 Annie West Is Undone! Posted by Anna Campbell Jun 7 2012, 12:02 am
I’m delighted to welcome back lair favorite and fabulous writer Annie West who is here to tell us about her latest North American release UNDONE BY HIS TOUCH. UNDONE BY HIS TOUCH recently received a glowing review from RT Book Reviews magazine where they called it “an emotionally compelling read.” Annie’s books are receiving accolades all over the place. At the recent RT Reviewers Choice Awards, her wonderful PROTECTED BY THE PRINCE was chosen as best Harlequin Presents Extra of 2011 and RAFE’S REDEMPTION recently placed in the Wisconsin Romance Writers of America Write Touch Readers Awards. Congratulations, Annie! I’m not surprised. Your books are fantastic.
You can also find her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/annie.west.9619 To buy a print copy of UNDONE BY HIS TOUCH, just click on the cover below. Kindle edition: http://www.amazon.com/Undone-Touch-Harlequin-Presents-ebook/dp/B007BBVEJC/ref=sr_1_5?s=digital-text&ie=UTF8&qid=1338847220&sr=1-5 Book Depository: http://www.bookdepository.co.uk/Undone-by-His-Touch-Annie-West/9780373528691 Welcome back, Annie. Congratulations on the North American release of UNDONE BY HIS TOUCH, your latest Harlequin Presents Extra. Can you tell us about this story?
UNDONE is about a scarred, reclusive hero whose main interest is in finding the woman he blames for his brother’s death. Declan is determined to wallow in regret and guilt until Chloe, his new housekeeper, drags him, protesting, to the realisation he’s not ready yet to give up on the world. In fact she makes him feel emotions he’d never expected to experience. She brings him hope. But Chloe’s no plaster saint. She’s got problems of her own and dealing with an anti-social boss is one of them. Until she sees beneath the surface to the man of integrity and honour who’s struggling to find a foothold in a world that’s changed around him. Of course I had to make it interesting by ensuring each was the worst possible person for the other to fall in love with! That’s where the fun began – and the intensity and passion. I had a ball writing this dark hero who eventually finds the light. I’ve been having fun lately, thinking of who I’d cast in the role of sexy but prickly recluse and I’m torn between Clive Owen and Hugh Jackman. I think either would be perfect as Declan.
Cast into a world of black, Declan Carstairs is a man in torment. Consumed by guilt, he sees no way out of the darkness his world has become. Only one thing drives him – finding the woman who caused his brother’s death, and the accident that took his sight. Housekeeper Chloe Daniels refuses to pity her devastatingly gorgeous boss, but treating him as the strong, capable man he is soon proves dangerous. As Chloe falls deeper under Declan’s spell, awakened by his touch, she forgets all about the secret she keeps that may destroy them both… I loved this book. I think it’s one of your best. What inspired you to write this story? Maybe it’s your influence rubbing off on me, Anna – the fact that when I read your books I’m so often reading a Beauty and the Beast style story. Who knows? But I can tell you I had two ideas in my head for a long time. One was of a dark haired man with intense eyes and a bad attitude, who’d turned into a recluse after his brother’s death in a climbing accident. The other was of a love triangle between the brothers and a woman. The woman was rather shadowy but fortunately she came to life when I started to write. It just took me a couple of years to pull the various ideas together.
By the way, thank you for sharing these beautiful photos. You need to add photography to your list of talents! Can you tell us about your next release? I’d love to. Next cab off the rank is called DEFYING HER DESERT DUTY. It’s out in the U.K. in October but I’m waiting for news on the North American release. The title is a little misleading. Yes, the hero is from the Middle East, but most of the book is set in western Europe – principally France. And boy, did I have a wonderful time with that setting! It’s a story that owes a lot to the Tristan and Iseult legend. The hero is sent to Paris to bring back the woman who’s been betrothed to the king, ready for a royal wedding. What he doesn’t expect is to fall for the king’s fiancée or to discover she’s falling for him too. Now that spells trouble! Add to that the fact that my hero is absolutely loyal (the king is like a father to him) and my heroine has strong reasons of her own for needing to go through with the royal wedding and the scene is set for drama and high emotion.
I’ve just handed a book in to my editor. Superstitiously perhaps, I don’t want to say too much about it until I’ve had some editorial feedback, but I can tell you it’s a story with quite a twist. It features a very suave and self-assured Italian hero and a heroine who’s just starting her life again after the most horrendous ordeal. Lucy refuses to let anyone, especially a bossy businessman, dictate to her. Lots and lots of sparks in this one, but I hope, plenty of tenderness too. We’ve had you as a guest so often on the Banditas and I don’t think I’ve ever asked you what you do when you aren’t writing. What sort of things do you like to do to refill the well? I’m wary about admitting that I do anything other than write, since I don’t want that to get back to my editor. I’m trying to persuade her I’m glued to the computer, slaving over a hot story! Actually I am, most of the time. But as you say, it’s important to fill the well occasionally. I count my visits to you, Anna, as one of my well-filling activities. Good company, good food, good wine and far too much chat, make for a wonderful time. They always leave me energised to tackle almost anything. Actually that picture of us together is from a lunch out near when I live when you were up. Always lovely to see you. What else do you like to do?
