Guest Author, Louisa Edwards & GIVEAWAY!
by sue on Mar.19, 2010, under Book Chat
Hi everyone, and thank you to Sue for having me here! I love visiting Borders True Romance—it always makes me feel like I’m wandering around a big, beautiful bookstore with my friends.
Sue gave you guys the opportunity to post questions for me a few weeks ago, so here are my answers. If there’s anything else you want to know, post a question in comments, and I promise I’ll dish!
Maya M.: So— if gastronomic deprivation had not been involved—there might not have been a debut and follow-up foodie novel??
And is Gordon Ramsay in person more like they show him on “Hell’s Kitchen” or more like they show him on his British show (helping Brit restos pull back from he brink of bankruptcy; he is much more “human” on that show, and actually very kind and supportive to the very young talent—encouraging cooking interest in all the junior kitchen staff, which I love about him). What does he say about Nigella and Jamie?
A. Sadly, I’ve never met Mr. Ramsay in person, although I would certainly jump at the chance! I prefer to think he’s more himself on “Kitchen Nightmares” than on the more theatrical “Hell’s Kitchen.” As for the first question—several factors contributed to me taking a chance and starting the Recipe for Love series, but the move to Ohio was the biggest. It meant I left my job as an editor, which I had loved, and the move to a very small town meant that if we wanted to eat the kinds of things we’d gotten used to in New York City, I’d have to make them myself! I’d always loved cooking, but my interest in everything culinary really took off, at that point.
Pat L.: I love food-related books and just finished your first one. Really good. Look forward to the next one. What authors are autobuys for you and what one book will you always remember and why? TGIF.
Good luck with your new release.
Pat L.
A. I love this question! I think all writers are readers first; that was certainly the case for me. I started reading romance around the age of 11, snitching them from my grandmother’s suitcase, but the first one I really remember reading is The Shadow & the Star by Laura Kinsale. I’d never read anything so lush and detailed, so complex and nuanced, and so darn sexy! I’ve read and reread that book multiple times over the years, as well as all her others, and she’s still an auto-buy for me.
Suzanne Brockmann’s Troubleshooter series inspired me to take chances and push the envelope of mainstream romance. I love the way her characters meet and develop their relationships over multiple books, allowing the reader to really get to know them and root for their happy ending. Sam and Alyssa, Max and Gina—and most especially, the Robin/Jules arc of Hot Target, Force of Nature, and All Through the Night.
I love Jennifer Crusie’s writing, Susan Elizabeth Phillips’s characters, Eloisa James’s witty dialogue, and Roxanne St. Claire’s tight plotting. I can’t wait to read Alyssa Day and Julie James’s newest, but Elizabeth Hoyt is on top of my TBR pile at the moment. Now if I can only get a break from writing and revisions!
What new authors are you excited about? What was the romance novel that got you addicted to the genre? And if you could meet any TV chef in person, who would it be?
Answer one of my questions or ask one of your own for a chance to win an autographed set of Recipe for Love novels—and an environmentally friendly farmer’s tote and a Tastebook filled with recipes from me and my chef friends!
Louisa
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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
May 19th, 2010 on 6:05 pm
Hi, i must say fantastic site you have, i stumbled across it in Yahoo. I bought myself the NN-H765BF Microwave. I just love the way the Microwave Oven works.
March 23rd, 2010 on 9:47 pm
I think it must have been Susan Elizabeth Phillips who got me addicted to the genre.
March 21st, 2010 on 11:06 pm
oh, hooray, you liked my question! and it seems the answer shows that necessity is as usual the mother of invention.
here’s my next question: how is it POSSIBLE that so many professional foodies are so slim? do they all run marathons when they’re not slicing and dicing?
March 21st, 2010 on 2:36 pm
Giada M - Those all sound interesting! I’ll have to check them out.
Karyn - So glad you discovered romance! I can’t imagine my life without it, to be honest. : )
Joanne V - Sounds like my books might be right up your alley!
Lynn R - Aw, thank you! I’m so glad you enjoyed CStH. Hope you’ll like OtSS just as much!
Fedora - I love both Crusie and Ann Aguirre! Ann’s UF series blew me away; haven’t tried the Ava Gray stuff yet, but I can’t wait.
Lois M - Thanks for being so willing to try new authors! That’s awesome. And yes, Lady Sophia’s Lover–what a fantastic book.
Amanda M - Oooh, which of Gena’s series got you hooked? The Alien Huntress books are my faves. I’ll have to tell her, she’ll be tickled pink!
Iokijo - I’m honored to be on your wish list! Hope you’ll get a chance to try me soon. ; )
GSM - Awesome answer! LOL I’m excited about Julie James and Jennifer Estep, too…
March 21st, 2010 on 2:09 pm
New authors I’m excited about? You, Julie James, and Jennifer Estep, among others.
