Today I have the pleasure of welcoming Leanna Renee Hieber to Darque Reviews with a guest post. Thanks so much for joining us Ms. Hieber!*Don’t forget to read the instructions below the guest post to enter for a chance to win one of two copies of The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker!*
The Guest Post:
My favourite thing about the hero of The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker- first in my Strangely Beautiful Gothic Victorian Fantasy series- is this: Clove tea and leather-bound books.
I believe the most evocative, dare I say delicious thing I’ve ever written is how my compelling, enigmatic, ever-so-sexy (otherwise why would I have written him) hero, Professor Alexi Rychman, smells. Before I wax rhapsodic about how intoxicating I find the man, let me set his scene. The year is 1888. London is ghostly and gas-lit. This is the ghostly world in which his tale takes place:
What fortune awaited sweet, timid Percy Parker at Athens Academy? Considering how few of Queen Victoria’s Londoners knew of it, the great Romanesque fortress was dreadfully imposing, and little could Percy guess what lay inside. She had never met the powerful and mysterious Professor Alexi Rychman, knew nothing of the growing shadow, the Ripper and other supernatural terrors against which his coterie stood guard. She knew simply that she was different, haunted, with her snow-white hair, pearlescent skin and uncanny gifts. But this arched stone doorway offered a portal to a new life, an education far from the convent—and an invitation to an intimate yet dangerous dance at the threshold of life and death…
A few months ago author/blogger Lise Horton of my RWA NYC Chapter (http://www.blogger.com/profile/13315265091119634416) gave a fabulous presentation about using sensory input in our stories. This is particularly important when dealing with paranormal universes. Not only is it fun to create and imagine new and unexpected sensory input, but such details can immerse readers in alternate realities and make a book a transporting experience. I find creating the necessary atmosphere, whether realistic or utterly fantastical, a delightful part of the process. During Lise’s presentation I kept thinking of a specific moment in my book. One of my very favourite moments. And in the end, this detail isn’t supernatural at all. I’ll show you. The setting:
Nineteen year old Miss Percy Parker, feeling freakish in her ghostly-white skin has fled from the uncomfortable social trauma of the Athens Academy ball and into a darkened, abandoned foyer where she dances alone. Professor Rychman, helplessly intrigued by her, silently follows, and time stops a moment to allow them this encounter...
From The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker...
Suddenly, Percy realized that she’d never before been so terribly alone. Tears sprang forth, and she let them come.
“Now, now, Miss Parker, what’s this?” a voice scolded from behind.
Percy whirled at the familiar, stern sound. A figure broke from shadow, clad in an elegantly tailored frock coat trimmed with ornate embroidery, and a white silk cravat. His black hair was combed neatly, framing that noble, stoic face at which Percy had spent countless hours staring. Percy’s heart throbbed in her throat.
“Oh, Professor! Good evening!” She nearly coughed out her words, feeling all grace drain away, cut to the quick by his unexpected appearance. She tried to bat away her tears but his firm hand caught her pale, lace-covered fingers. He took her hand, their entwined fingers bridging the cold chasm between their bodies.
“May I have this dance, Miss Parker?”
“Oh … of course, sir.” A blush bloomed ferociously in her cheeks but she was helpless to stop it.
As his hand grasped hers, she examined his full lips, which had just enough curve to make his expression inviting. There was just enough light in those dark eyes to make Percy wholly forget about breathing, and without words or even a nod he drew her hand to his side. He slid his opposite hand around layers of smooth lavender satin and placed the fullness of his palm assuredly upon her waist.
Percy’s hand flew to his shoulder, alighting like a lark on a branch. She saw his nostrils flare, as if he took in the intoxicating scent of the heather she wore, and if her mind did not play tricks he stared at her as if she was his peer. But her mind did play tricks, and these were dangerous thoughts.
