Monday, January 30, 2012

Review: Rogue Pirate's Bride by Shana Galen, Interview and Giveaway

Today I am pleased to announce that we have the talented Shana Galen with us to talk about her upcoming release ROGUE PIRATES BRIDE. 

Welcome Shana, I am so happy you could join us today.
Thanks so much for having me. It’s a pleasure.

Lets start off today with you telling us a bit about yourself.
I’m a wife, a mom, and a writer. I’ve been married for almost six years to a man I like to call Ultimate Sportsfan because he never met a sport he didn’t like, except plane racing, and I didn’t even know that was a sport. I have a two-year-old daughter, who is exhausting and wonderful. I’ve been writing since 2000, and I published my first book in 2005. I live in Houston, Texas, and write during naps and in the wee hours of the morning.

I understand that you have written many different things from contemporary to historical but today we are going to focus on your upcoming release, THE ROGUE PIRATE'S BRIDE. This is the third installment in a trilogy about 3 brothers that were separated very young. Why don't you go ahead and tell us a little about it, without giving too much away of course.

Bastien, the pirate (although he prefers to be called a privateer), in THE ROGUE PIRATE’S BRIDE is bent on revenge. As a child, he escaped the horrors of the French Revolution by signing on aboard a ship. As the book opens he’s an adult, his mentor has been killed by the Barbary Corsair, Jourdain, and Bastien wants to sink Jourdain’s ship.

Raeven is the daughter of a British admiral, and she also wants revenge. Her target is Captain Cutlass, a pirate responsible for the death of her fiancé. Have I mentioned Bastien’s sobriquet is Captain Cutlass? It’s a wild, adventure-packed, fun love story.

These historical romances are a little nontraditional, in a sense, would you mind telling us where you came up with the idea to write these books? Why did you decide to focus more on the action and adventure vs the regency or historical portion?

I came up with the idea as an homage to one of my favorite books, which is Dickens’s A Tale of Two Cities. Julien’s story in The Making of a Duchess is a little like Charles Darnay’s story, and Armand’s story in The Making of a Gentleman is reminiscent of Dr. Manette. There aren’t any pirates in A Tale of Two Cities, but I always wanted to write a book with a pirate in it.

Writing is one of those things that improves with practice. My first few books were written blindly in that I wrote whatever I wanted and had no idea what I did well and what I did poorly. Of course I had an editor who helped me shape the book, but no one ever came right out and said, “Shana, you write action scenes well. Shana, you can write humor well.” But over time I began to find my ideas leaned in the direction of adventurous stories, and those always seemed to be readers’ favorite scenes in my books. There are lots of authors who write Regency drawing room scenes well and know more than I ever will about all the minutiae of the nineteenth century. I read many of those authors and enjoy their work. But my favorite authors have always been those who have a lot of action in their stories, like Marsha Canham and Joanna Bourne. And I’m always happiest when I’m writing an exciting fast-paced scene.

As stated above THE ROGUE PIRATES BRIDE is the third in the trilogy. I chose to read all three in a row in order to get the full affect and to hear the story from the very beginning. Was it your intention to write three books that have to be read in order or would you say these are all stand alone.

I try to be intentional about writing every book as a stand-alone because most readers don’t buy everything an author writes. They hear about one good book or see a cover they like and buy the book. They don’t want to open that book and realize they have to read two or three or seven other books first to understand what’s going on. They just want to enjoy a good story. Of course, this series of books is related, and the books build on one another. Characters from the first book show up in the second and third books, and hints about the third book are scattered in the first and second. That’s fun for readers who want to read the series in order, but if you’re a reader who doesn’t care that much about that sort of thing, you aren’t missing anything.

Ok so now that we got that stuff out of the way, let’s talk a bit about yourself, if you don't mind.

When did you decide to become a writer? Was this your intention all along or was it something you decided later?

It’s definitely something I decided later. I didn’t even know writing was a career when I was growing up. Sometimes I’m still not sure it is! But I always loved writing and making up stories, even from a very young age. When I discovered romance novels, I had the urge to try and write one myself. As soon as I started writing what later became When Dashing Met Danger, I knew I had found my passion and what I wanted to do for the rest of my life.

If you weren't a writer, what would you be doing?

I was a teacher before I was a full-time writer, and while I did enjoy that, there were some aspects, like discipline, I didn’t love. I have always wanted to work with animals, though, so if I wasn’t a writer, I might work in a veterinary hospital or for an animal shelter.