March 20th, 2010 on 10:17 pm
My first book.. Dark Highlander by Karen M. Moning. Love that book too..
Most of the “new” authors are’nt new by the time I’m able to get one of their books so I’m quite behind on that. Your one of the new authors on my wish list, and now you have 2 books.. As for TV chefs.. sorry really don’t watch TV; I prefer to read.. so don’t have a fav. or one I’d like to meet.
March 20th, 2010 on 8:08 pm
I got reeled in with Gena Showalter’s series!
March 20th, 2010 on 6:43 pm
New authors. . . well, I have Cara Elliot’s book around me, and she’s new (well, a new alias). . . another near me are the three books of Elizabeth Naughton’s and she’s new to me. . . and one more, also have Erica Ridley’s too, she should be new to all and not just me.
And the one that got me started with romances in general is Sandra Brown’s Breakfast in Bed. . . but I really didn’t start until I got my fourth, Lisa Kleypas’s Lady Sophia’s Lover. The first three I got a few years before, but didn’t do anymore, then I never turned back.
Lois
March 20th, 2010 on 5:07 pm
Hi, Louisa! A new-ish to me author is Ann Aguirre/Ava Gray–she rocks! And I don’t recall the first romance I read, but the one that re-hooked me after a break was Jennifer Crusie’s Crazy for You–she is always a fun read!
March 20th, 2010 on 3:27 pm
Louisa, I loved your first book and look forward so much to your new one. New to me authors who I love are Susan Mallery and Susan Elizabeth Phillips as well as you, Louisa - a little late in the game but better late than never, right? I don’t watch cooking shows very often, but from what I have seen of Emereil and Rachel R, their dishes look yummy.
Sue, thanks for this great site!
Lynn R.
March 20th, 2010 on 2:32 pm
Cannot wait to read these books. Love to eat and cook and try new recipes.
Would love to meet so many, Rachel R, Paula Deen, Curtis S, Lidia to name a few.
Joanne V.
March 20th, 2010 on 11:10 am
Eve Silver, who writes gothic historical romances got me hooked on romance a few years ago, I have been gobbling them like candy ever since! All these years I didn’t really read romance, amazing!
All the best for your release!
March 20th, 2010 on 10:05 am
Hi Louisa!^O^
What new authors are you excited about?
Right now I’m readind Raeliksen by Renee Vincent. I love it!
What was the romance novel that got you addicted to the genre?
The first romance I read (and didn’t know it was a romance at the time >_<) is The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons. It’s still one of my favourite!
And if you could meet any TV chef in person, who would it be?
I would be a very famous Italian chef, Gianfranco Vissani. He is one of the best!
Thank you for this giveaway, Louisa!^O^
Giada
March 20th, 2010 on 9:37 am
Cories - I have to say I’ve never really seen the Japanese version of Iron Chef! I know, I should youtube it. But I think I’d miss Mike Symon and Bobby Flay…
Amber E - Can’t recommend Vegetarian Cooking for Everyone highly enough. The title is really true, too–it’s a great cookbook for anyone who wants to do more, and more interesting things, with vegetables.
Hey Limecello - It feels weird not to put the @ sign in front of your name! LOL I keep hearing great things about Carolyn Crane, got to try her. And YES to Lisa Kleypas and Mary Jo Putney’s old historicals–especially MJP’s Fallen Angels series and the Silk Trilogy. I’ve read my copies of those so many times, they’re falling apart!
Jennifer D - I love that you’re into contemporary now! Julie James is wonderful; I’ll have to try your other picks, too.
Lisa G - Great story! Hmmm, foods I don’t like–well, I tried chicken feet once, wouldn’t necessarily go there again. But I’m pretty adventurous and willing to give new things a shot!
E.R. - Yes, Catherine Coulter! I’m surprised you’re the first to mention her as a ‘first romance novel’ experience. And Robert, OMG–he cracks me up! I’d be scared to cook with him, though. The pressure!
Martha Lawson - Aw, Paula! I actually have met her–she did a cookbook signing for a charity event I worked on, and I got to stand with Michael and help get the books open to the right page. She’s so sweet and gracious in person, I loved her.
Christine M - I adore that Save the Contemporary campaign–so smart and fun! Congrats on winning.
Michelle Santiago - Aw! I think you’re the first to say me as a new author you’re excited about! I hope you win. LOL Thank you!
Rosie G - I hope you feel better soon! It’s awful how hard it is to cook when you’re sick, but how much better you’d feel if you could have good, real food. Hopefully you’ve got someone to take over kitchen duty for you!
Mariska - Oh, Martha Stewart–wouldn’t it be great to sit down and pick her brain? You just know she’s one of the smartest, savviest women alive.