Reading! Actually, I think you could put this down for my top 5 pastimes. Walking, preferably in the bush (wilderness if you’re not in Australia) or by water. Visiting new places (I’m dreaming about another Europe trip). If I can’t travel, then hearing about someone else’s trip or poring over maps and pictures of far away places is fantastic. Cooking – not the just home and must get dinner organised cooking – that’s no treat. I mean cooking when you’re actually in the mood for pottering and trying something new, or tackling an old favorite. I love it when people ooh and ah over home made baklava for instance, and even better, when the family gets involved in the cooking with me.
Movies. Love them, particularly (yes, I know I’m predictable) if they leave me feeling good. Theatre fits in here too – a real treat. Long bubble baths with a good book, especially if someone else is cooking dinner while I relax and soak in the tub. Ooh, lots there to inspire new stories which is what we dedicated fans like to hear. Annie, is there anything you’d like to ask the Banditas and Bandita Buddies? Since we’re talking about refilling the well, can you share your favorite activities that leave you relaxed and rejuvenated ready to tackle the daily grind? Is there one perfect experience that still makes you smile and feel better every time you think of it? Right now, my favorite perk me up experience is remembering a marvellous high tea at Claridges Hotel in London. So refined, so luxurious and so yum!
Posted in Anna Campbell, Annie West, Australian Authors, Bandita Booty, Beauty and the Beast, Blue Mountains, Category Romance, Defying her Desert Duty, Guests, Harlequin Presents Extra, Protected by the Prince, RT Reviewers Choice Award, Sydney, travel, Undone by His Touch, Write Touch Readers' Awards, writing life Comments131 thoughts on “Annie West Is Undone!” |
   
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by Anna Campbell
I’ve had a sneak peek at this book and it’s a classic Annie West. Romantic, dramatic, emotional, a real page turner. Readers will love it! Can you give us a sneak peek at what you’re currently working on?
The book sounds awesome Thanks for the Give-a-way
Have a good one Ann/alba
Ann, as our lucky first poster, you win the Golden Rooster for the day. He’s a rambunctious chicken so keep your eye on him!
Ann/alba,
Thanks so much. I’m glad you like the sound of ‘Undone By His Touch’, It was a ripper of a book to get down on paper, and I’m beginning to hear from readers who’ve enjoyed it too.
Good luck with the GR. Hope you manage to keep him under control.
Anna, I should say a special thank you for posting those pics of mine and taking the time to add in all those links too. What a terrific job you’ve done. It’s great to be back in the Bandit’s Lair, I have to say. I’m looking around hopefully for a chilled glass of something soothing.
Annie, I sent Paolo off to get you a chilled prosecco. Thanks for coming – glad you like the look of the blog! I decorated just for you!
Ooh, a nice prosecco will hit the spot beautifully, thank you! I’ve got a recipe for a cocktail made with that and pomegranate juice – yum!
I’m not sure the lair can stretch to pomegranite juice. I think we can find some dragon spit from Ermengarde. Will that do instead?
Tsk, task. I’ll provide the pomegranate juice, thanks, Anna.
Somehow I thought you might say that!
Hello, Annie and Anna!
Adding my congratulations for your latest, well-deserved awards! I was lucky enough to read an early synopsis of Defying Her Desert Duty, so I can’t wait to see how it turned out.
I’m with you on cooking for fun — and eating afterwards is even better. In fact, dining out is one of my other favourite things to do when I need to unwind.
Have fun with the US release of Undone By His Touch! I have all your books so far — no need to enter me in the contest.
Vanessa, you read any early synopsis of Defying Her Desert Duty? I must have been talking about what I was working on. How nice to think of you having all my books. What a woman!
Eating to unwind is such a treat, isn’t it? And dining out – no cooking, no washing up, just sitting back and enjoying the experience. Sigh. It sounds marvellous. Wish I was doing that tonight.
Hi V! Thank you for swinging by and saying hello! It’s so exciting to have Undone available in North America, isn’t it?
Yay, Annie’s in the lair!!! A warm welcome to you and thanks to Anna for luring you here today.
Oh, I’m so envious of your travels, Annie, particularly high tea at Claridges! Sigh. UNDONE sounds fabulous. I’m sure it will fly off the shelves.
One of my favourite activities to make me feel relaxed and rejuvenated is doing yoga. It almost feels euphoric when I’ve finished. Another tried and true rejuvenator is a visit to Anna’s. She always laughs at the way I skip and sing for joy when I arrive at her house. I suppose one of my best moments was tea in the Pump Room in Bath although I have to say, I would expect tea at Claridges to be far superior!
Hi Christina. Thanks for the warm welcome!
Oh, you’d love Claridge’s high tea. The service is superb but you’re not fussed over so much you can’t relax. The surroundings are beautiful and the tea and food is yum. You know, I never got to refill my cup? Great service. I’ve been to the Pump Room in Bath but not for tea. I’m thinking though that next time I make it to the UK I’d definitely try for high tea at another nice hotel. I even used it for inspiration in a scene in my current story.
