Nalini Singh's Angels' Blood Graces Romantic Times Cover
Nalini Singh's upcoming release, ANGELS' BLOOD, the first installment in the GUILD HUNTER series, was recently reviewed by Romantic Times and made the cover of their February issue. How's that for an endorsement!?! Be sure to check out this blockbuster book, which will be released in March. Can't wait that long? Check out a special e-novella, ANGELS’ PAWN, which will introduce this highly anticipated series. It will be available February 24th in all e-formats, including Kindle.
Also, in related Nalini news, here's a sneak peak at the cover for the upcoming November mass market release of AN ENCHANTED SEASON! Bellissimo!!
Last night we chatted with Tommy Newberry, bestselling author of THE 4:8 PRINCIPLE. Thank you to those who made it out, and for those who didn't (re: because they were watching LOST *wink*) -- click here for the chat transcript. And a special thanks to Tommy for doing such a great job!
Also, please note that Melissa Mayhue will be chatting with us next month on Thursday, February 19th @ 9pm ET. Mark your calendars! Melissa is the author of the acclaimed DAUGHTERS OF THE GLEN series. Visit her website www.MelissaMayhue.com to learn more about this darling of the romance world! Here's the 411 on her latest release, A HIGHLANDER OF HER OWN (January 2009, Pocket Books):
TEXAS, PRESENT DAY. Ellie Denton’s world has spiraled out of control. A strange new birthmark, animals talking to her, and her mother’s ex-husband laying claim to the family ranch have her thinking life can’t get more complicated. But Ellie doesn’t know the birthmark’s connection to her Faerie ancestors. Complicated takes on a whole new meaning with her innocent wish to find her true love. SCOTLAND, 1304. Caden MacAlister has more trouble than he can handle. With his brother held for ransom and the laird missing, the last thing he needs is another problem. But the Fae have other plans. A mysterious woman shows up in his stables, sent by Faerie Magic to find her true love. Fighting his attraction, Caden insists she’s meant for one of his brothers. With his history, he has no desire for a woman in his life—especially a woman sent by the Fae. Only the magic of the Fae can determine whether Ellie will find a Highlander of her own...
Remember The Knight Agency has a monthly newsletter chock full of interviews with talented authors, articles written by our agents, info on our current releases and notices about upcoming chats. Stay in the TKA loop and sign up now! Click here!
Check it out, George Papandreou pitched the idea of giving every Greek student an e-reader to the Greek Parliament. BTW, the government already pays for most text books. Thanks to Nephele for the video :).
First-time author David Cristofano's THE GIRL SHE USED TO BE is already garnering praise from reviewers. Publishers Weekly recently gave it a starred review, hailing the book an, "...intense, romantic debut...[whose] mad love scenario sizzles like garlic in hot olive oil." The book is set to release this March.
Here's the 411:When Melody Grace McCartney was six years old, she and her parents witnessed an act of violence so brutal that it changed their lives forever. The federal government lured them into the Witness Protection Program with the promise of safety, and they went gratefully. But the program took Melody's name, her home, her innocence, and, ultimately, her family. She's been May Adams, Karen Smith, Anne Johnson, and countless others--everyone but the one person she longs to be: herself. So when the feds spirit her off to begin yet another new life in another town, she's stunned when a man confronts her and calls her by her real name. Jonathan Bovaro, the mafioso sent to hunt her down, knows her, the real her, and it's a dangerous thrill that Melody can't resist. He's insistent that she's just a pawn in the government's war against the Bovaro family. But can she trust her life and her identity to this vicious stranger whose acts of violence are legendary?
--------------------------------------------- Jessica Andersen's SNOWED IN WITH THE BOSS is Intrigue's top pick for March! Congrats Jessica! Here's the 411:It was supposed to be just a quick stop at the Kenner County mansion to deal with a number of building issues for millionaire Griffin Vaughn and his secretary Sophie LaRue. But after a blizzard and a bridge collapse strand them in the isolated house, it's a matter of survival, not only from the elements but also from vicious killers and a mob boss reputed to be hiding out in the mountains. With only a dying PDA for communication, the pair dodges attacks, relying on Sophie's ingenuity and Griffin's SEAL training. Andersen is top notch, writing in the best Agatha Christie form, as the pressure and danger escalates in the time capsule of a vicious storm. Releases March 2009.
----------------------------------------------- REFLECTIONS OF GOD'S HOLY LAND by Eva Marie Everson and Miriam Feinburg Vamosh is a finalist in the Evangelical Christian Publisher's Association Awards (formerly known as Gold Medallion). Congrats!
Here's the 411:This unique armchair tour of Israel includes full-color photographs, related scriptures, historical and archaeological information about each area, and a description of what it looks and feels like to be there today.