QLady48 - Thank you! And the Neelys do seem like fun. I’d go to dinner at their house anytime. ; )
Tina Chaney - Um…I think I might know where you live! Not to be creepy, but Bobby Flay was at an International Food Show near me at the end of summer–how many of those can there be? I really wanted to go, but we wound up being out of town. Maybe next year! And I’m glad you liked the OtSS excerpt–good luck with the drawing! Keep checking my blog, I’m doing a giveaway including a signed book almost every day this month…
Tori - LOL, but we just heard Bobby Flay’s incredibly sweet, romantic engagement story! You can’t break them up. And I’m totally telling Kresley Cole she got you hooked on romance! She’s a friend of mine, and she’ll get a HUGE kick out of that! I think she’s a genius, that whole series blows me away.
Biki - I’ve heard nothing but amazing things about Nalini Singh. And Ina Garten is darling in person–very smart and sweet.
Jess W - Glad you’ve branched out into contemporaries! That makes me happy. : )
Maureen - I’m so ridiculously addicted to Top Chef. Last season was great, wasn’t it? Although I kind of wanted Kevin to win. Looking forward to the new Top Chef Masters about to start!
March 20th, 2010 on 9:12 am
Meredith Duran is a newer author that I am really looking forward to her new book. I don’t watch too many cooking shows except for Top Chef which is great and show all different types of famous chefs.
March 20th, 2010 on 8:16 am
First romance I read was The Wolf and the Dove, by Kathleen Woodiwiss, when I was in high school. I was hooked on historicals for a long time, but now contemps also delight me.
Congratulations on your new book, and thanks for the chance to win some of your books.
March 20th, 2010 on 1:40 am
Let’s see… I think one of the first romance books I read and was hooked on was a Julie Garwood book. For sure I can’t name which one, but I absolutely adore her books and have almost every single one, with the exception of her more recent works. A new writer I’m in love with is probably Nalini Singh but she’s paranormal romance. All the other books I’m addicted to are those yummy urban fantasies.
A chef I’d like to meet is Ina Garten or Sandra Lee. I think their recipes are so fun and different that I can’t wait to try.
March 20th, 2010 on 12:25 am
What was the romance novel that got you addicted to the genre?
Wicked Deeds on a Winter’s Night.
And if you could meet any TV chef in person, who would it be?
Bobby Flay. I want to marry him!
March 19th, 2010 on 11:41 pm
What a coincidence! Just two days ago, I was telling SBSarah (Smart Bitches, Trashy Books) how I’d read the excerpt to your latest book and that I was dying to get my hands on the actual book. Then, tonight, I stopped by here for the first time in a while (amazing how on-going computer issues can really curtail what sites you’re hitting) and here you are. I’ve been wanting to get my hands on one of your books since the you were here the first time with Can’t Stand the Heat. In other words, I hope I win, but I have both of the books on reserve at my library, even if I don’t.
And if you could meet any TV chef in person, who would it be?
I almost met Bobby Flay. I had tickets to see him at the International Food Show that was held in my hometown in August or September, but they weren’t close-enough seats to actually get to meet him (or to be able to put my hand up to ask for some of the delicious food that he was cooking). He seemed very personable, though, and I’d have loved to have actually met him. I’d also like to meet Paula Dean because she seems like she’d be an absolute sweetheart.
March 19th, 2010 on 11:39 pm
Hi Louisa, nice post!! I’ve read such great things about your books. I think we all like anything to do with food!! I would love to meet Rachel Ray and Paula Deen. I also think the Neelys are such a cute, fun couple. Good luck to you!! Thanks, Sue
March 19th, 2010 on 11:08 pm
And if you could meet any TV chef in person, who would it be?
I love to meet, Martha Stewart and Rachael Ray
I love to watch their shows.
March 19th, 2010 on 10:20 pm
I forgot to answer your questions - I have been reading books including romance for such a long time that I cannot remember who started me on romance. Maybe Sandra Brown.
And as for meeting a cook, I would say Paula Deen or Julia Child (if she were still with us of course) - LOL.
Rosie G.
March 19th, 2010 on 10:18 pm
I love to read and I love to cook, so these books are perfect for me. I have not been feeling too well lately so have not be cooking much. I would love to try both of these books.
Rosie G.
March 19th, 2010 on 10:16 pm
hi louisa! you’re books sound so fun–you’re a new author to me and i’m excited to read your books. i’m also excited about julie james, christy reece, donna grant (they are all authors i haven’t read and i have their books waiting for me on my shelf).
and if i can meet any TV chef, it’ll be rachel ray or elton brown. they seems fun!
