I get asked this question a lot–what makes an editor decide that she (or he, but this is a romance blog so it’s not a newsflash that the editor is probably a she) wants to go to contract on a particular project?

Well, I can tell you all why I decided to embrace CONFESSIONS OF A SLIGHTLY NEUROTIC HITWOMAN by JB Lynn, which I hope might give you a little insight into my convoluted (oh, where is spellcheck when you need it?) mind.

First, it made me laugh. Second, it made me, well, also not laugh–because there are parts of this book that are tough to take. And sometimes you laugh during the really awful stuff, which is a bit like real life. (I’m used to this, as my entire family is pretty great at making sick jokes during bad moments.)

I also loved that this book took risks: a heroine faced with right and wrong decisions (aka The Moral Dilemma, which I’m a sucker for), characters of shady background…and a talking lizard, who may or may not the voice of, um, well…God. (Or maybe he’s a figment of the heroine’s imagination. Or maybe it doesn’t matter…) The author put this all together and somehow, through the force of her talent, made it all work.

Now, I love a good duke (or whatever the modern equivilant of a duke might be…) as much as anyone. But sometimes you just can’t enter another ballroom without driving yourself a bit crazy, so why not take a risk along with me with CONFESSIONS OF A SLIGHTLY NEUROTIC HITWOMAN. And then let me know what you think!

Then you’ll love Laura Lee Guhrke’s AND THEN HE KISSED HER, now only $.99 on nook or kindle! Read the 2008 RITA finalist that Romantic Times called “great fun and delectable reading.”

I mostly ate and napped my way through Christmas and Hanukkah, but I also managed to read a few books, Tiger’s Wife by Tea Obreht being a particularly memorable one, and saw a LOT of movies, which, now that I think about it, quite a few were based on literary characters–Sherlock Holmes, The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo and The Adventures of Tin Tin.

It was a great way to relax and re-charge my batteries and now I’m back in the office excited to tackle new projects. What are you looking forward to in 2012?

“This was such a great romance. The events in Phoebe’s life take us on such a roller coaster. But even in the face of adversity, she maintains her inner strength. I loved watching her melt away the walls built around “Lord Ice.” Julian is so very closed off at the beginning, but thanks to Phoebe, we get to see the real man underneath his controlled exterior. The sexual tension is great –and though there are not many sex scenes, I was satisfied with what we got.” – Red Hot Books

“Long doesn’t stint on the heat, and the sexual tension is superbly done, but there are also moments like the waltz scene that reveal not just desire but also tenderness and sentiment and impulsive affection.” — Just Janga

“If you enjoy historical romances with a dash of mystery or intrigue, then Lecia Cornwall’s Price of Temptation is for you. This book has it all. A tale which weaves treason, espionage, secrets, and romance together in a web that the reader can’t help but get pulled in. This novel will leave you crying, laughing, and cheering for Evelyn and Sin.” — Forever Book Lover

“Lecia Cornwall has delivered a story that is sure to make your heart pound with all the twists and turns, lies and cleverness, danger and intrigue along with a love and attraction so strong it almost just out at you.” — Rogues Under the Covers

“Guhrke’s knack for merging poignancy and humor, pride and passion are what makes her a fan favorite, and once more she enthralls readers with an emotionally moving romance that balances love, lust and laughter.” – Romantic Times Book Reviews TOP PICK! 4 1/2 stars

“Laura Lee Guhrke has really created a charming read, the third in her Abandoned at the Altar series. This book hooked me from page one and didn’t let go.” – The Season

“You have Gods, Vampires, Lychen’s, and witches. Not to mention a kick ass heroine, a sexy demigod, a best friend in need of help, and the world need saving! I will be following this series and author. I cannot wait to see what happens with Ky and Ryker.” — Night Owl Romance

“If Sable Grace keeps writing novels like BEDEVILED, she is sure to maintain a strong foothold in the paranormal genre. Ms. Grace truly makes me envious of her talent for writing. BEDEVILED is a read that will keep you up through the night; it is that good. Pulse pounding action and tension that keeps you on the edge of your seat are just a small part of what I loved about BEDEVILED. It was so wonderful to read about Kyana and Ryker again after their first story, ASCENSION, which is just as awesome of a read. I will patiently await her next novel.” – Romance Junkies

And to all, a good night!

Sophie Jordan’s SINS OF A WICKED DUKE
Lorraine Heath’s A DUKE OF HER OWN
Julia Quinn’s THE LOST DUKE OF WYNDHAM
Elizabeth Boyle’s MAD ABOUT THE DUKE
Tracey Ann Warren’s AT THE DUKE’S PLEASURE
Kathryn Caskie’s THE DUKE’S NIGHT OF SIN
Suzanne Enoch’s SINS OF A DUKE
Melody Thomas’ BEAUTY AND THE DUKE
Gayle Callen’s NEVER DARE A DUKE
Adele Ashworth’s DUKE OF SIN

Oh, tidings of joy!

What’s your favorite Duke book?

Johanna Lindsey’s HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS
Cathy Maxwell’s SEDUCTION AT CHRISTMAS
Kerrelyn Sparks’ ALL I WANT FOR CHRISTMAS IS A VAMPIRE
Dorothea Benton Franks’ THE CHRISTMAS PEARL
Terri Garey’s SILENT NIGHT, HAUNTED NIGHT (I can’t help singing this one!)
Kim Harrison’s HOLIDAYS ARE HELL
Terry Candis’ ANY GIVEN CHRISTMAS
Kerrelyn Sparks’ A VERY VAMPY CHRISTMAS
Lecia Cornwall’s ALL THE PLEASURES OF THE SEASON
Lori Wilde’s THE CHRISTMAS COOKIE CHRONICLES: Raylene
Lori Wilde’s THE CHRISTMAS COOKIE CHRONICLES: Carrie
Lori Wilde’s THE CHRISTMAS COOKIE CHRONICLES: Christine

Happy holidays!! And even happier reading…