Vacation Book #2: The Vampire with the Dragon Tattoo by Kerrelyn Sparks

VWDDThe second book I snatched up after I sent in Round 1 revisions on Santa, Bring My Baby Back was The Vampire with the Dragon Tattoo by Kerrelyn Sparks. I really enjoyed Howard the doughnut-eating bear shifter and his match Elsa’s story so I was looking forward to Dougal the Scottish, be-kilted vampire. There were (at least) three things that made this such an enjoyable read:

1. The cast of characters. Since it’s number 14 in the series, you’ve had a chance to meet and really love a big variety of heroes and heroines so it’s nice to see their stories continue.

2. The humor. I laughed at Dougal and his muskrat sporran. Also, Laszlo and his buttons and his fox shifter (who has the funniest line in the book in my opinion)…so cute. I’m going to try to remember to use “Do you expect me to turn a kumquat into caviar?” in everyday conversation. Let’s try to make this happen.

3. International scope. I don’t read much of anything with Japanese or Chinese settings. I’m not sure why that is, but visiting the Tiger shifters and Japan were really interesting, unusual places that I don’t see a lot of.

But besides all that, what you have here is a big, tough, wounded guy who is such a romantic. And even if Leah is oblivious to a lot of things, she doesn’t stand a chance against that. Lucky! The ending was emotional (I sniffled) and satisfying.

About the book:

He’s Out of Control

Dougal Kincaid has something to prove. After being injured in a battle with the Malcontents, he’s ready for active duty protecting unsuspecting mortals from these villainous vampires who want to rule the world. But first he has to get control of himself . . . because just the sight of a certain lovely doctor has his injured hand doing some peculiar things, not to mention the sizzling sensation that burns along his dragon tattoo.

Vampires? Vampires?! As a scientist, Leah is having trouble believing that these immortal creatures exist. But there they are, standing in front of her, asking for help in solving a genetic puzzle that can save mankind. There’s even one in a sexy kilt! Just one look into Dougal’s gorgeous green eyes sets her pulse racing. But can she trust him—and the overwhelming desire that refuses to be ignored?

 

Coming from Harlequin Heartwarming February 2014: A Minute on the Lips

So…the news is I have a new book coming, this time in the Harlequin Heartwarming series. It’s sweet romance (wholesome and tender according to the Harlequin logo) this time, in a small town. We have a sheriff and the newspaper man who makes her crazy on the case to solve the mystery of who broke in to the town diner. Whether you’re reading Avon (sexy and funny) or HH (sweet and funny), I hope you’ll smile. More info as I have more info. Here are some covers…pretty, right?

HH2 HH1

Revisions and relief

You know that thing where there’s an alarm in your head that sounds like a frustrated tea kettle? It squeals long and loud and unpredictably. No? Just me then. Okay. That’s what the last couple of days have been like in my brain. But today I hit Send on the revisions. And I feel good…so good.

Santa, Bring My Baby Back is going to be a sweet, funny wrap-up to a series that has had wonderful characters. There will be more revisions, but I still love this story so I think it’s all going to be even better. And I thank God for editors all over again, people. If you love books, you should too. As a writer, I’m just happy not to do all the lifting alone. It’s wonderful to have help, so much help.

Now…to celebrate. I’m taking a short writing break to read everything I can get my hands on, starting with Things Good Girls Don’t Do. And to watch all the movies. And to just generally clear my  mind. If you have any good novella recommendations, hit me with ’em! I’m in a buying mood.

And tomorrow, I’m going to post some news. Right here. It’s good.