March 19th, 2010 on 10:05 pm
Julie James’ my newest new-but-also-new-to-me author. I Won her book in the Save the Contemporary campaign and I absolutely loved it. I also got my hands on her first two books thanks to that read!
March 19th, 2010 on 9:54 pm
Christy Reece and Stephanie Tyler is who I’m waiting anxiously on!!! Kathleen Woodiwiss got me started on romance!! I guess I’d have to say the chef I’d like to meet is Paula Deen.
March 19th, 2010 on 8:48 pm
What new authors am I excited about? Hmmm…I guess Juliana Stone’s HIS DARKEST HUNGER grabbed my attention because someone recommended it at a blog. Oh, never mind. I think it was at the Avon blog that I saw the book. Anyway, it interested me and grabbed my attention due to another author’s name on the cover and the author was featured on the blog.
What was the romance book that made me become a romance reader? I definitely want to thank Catherine Coulter’s LORD OF RAVEN PEAK. My mom bought it for me to read and it got me hooked into romance.
Which TV chef would I want to meet in person? Curtis Stone because he’s HAWT and I want him to cook my food as well as teach me how to cook. Oh, and another one would be Robert Irvine from Dinner: Impossible. I just want to meet Robert. He’s so entertaining.
March 19th, 2010 on 8:40 pm
I would like to meet Chef Bobby Flay. I love the story on how he met his wife. Actress Mariska Hargitay arranged a blind date for her friends Bobby Flay and co-actress Stephanie March. They have been together ever since. He proposed at Rockefeller Center while ice skating and they married 2 years later.
Louisa, what is your favorite dish? Is there anything you don’t like to eat?
March 19th, 2010 on 8:19 pm
Hello,
I started out reading historical romance, but now I read contemporary, romantic suspense and historicals, mostly. Rachel Gibson’s Simply Irresistible got me hooked on contemporaries - it had witty dialogue and a sports hero - I was sold. Some of the new authors I’m reading are: Christy Reece, Stephanie Tyler & Julie James.
March 19th, 2010 on 8:16 pm
I’m a little late to the party - but hi Louisa!
I’ve heard so many fantastic things about your books, and I love food and romance!
The author that got me addicted to the genre? Lisa Kleypas. I started out reading historical romances. So her, Christina Dodd, Mary Jo Putney… and then SEP, Lori Foster, all the wonderful Brava authors…
Anyway.
What new author am I excited about? Carolyn Crane. Kate Carlisle. (Does she count as new?) :X I’ve been in a reading slump, sadly.
As for what chef would I most like to meet? Tom Colicchio. Or… Rick Bayless. Jamie Oliver. Ok, I can’t decide
Congratulations on your newest release!
March 19th, 2010 on 8:11 pm
Hi Louisa! Congratulations on your new book. I’ve heard nothing but great things about it, and can’t wait to read it. My first two romance authors were Judith McNaught and Susan Elizabeth Phillips, and have been hooked on books ever since.
I saw where you mentioned Deborah Madison’s VEGETARIAN COOKING FOR EVERYONE and will definitely have to check it out, because it’s hard for me to come up with new and different vegetarian meals. Thank you for the chance to win your great giveaway!
March 19th, 2010 on 7:47 pm
Do you prefer the Japanese version of Iron Chef or the American one? As much as I like Alton Brown, I have to say that I prefer the Japanese version.
March 19th, 2010 on 6:19 pm
Janel - I’m glad you enjoyed CStH! Hope you like OtSS just as much. And Nigella rocks!
Chey - What’s the first romance you remember reading?
Joder - Oh, we’re so on the same page, there. Tony, where are you? We want to meet you!
Tracey D - It’s so hard to tell how promotional/marketing efforts affect sales–that info is almost impossible to track. I think book trailers can definitely increase exposure and draw attention to a new release, and that’s always a good thing. Whether it’s worth the money/time/effort is up to the author. Book trailers are lots of fun, either way!
Pat L - You’re very welcome! It’s been great chatting with you. I love that bag (have one of my own.) And Rachel Ray feels very down-to-earth and approachable; I definitely see the appeal.
March 19th, 2010 on 6:02 pm
Hi Louisa, thanks for answering my questions.
Yup food and contemporary books, what could be better.
That bag looks very pretty. I don’t watch cooking shows unless I am in a doctor’s office or home from work and grab a few minutes of it - I do like Rachel Ray, her recipes always look good - seems like that is what dr’s office’s have on t.v. LOL. And I like her vitality. Of course there are some good looking male cooks - I see them occasionally while getting ready for work if they make an appearance on the morning shows. I have seen Lydia a few times - and since I like pasta, need I say more….
Pat L.
Hope everyone has a good weekend.
Pat L.
March 19th, 2010 on 5:03 pm
Hi, Louisa.
What is your opinion on book trailers? Do you think they help in book sales?
