~ ANNA RANDOL ~
Welcome to UTC, Anna! Can you please tell us a bit about yourself and what made you decide to write Historical Romance?
Thanks for having me! I write Regency Romance for Avon. I love action, suspense, and dark, tortured heroes…the hotter the better.
I think the simple answer to why I write Historical Romance that we all have a genre we gravitate toward as readers and writers. It can be dukes, or vampires, or Navy SEALs. But each of us finds that certain type of world that allows us to escape fully, to become immersed, to lose ourselves. For me that has always been Historical Romance. I started reading them as a teenager hiding those scandalous novels among the other, more serious, books I had selected from the library. (Seeing Mr. Darcy jump into that lake in the BBC version of Pride and Prejudice didn’t hurt either…)
Let’s talk about your upcoming release. SINS OF A RUTHLESS ROGUE releases in March 2013, what can you tell us about it?
Revenge never tasted so sweet . . .
When Clayton Campbell shows up on her doorstep, Olivia Swift is stunned. For long ago, Clayton was the boy who stole her heart. He’s also the man her betrayal had sent to the gallows. A man she believed dead, now standing before her, looking leaner, harder, more powerful than ever, his haunted eyes filled with a lust she had never seen—for vengeance . . .Or burned so hot . . .
He has more than once faced death and escaped unscathed. Yet Clayton Campbell cannot deny that the sight of Olivia rouses in him something more than a thirst for revenge. Or that the bold beauty would lure him once more into a dangerous game. Only this time, Clayton plans to be the victor— with the tempting Olivia in his bed as his prize. But once passion ignites between them, the hard-hearted agent will face his greatest battle yet— for his heart . . .
How did the Sinners Trio series come to be?
Often when I write, I get ideas for books in the form of bits of scenes in my head, then I work backwards to figure out who the person is and how they got into that situation. But for the Sinners Trio, the idea for the whole series came to me at once, kind of like reading the description on the back of a book. I could see these three former spies fired after the war with Napoleon was over and I knew they each had to have their own story!
Do you have a favorite scene you’ve written, or that was the hardest or most emotional to write? Care to share?
It shouldn’t surprise anyone who’s read one of my books that I love action and adventure. My poor characters are always fleeing, fighting, or solving some riddle. And while Sins of a Ruthless Rogue has many of those moments, my favorite one to write was a quiet moment between the hero and heroine where she rests her head on his shoulder and they share a quiet moment together amid all the intrigue.
I think, especially in books that are so fast paced, it’s critical for the reader to believe that this love between the hero and the heroine will last far after the adventure is over. This scene was the moment that I finally felt that way about these two characters, and I hope the reader does, too!
What is your favorite Historical Romance book and what is it about this book that resonated with you?
I absolutely adore Lord of Scoundrels by Loretta Chase. I love a tortured hero, and Sebastian is perhaps one of the best I have ever read. But more than my favorite type of hero, the Chase was able to dig so deeply and completely into her characters’ minds and hearts that by the end of the book everything that was happening to Sebastian and Jessica felt like it was happening to me, too. In fact, when I was beginning to write, this was the book I studied over and over again as I learned to write emotion.
What does a typical day in the life look like for you? Any writing routines?
I have kids so my writing is mainly confined to naptime and after bedtime. So after the kids go to bed, I only need two things—chocolate and more chocolate. (The darker the better!) Then I will sit down at the computer and write as fast as I can before I fall asleep at my keyboard…
What’s next for Anna Randol?
My next novel, Sins of a Wicked Princess (Nov. 2013), is the final book in the Sinners Trio series. I can’t wait for my readers to get it! Ian Maddox, or Wraith as he is sometimes called, finally gets his own book. And while Ian might like to pretend he’s all swagger and wit, he soon meets his match in a feisty princess who needs his special skills to help her regain her country. She doesn’t let Ian get away with any of his usual tricks and for the first time Ian has to decide if he’s willing to open himself up to love.
Coming March 26, 2013
About the Author
Anna Randol was raised in Southern California. When she was eight, she decided her diary was too dull and decided to write as if she lived on a raft in the Amazon with her imaginary dog, Cream Puff. At twelve, Anna decided racing down rapids with only a dog for company might get rather lonely. Handsome British heroes began to appear on her raft, and her love of adventure-driven romance was born.
Don’t believe it? See for yourself!
Anna currently lives with her family in Southern California, where she loves eating chocolate, making plans for remodels she never intends to do, and drawing pictures in the sand at the beach to baffle future archaeologists.
64 comments
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Zita R
February 19, 2013 at 8:06 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I haven’t read too many historicals but these sound interesting. Nice interview.
