Lisa Kleypas is one of the Heavy Hitters of the historical romance genre, with several international bestsellers, and awards to her name. With her new work in contemporaries, it looks like she will be dominating that genre as well!
When we learned of Lisa’s two upcoming new releases, Seduce Me At Sunrise and A Wallflower Christmas, we Smugglers decided that we had to dedicate a full week to Lisa’s work. And, for the grand finale of our Lisa Kleypas week, we were dead set on getting an interview with this wonderful author…although we weren’t expecting to *really* accomplish this. So, when we learned that Lisa was actually going to participate, we were bouncing off the walls with excitement! (Literally, there have to be somewhere around 50 emails between the two of us that basically say “AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA!!!!!!”, “OMGOMGOMGOMG”, or derivations thereof)
And so, we are proud to present our very own Chat With Lisa Kleypas!
The Book Smugglers: You have two books coming up within a short period of time between releases – how hectic is this moment for you? Can you tell us a bit about each book?
Lisa: I am enjoying this tremendously! I think it will be a lot of fun to have two books coming out so close together. And the tone and format of each is quite different, which keeps things interesting. The first one, “Seduce Me At Sunrise,” is a very dark and passionate story about a Gyspy hero, Kev Merripen, and his forbidden love for a fragile invalid, Winnifred Hathaway. The second book is a Wallflower novel, and it was a joy to write—probably the happiest book I’ve ever done. I think a lot of that had to do with the Victorian Christmas setting. All the heroines and husbands of my original Wallflower novels make appearances, and I also introduced a new hero, Rafe Bowman, an American entrepreneur who has come to England to marry an aristocratic English bride.
The Book Smugglers: In addition to being a historical/regency romance maven, you have recently turned to contemporary fiction and romance with Sugar Daddy and Blue-Eyed Devil. What made you decide to step out of the historicals and venture into new territory?
Lisa: After writing historicals for so many years, I felt the need to stretch a little and challenge myself. I could never abandon historicals—I love them too much—but I knew there were different kinds of characters and plots I could write in a contemporary setting. And it has been some of the most satisfying work I’ve ever done, as well as the most difficult. The hardest part for me was finding a true, authentic contemporary voice and learning to “strip down” my writing style. But that forced me to express emotions and thoughts in a different, more creative way. The surprise was in discovering how much that refreshed my historical writing when I went back to it!
The Book Smugglers: In your historical fiction novels, and even in your contemporary work with Sugar Daddy, physical settings and locations play a large part of your novels, almost as characters in themselves. What’s your research process for creating these vivid time periods and locations? Have you visited some of the places you name in your stories?
Lisa: The setting of a book is really important to me as a writer—I can’t tell the story unless I know where things are and what’s going on at the time. I load a lot of sensory details in my place descriptions—I’ve spent a lot of time figuring out street-smells, what the sky would look like at a certain time of day, what kinds of plant and animal life would be in the rural settings, and of course I’m big on food and fashion! . . . I think this has led to some fun scenes, such as the calves’-head formal dinner in “It Happened One Autumn,” or the bees-behind-the-curtain scene in “Mine Till Midnight.”
In the past I visited England twice, and that helped tremendously in a sense of the dialogue and the country’s remarkable character. Unfortunately my opportunities for travel are now more limited than they used to be, because I have two young children at home. But I read piles of research books and information on the net, and there is always so much more to learn.
For my contemporary novels, the setting was much easier because I’ve lived in Texas almost half my life, in Dallas, Houston, and also in the environs of San Antonio. So I have a keen ear for the unique features of Texas dialogue, and an affection for the eccentricities of Texans.
The Book Smugglers: Similarly, your two latest Historical novels, Mine Til Midnight and Seduce me at Sunrise have gypsies as heroes . There is a lot of information about gypsy beliefs and rituals. Are they all product of research or are there some intellectual liberties?
Lisa: I researched as much as I could, buying every book available and going on the net, but it is very difficult to research the Rom, because there are so many variations in language and ritual among the different tribes! So at times I had to guess whether one tribal custom I read about might have been appropriate for other tribes in the area. I did not invent any words or customs, however, just tried to decide which ones would have been the most widely used. And appalling acts such as the “Gyspy Hunt” described in “Seduce Me At Sunrise” really did happen, when landowners brutally attacked Romany tribes and drove them out of the area.
The Book Smugglers: Speaking of research, you latest contemporary book, Blue-Eyed Devil taps in the very complicated subject of domestic abuse and personality disorders. We were awed at the manner in which you were able to present a very complex subject in a very straight-forward manner without ever succumbing to generalizations or gross interpretations – was it a very difficult topic to target? What kind of research was done for BED?
Lisa: Thank you!– it was definitely a difficult topic to address, but I wanted so much to share this knowledge with readers in the hopes that it might help someone. Whether we are aware of it or not, we have all come into contact with personality-disordered people in the past, and will in the future. You can’t avoid them. So there are important ways in which we can protect ourselves from being taken advantage of, hurt, or even abused, by recognizing the warning signs. Before I wrote the book, I consulted professional experts personally and also emailed with some respected authorities on the subjects of narcissistic personality disorder.