They began to waltz—slowly at first, their circles precise and narrow, their gazes locked. Percy, who had already memorized the professor’s features, now savored each pore, crease and eyelash. The study of his sculpted lips forced her to close her eyes or else, truly, her knees would have buckled. In turn she knew she was being parceled; but from him, she welcomed the scrutiny.
Their bodies were one with the music, and Percy found she didn’t have to think about the correct steps any longer. In and out of the moonlight they floated, silent save for the deft clicks of their heels, the whispers of the music rising from below and the occasional sigh escaping Percy’s lips. Their orbit grew, expanded. Her sighs grew into giggles and laughs.
Professor Rychman spun her, and Percy swept fully against him, lingering there for just a moment. Her face brushed his chest and she took a deep breath. He smelled faintly of clove tea and leather-bound books. She did not want to remove her cheek from the thick black lapel of his jacket; she could have nestled in that warm darkness indefinitely. Perhaps, at least, until class. A giddy scream welled up inside her. This was surely a dream…
(end of Excerpt)
---
Scent is one of the most powerful senses to evoke memory and emotion. For me, having this real, small yet absolutely knowable sensory detail, amidst the improbable and vast spectral universe of the Strangely Beautiful world, has remained critical to me. It anchors me to Alexi, as I journey forward with him as I write his future books. I always have a cup of clove tea by my side when I write, to keep him near.
I very much appreciate the opportunity to be here at Darque Reviews and I hope you’ll love Alexi, Percy and The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker as much as I loved writing it! Blessings!
Leanna Renee Hieber
Thank you so much for joining us Leanna! I wish you the best with The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker, and hope to see more in the Strangely Beautiful series soon!
You can visit Ms. Hieber’s website: HERE
You can read a review for The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker: HERE
You can visit her author page on Darque Reviews: HERE
The Giveaway:To enter for a chance to win one of two copies of The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker, please leave a comment on this post. I’d love to hear what draws you to reading books with a historical setting. Two winners will be chosen on release day, August 25, 2009, so be sure to check back to see if it was you! Good luck, and Happy Reading!
Kimberly Swan, DarqueReviews.com
73 comments:
Hi :)
Thank you for having Leanna Renee Hieber here, and thanks Leanna for sharing.
I loved the excerpt and the articulation of the importance of using the senses in your writing.
I am looking forward to reading this first book in what is sure to be a terrific series.
:)
I love dark fantasy and alternative historicals. The 2 combined is great! I don't know why I love 'em but I do.
:)
Love and best wishes,
@RKCharron
xoxo
I have to admit the allure of clove tea and leather bound books caught my attention. My grandfather used to drink clove tea and I can clearly remember loving the smell of it (though not the taste).
Historical novels to me have one of two draws--if its contemporary (as in after 1700) its the period mannerisms, social graces and such. I read a book one time all about how to attract a man with a fan (written back in the 1800's) that I found so...intriguing. I admit I'm not much for flirting overtly, I prefer the subtler forms (but men don't understand that do they?).
If its ancient historicals...I just love ancient cultures so its a treat for me to read a writer's take on certain historical 'beliefs'.
Lexie.Cenni@gmail.com
Yum, yum, yum, Leanna! That might be the sexiest smelling hero ever! And I, too, loved that workshop that Lise gave...I think I still have my baggies of yummy smelling things she passed out! LOL!
As for what attracts me to historicals...I think the setting alone of candle or gaslight is appealing to me. England is my favorite setting and the rainy weather definitely draws me - there's nothing more romantic than a rainy afternoon.
I absolutely cannot WAIT for this release! :)
Wonderful interview. Thank you Leanna for sharing your thoughts. :)
I like a historical setting for the simplicity. No modern distractions like cell phones or tv's. And the ingenuity of people who are living in that time without those modern conveniences.
Michelle
kweenmg at yahoo dot com
I am so excited about this book -- it (and its hero) sound utterly delicious!
As for what attracts me to historical novels, it would have to be the clothes. Those form-fitting Regency trousers. Those high, shiny black military boots. The gleaming armor. The togas. The kilts... oh, the kilts. Mmm...