March 19th, 2010 on 4:25 pm
Estella - That’s quite a career as a romance reader! Congrats. : )
Cories - I went to a women’s college, so I was in an all-female dorm, too, and I was the only one who openly read romance! Jennifer Crusie is a great starter, though–I’ve converted many skeptics using her books.
Stacy S - Can you believe I’ve never read Garwood? I know, crazy. Someday, I swear!
Natalie’s Mama - My books don’t have much suspense, but there’s definitely food and romance!
Beth - Yay, another Next Iron Chef fan! That was an exciting season, and I agree, I felt sure Jose would win from the very first. Although I was surprised how early Nate Appleman was eliminated.
Anne - You sound like me–it’s so hard to pick a favorite!
March 19th, 2010 on 4:22 pm
I love when romance books include food, both in the storyline and in playtime. It just amps up the sexuality and adds to my reading enjoyment. A tv chef I’d like to meet in real life is Anthony Bourdain. He’s traveled everywhere, met and cooked with so many renown chefs, and had so many interesting experiences in his own career that he’d be fascinating to talk to. He has a great sense of food and would be able to share so many great stories and recipes.
March 19th, 2010 on 4:21 pm
I can’t remember the title of the first romance I read, but I know it was a harlequin.
March 19th, 2010 on 4:17 pm
Hi, Louisa! Good luck with the new book. I’m sure it’s just as good as your first one, which I loved.
If I could meet one TV chef it would be Nigella Lawson. She always has such an easy, no-fuss attitude about food. And she openly admits that she loves to eat!
March 19th, 2010 on 4:14 pm
Hi Louisa,
I enjoy reading and food so both are my favorites. Combine them and what a special book. The cooks I enjoy watching are all of them. So varied and interesting. Books make my life a pleasure. Romance, etc. Since I was young I have read so many and I am enthralled with Linda Barrett.
March 19th, 2010 on 4:01 pm
My start with romance was the Harlequin and Silhouette books. Don’t remember ‘the’ first one. but when a few of the authors started having releases outside those lines(like Lori Foster and others), that got me into the main romance section of the book store. And there I discovered paranormal romance that combined my love of sci-fi/fantasy with my love of happy ever after for a couple.
As for meeting a TV chef, I’d love to be able to meet Chef Jose Garsas, the newest Iron Chef. We rooted for him from the beginning when he was on The Next Iron Chef.
March 19th, 2010 on 3:28 pm
I love to eat and love to read so what beter combo out there. I havent read either of your books but they look v.g. I like Lisa Jackson, Stuart Woods, just about anything suspense.
I guess Emeril would be a great choice of a chef to meet - he looks like he is very entertainging.
Natalie’s Mama
March 19th, 2010 on 3:26 pm
Julie Garwood got me hooked on romance. It was The Secret. I’ve never watched any food shows.
March 19th, 2010 on 3:00 pm
Hi, Louisa! Aside from college, during which I lived in an all-female dorm and pretty much all the paperbacks left by previous residents were romance novels, the book that started me on romances again is Jennifer Crusie’s “Anyone But You”. That’s when I realized that I have a weakness for covers with dogs on them (so exploited by Kristan Higgins, except for “The Next Best Thing” which has a cat on the cover).
As for which TV chef I’d like to meet, it’s a toss up between Alton Brown (”Good Eats” is the only cooking show I watch regularly), Rachel Ray (because she’s just so much fun) and Curtis Stone (because he’s so cute). In any case, I’d ask them for suggestions on dishes I can make and eat since my food allergies preclude most commonly used ingredients.
March 19th, 2010 on 2:32 pm
Helen L - You’re my ideal reader–someone who loves contemporary romance AND food! LOL, we’re a match made in heaven.
Denise - Thank you for commenting! Good luck in the drawing.
Donna S - Another Alton fan! And La Nora, of course. Which Brennan book did you read? I love her writing.
Amber S - Oh, sigh. Julia! How sad to think we’ll never get to meet her. But at least her genius lives on with the PBS videos of her show, and of course through another genius, Meryl Streep!
March 19th, 2010 on 2:29 pm
I read my first romance 55 years ago and cannot remember the title. It was by Barbara Cartland.
I have read romance ever since.
March 19th, 2010 on 2:05 pm
My favorite new author is Stephanie Tyler. Love her new SEALs! I also enjoy Kris Kennedy and Carrie Lofty!
Nora Roberts made me fall in love with the genre, first her romantic suspense and then her amazing contemporaries!
And if I could meet any chef, it would be Julia Child’s. Or I’ll settle for Meryl Streep as Julia Childs. Bonjour!