Part of what interested me in the subject of abuse was that a long time ago, before I was married, I was involved with a verbally abusive guy. It never got to the point of physical abuse, thank heaven, but it started in little ways and was definitely getting worse. Because it always does, It’s a progressive disease. And no matter how sorry the abusers say they are, they’ll keep doing it. It’s sad to learn that people with personality disorders can’t ever really change, because it goes down to the bedrock of who they are. But it’s crucial for people, especially women, to understand that it’s not a question of loving an abuser more, pleasing him more, because no matter what you do, you can’t ever change him.
The Book Smugglers: On to lighter topics: You have another winner with the Hathaway series. The family is absolutely delightful and adorable, and we have to ask: which sibling is next? We have the feeling it’s Leo and he is to be paired with…the governess?
Lisa: Oh, I’m so glad you’re enjoying the Hathaways—to me they are turning out to be loads of fun, they’re all such misfits! The next romance is going to feature Poppy, who so desperately longs for normalcy. And of course she won’t get it *g*. She’s going to be paired with the mysterious hotel owner of the Rutledge, where so many of my previous characters have stayed, going back to McKenna in “Again The Magic.” And you’re absolutely right about Leo—I think from the moment the governess appears in “Seduce Me At Sunrise” you know something very intense and unexpected is happening between them.
The Book Smugglers: In A Wallflower Christmas you bring back fan favorites such as the four wallflower friends and their respective consorts. Do you have plans on writing more stories about them in the future?
Lisa: If my readers are open to that, absolutely! I love the wallflowers. Writing about them is like putting on a pair of cozy slippers.
The Book Smugglers: We heard that you next contemporary is titled Smooth Talking Stranger and is set to be released in 2009 – any information you can share?
Lisa: Yes, it is the story of Jack Travis, who just may turn out to be my sexiest hero ever. I have paired him with a feisty feminist vegetarian, Ella Varner, who approaches the macho Jack with the news that he has fathered her sister’s baby! And while her sister is off in rehab, Ella is having to take care of the baby, and she tries to force Jack to take a paternity test, and she generally drives him crazy. It is a fun story, with some deeper issues, of course, and there are some good twists and turns in the plot.
The Book Smugglers: You are a former beauty queen turned writer–now that’s quite a leap! What inspired you to start writing novels and become a full-time author?
Lisa: Well, I was always sitting in the attic reading when I was younger. I was a nerd with glasses and braces. So the beauty pageant was sort of a way I tried to prove to myself that I was pretty. The surprise was, even after the hair and makeup and winning a crown, I still didn’t feel beautiful. That came later, with self-confidence and maturity and happiness, and being able to do what I love the most—writing. So that’s it–doing what you love is the best beauty secret!
The Book Smugglers: What is your usual writing process like? Can you describe a day at work for us?
Lisa: My average day starts at four in the morning . . . I get up early to write while it’s quiet, before my husband and children get up. Then at seven I make the breakfast, pack the lunches, get everyone dressed, and at nine o’clock I’m back to work until two o’clock. That’s the time when the children get home, and I’m able to be with them, do school projects, help with homework, etc. I am so lucky to be able to arrange my day around them, and I never take it for granted.
The Book Smugglers: What are you reading right now?
Lisa: Two wildly different works…one, “Atonement” by Ian McEwan (fantastic), and two, “Desperaux” by Kate DiCamillo, which I’m reading with my daughter.
The Book Smugglers: Who are your major writing influences? Which authors do you love?
Lisa: I have always loved the work of Judith McNaught, Laura Kinsale, Christina Dodd (who is also my dearest friend!) Kristin Hannah, Jayne Ann Krentz and SEP.
The Book Smugglers: Many of your books figure in reader’s favorite’s lists – what are Lisa Kleypas’ top 5 romance novels?
Lisa: That is tough to answer! Some of them I have a special fondness because they sort of articulated a turning point in my career, such as “Dreaming Of You”, when I started writing self-made non-aristocratic heroes. So I can tell you the books that aren’t necessarily my best-written works, but they represent particular times in my life that have personal meaning . . . “Blue-Eyed Devil”, “Sugar Daddy”, “Dreaming Of You”, “Devil In Winter” and “It Happened One Autumn”.
The Book Smugglers: And finally one last naughty question: if you were to be stranded in an island and could only pick one hero between Derek Craven and Sebastian St Vincent, which one would you choose?
Lisa: That is definitely a naughty question! Really, I would be equally happy with either of them, but Derek and St. Vincent have been spoken for so strongly by other women that they are unavailable at present! So I’ll settle for Kev Merripen from “Seduce Me At Sunrise”, because he is the kind of hero who, even on an deserted island, could get you dinner, make you a hammock and build a boat, and keep you quite warm at night!