Christina, I thought you spent your life skipping and singing! I didn’t know it was especially for me – I’ll be more appreciative next time, snork! Hey, not long till we have another girly writerly weekend. Huzzah! Too much food, too much alcohol, and just the right amount of stimulating conversation. What could be better?
Waving Hi to Annie and Anna
How are we Ladies love those pictures you two always look like you are having so much fun together in your photos (which I know you are )
I have to say I too loved this book Declan is such a scarred hero with attitude and Chloe is so caring and strong after her childhood loved them both and the story. Gotta say I love the sound of the one you have just handed in and the one you are working on can’t wait till they are released.
As most of you know I am sailing off on a cruise this Saturday (was supposed to be Friday but due to bad weather the cruise has been delayed 24 hours:( never mind I am still going) and this is our 2nd cruise and when I think back to the fun we had last time it really makes me happy and we had a high tea on that cruise I hope we have one again and of course for me a day at home reading my favourite authors with some Tim Tams to go with it is a great way to rejuvinate me LOL
Congrats Annie
Have Fun
Helen
Helen, I hope you have a wonderful time on your cruise. We’ll miss you – the internet on cruise ships is AWFUL so I suppose you’ll be missing out on your daily dose of the Banditas. Sigh. Yes, we do have fun when we get together. I really like that shot – it’s at Moorings Cafe on the front at Golden Beach and Rachel Bailey came down to meet us. Great to have a big catch-up.
Ye
I am going to miss you all for a couple of weeks it will be strange not getting my fix LOL. I promise to catch up when I get back and I will be at Surfers for RWA and we can have a cuppa then or a drink
Have Fun
Helen
Helen, I’m really looking forward to seeing you. Feels like ages! I think our last get-together was the ARRA conference in Sydney in Feb 2011, wasn’t it? Such fun!
Actually, I’m really looking forward to the ARRA booksigning in August. Should be a hoot.
Have a wonderful time on your cruise, Helen! We’ll miss you!
Have a lovely time, Helen !! We’ll miss you!
Hi Helen,
It’s lovely to see you here. I didn’t think you’d be online – thought you’d already left. Hey, I’m glad the cruise has been delayed. You wouldn’t want to head out in those dangerously high seas. Hm, high tea on a cruise ship sounds very luxurious. Actually, I was in the southern highlands a week or so ago and had a lovely high tea in a massive old guesthouse. It sounds like I do this sort of thing all the time, doesn’t it? Actually I don’t, which is probably why it’s such a huge treat. This was fun and we had a pianist playing a range of tunes from the 20s onwards. Lots of fun.
Helen, I’m so glad you enjoyed Declan and Chloe. I think you summed him up well as ‘a scarred hero with attitude’. It was that attitude that first hooked me on the idea of the story. I’d been thinking of it for years, off and on, but it wasn’t till recently that I worked out the details.
Have a wonderful time on your cruise. I’m looking forward to hearing about it.
Annie
I am gald it is delayed in some ways there is no way i would like to be on a ship in 14 metre wavesscary stuff they say by Saturday it should have settled down.
I forgot to say how I too love going to The Blue Mountains such a lovely place and having high tea in the Southern Highlands sounds wonderful another place I love to visit.
Have Fun
Helen
Helen, we had high seas one day on my cruise and it was pretty scary. A lot of people were sick which was a bit depressing.
Helen, you’re so right. 14 metre waves aren’t a great way to enjoy yourself. I’ve never been on an ocean cruise. My cruising experience is limited to one down the Nile where believe me, we didn’t have to worry about waves. Magic!
Helen, if you’re heading to the Southern Highlands some time and are interested in the high tea, let me know and I’ll send you the details of the place we visited. Very relaxing.
Have a brilliant holiday!
I don’t think I have ever had that one perfect experience. I can dream though!!
On a daily basis I find that my walks through the park, albeit to run errands, have such a calming effect.
It’s been ages since I left Sydney. We used to take trips up to The Blue Mountains all the time.
Mary, you live in a lovely part of Australia. My brother went to school in the town where you are and I very fondly remember how picturesque it was. I actually didn’t go to the Blue Mountains very often when I lived in Sydney – I tended to settle into the area I was in. Sorry now!
Hi Mary,
It’s good to see you here. Like you, I really enjoy the walks, especially in parks and the bush. I hope the post has brought back nice memories of the mountains.
Oh, Annie and Karen, that photo of the pair of you is fabulous! You both look like you’re filling the well nicely.
Annie, super congrats on that fabulous RT review for Undone, and for all the accolades for Protected by the Prince and Rafe’s redemption. I loved them both (oh, but I really, REALLY loved Rafe!).
I think travel is my favourite way to refill the well. Ideally a European jaunt, but I’ll take the odd local mini-break/weekend away when I can. Oh, and bubble baths. And coffee with the girls. And… Well, life’s jsut full of good moments to look forward to, huh?