Are there any certain things that you need when writing?

Not really. I can write pretty much under any circumstances. I guess if I had my choice, I’d want quiet, a cup of chai, and some chocolate nearby. I think I can count the number of times that’s happened on one hand!

If you could marry any one of your heroes, who would it be and why?

I fall in love with every one of my heroes when I’m writing their books. I really do have a soft spot for Bastien because he’s so charming and pirates are really very sexy. But I don’t want to live on a boat, so I couldn’t marry him. Right now I’m writing a book I’m calling The Marchioness of Mystery (you can be sure my publisher will change that title. Marchioness is never going to fit on a cover), and the hero is kind of dark and edgy and dangerous. He’s a spy, and he’s not always a nice guy. But as I write his story, I’m finding out why he is the way he is, and I’m falling in love with him. I think he would make a great husband because he’s ready to give up being a loner and wants a family.

If you could visit any place or any time period, where would you go?

I would definitely go to Regency England. There are a lot of time periods I would like to visit, but I have researched the Regency so much that I would want to see it for myself. I think I’d be like one of the tweens screaming for Justin Bieber if I spotted Beau Brummell or Lord Byron. I would only want to visit, though, because they didn’t have very good plumbing or hygiene. I can gloss over that in a romance novel but not in real life!

Thank you so much for sparing your time to talk with me today. I really appreciate it.

Thank you! I’ll be stopping by all day, so I’d love for your readers to post comments or questions, and I’ll be happy to answer or respond.

Shana Galen is the author of numerous fast-paced adventurous Regency historical romances, including the Rita-nominated Blackthorne’s Bride. Her books have been sold worldwide, including Japan, Brazil, Russia, Spain, Turkey, and the Netherlands, and have been featured in the Rhapsody and Doubleday Book Clubs. A former English teacher in Houston’s inner city, Shana now writes full time. She’s a wife, a mother, and an expert multi-tasker. She loves to hear from readers: visit her website at www.shanagalen.com or see what she’s up to daily on Facebook and Twitter.


Another thrilling adventure from Ms Galen!

ROGUE PIRATE'S BRIDE is a bit different then the first two books but no less exciting. This book takes place on a "pirate" ship in the middle of the ocean. Sabastian Harcourt better knows as Captain Cutlass, is a privateer sailing with the Spanish flag. After being forced to flee his home during an attack on his family, he went in search of a place to stay. He found himself on a ship working to pay his way. His father figure taught him everything he could which resulted in Cutlass gaining a ship of his own, The Shadow.

Raeven Russel is the daughter of the Admiral of the British Navy and a spit fire. She is out for Cutlass' head. She is under the impression that Captain Cutlass was responsible for her fiance's death. Come hell or high water she is going to avenge his death. That is...until she meets Cutlass for the first time. He is not only huge but he is also unbelievably handsome. Now she is at war with herself. Kill him? Or kiss him?

This was a fantastic read. The book basically starts off with a fight scene between Cutlass and Raeven and it doesn't slow down after that. Ms Galen does a fantastic job of sucking you in right from the first page. The plot was fast paced and exciting with twists and turns the whole way through. The characters were amazing. I absolutely loved Raeven. She was so full of fire and so determined to get what she wanted. She was witty, mouthy, and talented. Cutlass was dreamy. He was your typical pirate that radiated power and authority, yet he was sweet and caring. 

I would definitely recommend this entire series to anyone looking for a fantastic adventure.

I am serving this one up with 4 martinis!!!





Now for the contest! Shana has generously offered up a signed copy of the entire trilogy to one random commenter. That is three books!!! So leave a meaningful comment below and fill out the form to be entered. 


68 comments:

  1. OMG..I MUST GET this series on my TBR =)

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  2. OH!!!!
    Shana is a new author to me.
    I love finding new authors. It just ensures that my TBR pile will never ever get to small.

    Thank you for sharing.

    Kelly
    Books-n-Kisses

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  3. I like that each book can be read as a stand alone book because sometimes I don't realize that a book I'm reading is part of a series until after I've already read it and go looking for more books form that author.

    miztik_rose@Yahoo.com

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  4. I've seen many good things about this author around on the web. Gonna have to give her a try.

    Raonaid at gmail dot com

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  5. Kelly, my TBR pile only grows, never shrinks!