Lisa Kleypas is the RITA Award–winning author of twenty novels. Her books have been published in fourteen languages and are bestsellers all over the world. She lives in Washington State with her husband and two children.
For more about Lisa, please visit www.lisakleypas.com.
A big Smuggler thank you again to Lisa for taking the time to chat with us!
And, here it is folks! As promised, we have one copy of Lisa’s upcoming release, Seduce Me At Sunrise up for grabs. All you have to do to win this bad boy is leave a comment, letting us know who your favorite Kleypas character is and why! The contest will run until Sunday (September 28) at noon, Pacific Standard Time. Best of luck to you all!
135 Comments
Marg
September 26, 2008 at 1:07 amI really enjoyed your interview girls! Well done.
As for my favourite, I have a hard time going past Sebastian, although I will admit to having a huge softspot for Jack from Suddenly You.
Maureen
September 26, 2008 at 2:34 amThanks for the interview. Lisa Kleypas is a favorite author of mine and it is definitely hard to pick a favorite character but I would have to pick Evie because without her Sebastian would not have been likable at all.
Maered
September 26, 2008 at 2:37 amGreat interview! And a very diplomatic answer on the picking St Vincent or Derek question, Lisa!
As for me, well, I have to pick Sebastian. *sigh* Does anything more need to be said??
Stacy~
September 26, 2008 at 3:13 amWonderful interview! I am a huge, HUGE LK fan, have been for years, and every book is a treat.
Favorite character? I couldn’t pick just one! I love Holland and Zach, Celia and Justin, Derek and Sarah, Logan and Madeline, Daisy and Matthew, Win and Kev, so choosing one is impossible. I just love them all to pieces 🙂
sarabelle
September 26, 2008 at 4:18 amwonderful interview ladies. I loved all the articles this week. My favorite characters would have to be the Hawksworth’s I loved Lara and Hunter’s story.
Katiebabs
September 26, 2008 at 4:20 amWhat an amazing interview! Everyone is so gaga over Derek and Sebastian, but I go for the easy going guy, Jack from Suddenly You. 😀
But then there is Hardy, Ross, Nick, Marcus… so many to choose. Isn’t it great to have so many men to pick from?
I have to admit when I first heard Lisa was going to write contemps, I wanted to cry because my experience with past authors who wrote historicals and started to write contemps hasn’t been good. But after reading Sugar Daddy I was so wrong! *hangs head in shame*
As for Blue Eyed Devil… I can’t talk about it without bringing tears to me eyes. Everything Haven goes through, I have been there, at least with the emotional abuse and the manipulation of someone I trusted. BED brings so much to light about different forms of abuse. And the way Hardy treats Haven, made me cry tears of happiness after my tears of heartache.
Noelani
September 26, 2008 at 4:37 amFor a looooong time Derek Craven was always my favorite hero! But lately I have been re-reading the Wallflower books, MTM, and Again The Magic books over and over again(and who do all those books have in common)and I would have to say that now Marcus, Lord Westcliff has a slight edge on him as my favorite hero!
At the end of IHOA when Marcus says aloud to a sleeping Lillian…Tell me Lillian, dearest love…how can you have reached so far inside my heart? Can you say tingles??!! Excuse me as I let out a dramatic sigh!
Mollie
September 26, 2008 at 4:44 amDerek Craven from the historicals. Gage from the contemps. You didn’t think I’d just pick ONE did you?! 😉
Kim
September 26, 2008 at 5:00 am*waves* Hello Lisa!
Both SMAS and Wallflowers Christmas are awesome and amazing!
You know I’m chomping at the bit for Smooth Talking Stranger *g* Even sexier than Hardy?!?! You’re going to kill me yet.
Have TWO awesome publication weeks, my friend!
Kim
Dev
September 26, 2008 at 5:06 amMy favorite heroes are Sebastian for Historicals and Gage for Contemporary. Favorite heroines are too hard to pick ~ Love Sara, Evie, Lillian, Liberty, Annabelle………and the list goes on and on.
So my question for Lisa is this ~ with the release of Wallflower Christmas, Seduce Me at Sunrise, A Historical Christmas Present and upcoming Sweet Talking Stranger ~ when exactly do you sleep? 🙂
Ok, I lied. Second question. What will you be working on next?
AnimeJune
September 26, 2008 at 5:07 amSebastian can go and suck an egg.
MARCUS is the man! *lol*
Sam
September 26, 2008 at 5:38 amAwesome interview! I would have to say my favorites are a tie between McKenna and Westcliff.
I came to the party a little late yesterday, so I hope it’s not bad form to re-ask the question I asked at the end of yesterday’s comments…
I loved the Wallflowers,(and every other book she wrote before them!) but I read them all as ebooks. I have space limitations and I like the larger font my ereader gives me. But after Daisy’s book none of the historicals have come out as ebooks. Can we look forward to seeing these books as ebooks in the future?
Thanks!
