Author Feature: Barbara Pierce

Happy Wednesday, everyone! I am pleased to introduce Barbara Pierce, today's "Word Wizard". Barbara has a new book out, Scandalous by Night, and it is amazing! I stayed up until almost 3 a.m. because I just had to finish it! You can see a trailer for Scandalous by Night here (scroll down to the middle of the page). You can also read an excerpt here.

A SINFUL SCHEME…
Even among that band of rakes known as les sauvages nobles, Lord Everod’s reputation is truly wicked. Countless willing partners have enjoyed his sensual prowess, but now one lovely innocent has his undivided attention. The alluring Miss Maura Keighly once lost Everod his family’s regard, and almost cost him his life. And no vengeance could be sweeter than the delicious seduction he has planned…

BECOMES A SCANDALOUS PURSUIT
Maura is on the verge of marrying another. Yet no sooner has she set foot among the ton than Everod makes himself known, tempting and taunting her by word and deed, filling her days and nights with illicit longing. His wanton invitation is plain, yet Maura’s passionate response blindsides them both. For the first time, Everod feels something more potent than lust. Simple surrender will never be enough; Everod must possess Maura completely. But the past cannot be so easily forgotten—and some desires are even more dangerous than revenge…

So, without further ado, please welcome Barbara Pierce!

Barbara, tell us a little about your books.

To date, I’ve written nine Regency historicals. My books are made up of dark, sexy alpha males, stubborn heroines, and passion that will make your toes curl! With the exception of my debut, A Desperate Game, my books can be divided between two family series: the Bedegraynes and the Carlisles. Last April, the second book in the Carlisle series, Sinful Between the Sheets received a Romantic Times 2007 Reviewers’ Choice Award for Most Sensual Historical Romance.

Congratulations! What are you working on now?

At the moment, I’m currently in between contracts with my publisher. I’ve already turned in my proposal so I’m in wait-n-see mode.

Yikes - nail biting time!? :0) What is your biggest challenge when it comes to writing?

For me, it’s the synopsis. I’d rather just create a basic outline and write the book. Despite that, I have to admit that once I sit down and write it, I do appreciate having a more detailed summary for the book.

I'm not a huge fan of synopsis writing myself. What books have you read that are now your favorites?

Oh, I could list hundreds. A few from my short list would be: Gentle Rogue by Johanna Lindsey, When Angels Fall by Meagan McKinney, The Immortal Highlander by Karen Marie Moning, & Shadow Lover by Anne Stuart.

I'm adding those to my "to be read" list as we speak! What do you do when you aren't writing?

I read (for pleasure and research), play video games with my kids, & watch movies with my husband.

What is your favorite video game to play with your kiddos?

The games change from month to month. Right now, we're playing Persona 3: FES and Radiata Stories.

Where do you find inspiration?

Everywhere. Inspiration usually strikes when I’m not looking for it.

And how do you keep your creativity charged?

It’s not always easy because of deadlines and family schedules, but I do try to put aside some “me” time each day. I may work out, catch-up with family/friends, read, or do absolutely nothing. I love writing, but there are days when I could easily spend thirteen hours in front of the computer. That isn’t healthy for my body or mind, so I do strive to maintain balance in my life.

As always, here is a random question for you, in the spirit of a new school year: Who was your favorite teacher and why?

My fifth grade teacher, Mrs. Eike. She was one of those awe-inspiring teachers that pushed me beyond my self-imposed limitations.

Anything else you'd like to share?

The fourth installment in the Carlisle series, Scandalous by Night was released earlier this month. To read the excerpt, watch the trailer, or learn more about my other books, please visit my website at http://www.barbarapierce.com/.

Thank you for being here, Barbara. I can't wait for the next installment! :0) You can also find

Barbara on myspace.

We have a signed copy of Barbara's book Scandalous by Night up for grabs so be sure to share what's on your mind! The winner will be chosen by random drawing on Friday.