Hi Michelle,
Thanks for the congratulations. There’s been some great news lately and I must say I’ve been enjoying it. It’s nice to bask in good news from time to time, isn’t it? So often life seems such a rush. I think celebrations are important.
Hm, I approve of all your well filling activities. A European jaunt would be fabbo right now, wouldn’t it? I’ve just been looking at someone’s photos of Ithaca and really want to visit – next week if possible. Somehow I don’t see that happening. As for bubble baths and coffee with the girls – yes, please!
Michelle, don’t we look like we’re having a good time in that photo? The camera does not lie! Travel is wonderful for inspiration. I was hoping to be overseas right about now so I get pangs when I think of the trip I had to cancel. Sigh. Going next year, by hook or by crook. Thanks for swinging by!
Welcome back to the Lair, Annie – we could never tire of having you visit! So get your next trip to England planned with time for a visit to Cambridge!
My favourite thing for refilling the well is seeing my buds – even if only via Face-Time or Skype. I’m sad to be missing out on conference this year – though will enjoy Tuscany in Sept *g*. – as that’s always a rejuvenating time for me.
Otherwise, time on a tropical beach works wonders!
Anna, thanks for the welcome. I’ve never visited Cambridge. Hm, so tempting. My old professor used to talk of it and it sounds brilliant.
I know what you mean about catching up with mates as a great way to reinvigorate yourself. I always feel so much stronger and ready to tackle a new project (or a difficult one) after spending time with friends. Sorry to hear you won’t be at the conference, but Tuscany should be marvellous. Fantastic!
Anna, I didn’t realize you were off to Tuscany in Sept. Lucky you! Lovely time of year there too. I’m actually writing some scenes in the competition right now – Oxford, boo hiss! LOL!
Hey, Anna and Annie! Fun interview and I love that photo of the two of you in the cafe! And your pics in the Blue Mountains, Annie – such spectacular scenery!
Congratulations on your well-deserved accolades for Protected by the Prince and Rafe’s Redemption! I’ve read and thoroughly enjoyed both these stories! And I have Declan and Chloe’s story in my TBR pile so I know I’m in for a smashing read when I get to it!
Sharon
Sharon, I’m glad you enjoyed the photos. I take that as a high compliment, having seen some of your marvellous pics. I love the scenery of the Blue Mountains. It’s one of my have places and is terrific in all weathers.
Ooh, how nice that you’ve enjoyed my earlier stories. Hope you get hooked on Chloe and Declan too.
Sharon, Rafe’s Redemption includes one of my all-time fave Annie West scenes. Incredibly sexy. And yes, I think you know the one I mean. I’m not surprised readers love it!
Hi Anna and Annie
I have read Undone by his Touch and loved it … I have been up half way up the Blue Mountains today to Faulconbridge for my other love…. a sewing day….. it was a charity sewing day making quilts for a drug rehabilitation home
Looking forward to your next book
Barb, how fantastic you’re using your craft skills for such a worthy cause. Good on you! I always think Faulconbridge sounds like a medieval castle. Always want to see Windsor Castle on the horizon when I go up there and of course, it’s quite urbanised!
Barb, how lovely to see you here. I hope you had a great day in Faulconbridge and the weather wasn’t as bad there as it is here. What a terrific way to spend a day. I hope you got lots of chatting in with like-minded people and finished plenty of sewing finished too.
Yes Annie .. we always get plenty of chatting done while we are sewing …..it was a lovely day up there …. beautiful sunshine even though it was a bit cool ‘……but a lot better than it was a couple of days ago
Glad to hear it, Barba. It wasn’t the weather for travelling anywhere a couple of days ago, was it?
Congratulations to Annie on her awards and great reviews. I like to walk to relax. Our whole family went on a hike at a state park called Rickett’s Glen which has these amazing waterfalls.
Hi Maureen,
The walk with your family sounds wonderful. My son and I sometimes go bushwalking together – a great incentive to be fit as he’s got very long legs and much more stamina than me.
Maureen, that sounds absolutely beautiful. I love waterfalls! Mind you, my favorite waterfall of all is the one they get trapped behind in The Last of the Mohicans! “I will find you!” LOL!
Anna, you’re the only person I know who absolutely melts at that line. No surprises that’s you’re fave waterfall. I’m surprised you even notice any others.
Annie, I’ve found a support group. You’d be surprised how many women melt at “I will find you.” And some of them, naming no names, are EVEN BANDITAS!!!!
Greetings and salutations, ladies!
I am VERY VERY fortunate to get together with two of my high-school chums (of almost 40 years), usually three times a year, at our homes (within a 2.5-hour radius of each other). We’re up at 7 am and home by 10:30 pm. We each bring food to share (the same thing for lunch and supper) that is easy to reheat/set out so that cooking doesn’t interfere with gab time. Yes, we gab all day long. We also exchange any “freebies” we have picked up between visits. There could be shampoos from hotels/time shares; dental supplies from numerous checkups; magazines/books we’ve read; coupons; street vendor condiments; drug store perfumes; household goods/clothes we no longer want/need; and various things found online for free. We share a lot of our extras with a local women’s shelter too. It is like Christmas!