Carolyn Jean
September 26, 2008 at 5:47 amWhat a fun interview, and what a treat to have this week! Thanks, Lisa. I’m excited to read ALL of your books now. So far, though, I have only read Sugar Daddy and Worth Any Price, so hero-wise it’s between Nick Gentry and Gage Travis.
Oh! Decisions! I’ll go with Nick Gentry.
tinaviel
September 26, 2008 at 6:04 amHi Lisa!
I can’t imagine how I’m going to be able to hold out four more days till SMAS. I’m amazed I got this far after finishing MTM 😉 I kept compulsively going back and reading all of Win and Merripen’s scenes together.
Here are my all time favourite characters (though I had a REALLY hard time narrowing it down…)
Hero: McKenna (Again the Magic was the first of your books I ever read and his love for Aline through everything made me BAWL), Zachary from Where Dreams Begin, and, of course, Westcliff. But I’m anticipating that Merripen is going to knock them all off the pedestal — from what I’ve seen he seems to be the embodiment of everything I love to read about in a hero.
Heroine: Lillian, easily. Her sarcasm and outspokenness remind me of myself — and my sister feels that she is more like Daisy than any other character she’s read about, ever — it’s become a running joke between us!
Cindy W
September 26, 2008 at 6:16 amMy favorite hero is Hardy. He redeemed himself in BED. I have a feeling I’ll enjoy Jack Travis though.
I’d love to win SMAS!!
Anonymous
September 26, 2008 at 6:17 amI am enjoying the interview and retrospectives.
It’s a tough choice between Derek and Sebastian, but I think I’ll go with St. Vincent. After SMAS, Kev may join the list.
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 7:49 amDear Katie,
I have to tell you, I had my own doubts about whether or not I could pull off a contemporary! At one point it came down to me telling myself, “for heaven’s sake, Lisa, you LIVE in a contemporary world” . . . as I said in the interview, the tough part was in finding a modern writing voice. Apparently the voice in my head is quite baroque and adjective-heavy–LOL!
Thank you for saying that about Blue-Eyed Devil, dear. And I’m so sorry that you have enountered abuse and manipulation, as I and so many others have . . . but I have the sense that it has given you a very keen appreciation of the joys to be found in life, and a lot of inner strength–you come across as an amazingly positive person.
I sort of addressed this in Blue-Eyed Devil, something about how the bad things that happen to you in life help to create the spaces inside where happiness can live. Not that we should ever be grateful to encounter painful challenges . . . but we should be very proud and grateful to have survived them 🙂
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 7:50 amDear Stacy,
I appreciate that so much–thank you!!! And many thanks on behalf of Derek, Sara, Kev, Win et al . . .
🙂
Hugs,
Lisa
Christine
September 26, 2008 at 7:53 amWonderful interview! Very thoughtful questions and I enjoyed reading Lisa’s responses.
Hardy Cates is my favorite LK hero so far. But Gage Travis just about ties him… especially after BED. I heart them both. I can’t wait to fall for Jack Travis!!!
Lisa :: I love “The Tale of Desperaux” by Kate DiCamillo! It’s a fantastic book and definitely one of my favorites. But I LOVE DiCamillo’s more recent novel, “The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane” even more so. I highly recommend it. Have tissues nearby–it’s a powerful story.
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 7:53 amDear Noelani,
Ohhh, I’m so glad you liked that line . . . I have always adored the kind of hero who is so reserved on the outside and so tender and passionate on the outside. In fact, when I was describing the character of Marcus to my friends, I said, “I’m writing a book about a stuffy, straightlaced earl who is really great in bed.” And they were all, “Oooooooh!!!!” LOL
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 7:55 amHello Kim darling!!!!
(Lisa, blowing kisses and waving) . . . I owe you emails and a phone call . . . I’m sorry, dear, I’ve been too busy to breathe lately!
Sarah
September 26, 2008 at 8:01 amThank you Lisa and the book smugglers for this interview. Great stuff!
My favorite LK hero is still Zachary Bronson. I just really, really adore him and his drive to do whatever it takes to bring Holly into his life. Close seconds are Derek Craven and Marcus Westcliff.
Katiebabs
September 26, 2008 at 8:09 amLisa: I am so glad you came to the decision to write contemporaries such as Sugar Daddy and Blue Eyed Devil.
I don’t regret anything that has happened to me in my life, because if my past was different, I wouldn’t be the person I am today. BED put so much into perspective and others who have read it. Just like Haven had her family, such as her brothers, I had a great support with mine.
Of course I am still looking for my Hardy. 😀
little alys
September 26, 2008 at 8:15 amAna and Thea – You two are wonderful for doing this. This is seriously the light in my rather draggy week. Happiest ever! I give you brownies should we ever meet. *firm nod* chocolate brownies.
Lisa – Thank you so much for doing this interview. It’s been wonderful. I cannot wait until I can get your newest books. They have seriously pulled me through so much. Thank you, thank you so much.
Lana
September 26, 2008 at 8:27 amThis was such a great interview, thanks!