March 19th, 2010 on 1:52 pm
I just read a book by Allison Brennan and I am looking forward to reading more of her books. Nora Roberts though is what really got me addicted. And for chefs I think I would like to meet Alton Brown.
March 19th, 2010 on 1:39 pm
I would love to meet Emeril or Curtis Stone.
I love Jane Porter, Mia King, Liza Palmer, Megan Crane and Michele Scott—just to name a few
I would love to read your book. I have been reading a lot of good reviews on it.
March 19th, 2010 on 1:24 pm
I like contemps so I have a long list of favs, SEP, Susan Mallery and Robyn Carr to name a few.
As for chefs - Jamie Oliver - he is doing a thing now on getting bad foods out of the schools. Good for him.
Loved your first book - look forward to the 2nd one. Keep em coming - I love food related books because I love to eat. HEEHEE.
Helen L.
March 19th, 2010 on 12:15 pm
Lori G - Hey there–thanks for commenting even though you don’t want in on the giveaway. Mike Symon is a fantastic pick–and I actually have met him! He helped host an auction for a charity event I worked for, and was super gracious and charming, and also hilarious with that maniacal laugh. Love him! And his food is unbelievably wonderful.
Quilt Lady - Man, I used to love westerns! I haven’t read one in a while, but you’re totally making me want to. Have you tried Jo Goodman? I’ve heard nothing but great things about hers.
And hello, Miss Lucy Monroe! How are you, sweetie? I miss you! And Emeril, that’s a fun choice. Did you see him on Iron Chef recently? It was one of their Superstar Chef Challenges, and he was awesome.
March 19th, 2010 on 12:10 pm
Mary - SEP is one of my faves, too! I want to *be* her when I grow up. : )
Kirsten - Love Nigella, too–that accent! And she’s so warm and charming.
Kara C - Wow, thank you so so much! Nothing matters as much to a new author as word of mouth, so readers like you are more precious than gold. Also, the fact that you love Brockmann as much as I do means I have to try all your book recommendations; we clearly have similar taste!
Ina - Thank you for being willing to try a new author!
Caitie - I love hearing that people are still finding CStH; good timing! You don’t have to wait for the follow-up. : ) I would also love to meet Jamie Oliver, although I’m a little afraid I’d lost control and attack him with kisses. He’s too cute!
Cynthia N - JR Ward is definitely one of my favorites in the paranormal real–Rhage’s book, OMG! Have you checked out Kresley Cole? Her Immortals After Dark series has the same kind of totally addictive world-building, and her heroines are as fantastic as her heroes!
Virginia - What a tough question! If I could create my own celebrity chef, who would presumably love me to pieces and cook me fabulous meals in my own home…hmmm. I’d want him to have Anthony Bourdain’s sense of humor and adventurous nature, Gordon Ramsay’s expertise and no-nonsense attitude, a splash of Jamie Oliver’s vivacious charm, and Eric Ripert’s hair. And I think I’d want him to cook the French classics for me, all those delicious, time-consuming dishes that have a zillion steps and ingredients!
Pam - Another good rec! And yes, Giada seems like she’d be fun to just, like, go shopping with and maybe have a glass of wine and chat.
Donna Ann - It’s so interesting how many people started with Woodiwiss! She’s one of the first I remember reading too, and it was because they had lots of her books at my public library.
Karen H - Alton is so popular with romance readers! I wonder if it’s because he’s so articulate and smart, and gives so much background info with the recipes. I always used to say I learned more from romance novels than I did in school…
Janicu - We don’t discriminate against any genres here! I’m super excited for Kristen Painter’s UF (or Gothic Fantasy? Not sure which) coming out next year.
Ellie - I think I’ve read nearly everything Nora Roberts has ever written, and that’s really saying something! The Chesapeake Bay series is probably my favorite. What’s yours?
Pearl - Giada is gorgeous, and her food always looks good, too. I wish I looked half so good while cooking! LOL
Scorpio M - Squee! We clearly have the same taste…Eric Ripert makes my heart go pitty pat (that ACCENT! That smile!) and I love Elizabeth Hoyt’s books. Her first trilogy blew me away–the second one is on my TBR pile, taunting me!
Tia - Ooh, Lidia Bastianich, what a class act. She’d be great at a dinner party! LOL
March 19th, 2010 on 12:01 pm
Hi, Louisa! Great to see you here.
If I could meet any TV chef, it would be Emeril. He’s just so charmin’ with his “Bam!” and his friendly smile. But he’s followed closely by Alton Brown, ‘cuz that man is funny and smart which equals way sexy in my book, though no one competes for sexy with my gorgeous Hubcap, the ultimate funny geek. LOL
Fave new author? Have to be Kate Davies or Erin Nicholas right now.
Hugs!