Win a Copy of THE 4:8 PRINCIPLE & Chat with Tommy Newberry
According to NYT and WSJ bestselling author Tommy Newberry, life is always going to be a mixture of good and bad. It's up to us to focus on the positive, so that we can keep the momentum of our lives moving forward. Tommy's latest release, THE 4:8 PRINCIPLE, has inspired thousands to find their purpose and experience a joy-filled life. A recent mega-marketing campaign pushed it to Amazon’s Religion and Spirituality List at #2 and #1 in the “Success” category.
Don't miss out on the chance to talk with this amazing author tomorrow night at 9pm ET. You'll also have a chance to win a copy of THE 4:8 PRINCIPLE!
What: Chat with Tommy Newberry, Bestselling Author of THE 4:8 PRINCIPLE When: TOMORROW NIGHT! Wednesday, January 28th @ 9pm ET How to Chat: Follow this link to the TKA Chat Room -- http://client1.sigmachat.com/sc.php?id=115545
Login by entering a username and password (you can enter any username password combo to enter the chat). Your computer must be Java enabled.
UPDATE: Karin is the winner of January 27th's "Take Home Tuesday." Yay Karin! I *think* I might have your physical address ;)...but just in case...please email it to contests@knightagency.net. Everyone else, stay tuned for more Tuesday giveway madness!
Leave your name in the comments below to enter the book giveaway for DEATH BY LATTE by Linda Gerber (Puffin, September 2008). The winner will be announced tomorrow morning.
It was only a few weeks ago that Aphra Connolly’s life changed completely. She had been living a quiet existence on her father’s secluded island resort, until Seth Mulo turned up and stole her heart . . . and provided information that led her to find her mom in Seattle. But the reunion isn’t quite what she expected. Aphra’s mom, Natalie, doesn’t seem happy to see Aphra, and Natalie’s boyfriend, Joe, insists that Aphra go home. Even worse, Seth shows up, only to ask her to return the ring he gave her the previous summer. At least Natalie’s hunky neighbor is sympathetic. But when Joe is found dead at a nearby coffee shop, Aphra discovers her whole trip to Seattle has been based on a lie. And now someone just might be trying to kill her. . . .
JERK, CALIFORNIA Wins ALA Schneider Award & TKA Jumps on the Twitter Bandwagon
Today, the American Library Association announced that Jonathan Friesen's debut young adult novel, JERK, CALIFORNIA is the recipient of the illustrious Schneider Book Award! The Schneider Award is specifically for books that embody the artistic expression of the disability experience for child and adolescent audiences. Past honorees include Louis Sachar and Andrew Clements. Way to go Jonathan! For more info on the ALA Award winners, click here.To learn more about Jonathan Friesen, visit www.JonathanFriesen.com.
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Twitter fever has taken cyberspace by storm, and today The Knight Agency finally heeded its call. Our agents will be chiming in with the answer to that eternal question, "What are you doing?" Make sure to check us out at: www.Twitter.com/KnightAgency. Also, you can check out Deidre Knight's personal Twitter at www.Twitter.com/DeidreKnight
NYT & WSJ Bestselling Author Tommy Newberry Chatting with TKA Wednesday, Jan. 28th @ 9pm ET!
Oftentimes, the key to personal success seems as elusive as the fabled fountain of youth. However, to New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author Tommy Newberry (not to mention the thousands of readers who have been inspired by his book, THE 4:8 PRINCIPLE) success has been made entirely attainable and maintainable. How? Tommy clearly outlines how to craft a plan that focuses on your specific goals and teaches you to confidently roll over the unavoidable bumps in the road to reach your ultimate success. This dynamic author will be talking about his writing career, future projects and how to get the most out of his books during a chat with TKA on Wednesday, January 28th. This is an opportunity like no other. Make sure to join us for this exciting event!
WHO: Tommy Newberry WHEN: Wednesday, January 28th @ 9pm ET WHERE: Click here to visit the TKA CHAT ROOM HOW TO CHAT: Simply enter a username and password.* Login.
*The username and password do not need to be predefined. You can use any username/password combination to enter. Your computer must be Java enabled to chat.
Melissa Jeglinski Encourages Budding Authors to Consider Category Romance
Category romance can sometimes get a bad rep. Why? Because it’s not usually on the shelf for longer than one month, and is priced lower than a single title. But writing category romance is an art form in itself; it takes a very savvy writer to be able to create a compelling romance with enticing characters and a fully developed conflict in 65,000 words or less. It’s a great training ground for writers to hone their craft, to dispose of the flowery prose, to make Every Single Word count.