My favorite character is definitely Westcliff. I just love him and the very Much Ado About Nothing fireworks he and Lillian have. And the scene with the pear in the library is completely priceless. Love it!
Holly
September 26, 2008 at 8:36 amHi Lisa!
I’m so excited to see you here today! One of my favorite authors visiting with two of my favorite women. 🙂
I just finished reading A Wallflower Christmas and Seduce Me At Sunrise and I have to tell you – both were amazing. I’m very anxious for Leo’s book now. Miss Marks really intrigued me..what’s up with her past? Come on, you can tell me… 😛
I am curious though, what about Aline and McKenna? We never hear about them. Do you think you might have them pop up for a little visit in an upcoming novel?
I still think Nick is my absolute favorite, though that’s subject to change, depending on what novel I’m currently re-reading. 😉
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 8:45 amDev, thank you and LOL . . .
I think a few things have helped me to be more productive the past couple of years . . . first, when you’ve been doing something for a while, you get to know your own strengths and weaknesses, so you can sort of skirt around the potholes in the road . . . and second, I swear everything great they say about getting into your forties is actually true. It’s wonderful . . . you can accomplish so much more, and you have more self-confidence. So all these things are helping me to get more done than I used to. Also, coffee. Lots of coffee *g*.
The next thing I’ll be working on (after finishing Jack’s book) is Poppy’s story, and if my publisher okays it, I will do another historical right after that. It could be Leo’s book, but I don’t know . . . I have the GREATEST ideas for Beatrix, and I don’t know if it can wait 🙂
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 8:46 amDear animejune . . .LOL . . . if I had to live with one of my heroes in real life, it would probably be Marcus. (Lisa, mistress of Stony Cross Park)
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 8:47 amDear Sam,
Thank you! . . .and about your question, I should know the answer, but I really have no idea how these ebook arrangements are made. I think it’s up to the publisher.
Najeebah
September 26, 2008 at 8:59 amThanks for the interview, girls! Great questions too!
I only ventured out into your contemporary land, Lisa, last August. First I have to commend you on writing two wonderful books!! Blue Eyed Devil has to be my favorite contemporary ever(even though I’ve only read 3-4 others). It beat Judith Mcnaught’s Paradise which had previously been one of my favorite contemporaries but not anymore! *grin* If Hardy Cates and Matthew Farrel were to take each other on, I see Hardy winning hands down.
Anyhow, I was wondering, do we get to see more of Joe Travis in Smooth Talking Stranger? I’m really curious to know what kind of heroine Joe gets.
For all those lucky girls with an ARC of SMAS and AWC … I’m incredibly jealous. I can’t wait to get my hands on those two. I’ve been eagerly anticipating SMAS since I read the first excerpt posted late last year or so.
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 9:17 amDear Tina,
Thank you–you are so kind!–I loved writing about McKenna because he was a footman who was really a footman and not a long-lost aristocrat . . .
THANK YOU for sharing that about you and your sister–I love it!!!
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 9:20 amDear Maered–I appreciate that, and I did try to be diplomatic, because I didn’t want to hurt either guy’s feelings. *g*
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 9:21 amDear Caroyn Jean,
I think Nick would be a great choice (as long as you have the stamina to spend a night with him *g*)
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 9:22 amChristine, I read Edward Tulane to both children, and it was EMBARRASING because I CRIED so much in front of them. “Mommy, it’s just a story” . . .
“Yes. Yes, I know.” (Lisa, blowing her nose vigorously)
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 9:24 amKatie, I know you’ll find your Hardy someday! It took me a while to find Greg. But the good ones are worth the wait 🙂
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 9:30 amDear Holly,
THANK YOU!!! I’m thrilled that you enjoyed SMAS and WC!
About Aline and McKenna . . . I have an idea, but I don’t know if it could work. I want so much to try and open up another historical romance setting. Back when I wrote “Suddenly You,” hardly anyone was writing Victorian romance, and I like to think I may have helped to make that a viable setting for authors over the past years.
But what I REALLY want to do is start writing a few historical romances set in Victorian era New York, using Aline and McKenna as a familiar springboard. It would be a wonderful, glamorous, romantic setting, but also fascinating because of the industrial age history. The problem is, it’s risky–a lot of readers might feel that is beyond their comfort zone. So I’ll have to wait and try to find a good time to try it.
Meanwhile, I would love to have them “visit” a future Wallflower book!
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 9:31 amDear Alys,
It has been such a pleasure “chatting” with you the past few days . . . I wish we together eating brownies right now! Let’s make it a future goal . . . Alya and Lisa and a plate of brownies . . .
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 9:33 amDear Lana,
Thank you so much–that pear in the bottle scene was the most fun EVER to write . . . it was a joy to put someone like Marcus into a farcical situation like that. You should have seen me while I was writing the part when Lillian gets her finger stuck in the bottle . . . I was making myself crack up *g*
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 9:38 amDear Najeebah,
I am SO HONORED, you are a sweetie! thank you!–I think Judith McNaught is just incredible, the queen, just searingly romantic and wonderful.