March 19th, 2010 on 11:56 am
Great post! About a year ago I got the book Rachel and the Hired Gun by Elaine Levine and I have been hooked on westerns ever since and yes I bought her new book Audrea and the Maveric. I also just got Kaki Warner’s book and she is really looking up for me to. I just started reading Pieces of Sky and am hooked. I will be watching her books too!
March 19th, 2010 on 11:55 am
Please don’t enter me…
I would love to meet Micheal Symon from Iron Chef because of his giggle. He’s like kitchen brute with a girl’s giggle and a great sense of fun.
I’m really loving foodie romance and look forward to losing myself back in your universe.
March 19th, 2010 on 10:43 am
I just read the first book of new author J.R. Patrick and that was really good. Sandra Brown was the author that introduced me to the world of romance novels. I’d like to meet just about any chef from the PBS lineup with Lidia at the top of the list.
March 19th, 2010 on 10:12 am
I am a big Elizabeth Hoyt fangirl. My favorites of hers are The Leopard Prince & To Seduce A Sinner. I am really keen on Victoria Dahl as well. But my latest love is Pamela Clare. I just finished NAKED EDGE. It was simply superb. Romantic suspense at its finest and it made me an instant fan.
I’ve always been attracted to romance when it came to reading. I started with the Sweey Valley High series as a teen and have never looked back.
Eric Ripert is my favorite celebrity chef. Sexy Frenchman, who is commanding, cooks & not rude. Hmm, sounds like a romance hero, LOL.
March 19th, 2010 on 9:19 am
My favorite chef is Giada. Love her dishes. Louisa, your books look so appetizing and wonderful. An author whose books started me was Kathleen Woodiwiss.
March 19th, 2010 on 9:00 am
Hi Louisa,
Your books look delectable and delightful. My reading began many years ago with the author Nora Roberts. I discovered Julia Gregson this year and am enjoying her novel. Congratulations and much success.
March 19th, 2010 on 8:55 am
It’s a different genre, but I’m excited about Seanan McGuire and her October Daye Urban Fantasy series.
March 19th, 2010 on 8:40 am
The book that started my romance novel romance was Johanna Lindsey’s “Defy Not the Heart” with the gorgeous Fabio on the cover.
I love Food Network (though I avoid cooking) and would like to meet Alton Brown, who is smart and funny and clever.
And I have added your books to my TBR list, that I go to after I get through my TBR pile.
March 19th, 2010 on 8:26 am
I love Giada De Laurentiis, Lidia and Emeril as chefs.
My first romance book must have been 40 years ago I really have no idea who I started reading but it must have been great to keep me reading all these years later *wink*
Love & Hugs,
Pam
March 19th, 2010 on 8:22 am
When I was in my mid-teens I use to read my mom’s Harlequin novellas just because they were available around the house. I went to visit & stay my older sister for a summer week, and she gave me “Shanna” by Kathleen Woodiwiss to read. I was hooked and started buying my own books to read. Nearly 30 years later, and she’s still one of my favorite authors (I’ve read “Shanna” & “The Wolf and the Dove” so many times I practically know them almost off by heart).
As for chef’s — I’d like meet with Alton Brown from FoodTV’s Good Eats. He has a quirky way of looking at things and makes the science part of cooking (I’ve never liked science) interesting and shows that part of the fun of cooking is trying different things.
March 19th, 2010 on 8:15 am
I really love Lisa Marie Wilkinson debut Fire at Midnight last year & so I had to preorder Stolen Promise when it came out.
Love & Hugs,
Pam
March 19th, 2010 on 8:09 am
Hi, Louisa! Congratulations on your continued success! I am a true “Daughter of the South”: Paula Deen is my favorite celebrity chef, and “Ashes in the Wind” by Kathleen E. Woodiwiss is my favorite book!
I know, and respect, that you are a Gordon Ramsay devotee : ) If you could create a perfect celebrity chef, what would they be like? What attributes from each known celebrity chef would you use, and why? Also, what would be the one special dish that you would want them to prepare just for you?
March 19th, 2010 on 8:08 am
The romance novel that got me addicted? None other than Dark Lover by the great J. R. Ward. I haven’t looked back since. Oh what did I get myself into.
I would love to meet Tyler Florence. He is the local gent from Greenville, SC.
As I love to cook, your books look abso delish!
March 19th, 2010 on 8:05 am
I just read Can’t Stand the Heat earlier this week…loved it:) Congrats on the new release - can’t wait to read it!
If I could meet a TV chef, I’d want to meet Jamie Oliver.
March 19th, 2010 on 8:04 am
Hi Louisa!
you are a new author to me but after reading your post I will def keep your books in mind
a new author to me is also Beth Kery and I can’t wait start reading her books! My first book in that genre was one by SEP, but I don’t know which one…
wish you all the best,
Ina
March 19th, 2010 on 7:17 am
Louisa,
I have been impatiently waiting for your new book! Loved the first one and recommended it to all my friends, who also loved it. (Also thrilled to know you’re a Brockmann fan. I’ve read or listened to the entire series repeatedly.)