There are a great many legendary authors who got their start in category: Nora Roberts, Linda Howard, Elizabeth Lowell, Lisa Gardner. And many other bestselling authors who continue to write category romances as well as single titles: Jessica Andersen, Linda Lael Miller, Diana Palmer, among others. Why? Because their fans discovered them in series and want more. Plus, they can be published more frequently in series due to the large volume of books the publisher puts out each month. That’s not the case in mainstream where there is a smaller amount of monthly releases.
So, as an unpublished writer looking for a way to break into publishing, I offer you this suggestion. Why not set aside any bias you may have about series, category, ‘those little books’ and go out and try to write one. Pick up a series that interests you--be it sexy, inspirational, paranormal, suspenseful--and see if you could put together a plot for that line. It’s not as easy as you may think, but it will certainly be a lesson in making the most of your words. And, you may even discover a love for a tightly connected romance. Or, if you’ve been working on a mainstream romance and it’s just not getting any interest, see if you could revise it to work for series. It might just finally find a home where it will really be appreciated.
And, if you do have something that’s just perfect for series, feel free to query me c/o submissions@knightagency.net. You never know where it might lead.
UPDATE:The winner for January 20th's "Take Home Tuesday" giveaway is BRAY! Congrats! Thanks to everyone who participated. Don't forget to check back next week for another chance to win! Bray, please email your physical address to contests@knightagency.net.
Leave your name in the comments below to enter the book giveaway for THE SECRET'S IN THE SAUCE by Eva Marie Everson and Linda Evans Shephard (Revell, September 2008). The winner will be announced tomorrow morning.
Life just got a whole lot more complicated--thanks to a "secret" ingredient The women of the Potluck Club have made a bold move. They've launched a catering business that's a lot like them: saucy, spicy, and well-seasoned. But will a pantry full of personal secrets cause the business to crumble before it gets off the ground? As the women focus on their new venture they are forced to deal with a steamy past that threatens a marriage, the scalding truth about those they thought they knew, and the outrageous situations that come out of an unexpected--and revealing--trip back home. The ladies of Summit View, Colorado, haven't left the kitchen--they've merely turned up the heat on their most delectable adventure to date. Linda Evans Shepherd and Eva Marie Everson are the authors of the popular Potluck Club novels, including The Potluck Club, The Potluck Club--Trouble's Brewing, and The Potluck Club--Takes the Cake.
Publisher's Weekly recently took a walk down memory lane to highlight the top religious titles of 2008, and, of course, 90 MINUTES IN HEAVEN, by Don Piper and Cecil Murphey, was among the top dogs in the pack. The paperback version of the book hit the list every single month of 2008. The two other books that shared that same honor were THE FIVE LOVE LANGUAGES by Gary Chapman and THE PURPOSE DRIVEN LIFE by Rick Warren. Click here to read the full article.
LORD OF MISRULE Reaches #2 on Barnes & Noble Bestseller List
LORD OF MISRULE, the fifth book in Rachel Caine's addictive MORGANVILLE VAMPIRES series has reached the #2 spot on Barnes & Noble's young adult mass market bestseller list! The only thing between Rachel and #1 spot is the indomitable (but not for long ;)) TWILIGHT by Stephanie Meyers. Congrats Rachel!
Update!!! LORD OF MISRULE has also reached the #7 on The New York Times YA series list!
UPDATE:The winner of the January 13th "Take Home Tuesday" giveaway isSANDY! Congratulations, and thanks to everyone who participated! This is a phenomenal series, and it's definitely worth adding to your TBR pile. Sandy, please email your physical address to contests@knightagency.net.
This contest is closed:Leave your name in the comments below to enter the book giveaway for SCIONS: REVELATION by Patrice Michelle (Silhouette Noctourne, December 2008). The winner will be announced tomorrow morning.
When Detective Kaitlyn McKinney responds to a call about a strange, burned body, she discovers something far more complicated--and dangerous. Landon Rourke is a werewolf, exiled from his pack and dedicated to keeping a protective watch over Kaitlyn. A prophecy has said that his kind and vampires would one day come to a truce. But that day has yet to come. Landon has his own past to deal with, too, involving Kaitie herself. A dark truth that has kept them apart for years. When Kaitlyn gets caught up in the battle between vampires and werewolves, the long-simmering attraction she shares with Landon ignites. And in that attraction they find the secret that will bring them together....
Nielsen Bookscan's list of 2008's top selling books included 90 MINUTES IN HEAVEN, authored by Don Piper and Cecil Murphey. The Energizer Bunny of the publishing world, 90 MINUTES recently entered its 115th week on The New York Times bestseller list. The inspirational story garnered the #44 spot on Bookscan, selling a reported 418,000 copies. Considering Bookscan only reports sales from a select list of retail outlets, it's certain that the numbers were far greater. Bookscan's top earner for 2008 was Stephanie Meyer, whose TWILIGHT series sold more than 15 million books total.
