November 26, 2012

Chewing the fat with...Phyllis Bourne

I have been a fan of Phyllis Bourne since I read her novel Operation Prince Charming, one of the best contemporary romances I’ve ever read. This talented, imaginative writer has a new release out this month, so get comfy and let’s chew the post-Thanksgiving fat with her!

 

Phyllis’s first book, the lovely-titled A Moment on the Lips, was published in 2006. She contributed to the novella The Holiday Inn in 2008, and 2010 brought the publication of the aforementioned Operation Prince Charming, a novel that can only be described as utterly beguiling! Phyllis recently signed with Harlequin’s Kimani line. Her first title for them, Taste For Temptation, was published in mid-October, with the eBook release following on November 1st. Here’s the back cover blurb (gotta love that first sentence; it’s a real attention-getter): 
 
No one dumps Brandi Collins! After being left at the altar, the Nashville high school teacher plans to get back at her ex by undergoing a major transformation. But how is she supposed to shed those extra pounds with that intoxicating aroma wafting into her condo? And the tempting smell of mouthwatering chocolate has nothing on the handsome hunk who's creating the irresistible confections.

Adam Ellison has given up everything for his dream of winning the International Chocolate Pastry Competition. His voluptuous new neighbor knocking on his door at three in the morning is a distraction he doesn't need! Now only one thing will satisfy Adam's craving for Brandi. But what happens when she discovers her struggling pastry chef is really the heir to a multimillion-dollar corporate empire? Will Brandi still be there intoxicating him with her kisses…or will Adam lose his chance for a lifetime of love?”

This book is available wherever Harlequin titles are sold, as well as print and ePub copies for sale at Amazon, BN.com, and eHarlequin.com.

Bettye: Phyllis, welcome to the blog. So glad you stopped by to chew the fat. Tell us what inspired Taste For Temptation. Is it a series or a story without spin-offs for secondary characters?

Phyllis Bourne: The opening scene popped into my head first. From there, I had to figure out the perfect situation and a hunky hero to complicate the life of a chocoholic dieter desperate to lose weight for a special occasion.

Taste for Temptation is book one of a two book series. I keep the sweets theme going in the second book, Sweeter Temptation, which revolves around a candy factory.

Bettye: It’s been much too long between books. Do you plan on publishing on a more frequent basis?

Phyllis Bourne: I’m a super slow writer, who can spend hours making sure a sentence reads just right. However, I’m learning to pick up the pace since signing with Harlequin Kimani. I’m working toward putting out two books a year – instead of a book every two years!

Bettye: Your fans will be happy to hear that, both the old ones and the new. Tell me, will those of us who missed your first book, A Moment on the Lips, get to read it in an eBook reincarnation?

Phyllis Bourne: Definitely! I recently received the rights back to A Moment on the Lips from my former publisher and look forward to putting out an updated e-book version early next year. The story is different from my later works, which are humorous, faster-paced, sexy reads. A Moment on the Lips progresses at an easier pace, like life in the small town it’s set in. It’s not a sexy book, but very sweet and utterly romantic.

Bettye: Sweet and romantic works for me! Okay, now it’s time for the all-intrusive personal question. Your followers know that you’re very much into cosmetics.  Who, in your opinion, makes some of the best products out there for hair and skin?

Phyllis Bourne: While I no longer have the time to devote to a dedicated beauty blog, I still adore all things beauty. And I love recommending products that really work! For hair, I like Kérastase products. It’s a pricey line, but delivers great results both at the salon and at home. I prefer the drugstore brand Aveeno for skin care. I especially like their citrus-scented ‘Smart Essentials’ line.

Bettye: Will check them out! What’s up next for you, Phyllis? Can you give us a little advance info on what your next book will be about, and when it’ll be out?

Phyllis Bourne: My next book, Sweeter Temptation, comes out Fall 2013. I’m still in the midst of the editorial process, but will give you a hint – they’re snowbound!

Bettye: If there’s anything you’d like readers to know, please share. Be sure to give your website and Facebook info!

Phyllis Bourne: I love romance novels and enjoy connecting with fellow readers. I can be found on my website: www.phyllisbourne.com/ , Twitter: @phyllisbourne and Facebook.com/phyllisbournebooks.

As always, great chatting with you, Bettye. Thanks for having me!

Bettye: Thank you, Phyllis! Readers, do yourself a favor and pick up or download Taste For Temptation today!