Ahem, what was I saying? Ah, yes. On a more serious note, I enjoy the opportunity that a historical presents me to imagine myself in a different time and place. And in different clothes. **grin**
Leanna, I can't wait to get my hands on your book! It sounds absolutely wonderful. The excerpt is rich and atmospheric.
Brava!
Lis
So happy to see Leanna and her book here! It looks like a fabulous read!
And I like historicals because they show a time that was simpler, less rushed, and a bit more civilized.
Utterly delicious, Leanna. I can't wait to get my hands on a copy.
I adore historicals and am delighted to find one set in Victorian London. I think historicals are so full of scents that have become rather homogenized in modern times. Each nuance, when well written, is unique onto itself. It's one of the things that draws me to them again and again.
I am so thrilled that my "senses" workshop was enjoyed, Leanna (thanks for the plug!), and great to see your amazing example of just how beautifully you convey the immediacy of the moment with Percy and Alexi! I love the rich combination you haev devised - unique, but very distinct to me as a reader.
Why I love historical romance: Because it so beautifully can capture the bygone eras, taking me out of my modern existence and into one where the world moved a bit more slowly, and men and women interacted in a whole different way. I don't know, it just seems more romantic to have a couple dancing to the naughty waltz, for example, than, say, slam dancing?!
Thank you for having Leanna come to visit and having read this latest excerpt has only further whetted my appetite for the momentous release date!
Thank you for taking the time to do this interview.
What draws me to historicals. I find it really depends on my mood. Recently I watched season one of Deadwood so I was put in a western historical frame of mind. I've always liked the Victorian period though...the dress, their speech, their customs, etc. Brings to mind a short lived tv series - The Secret Adventures of Jules Verne with Michael Praed playing Phileas Fogg.
Good luck with the new release!
Great interview. I love the smell of Clove. I swear I used to smoke clove cigarettes just for the smell.
As for what draws one to a historical setting...I would think it would be the sense of everything being timeless. When I read history I feel as though it's forged in time, never changing. Thanks! Indigo
ravensquietscreams@gmail.com
I enjoy reading Historicals because they take me away to places I'd never be able to go to!
The book sounds wonderful, and what a beautiful cover!
I like historicals because they're a glimpse into a past world that I find fascinating.
This is the second interview I have read by Ms Hieber and I am so excited to read this series.
Books with historical backgrounds feel so real, more believable. I have not read many, but a well written one can really take you to that time period. I love how she uses scent in her writing. Clove smells wonderful.
zenfoxflowerATyahooDOTcom
Thanks for sharing. I love the cover and it sounds like a great story. I am glad we got the chance to read the excerpt and hear more about it.
bacchus76 at myself dot com
Kimberly's review of this one has me really excited to read it. I love how stoked you were about writing that scene! When an author feels so excited about it it's infectious for the readers as well.
I get lost in the language of historical novels. I'm enchanted by the slight variations in the way people spoke and I love it when an author can paint a vivid picture of a time long gone with just the right chosen words.
Thank you for the interview and giveaway!
I love that, not only do you get a good story, but you get to learn some history as well.
Amanda
catss99@yahoo.com
You had me at the scent of "a leather bound book"! Are there many things more intoxicating that the smell of a real book? Sigh.
Loved the excerpt and the whole bit about sensory perceptions in novels. I think it is something that we take for granted when we read a really well written novel. The smells can totally take you deeper into the scene. No doubt!
What draws me to historically set novels is the escape to a world in which I'll never have a chance to experience for myself.
Cannot wait to read this book!
Well - No surprise here that I love historicals (grin).
Wonderful excepts, Leanna. I think I shall adore this book. I kept picturing Alan Rickman as the professor. Did you have an actor in mind as you created the character?
I love historicals - Victorian especially - because of the clothes, because the lack of phones meant the heroines had to handle situations for themselves, because travel by carriage is so romantic, and because the upper class (and our heroines are always upper class) had servants to do the everyday things I wish I could delegate to someone else (grin).