Hi Laney,
Wow, that sounds like such a wonderful day. I bet you all look forward to it well in advance. It’s a terrific idea. How lucky that you live relatively close together. I’m smiling just thinking about it.
Actually, I’m planning to get together with some ‘girls’ from high school in September and looking forward to it enormously. We live in different states so I think it will be three solid days of talking and catching up.
Keeping in touch with old friends is worth it, isn’t it?
It IS really worth it.
One of the many things I enjoy is our honesty with each other. At one of our get-togethers, my friend asked if I liked her new haircut. I said it wasn’t my favourite. She said it wasn’t one of hers either and asked my reasoning. I said I thought it was too short at the sides, because I thought it made her ears look “stuck out”. She looked in the mirror and immediately agreed and has since said she’ll never have it that short at the sides again. She has also thanked me repeatedly. (The other girlfriend didn’t want to say anything, but once the cat was out of the bag, she concurred.)
Laney, I think it’s only people you really know and trust that you feel comfortable with to be so open with. I’m glad you have them to share with.
Laney, that get-together is not just fun, it’s environmentally beneficial! I never throw away anything I think can be of use to other people. When I lived in inner-city Sydney, it was like automatic recycling. People used to put stuff out on the pavement and someone would come along and take it. I was often astonished at how quickly something I didn’t think was at all useful got snapped up. Loved that someone else was getting use out of something that just sat in my cupboards gathering dust.
People take roadside furniture, etc. all the time here and at my girlfriends’ places. Of course, if there’s scrap metal involved, it will be scooped first for the money – or beer/wine bottles for their deposits, LOL!
Good morning, Annie and Anna! When I need a pick-me-up, especially a writing related one, I like to think about how soon RWA’s national conference in Anaheim is coming up. It’s my one mommy vacation a year, & I treasure those few days of being among my fellow writers. We’re so isolated in the normal course of things, & it’s such a luxury to be surrounded by other people who understand what I do. (It’s just a few weeks away now, in case you were wondering. Hope to see a bunch of you there!)
Susan, I’m so sorry I’m missing RWA again this year. Would love to catch up with the Banditas and Bandita Buddies. I’ve promised myself I’m coming to Atlanta by hook or by crook. Missing two conferences in a row is too long! Have fun!!!
Susan, I know exactly what you mean about having that get away time to yourself and then enjoying it with your peers. It’s such an absolute treat! I’m the same with our RWAustralia conference. I tell myself one day I’ll make it to the the American one and see lots of the people I only know via email.
I hope you have a ball in Anaheim. I know poor Anna is miffed about missing out this year. Watch out next year – AC will be there with bells on – should be fun!
Annie, welcome back, and congrats on this new cross-continent release! Unfortunately I can’t stay to chat because I’m running crazy on a project here but I love the sound of this new book. That’s the kind of conflict that keeps me on the edge of my seat.
Have a fun day in the lair!
Cassondra, grab this book. It’s got that intensity that I know you love. Good luck with the project!
Anna, thanks for the recommendation. Undone is one of my more intense books, isn’t it?
Thanks for the welcome, Cassondra. I know how frantic it can be when you’ve got a project to finish. I hope it goes well.
I always have a lovely time in the lair!
I love to take long walks to escape everyday stresses. I also swim and read.
My favorite thought is my 6 month old granddaughter’s charming smile. It always makes me happy!
Laurie, a smile from someone we love always makes us feel better, doesn’t it? Works even with a pet!!!
Hi Laurie,
I bet seeing your granddaughter’s smile is special. I recall when my kids were little – their smile could change the day for me. Actually, it still can.
Interesting you mention both walking and swimming to help you relax and feel better. I think anything that gets you moving has that effect. I always feel so much better after a walk or a session at pilates. And as for reading…it’s early morning here and with dull skies and I want to crawl back into bed and lose myself in a book.
Hi Annie and Anna, What an interesting interview and beautifully illustrated! Congratulations Annie for all your well deserved awards.
I’m looking forward to reading UNDONE BY HIS TOUCH as the Blue Mountains are a special place for me, too.
Travel is without a doubt my number one rejuvenating experience but not always possible. Swimming gets me into an almost meditative state where I can really think about my stories and solve problems. Love it!
Good luck with your US launch, Annie.
Kandy, thanks for swinging by. I know you love the Blue Mountains. One day, I’d love to get up to see your place there. Been saying that for years, I know! I find walking helps me get into a meditative state. Swimming helps too but it’s a bit chilly at the moment for my delicate person!
Snort! Delicate person, Anna? You’re as tough as old boots, dear. But then I suppose you are used to that sub tropical climate, aren’t you? Makes me smile that you write about chilly England and even chillier Scotland from the comfort of your warm, sunny home. What a great way to do it!
Thanks very much, Kandy. I hope you enjoy the new book. I know that region is special to you and you spend a lot of time there. One day, like Anna, I’ll make it there.