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Gena Showalter's re-released novel, HEART OF THE DRAGON, has entered The New York Times bestseller list at #31 and the USA Today list at #94. Her revived ATLANTIS series will re-release its second title, JEWEL OF ATLANTIS in February. A totally new addition to the series, THE VAMPIRE'S BRIDE will debut in March. On her blog, Gena commented, "It's especially thrilling since the original did not hit a single list." Way to go Gena!
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Mark your calendars! New York Times bestselling author Tommy Newberry will chat with TKA on Wednesday, January 28th @ 9pm ET. His recent release THE 4:8 PRINCIPLE topped Amazon's "Success" category at #1 and the "Religion & Spirituality" category at #2. People across the country have embraced this highly energized and motivational book, which has sold approximately 65,000 copies since it's debut in September 2007. Tommy is also the author of SUCCESS IS NOT AN ACCIDENT. Click here to bookmark the link for TKA's chat room.
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Are you a Kindle owner? If so, make sure to check on Amazon's free book downloads, compliments of Random House. The titles include PRAGUE by Arthur Phillips, MURDER LIST by Julie Garwood and A DANGEROUS MAN by Charlie Huston. This offer ends February 28th.
UPDATE:The winner of this week's "Take Home Tuesday" is: Bloody_destiny3! Congratulations! Please email your physical address to info@knightagency.net. Thanks to everyone for the great response.Don't forget to check back next Tuesday for another great giveaway!
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Big News! We're reviving "Take Home Tuesday" and making it a regular feature on the TKA blog once again. The people have spoken, and they want more free books! Who are we to deny the reading public? If you don't remember it from the past, the deal is every Tuesday we post a new book. The winner of that book is randomly selected from the names in the comments section. It's virtually no work for you. All you have to do is remember to visit the blog on Tuesdays. Winners will be announced the following Wednesday.
Today's totally stupendous TKA selection is HEART OF THE DRAGON by Gena Showalter. This is the first book in Gena's ATLANTIS series, which is being re-released this month. Leave your name in the comments section to enter the giveaway!
THE STORY:Searching for her missing brother, Grace Carlyle never dreamed she would discover a secret world populated by mythological monsters—or find herself facing a sword-wielding being whose looks put mortal men to shame.
But there he was, Darius en Kragin, one of a race of shape-shifting warriors bound to guard the gates of Atlantis, and kill all travelers who strayed within its borders.
Now Grace's life was in his hands, and Darius had to choose between his centuries-old vow and the woman who had slipped beneath his defenses and stolen the heart of Atlantis's fiercest dragon.
Guest Blogger Cecil Murphey's Advice for Writers in the New Year
He called and said, "I haven't had a book contract in six years." He had published six books in the late 1980s. He went on to ask me if there could be age discrimination because he's 67. I assured him that wasn't the case. For about 20 minutes he told me of the terrible ordeals of trying to publish in today's market.
I explored a number of possible reasons before I finally asked, "How does your writing today compare with what you did twenty years ago?" He assured me that his current work was as good as the former.
I didn't say this to him but I thought, that's the problem. Your answer should have been, "It's much better now."
I've noticed that many writers reach a certain achievement level, develop a following, and they stop improving. That's sad. We can always get better.
One of the things I've recently done to improve my writing was to buy a new English book. I'd never been able to remember terms like restrictive and nonrestrictive clauses. This book uses essential and nonessential clauses. That makes sense.
I decided to stick with that book and keep learning. My new goal is to submit manuscripts so good that frustrated editors will exclaim, "I couldn't find even a misplaced comma."
I'm aware that the book business is having health problems right now (like all the other industries). My recent proposals might not make the contract stage. I won't like that; however, I want to be able to say that the writing is better. That makes me more competitive. Most of all, it's a good feeling to know that I've improved and that my latest manuscript is better than the one before it.
To learn more about Cecil Murphey, New York Times bestselling co-author of 90 MINUTES IN HEAVEN, visit www.TheManBehindTheWords.com.
Nalini Singh's upcoming release, ANGELS' BLOOD, the first installment in the GUILD HUNTER series, was recently reviewed by Romantic Times and made the cover of their February issue. How's that for an endorsement!?! Be sure to check out this blockbuster book, which will be released in March. Can't wait that long? Check out a special e-novella, ANGELS’ PAWN, which will introduce this highly anticipated series. It will be available February 24th in all e-formats, including Kindle.
Also, in related Nalini news, here's a sneak peak at the cover for the upcoming November mass market release of AN ENCHANTED SEASON! Bellissimo!!
Here's the 411: 
