It is my extreme pleasure to have Kathryne Kennedy here on my blog today.  I've been talking about Kathryne's new book, THE FIRE LORD''S LOVER ever since I was lucky enough to preview it after she wrote it.  I'm a huge fan and this book makes it onto my favorite list.  It's just wonderful!!!!

So, please join me in welcoming, Kathryne Kennedy!

Kathryne:  Today is the OFFICIAL release day of THE FIRE LORD’S LOVER, and to celebrate I’m hosting some fun give-a-ways here on Erin’s blog! First off, just leave a comment at the end of my post, and you’ll be entered to win a free copy of THE FIRE LORD’S LOVER (Canada & U.S. addresses only). You can also send me an email with your mailing address to: Kathryne@KathryneKennedy.com with CASA LAUNCH PARTY in the subject line, and I’ll send you a little packet of goodies (bookplate, bookmark, custom emery board). Finally, sign up for my newsletter via my website: http://www.kathrynekennedy.com/ and you’ll automatically be entered to win a chocolate diamond necklace.

I’ve put together a fun post to celebrate, and so I hope you enjoy reading:

HOW TO TALK TO A DRAGON

My step-by-step guide to speaking with Ador, the black dragon in THE FIRE LORD’S LOVER:

First you have to find him. It’s a good bet that he’s perched in the highest point around, and in Firehame Palace, that would be the north tower. In my new series, THE ELVEN LORDS, there are seven realms created by the elven lords, and each has their own primary magical power and dragon-steeds. For the sovereignty of Firehame, Lord Mor'ded rules with the power of fire and his black scepter is linked with his dragon-steed, Ador. So it’s going to be warm up there in this dragon’s tower, with magical fire licking the walls of the palace and smoke occasionally trickling from Ador’s snout. Wear your lightest mantua, and avoid silk, which easily ignites.

Show no fear, or the dragon will think you are prey and will eat you. (Just kidding. Ador prefers a nice haunch of beef to the bitter taste of humans.)

If the dragon is sleeping, don’t wake him up. (This time, I’m not kidding.) Like dogs, they prefer a good nap to just about anything else. You don’t need to make a sound to let him know of your presence, for he smelled you long before you could see him. Be patient; if he wants to talk to you, umm, it’s his choice.

Try excessive flattery. When Lady Cassandra (the heroine in THE FIRE LORD’S LOVER) first met Ador, she remarked on how beautiful his wings and black scales were, and instantly endeared herself to the dragon.

Try not to get frustrated. Ador has his own hidden agenda, and will often speak obtusely and answer your questions with a remark that might not seem even remotely connected. But time will reveal his wisdom. In the beginning of THE FIRE LORD’S LOVER, my hero, General Dominic Raikes, comments on his impending marriage to Lady Cassandra. Ador replies that he smells a change in the wind, and it takes Dominic some time before he truly understands what the importance of that statement.

As much as you might be tempted, do not ask for the dragon to give you a ride on his back. He would consider it rude. Dominic has always longed for what Ador calls a ‘star dance’, but the dragon only offers when Dominic needs some comfort after discovering the evil that truly lies within Firehame palace.

Ador will be able to read what’s in your heart. Be careful that you truly want the answers to any questions you may ask.

If the dragon hasn’t already ended the conversation by flying away, thank him for his time and back toward the tower doorway, because if he does launch, you’ll need to be prepared for the gust of wind from his wings.

I hope you enjoyed visiting Ador, and I’m looking forward to any comments or questions you may have. Thanks so much for having me, Erin! It was such a pleasure to celebrate my release here!

All My Magical Best,

Kathryne

THE FIRE LORD’S LOVER BY KATHRYNE KENNEDY—IN STORES JULY 2010

Kathryne Kennedy's historical fantasy romances have garnered awards and a growing readership. This exciting new series, set against the lavish backdrops of Georgian and Victorian England so beloved by romance readers, is deliciously dark and exciting.

Fighting for control of a kingdom that is split into seven domains, Elven warlords use their human slaves to breed an endless supply of soldiers for their armies. Dominic Raikes, the half-blood son of the Elven Lord himself is one such warrior. Betrothed to Lady Cassandra, who has been raised in a convent to keep her pure, he little suspects that she's been secretly trained as an assassin to murder his father. Dominic and Cassandra soon discover that each one is not what they seem, but the price of trust may be their very lives, and the destruction of the magical realm each is desperately trying to save…

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Kathryne Kennedy is a multipublished, award-winning author of magical romances. She’s lived in Guam, Okinawa, and several states in the U.S., and currently lives in Arizona with her wonderful family—which includes two very tiny Chihuahuas. She welcomes readers to visit her website where she has ongoing contests at: www.KathryneKennedy.com.

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