I quit reading for fun for years and years. I think the two books that drew me back into it were SEP’s It Had to be You, and all the books that follow in that series, as well as Pamela Clare’s Extreme Exposure. The rest of that I Team series is incredible as well.
The newer authors I’m very excited about include Christy Reece, Kimberly Fisk, and Kate Brady. Fantastic books, highly recommended to all.
Hope you have a great weekend.
March 19th, 2010 on 6:40 am
A new author I’m excited about is Marilyn Brant. Her According to Jane is great and I can’t wait to read her next book.
I can’t really remember what romance novel I read first. I known it was a Harlequin I think by Emma Darcy but I’m not sure what title.
A chef I would like to meet is Nigella. She always looks great/gorgeous in the kitchen and makes it all look so easy. Maybe she can give me some tips…
March 19th, 2010 on 6:35 am
The book that hooked me on the Romance genre is It Had To Be You by Susan Elizabeth Phillips. Then Elizabeth Hoyt hooked me on historicals (I’m a late arrival, I know, but I’m catching up). I also love Robyn Carr’s Virgin River series.
The chefs I’d like to meet are Ina Garten, Ellie Krieger, Paul Deen - funny that they’re all female chefs. Not sure why that is unless they just make me feel like I could make what they’re making on a particular show.
March 19th, 2010 on 6:34 am
Hi Everyone! And a big thanks to Sue for having me here. I always love chatting with the fun crowd at Borders True Romance.
Katrina - Harlequins were some of my first romances, too! I especially remember Elizabeth Lowell’s Blackthorn brothers. Yum! And I know what you mean about the vegetarian thing–we gave up meat for Lent and it’s been very educational to see what true vegetarians have to go through in terms of eating out, etc. Have you tried Deborah Madison’s VEGETARIAN COOKING FOR EVERYONE? It’s one of my faves, even when it’s not Lent. : )
Laurie G - I love Victoria Dahl’s books! Will have to give your other new faves a try. And Ina is a favorite of mine, as well! Her recipes are always so foolproof. And I actually got to meet her recently at a talk she gave to the NY Women in Communications group, so that was awesome! Both my parents are great, and adventurous cooks, and I was never a picky eater; I’d try anything they put in front of me. My mom’s family is definitely where I turned for inspiration for a lot of my heroine’s cooking. I don’t think I could ever choose a favorite dish or meal! There’s just so much great stuff out there. : )
Carol - Thank you! And good luck…
Raelena - Alton Brown is a good one! He’s got such a wealth of food knowledge, you just know sitting down to dinner with him would be a very entertaining education.
March 19th, 2010 on 5:47 am
If I could meet any tv chef I would want to meet Alton Brown.
March 19th, 2010 on 5:10 am
Hi Louisa,
I’ve heard many good things about your books. They sound very tempting.:) Thank you for the opportunity to win.
Carol L.
Lucky4750@aol.com
March 19th, 2010 on 4:26 am
Oh your books sound so appetizing!! New authors? I haven’t read either of your books. Where have I been? I recently enjoyed books by Susan Gee Heino, Victoria Dahl and Luann McLane.
I love to watch the Food Network channel. My favorite cook is Ina Garten, The Barefoot Contessa. She’s always smiling. I like her openness, food selections and little tidbits of advice about cooking and decorating from her catering days. She also shares her love of her surroundings with quick snipits of life in the Hamptons.
The book that started it all for me was LaVyrle Spencer’s western Forgiving! I quickly moved on to Sandra Brown, Nora Roberts, Elizabeth Lowell, Jayne Ann Krenz and Diana Palmer.
My children are in college now. So I’m really into discovering new recipes and smaller recipes for two. I’d love to win your Tastebook of recipes and of course your books!!
Who is your favorite chef? Have you always loved to cook? Did your mom, grandmothers or neighbors give you your first introduction to good food? My mother-in-law was an excellent cook. However, she never wrote any of her recipes down. What is your favorite dish, meal,dessert?
March 19th, 2010 on 3:50 am
Hi Louisa. What a great giveaway! I can’t remember exactly which book got me hooked on romance, but it was a Harlequin when I was 12. Somehow I got on their mailing list and they sent me a box of books. I couldn’t put them down!
The new writer I’m most excited about is Kaki Warner. I can’t wait for Open Country to come out in a few months.
And there aren’t any TV chefs I’d want to meet. I’m a vegetarian, and I haven’t seen any who see veggie food as anything other than an occasional dish you have to make for picky guests.