stock. I have a book signing there Saturday, March 6th, from 1:30-3 PM. If you can make it, I’l love to see you there.
February 28th, 2010 on 2:47 pm
That cover is hot!
I like a leading lady who says what she thinks and isn’t afraid to go after what she wants.
February 28th, 2010 on 3:13 pm
Thanks for your comment about a strong heroine who isn’t afraid to speak her mind. You’ve just described Nathalyia! In reading IF YOU WERE MY MAN - you’ll see that she’s not the kind of woman to settle.
February 28th, 2010 on 2:37 pm
I like a heroine who is strong , but will still ask for help if needed.
Cannot stand a whiny, TSTL heroine.
February 28th, 2010 on 3:17 pm
I’m with you on not liking a whiney heroine, and one of the reasons I enjoyed writing the Invincible Women series. All of the heroines faces challenges - loss of job, bad reputation, unfaithful husbands, financial problems - but all overcame to not only build a successful life on their own, but find a great man along the way.
February 28th, 2010 on 2:32 pm
Hi, Francis! So lovely to see you here at True Romance : ) Congratulations on your latest release! One of the things that really makes me cringe is excessive profanity, especially from female characters. I was truly shocked when a twelve year old girl repeatedly used the “F” word in a “Home & Family” type romance from a noted publisher. That is not a word that I am used to seeing in that book line, and certainly not from a young girl. She was the only one who cursed in the whole book!
What I do love is fully-developed characters and a detailed story line, no matter what the genre may be. A great supporting cast, whether villains or heroes, is also a bonus! I especially enjoy villains who have many “shades of gray” and make you want to learn more about them as people.
February 28th, 2010 on 3:29 pm
I can tell you enjoy a well-written story. You like to know why. In IF YOU WERE MY MAN there is a villainess that you’ll learn what brought her to this point in her shiftless life and eagerly look forward to her getting what’s coming to her.
February 28th, 2010 on 12:47 pm
Hi Francis,
You are a new to me author. I like the sound so your books!
I dislike when a strong, together heroine turns into a doormat.
February 28th, 2010 on 3:33 pm
Thanks for stopping by. I believe you’ll enjoy my books. Character growth is essential in each book I write. Life might have slapped the women in my Invincible Women series down, but they don’t stay down. They get up and fight for what they want.
February 28th, 2010 on 12:23 pm
I like it when the female lead has a strong will and deals with her problems.
February 28th, 2010 on 3:36 pm
Then you’ll like Nathalyia. She’s successfully ran Fontaine, her restaurant, since the death of her husband. Rafael quickly finds he’ll have to change game plans or perhaps, no games at all, to get her attention,
February 28th, 2010 on 11:57 am
Hi Francis
thanks for being here today - you are a new author to me, but I will check out your books!
to answer your question - the most annoying characteristic for me is when a heroine is too naive; I can’t stand that fact *sigh*
hugs, Ina
March 1st, 2010 on 1:01 am
Thanks for stopping by, I appreciate your willingness to try a new author. One thing Nathalyia isn’t is naive.
February 28th, 2010 on 10:08 am
Hi Francis
I discovered you with the book Nobody But You & have been buying up yuor backlist too. One of your early books, The Turning Point is one of my faves. Love your strong characters. I enjoyed Until There Was You & Only You
February 28th, 2010 on 3:41 pm
I love hearing from new readers, I wish you could see this huge grin on my face. Thank you for looking for earlier books. You’ll find a complete, printable list of books on my web site at http://www.francisray.com. Coming March 30th is FOREVER YOURS, a reissue that has been out of print for years.
February 28th, 2010 on 10:03 am
Hi Francis, You are a new to me author. “if you were my man” has a very interesting premise. I will add this to my TB list.
Love & Hugs,
Pam
February 28th, 2010 on 3:50 pm
Thanks, Pam. Please let me know your thoughts once you’ve finished IF YOU WERE MY MAN. I’m always interested in learning what readers have to say about my books. You can reach me at : francisray@aol.com.
February 28th, 2010 on 8:59 am
Love your books. Have a safe trip.
February 28th, 2010 on 3:41 pm
Thanks. I’m home and enjoying the blog.
February 28th, 2010 on 8:57 am
Waiting on the car to take me to the airport. I wanted to dash back and let you know that you can post questions or comments and I’ll check when I get home. Please don’t wait on me. LOL.
Hugs,
Francis
February 28th, 2010 on 8:37 am
Good morning, everyone. Thank you for stopping by. I also want to thank Sue and Borders for having me. I’m excited about connecting with readers, and about the release on March 02 of IF YOU WERE MY MAN, the 6th book in the Invincible Women Series.
I’m in Columbia, SC at the moment. I was a presenter at their Book Festival. It’s alway a pleasure meeting readers. You keep me writing.
I leave for the airport at 9AM. My plane takes off at 11 AM. I arrive home after 2 PM - so please forgive me for not connecting. As soon as I arrive home you will be my top priority.
Hugs,
Francis
February 28th, 2010 on 9:49 am
Hello Ms. Ray! What a thrill it was to meet you yesterday. I was the starstruck person sitting on the front row at the book festival. Your books are absolutely wonderful. I was disappointed that the new release was not available yesterday, but that’s okay, I’ll make sure that I get it on the 2nd!!! There are so many people who look down on those of us who read romance books, but I stand proud when I say that I am an avid ROMANCE BOOK reader!!!!
February 28th, 2010 on 3:45 pm
Veronica, thank you for coming to see me yesterday. I proudly read and write romance books that celebrate fidelity. love and hope. We’ll both keep reading and let people “think” what they will because most of them have never read a romance book. They just “think” they know what they’re about. If they’d take the time and read one, they’d be hooked just like we are!!