Swimming to meditate on the book? Maybe I’ll have to try it. It’s so cold today I have to say I’m not keen on the idea of stripping down and getting wet, but if it helps with the book… Actually, it must help you too enormously, to counteract the ill effects of sitting so long at a computer.
Annie, We hare a love of a mountain range called Blue Mountain. Here where I live in Southern Ontario, Canada. We have the Blue Mountains which are in a town called Collingwood.. This is one of the best places to ski in the winter and do all kinds of wonderful summer adventures like zip lining.. Not something I myself would do, but other have done. They also have the beautiful village of Blue Mountain and it has a wonderful spa, that I love to go to.. Maybe one day you will come and see our Blue Mountains.
Kathleen, how wonderful that you have Blue Mountains too! Ours really are blue at a distance. I’ve heard it’s because the eucalyptus oil evaporates from the gum trees that cover the mountain and the vapor adds a blue tinge to the air. The Dandenongs outside Melbourne are blue too. It’s quite haunting to see, very beautiful.
Anna, that’s right. That’s one of the reasons you can get some spectacular photos late in the afternoon in the Blue Mtns. The valley, full of eucalypt forest, is blue, but in the late afternoon the escarpment cliffs glow orange in the setting sun -spectacular!
Love the Dandenongs too (great name, isn’t it?) with it’s spectacular huge trees and cute little villages. Last time I went there though it was Mother’s Day and half of Melbourne was clogging the towns and fighting over car parking.
Kathleen,
That sounds gorgeous. I’m wondering precisely what zip lining is but even the words sound too energetic for me. Actually, it sounds just the sort of place I’d love to see. Thanks for mentioning it. Maybe one day I’ll get there. Wow, that would be fantastic!
I think there are also Blue Mountains somewhere in the Caribbean.
Congrats on the latest, Annie! I haven’t asked Mom if she has it yet, but I have no doubt she does! She LOVED Protected by the Prince!
Great photos of the wilds of Australia ! I SO want to see it in person.
Like you my favorite refilling the well activity is reading. I used to cross-stitch all the time, but most of my spare time is devoted to writing so I haven’t done any stitchery in ages. Need to take it up again as it is definitely soothing.
And I love to watch movies on a Sunday afternoon. Very relaxing.
When I lived in Europe our favorite relaxation routine was sitting in the gardens of the Archbishop of Salzburg on a sunny day just chatting. Then we would take a long lunch at the little cafe across the street from the Mozarteum. I have some lovely memories of those afternoons!
Louisa, congratulations on being our Bandita of the month too! Hey, did you guys know that if you sign up for our newsletter, you get exclusive info, excerpts and prizes? Louisa’s interview was absolutely wonderful! Here’s the link for receiving the monthly newsletter and becoming a member of the lair: http://romancebandits.com/login-3/
Louisa, I have to say my fave down-time activity is reading too. Nothing better than a day with a couple of good books!
Hi Louisa,
It’s lovely to see you here. How great to hear your mum enjoyed PROTECTED BY THE PRINCE so much. I’m chuffed! Hope she enjoys Declan and Chloe too. It’s a real change of pace from Luisa and Raul’s book.
I’m nodding at the movies on a Sunday afternoon. I used to do that a lot when Sunday viewing wasn’t taken up with sport as it seems to be now. However, I’ve noticed that one channel does sometimes have good movies on again then. I’ve started taping them to watch in the evening as now it seems Sunday afternoon is busy for me.
I didn’t know you’d lived in Salzburg. How lovely! It’s one of the places I like best in Europe. In fact we had a lovely white Christmas there a few years ago with the kids after taking them through umpteen Christmas markets in Germany. What a lovely spot. What a perfect way to while away a Sunday afternoon.
Hi Annie. A girls’ day out with a good friend always works for me. I love your books.
Crystal, Annie’s great, isn’t she? UNDONE BY HIS TOUCH is a doozy. You’ll really love it!
Anna, I can’t recall you calling me ‘great’ to my face. But I’ll take it any way I can get it. Thank you, dear! Obviously it’s the people I hang out with, influencing me.
Oh, I’m too overawed at your brilliance to let out as much as a peep when I’m in your magnificent presence, Your Maj!
Ha! I wish. I can’t imagine you silent, Anna.
Hi Crystal,
I’m smiling over your girl”s day out. They make such a difference don’t they? I’m eagerly anticipating coffee late this afternoon with a good friend for the same reason (Anna, you need to hop on a plane and join us).
Needless to say I’m doing more than smile over the fact you love my books. What a fantastic thing to hear! Sigh. Thank you.
Hmm… Day of writing? Or trip down to eat cake and drink coffee with Annie and chum? What’s the number for Qantas??!!!
Well, get moving, woman! You have the morning to get here. I’ll save you a seat in the cafe.
I’ll have a piece of chocolate cake, please. As you know, I do like my chocolate cake!
I like to read or watch classic movies-both with chocolate and a soda.
Gail, there’s something special about a classic movie, isn’t there? Love it!