I don’t know if Hardy would beat Matt, but I think Hardy would probably fight dirtier!–LOL.
About Joe, yes, he definitely makes an appearance in Smooth Talking Stranger . . .and I think he’s adorable. I don’t have any plans to write his story for a while, I’m thinking of a new trilogy set in Washington State. It’s always nice to have these guys in the background, though, just in case I need a hero to write about!
Kelly Krysten
September 26, 2008 at 9:46 amI have one word: Mckenna.
I love Again the Magic. It’s my favorite romance of all time and it’s in my top three favorite books of all time. I get so sloppy crying over it but I can’t stay away from it for long. I relish every emotion it evokes.
It’s also where I first met Marcus. I loved how he fought for Aline to live after her horrible accident. I also loved his protectiveness and easy comradery with his sisters.
I felt so deeply sorry for Aline because she thought that a flaw in her physicality made her unworthy of Mckenna.
And the scene where Mckenna weeps as the housekeeper holds him may just be the greatest scene ever written.
Thank you so much, Lisa, for writing such tremendously satisfying work. I don’t know what I’d do without Kleypas books to look forward to.:)
Sam
September 26, 2008 at 9:52 amThanks Lisa! I’ll check with them then. Can’t wait to read the next book!
Thea
September 26, 2008 at 9:58 amI am loving everyone’s comments!!! Lisa, thanks again for answering everyone’s questions! And I want to play too :p
My favorite character would have to be Derek Craven (he reminds me very much of le boyfriend, fighting for everything he’s earned). Although Marcus gives Derek a run for his money! One thing I really loved about Marcus is how uptight and non-rakish he was, to the point of laughter from his friends concerning his lack of carnal appetite…until he meets Lillian of course 😉 Not everyone can be a debaucher like St. Vincent!
Oh also, one reader emailed a question for Lisa–Khatol asks:
I am a huge fan of Lisa Kleypas…My question is, I wanted to know Lisa’s schedule for her book signing, ( can’t find it anywhere 🙁 ) can you help me. I would really like to meet her and get her to sign DIW.
Thanks again Lisa, and to everyone for commenting!
Penfield
September 26, 2008 at 10:06 amI think that you have successfully navigated writing both historicals and contempories. If someone picked up one of your contempories and didn’t know the author, I don’t think they would know it was you. Your voice is unique in each genre and you are able to tell compelling stories in different eras.
As for heroes, i still would vote for Sebastian.
Cheri2628
September 26, 2008 at 10:19 amI loved Derek from Dreaming of You and Alex from Then Came You. Both very different men, yet they became reluctant friends. These two men and their love stories with the heroines really touched my heart.
I love your writing. Thank you for writing such richly emotional and satisfying stories.
Candice L
September 26, 2008 at 11:29 amMy favorite Hero is Sebatian from the Wall Flower series. He came off as aloof, bored, full of himself, and really selfish when you first meet him. But then, when he opens himself to Evie, and shows a different side of himself, its it at all possible, he is even more beautiful. He is a perfect example of a Man, who is slapped in the face by true love, what he can be and overcome, and become a MAN. Thank you Lisa!!
orannia
September 26, 2008 at 12:12 pmWhat an amazing interview Lisa & Book Smugglers – thank you all so much!
(((((katiebabs)))))
I also found that BED struck home. So many of the things Haven came out with I've thought. BED is the most amazing book and I just love that you've taken an issue seldom brought to light and discussed it in a unadulterated way. (Hmmm, that's not quite the right word.. What I mean is, you've presented it as it is, in all its darkness, and in doing so allowed people like me to realise that they aren't alone, that they're not mad.) And now I'm crying, but in a good way 🙂 Thank you!
To the question: as for my favourite character….decision, decisions 🙂 Actually, not so much. It has to be Sebastian St Vincent. His care and love for Evie (who I definitely relate to Evie) is….beautiful. I can't wait to visit with them in AWC!
Oh, and after recently reading Dreaming of You (which was amazing BTW!) McKenna is a close second in the favourite character stakes (his declarartion near the end of the book brought me to tears!).
All the best with the releases Lisa! Oh, and I'm looking forward to seeing Joe in STS.
orannia
PS Lisa – I love the idea of re-visiting Aline & McKenna but in NY….and the Washington state trilogy sounds interesting. Are we talking historial or contemporary please?
Lori
September 26, 2008 at 12:43 pmHi Lisa – great interview – thanks!
As for my hero? Nick, all the way! I just absolutely loved the way you introduced him. He was so fragile, but never let on. Such a wonderful hero. I loved how his last thoughts were of Lottie (when he thought he was going to die). Me. Want.
And what a fabulous idea about using Aline and McKenna (another fabulous hero!!) I love that so many of your heroes aren’t from the aristocracy, but from the working class. It makes for such an interesting read.