Anna Randol
February 19, 2013 at 11:18 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Thanks for stopping by Zita! Hope you give historicals another chance.
pam howell
February 19, 2013 at 11:04 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I LOVE hystericals – er – um – historicals
NICE cover
would love to win & read
kp
February 19, 2013 at 11:16 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Love the interview….looks like a good read!
Olga
February 19, 2013 at 11:54 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Love the book cover.
Lori Meehan
February 19, 2013 at 12:19 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I love this cover its kind of old fashion it’s great.
Anna Randol
February 19, 2013 at 11:18 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Thanks! Avon’s art dept has been fabulous!
Glittergirl
February 19, 2013 at 12:24 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Anna your books sound so interesting and a bit different. I’ve been noticing them on the shelves and I’d love to win one to get started. Spies are such a great story line
Stefanie D
February 19, 2013 at 12:52 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I love historicals and I would like to get to know this author. So winning the book would be great!!
Betty Hamilton
February 19, 2013 at 1:06 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Historicals are my favorites!! I LOVE winning books from new-to-me authors. I have found so many great reads this way!!
Joy F
February 19, 2013 at 1:25 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I don’t know why, but I love when historical authors read other historical authors. I know this is most likely always the case but I still love knowing that they do. Thanks.
Joanne B
February 19, 2013 at 1:31 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Thanks for the great interview. This book sounds fantastic. Can’t wait to read it.
Lisa w
February 19, 2013 at 2:29 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Love a good historical!
modularmates(at)comcast(dot)net
Mary
February 19, 2013 at 2:34 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I love this cover. Very sexy! I adore historical romances! Thanks so much for taking the time to talk to us!
Mary
Anna Randol
February 19, 2013 at 11:23 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
It was so fun to be here today! Thanks for stopping by.
Adria
February 19, 2013 at 3:02 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
There are SO many historical romances out there and many of them are on my “Buy ASAP” list but the ones that get bumped are those with spies and secret agents in them! I can’t wait to read Anna’s books.
Anna Randol
February 19, 2013 at 11:24 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I love me a good spy as well. So much opportunity for intrigue!
erinf1
February 19, 2013 at 3:15 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
thanks for the fun interview! I *luuuuuv* Anna’s books
I’ve got this next one preordered for my Kindle and I’m doing the impatient dance for it 
Anna Randol
February 19, 2013 at 11:21 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Yay, Erin! I hope you enjoy!
Lori H
February 19, 2013 at 3:19 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
This looks/sounds like an awesome read. I like the cover!
Nice interview. I can’t wait to read this book.
Thanks
Rana Adams
February 19, 2013 at 3:46 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Anna, thank you so much for sharing. It is nice getting to know you and I look forward to reading your historicals.
Alicia
February 19, 2013 at 4:17 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I’ve read one of your books before and was wondering is Sins of a Ruthless Rouge part of a series? If so do these books have to be read in order?
Anna Randol
February 19, 2013 at 11:21 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
SIns of a Ruthless Rogue is the second book in the Sinners Trio series. The books follow a trio of disbanded spies after the war. While you will see some of the same characters, they are definitely can be read alone.
Raeline Peterson
February 19, 2013 at 4:22 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Sounds good love historicals.
Cathy V
February 19, 2013 at 4:51 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I love historicals and Sins of a Ruthless Rogue sounds like the perfect addition to my collection.
Thanks for the giveaway
kitcat76(at)hotmail.com
Carol L
February 19, 2013 at 4:54 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I enjoyed the interview and really would love to read this book. Thanks for the opportunity.
Carol L.
Jane L
February 19, 2013 at 5:24 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Enjoyed the interview. The book sounds really good!
Lily B
February 19, 2013 at 5:47 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I have not read this book yet but it looks simply amazing! Wonderful interview <3
Krystal
February 19, 2013 at 6:31 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
The first romance novels I read were all historical! I just love the genre!
Diane P. Diamond
February 19, 2013 at 6:51 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I love historical romance with a passion. In fact, it’s the only genre that I read. Thank you for this opportunity to win Anna’s book.
I love the cover, the colors are gorgeous, and her dress is really lovely.
Meghan Stith
February 19, 2013 at 7:07 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Thanks for the giveaway! Steamy cover!
mestith at gmail dot com
Emily
February 19, 2013 at 7:31 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Thanks for the giveaway! This sounds like a great book, and while I’m not usually a fan of historicals, I would definitely want to read this one.
laura
February 19, 2013 at 7:48 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Great interview. Cant wait to read the book.
lauratroxelatyahoodotcom
Kelly Powell
February 19, 2013 at 7:48 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I love historical books. Thank you for sharing & good luck to everyone
Barbara Elness
February 19, 2013 at 7:49 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I enjoyed the interview and the excerpt of Sins of a Ruthless Rogue left me eager to read more. I’m looking forward to the release of this book, it sounds great.