Gail, a great movie or book and delicious chocolate? Of course! Works for me.
Hi Annie – So good to see you here again and your books! Your books sound fantastic!
I envious of your productivity. I think you must be chained to the desk. (grin).
For me – travel refills the well. The trip doesn’t have to be far but the change of scenery and discovering little known facts about a setting gets the creative juices flowing.
BTW – I cross-stitch as well…sometimes (editor may be reading). I’m working on a tree skirt for the Christmas tree and it’s years in the making as I can only squeeze in a little time here and there…mostly around Christmas. The sacrifices we authors make…
Donna (and all your other mad cross-stitchers), there’s a wonderful book called Becoming a Writer by Dorothea Brande. She strongly recommends that writers take up a craft or a hobby that doesn’t involve words. She says it really helps to refresh the well from which the words come. I think she’s right. So if you’re cross-stitching, you’re really just doing part of your writing routine!
Oh, Donna, how did you know? I really am chained to my desk! (Hoping my ed happens on this post while she’s off enjoying her break..). Clearly you are too!
Isn’t travel marvellous? As you say, it needn’t be far, but something a little different just jogs us into a different frame of mind. And then of course there’s dreaming of travel too…yesterday I saw a piece about a writer’s retreat on the Greek island of Kythera. Sigh. I could see myself working on my ms with that view. And those extra-curricular activities would, I know, fuel the muse for another story.
Yay, on finding another cross stitcher! How terrific. Perhaps you could share pics some time? I’m getting very excited about this weekend as I’ve promised myself I’ll set aside a couple of hours to work on a project I haven’t touched in years. It feels very unusual to be setting aside that time after so long away from it but I can’t wait. And I think Anna’s comment about doing something that doesn’t involve words is so true.
Congratulations on the book! Reading a good book makes me happy.
Me too, BN! And what’s great is that there are so many great books in the world.
BN (and Anna), I couldn’t agree more! I love getting lost in a great story. It’s one of my first loves.
Welcome back to the lair, Annie! Undone By His Touch sounds fabulous! I love a dark, emotionally tortured hero *g*
I love to cook and bake and often spend Sunday afternoons whipping up Sunday dinner and dessert. Reading a wonderful book always inspires me as does time with my dear friends. Often, when I’m feeling rundown, I’ll call up Tawny. By the time we’re through chatting, I feel loads better
Beth, sometimes there are things only a close writing friend gets, aren’t there? You’re so lucky to have Tawny. I feel very lucky I have Annie. Although the poor thing has had to put up with quite a lot of whingeing through the years. I’m sure she only sticks with me because I offer her chocolate and spots on the Bandits!
Hey, can’t wait to read your latest book! You know I’m a huge fan and UNRAVELING THE PAST sounds fantastic!
Anna, you know I’d do anything for choc and a spot on the Bandits. Actually though…perhaps smoked salmon…
Seriously, though, I don’t know where I’d be without you. Possibly not writing!
Thanks, Anna! Right back at ya as I love your books
It’s the mutual admiration society!
Hi Beth,
Hey, dark,emotionally tortured heroes R Us.
Sounds like Sunday afternoon is the day to visit you. Last weekend I had a day like that, making soup and a big casserole dish of our current have meal. It was relaxing (despite the washing up) and made us all smile.
I hear you on the phone calls too. They work for me every time. Friends are the best, I reckon. Thanks for sharing.
Before auto correct got to it, I’d written ‘current fave meal’!
Annie, I love soup! Even in the middle of summer *g*
Yes, Sunday is the day to visit. I’d steer clear of Thursdays though as we’re usually out of groceries by then
Beth, I’ll bear that in mind. When I make it to the US, watch out!
Annie, welcome back! Your new book sounds fabulous, as usual.
I usually play with the dog or browse in a bookstore to recharge.
Hi Nancy.
Thank you! It’s terrific to be back here.
Ooh, you mention book stores and browsing. I love that! Isn’t it a lovely, relaxing way to spend time? And ditto for spending time with your dog. That’s definitely a mood changer too. I recall when one of my children came home from school upset about something and, after trying and failing to make them feel better, I sent them out to play with our dog. They communed for half an hour and the difference was amazing. I’m sure pets are good for our mental health. Definitely a great way to recharge.
Annie, I remember research about people getting pet visits in hospices and old people’s homes and how the results were spectacularly good. I know the minute I pat a dog or have a cat in my lap, my stress levels go down enormously. It’s almost as good as a glass of red!
Absolutely, Anna. They’re great stress relievers. I wonder if it’s because they don’t talk back?
On our trip to Venice, we went out on a
rooftop terrace overlooking the Grand
Canal’s basin on the morning after
arriving. As we stood there the clouds
began to clear away and the sun shone
brightly. It was a glorious morning on a
glorious trip! When I’m tired or feeling
down, I call that memory back and I
am there again!
Oh, Pat! What a gorgeous memory to have. No wonder it makes you feel good, just thinking of it. Moments like that are like magic. Thanks for sharing.