Thanks for the years of entertainment 🙂
sayuri60
September 26, 2008 at 1:05 pmSO I’m new to the Historical genre but I have to say that it was ‘Suddenly You’ that made me fall head over heels in love with the genre and because of that Jack Devlin will always be my fav hero of Lis’s. (ALthough Kev is coming in a close second I think.)
Anonymous
September 26, 2008 at 1:06 pmWithout question, Jack from “Suddenly You”. The opening scene with him and Amanda was such a great hook. That was my first novel of yours and I am such a fan of publishing tycoon heroes. I once started writing a chick lit novel with a publishing tycoon hero named Patrick Foreplay. I was terribly fond of him.
I loved Marcus from IHOA. I must have a thing for compact, muscular alpha males because after I read that book, I switched from dating tall, lanky musicians to dating vertically challenged, muscle-y alphas with lots of baggage. Oh! The first kiss in the shrubs was the sexiest first kiss I’ve ever read. It seems such an innocent setting, but that connection was so powerful. You should look into writing an article on first encounters–because you are the master!
Take care, come to NJ soon to visit me and Eloisa James! Haha.
BethanyA
Christine
September 26, 2008 at 1:20 pm(((orannia))) Sadly, the abusive affects caused by the narcissistic personality disorder are all too common. You might be interested in reading a post I made on my blog this morning in which I wrote about the abuse portrayed in BED.
Peace.
Christine
September 26, 2008 at 1:24 pmOh yes! I second what BethanyA says!! Come back and visit us in NJ!
BethanyA :: Were you at Lisa’s NJ signing in March 2007? I was there and in fact just posted about it on my blog the other day! =)
tomadina79
September 26, 2008 at 1:54 pmI’ve been eagerly waiting for SMAS ever since I first read MTM. Thanks for posting the great review!
As for my favorite character, it’s Kev Merripen. He entered into my ranks of ‘storybook heroes’ after I read the scene in MTM where he gives Win ‘busy work’ in the dining room in order to make her feel like she is doing some of the work.
To put it mildly, I was not the healthiest of children when I was little, and so I have an incredible appreciation for someone who recognizes that even if someone is sick and cannot possibly do certain activites, he/she WANTS to be treated like everyone else. I always used to be upset when I was excluded from certain household chores because of something as ‘foolish’ as being sick. It cheered me up whenever my friends would find things that made me feel like I was participating, (even when I couldn’t).
Kudos to you Lisa for creating such a wonderful character!! 🙂
Patty
September 26, 2008 at 2:30 pmChoosing just one favorite hero is a difficult task. However, I’m a St.Vincent fan through and through. The end of the book, when he is trying to send Evie away to the country, is so clear in my mind’s eye, it could be happening in my living room. I can see St.Vincent reach for Evie and snatch his hands back and finally give in to his overwhelming feelings of love…and he likes to kiss! Lucky Evie!
Lisa, I have a question. Will Derek Craven ever visit Jenner’s? If I remember correctly, Ivo was just in his 50’s when he died and wasn’t he older than Derek? I was actually surprised that Derek and Sarah didn’t go to Ivo’s funeral. I think is would be great fun for Derek to make a cameo appearance!
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 3:34 pmDear Kelly,
Thank you, I’m so delighted that ATM meant so much to you . . . I think (and hope) you will agree that Kev Merripen has a level of passionate intensity that is similar to McKenna’s!
I remember while writing “Again The Magic” that after a couple of Marcus’s scenes with his sisters, it occurred to me that he might be a good romantic hero. But because I had never intended to make him a hero, I had broken the tallest-man-in-the-room rule *g* . . . Marcus is in fantastic shape, but he’s not a tall guy. And then I realized, the key was in giving him such a commanding and powerful personality, that the reader wouldn’t care whether he was six feet tall or not 🙂
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 3:37 pmThea, I wish I had a better answer about the booksigning question . . . but I have no idea when the next book tour will be. At this stage of parenthood, with the children still young, it’s so hard to make time for these events, which is terrible because I love them so much. Talking to readers and meeting them in person is a true joy. Sorry . . .
Lisa Kleypas
September 26, 2008 at 3:39 pmDear Penfield . . .
Thank you SO MUCH, I can’t think of a better compliment . . . it makes all the thought and work completely worth it 🙂
little alys
September 26, 2008 at 3:45 pmLisa – I know I’ve said this, but sincerely, thank you for being here and writing your wonderful books. I believe there’s an online flush of connection between people miles upon miles away. Christine, Katiebabs, here with Thea and Ana, and all these comments here…Christine wrote a beautiful and powerful post and I am just a mess right now so I’ll stop.
Chocolate brownies for sure. 🙂
Ana
September 26, 2008 at 3:52 pmThis week has been incredible! Thanks for all your comments and thanks, above all to Lisa, for being so gracious and generous!
The romance community is one of the bravest, warmest out there. It is really rather overwhelming.