Linda
February 19, 2013 at 8:19 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Love Anna’s books (i’ve read all of them so far) & her covers are to die for! Can’t wait to read this one.
Anna Randol
February 19, 2013 at 11:25 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Thanks, Linda! I hope you enjoy!
Carolyn Walker Rhodes
February 19, 2013 at 8:26 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Nice Interview and The Cover Ain’t So Bad Either! I Like A Good Historical From Time To Time.
Mary Preston
February 19, 2013 at 8:44 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
It’s always interesting to see where the inspiration for stories comes from. The thought process does fascinate.
Jackie Wisherd
February 19, 2013 at 8:58 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I enjoy reading Historicals and your book sounds like a good one. I’ve added it to my to be read list.
Soft Fuzzy Sweater
February 19, 2013 at 9:05 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I just adored “Sins of a Virgin”, especially the early birth of the modern police aspect. But I loved the romance and passion as well! I know this novel will be even better. Write faster!!
Thank you for the giveaway.
annfesATyahooDOTcom
Anna Randol
February 19, 2013 at 11:30 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
It really is fascinating that the police force that we know today didn’t yet exist! I think the British feared becoming too much like the French after the revolution. But Henry Fielding and his Bow Street Runners soon changed that.
Lianne
February 19, 2013 at 9:47 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Great interview and beautiful bookcover!
Zina Lynch
February 19, 2013 at 10:49 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Oh dear, yes I could see him wanting revenge for being sent to the gallows.
Z
KYLA WHITLEY
February 19, 2013 at 11:12 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Hi. Enjoyed your interview. Looking forward to reading your new book.
jukyjoauka at aol dot com
Diane Sallans
February 19, 2013 at 11:17 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
this looks like a story that will really tug at my heart
sallans d at yahoo dot com
Megblod
February 19, 2013 at 11:43 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
This looks like a great read and is diffenitly going on my TBR list.
Megblod(at)yahoo(dot)com
Janie McGaugh
February 19, 2013 at 11:44 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I really like the cover – though they must be cold!
jmcgaugh (at) semo (dot) edu
Mary C
February 20, 2013 at 12:03 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I really liked Sins of a Wicked Virgin so can’t wait to read this one!
ki pha
February 20, 2013 at 12:07 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Thanks for the interview! I love all your books! I was Enthralled with you in A Secret in Her Kiss, then intrigue in A Naked Solution, and Fell in love with you in Sins of a Virgin. What next? I can not wait for this book and for Ian’s story, that bad boy.
Been waiting a long time for these books it seems.
Question, What is next for you after the Sinners Trio?
Eileen
February 20, 2013 at 6:00 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I love historical romances. I love to read author interviews to get an insight into their process. Thanks.
Linda
February 20, 2013 at 7:31 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Love the interview and the cover made me go *grabby hands* Can´t wait for my chance to read! =)
Happy Wednesday!
//Linda
Sue G.
February 20, 2013 at 9:59 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Thanks for the chance to win. Story sounds fun.
Kim Wyant
February 20, 2013 at 11:14 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I love your books and am looking forward to this one and the one after. Thanks for having the giveaway! I love dark chocolate too.
Monica V.
February 20, 2013 at 8:14 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Historical romance is my favorite genre and I’m amazed I haven’t read any of your books yet! That is about to be remedied.
Ann S.
February 20, 2013 at 11:24 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I love historicals, especially ones with a bad boy, sigh…
Timitra
February 21, 2013 at 12:24 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I love the sound of this book!
Filia Oktarina
February 21, 2013 at 10:32 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
The cover book was beautiful, i liked it. And i am love to read historical romance genre, i am looking forward to reading this book
Texas Book Lover
February 21, 2013 at 2:49 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I just started reading historicals again…yours sounds fantastic!
bn100
February 22, 2013 at 2:55 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I agree about the chocolate.
Vanessa
February 22, 2013 at 4:40 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Sounds like an enjoyable read, thanks for the interview and giveaway!
Kamla L.
February 22, 2013 at 8:29 am (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I’m a romance junkie, whether it’s historical, PNR, Scifi, and lately contemporary. However, Anna Randol is a ‘new-to’me’ author so thanks for the intro. The Sinners Trio sounds captivating. This is why I love romance, an HEA with someone who sent you to the gallows:)
Thanks for the giveaway.
Christy Perry
February 22, 2013 at 2:28 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
Thank you for sharing your interview and book excerpt. I look forward to reading your work, I love the cover. I am new to your work but I have a feeling I will be reading many of your books. Thank you for the chance to win
Amber H.
February 25, 2013 at 3:28 pm (UTC -5) Link to this comment
I love the cover! Its sounds very good too! I havent read too many historical romances but I will definitely check this one out.