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  6. Mary, that happens to me all the time. I pick up a book and realize I have to read 3 more to know what's going on. I always write my books to stand on their own.

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  7. This is my first visit to this site and, first of all, I love the rating system (4 martinis - YES!). I will definitely check out this book. Even if it can be a stand alone I'm a completist and like to read things "in order" whenever possible.

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  8. I like the martini rating system too!

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  9. I really enjoyed reading this Q&A with Shana. I have several friends who are writing novels but are having a hard time getting published. I actually called one while reading this and told her that Shana started writing in 2000 but didn't get published until 2005. I hope that calms her down about how long it takes to get a book written and published.
    I have read the first two books in this series and I loved the plot. I am excited to read about Bastien the privateer but I agree with Shana that living on a boat would not be for me.

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  10. I really enjoyed the interview with author Shana Galen...and look forward to reading more of her books and would love to win some of her books too....

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  12. enjoyed the excerpt and your interview very much.

    I quite like a series over stand alone books as it’s nice to meet and follow characters from one book to another. I also think this heightens the excitement in waiting for the next book to be released. I also love the idea of the series being about brothers. I adore your books Shana. I love the action and passion which holds me captivated. You're a must read Author for me.

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  13. Great interview. I would love to go back to the 16-18th centuries. Love the language, baths, outfits- I agree with you Shana about the no bathroom- ick. Congrats on the series and I can't wait to read them.
    your1chef at aol dot com

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  14. I really like the idea that your series books can stand alone. I would love to win this trilogy!
    Cindy Holub

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  15. Careyjo, writing a book takes months and then selling that book takes even longer. It's definitely a learning process, so tell your friend just to be persistent and keep learning the craft. It's really all about persistence.

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  16. Eyeballlucy, good luck, and thanks for stopping by!

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  17. Thanks so much, Diane. I like writing a series because it makes things a bit easier when, after the first book, you've created a world and some secondary characters. You can step back into that world, rather than starting all over again.

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  18. Christine, we can just gloss over the icky parts of history and think about the nice parts :-)

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  19. Cindy, thanks and good luck in the contest!

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  20. I have wanted to try Ms.Galen's books because they sound so wonderful. I cannot find them in stores:(

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  21. I read the first two in 3 days. Can't wait to read the third. I loved the first two.

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  22. I love Shana Galen! She's awesome and though I have never read this particular series, I would love to get them!!

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  23. Enjoyed your interview...can't beat a great cup of chai! Best of luck with your books! angadair@nwcable.net

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  24. Shana is a new author I found and loved the first book I read. I would love to add these books to my library - you can never have enough books (although my husband would disagree with that!)

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  25. Oh, that sounds terrific... Not just one but three books!

    I really enjoy Lord and Lady Spy and looking forward to reading this one when it comes out!

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  26. awesome interview ty for sharing ur books sound awesome and i agree with diana cant have enough books and my roomamte sprobably disagree with that too lol

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  27. Shana has been on my autobuy-list of authors since I read my 1st book of hers (Making of a Gentleman); I look out avidly for all her releases! So loved Lord and Lady Spy! I've ordered my copy of TRPB & waiting impatiently for it to arrive. *anticipation*

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  28. Gail, that makes me very sad. I assure you my books are for sale in brick and mortar stores. Barnes & Noble and Books-a-Million will order the books and call you when they arrive all for no charge.

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  29. Wow, Jill! Awesome and thanks!

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  30. Thank you Arely! I love you too!

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  31. Angie, I could use some chai right now!

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  32. Diana, my husband would also disagree! Fortunately, he got me an ereader for Christmas.

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  33. I loved Shana's Lord and Lady Spy so now I am excited to read this trilogy as well!

    shardan01 at aol dot com

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  34. SiNn, I'd be thrilled to be your roommate--more books to borrow.

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  35. Linda, that just makes my day. Thank you!!

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  36. I love all of your books I have read. I have been waiting to start reading this series until this weekend so I wouldn't have to wait too long for A Rogue Pirates Bride to be released. I can be very impatient. Can't wait to read them!

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  37. Oh my word, you sure know how to spoil and treat your fans - thanks Shana for the opportunity of winning ;-)

    My bookshelf could do with my of your books *lol*

    Hope this is opened internationally!!!

    Rita from South Africa

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  38. I won the Rogue's Pirate's Bride on Shanna's facebook page. It was an excellent book.