Thea
September 26, 2008 at 3:56 pmLisa–*hugs* Thank you for answering! And being a full time mother and author is a tough balancing act 🙂
By the way, here’s the post Christine wrote today after reading Blue Eyed Devil–it’s very powerful, and shows again how much your book touched readers. So thank you again for your words. 🙂
Aymless
September 26, 2008 at 4:47 pmLoved the interview!
“because he is the kind of hero who, even on an deserted island, could get you dinner, make you a hammock and build a boat, and keep you quite warm at night!”
Girl after my own heart. *g*
Pam P
September 26, 2008 at 5:22 pmDerek still comes out on top for for favorite Kleypas hero. His drive to have a better life despite the way he grew up; he becomes dangerous and worthless, yet he never quite feels himself worthy of his better, but deep down wants it, and I think he needed that ruthlessness to let himself open up to Sarah. I liked too that he doesn’t really change what he’s made of himself and how he is, except with her. Hardy reminded me of him, so he’s now a favorite.
But then so many of your heroes are favorites, with all their differences – Nick and Jack, and Marcus, with that hidden passion just waiting to be unleashed for the right woman.
Lillian is one of my very favorite heroines as said in another post.
I’m sure once I read his story, Kev’s going to be another I’m going to love.
I like Victorians and would love to see more set in NY, hope you’re able to write that one day soon.
Thanks for the interview and chatting Lisa, and for all these wonderful stories.
icedtea
September 26, 2008 at 6:15 pmNice interview, thanks.
Sebastian is definitely #1 for me, but I’m also partial to Nick Gentry. 🙂
Kate
September 26, 2008 at 6:31 pmI’ve only read Mine Till Midnight and Sugar Daddy, but by far my favorite character was…Beatrix! She made me laugh out loud, and I loved reading all of her dialogue. The sisters as a whole in MTM were fantastic, and I was so pleased to find out that there would be a Hathaway series. But Beatrix stole my heart and tickled my funny bone like no one else. I can’t wait for her book!!!
Ana, Thea, Lisa, thank you for a wonderful week!
Kristie (J)
September 26, 2008 at 6:59 pmWell, Derek is my numero uno, but I have to tell everyone that he now has someone tied with him. I admit, I didn’t think it would ever happen, but I’ve finished SMAS and Kev Winnipen blew me right out of the water!!!! Move over Derek, you have someone else on that first place stand along with you.
And OMG Lisa!!!! I would LOVE LOVE LOVE LOVE to see you write a Victorian era set in New York. LOVE it. Seriously!
And no need to enter me in the give away since *smiling like a loon – if they really smile that is- I have a copy.
shu
September 26, 2008 at 9:48 pmGreat interview! Loved the last question. My favorite is undoubtedly St. Vincent. I can’t really recall waiting for a book to come out quite like the way I did for DIW, because I could not WAIT to read about his character. Most other books, I’m excited about the story, but for DIW, I was just excited to be able to understand St. Vincent more. And really, who doesn’t love a taming of the rake story?!
Alice
September 26, 2008 at 10:12 pmHoly crap, do I love Lisa Kleypas..! The interview was great, thanks ladies!
Leslie
September 27, 2008 at 1:36 pmNick Gentry because he’s NICK. : )
Love a bad boy turned hero.
shartyrant
September 27, 2008 at 2:50 pmI would have to say Kev Merripen. Why (even though his book isn’t out yet)? Because that type of hero in the blurb is what caught my attention to give this author a whirl. I rarely read historicals anymore as some just sound the same or always have an aristocrat lead, but Lisa’s books sound interesting that I want to give her a try. Plus, I love books on Gypsies that have an author do research on it.
Brie
September 27, 2008 at 9:15 pmGreat interview, ladies!
My favorite Kleypas character is Win. I adored her in Mine Till Midnight. She has a quiet strength that I admire in heroines. Though she is/was weak physically, she is strong inside, and that’s what counts! I look forward to seeing her and Meripen come together in Seduce me at Sunrise.
Noelani
September 28, 2008 at 6:17 amOk. I just have to ask! How do you become one of the lucky people who receives ARC’s from such fabulous authors like Lisa Kleypas? I have to admit my envy over the people who comment and say I loved SMAS and WC! How did you get your lucky little fingers on them!! I wanna know! Anyway, this is beginning to sound very whinny! 🙂 But I have always been curious! I love romance and have read all Lisa’s books as well as many other authors and I have always wondered how people come by ARC’s?? Can I sign up, lol! :wink, wink:
On a different note! It was awesome to be able to chat once again with Lisa! As a mother of two little ones I can understand how busy life gets and it is amazing that she can still find the time to write like she does! I can definitely see why she has to start her days at 4am! Keep em’ coming Lisa! We all need books that make us laugh, cry and sigh! And that is just on one page!!
Toodles
Christine 🙂
orannia
September 28, 2008 at 11:23 amThank you Christine. Sorry for the late reply – the weekend went a bit nuts. Am off to read it now.
orannia
CrystalGB
September 28, 2008 at 11:25 amGreat interview. I love Lisa’s books. Derek Craven is #1 for me followed by Sebastian.