Wow, Pat, I’m still green with envy about you winning that trip to Venice. I’m so glad it was a perfect experience! What a wonderful lot of memories to have.
Welcome back, Annie! Thanks for having her again, Anna!! I swear I hear your lovely accent as the two of you chat.
Lately, there hasn’t been much perk me up time…dreaded spring bronchitis hit again, but I have indulged in over reading!!
Working on our lovely Kate Carlisle’s One Book In The Grave. Been getting in my fill of watching baseball and baseball players! And once the coughing stops I’ll be diving back into the swimming pool.
Suz, you poor thing with the dreaded lurgy. I had an absolutely shocking bout with the local version of the flu a couple of weeks ago. Still cough like a grampus if I over-exert myself. Of course, the solution to that is to sit down and read a book.
Suzanne, thank you for the lovely welcome!
So sorry to hear you’re suffering with a lurgy. What a nuisance with summer knocking at the door. I’m glad to hear you’ve made use of your time though to read and relax. You’ll need plenty of that. Hope you get better soon.
So sorry, I forgot to welcome Annie back
to the Lair and to greet Ms. Anna. Hello
to both of you!
I’m looking forward to getting a copy of
“Undone…” in my hot little hands! I can
hardly wait, I know that since it’s an Annie
West, it will be really good!!!
Pat, we’ll forgive you. I think both Annie and I went off into a wonderful Italian fantasy land when you described that vision of Venice! You’ll love Undone by his Touch!
Ah, Pat, you’re such a sweet talker! I hope you enjoy UNDONE. Thanks for the welcome too. I’d assumed it was implied.
Mine would have to be talking to my wonderful friend, Will. He’s funny, cool and good-looking, but does help me with a lot of things I have on my mind. I told him I had feelings for him last year; and he’s got the same feelings for me, but we’re taking it slow… so being good friends for now suits me fine.
Otherwise another wind down/relaxing thing I love to do is painting or playing my late-Grandmother’s piano. While I’m painting, I love to listen to vinyls… all of my vinyls get played at some point too. So, if I’m not painting, I’ll just kick back with some plunger coffee or tea or ice coffee (home made ice coffee) and play them all weekend… sounds good, eh?
Mozette, nothing like a good bash on the old goanner to get the stress out, is there? Especially a show tune. They have such satisfying crescendoes!
Mozette, it sounds like you’ve got some wonderful sure fire ways to unwind and rejuvenate. Will sounds great, and I have to say the idea of painting seems fantastic (I say this as a non-pointer). Actually though, I’ve done my share of house painting and even that’s relaxing in it’s own way. Great for letting the mind wander and refresh.
I’m picturing you now with coffee and some great music. Enjoy!
Practicing yoga is what does it for me. That sets everything right and gets me settled and ready for my day.
Leni, that sounds perfect. Yoga definitely has something going for it. I’ve met so many people who talk about its benefits.
Leni, I think Bandita Christina mentioned yoga. How fantastic you can find relaxation and get fit at the same time. Sadly my chocolate and reading combo doesn’t have the same advantages!
Congrats, Annie! Always happy when another Annie West book is on the horizon.
I just spent the past three days with my family of the heart and came home relaxed and filled with creativity. Getting my kid and girlfriend fix always works wonders for me.
PJ, sounds like you had a wonderful time. Always wonderful to see you here! And isn’t it great to have another wonderful Annie West to read?
Hi PJ, how lovely to see you. It sounds as if you’ve had the most marvellous break away. Good on you! I’ve just sneaked out today to spend time with family then have coffee with a writing bud, so I’m feeling refreshed and eager for work tomorrow.
I’m so pleased you’re pleased about another Annie West book to read. It’s nice to think of them being appreciated!
Hi Annie,
I’d been intrigued by your book from reading about it on Author Sound Relations, I think it was. Declan sounds gorgeous. Good luck with the book!
And about the cross stitch… I think I read that you were threatening to get back to it last year:)!
Bev, you’ll love Undone by HIs Touch. It’s fantastic!
Bev, yes, you’re right. I was thinking about the cross stitch several months ago. But it’s taken me this long to take the first step. I’ve been up to my ears in writing, getting two mss in to my ed in record time. I feel I deserve time out to reconnect with my sewing.
I’m so glad you’re intrigued by Chloe and Declan’s story. That’s what I love to hear!
Thanks to everyone for a fantastic day in the lair. We love it when Annie comes to visit. We might even offer her pomegranate juice rather than dragon spit next time. Thanks, Annie, for being such a great guest.
Don’t forget to check back to see who won our TWO prizes. Post should go up late tonight!
Anna, I need to be thanking you. I always love the warm feeling here with the Banditas. Despite the offer of dragon spit, it’s such a treat to visit. Thanks for putting in all my travel pics too!
Waving hi to everyone. Thanks so much for making me feel at home. I’ve been having a ball here today.
what a beautiful pic
congrats on the release Annie
i’d tagged you the avocado chocolate cake at fb, hope you dont mind =D
Eli, I’ll head over to FB now to look for it. Thank you! I’m glad you liked the pics here.