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  39. I have not read one of your books in a while. I loved what I am seeing. I will need to go out and get some more books.
    debby236 at gmail dot com

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  40. Thanks, Rita. It's the least I can do. And I'm happy to ship internationally.

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  41. Debby, I didn't have any books out for a few years, so I think people kind of forgot about me. But this is my 4th book in 2 years. I'm back!

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  42. I want to say thanks again to Leagh for inviting me. And thank you to all of you for stopping by. I appreciate everyone who took the time to comment.

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  43. I love Shana's writing, and love that there's a trilogy, so I can continue reading about the characters and side characters in each book!

    robindpdx(at)yahoo(dot)com

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  44. If I could visit a time period I would definitely go to Regency England too:) Shana is an author I've been meaning to try... now I can't wait to dive into her pirate brothers trilogy!

    yadkny@hotmail.com

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  45. Excited to read the hint about the male lead in the Marchioness of Mystery. Love Bastien, but also love Adrian from Lord and Lady Spy.

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  46. OMG...the entire trilogy! VERY generous giveaway! I LOVE Shana, I enter her FB giveaway EVERY week and basically, sorta stalk her around other sites as well (I haven't won yet, but my fingers are crossed). But, don't be afraid, Shana...I'm a friendly stalker! :D

    barbbattaglia@yahoo.com

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  47. I adore Shana. She is a fun facebookie. Her daughter makes it even more interesting! And the best of all, she is a terrific author. Her books always have wonderful covers. Better every time!

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  48. Thanks, Robin. It's also fun for me to visit with old characters again.

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  49. Thanks for the comment, yadkny! Maybe you'll get lucky and win all 3 books.

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  50. Gayle, I forgot I gave that hint. It's hard to think about characters from other books when you're in the middle of writing a book.

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  51. Barbara, thank you for always entering my contests. Maybe one of these days the random number generator will look favorably on you :-)

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  52. Thanks, krazymama! I went to a booksigning on Saturday (not mine) and ran into some Facebook friends. I had my daughter with me, and everyone was saying, "Hi Baby Galen." It was like I wasn't even there! And then later, she told me, "I not a baby!"

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  53. An amazing giveaway. I'm still sighing over Armand. :)Love reading about the adventures of Pirates and I'm most definitely looking forward to reading Bastian's story.Thank you so much for this amazing opportunity.
    Carol L
    Lucky4750 (at) aol (dot) com

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  54. Ohh, I have been meaning to read this series of yours, Shana! And yes, I would visit Regency England too!!!! It's so romantic...I mean, romantic only if you meet a duke/someone rich who falls in love with you, or else life would be terrible. Hahaha. Thanks for this amazing giveaway!

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  55. How did I miss this series? Loved 'Lord & Lady Spy' so I know I'd love this series!

    sallans d at yahoo dot com

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  56. Plane racing huh, I never would have guessed that existed.
    I am so excited to see that you have another story with a spy in it! I loved Lord and Lady Spy so much, it got me hooked on your writing.
    And I think I could be tempted to jump aboard with Bastien, how can you resist that! Seasickness? Whats that?

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  57. why did you choose pirate? why not a spy, or highwayman, or something else? but, whatever the reason is, my experience with pirates theme so far are not disappointment :)

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  58. This series sounds really good. I like the idea of an adventure filled historical romance outside the ballroom, it's been a long time since I read one of those.

    Thanks for the opportunity to win!

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  59. I am definitely adding this series to my TBR list. I never understood the attraction to pirates until I started reading historical romances.

    Thanks for the great giveaway!
    June

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  60. I love the idea of high seas adventure and loved a few other books by Shana. The interview was nice getting to know more about the characters, book and author.

    Thanks for the giveaway opportunity.

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  61. It must be hard to let a hero go and then go and create a new one for the next book. I so envy the writers on how creative they can be.

    Thank you for a great giveaway opportunity.

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  62. Congratulations to...

    cholub1968

    You have been chosen by random.org as our winner. I have emailed you :)

    Thank you to everyone who commented and participated.

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  63. I loved the first two books of this trilogy, so I am looking forward to the next one, it looks like fun! I do also like romance books that do include some elements of other genres like paranormal or action adventure.

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Rescue Me
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Wild Card
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Hidden Agendas
Killer Secrets
Maverick
Heat Seeker
Black Jack
Loving Lies
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Tied Up, Tied Down
Rough, Raw, and Ready
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Branded as Trouble
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