I'll be watching the bookshelves for this one.
Hello friends!
I am so desperately pleased that you've come, commented, and shared your enthusiasm for Historical novels! I am in good company with all of you, I see. Thank you for your excitement about this book! It's truly my love-letter to the world and I'm so looking forward to sharing it with all of you.
Lise, I'm so glad you stopped in to see your mention. :) You truly lead a wonderful workshop and I hope you'll continue to do so in the future and take that seminar on the road!
*waving to fellow RWA NYC chaptermates*
I recognize names here from the Twitterverse, thanks for stopping over!
Donna MacMeans!
If anyone here hasn't yet read The Trouble with Moonlight, you simply MUST, it's a delightful Historical Paranormal that has been racking up awards whereever it goes, literally.
Donna... you psychic you.
On the dedication page of my novel, across from the acknowledgement page, is a simple sentence: "To Alan, the muse" *grin* Oh, yes, I had an actor in mind in Alexi, I'm impressed you guessed which one. I tend to cast all my characters, but there was no mistaking this one. My agent just sent his publicist a copy of the book as we're going out to producers for movie rights soon, I can only hope he'll be as flattered as I mean it to be, rather than alarmed. *laugh*
Hi Leanna!
I rarely read historicals. When I do they're usualy recomended to me. I like things that are unusual, that are filled with texture and that have just as much excitement and adventure as the contemporary urban fantasy novels I usually read.
Congrats on your upcommign release!
Hugs!
~Suzi
OMG! Love love love Alan Richman. Have you seen Truly Madly Deeply? I got a postcard of yours at the Lori Foster weekend and was completly intrigued by the title. Looking forward to seeing you in Columbus in September.
Best of luck with your release!!!
Gia
Ahh, Alan...I just saw HBP for the second time, so with his picture in mind, am now anticipating your release date with giddy excitement!
I'm amazed Donna recognized him in the description.
Can't wait to read it! :-)
I'm drawn to historicals for the setting and an escape from RL. Same reason I read fantasy and paranormals. It's just not going to happen to me in RL so I can enjoy the book.
Great excerpt.
Beth Caudill - beth@bethcaudill.net
I like to read books with historical settings simply because of the setting. Love learning more about the past and being able to see how events from the past effect my life.
The book looks fabulous. Congratulations and much success to ya!! You deserve it!!
rachie2004 @ yahoo (dot) com
Great post, this book looks fantastic.
What draws me to historical books is the fact that everything back then seemed so simple. Despite all the technology we have today, I feel like the people back then were better and happier.
~ Popin
proudbookworm[@]gmail[dot]com
Hi, Leanna! Thank heavens release day is soon. I can hardly wait.
I drink clove tea, too, although usually I combine the cloves with cinnamon or mint.
I read historicals for two reasons: 1) because I love learning more about history and 2) because they don't take place now. When I read, I want to be somewhere/somewhen that I can't be in real life.
Well, I'm actually getting my PhD in history, so my perspective may be different than most. One of the things I like about reading historical fiction is that it tends to include more of the everyday details, the minutiae of daily life. Historical non-fiction tends to focus more on important people and events, although books about average people and daily life are becoming more common. When I read, it's a way of exploring things I don't actually get to experience, and living in another time period certainly qualifies!
What a lovely excerpt! Cloves and leather are two of my favorite smells, very masculine and strong, yet romantic!
I love historical romances and fiction in general because it allows me to explore another age, to live through the characters in another time, another way of thinking. And I love that in historical romance, at least, chivalry is definately NOT dead!
I am a plot person, so the situation in the beginning must be intriguing enough to draw me in.
lesly7ch(at)yahoo(dot)com
Hi Leanna. Your book sounds wonderful.
I like to read historicals because you get a view of how life was then, how people dressed and the social functions that they attended.
I love historicals because they bring to life characters and settings that I can only imagine.
This looks like a great series. Great, another book to add to my TBR pile (as if it isn't high enough now).
The draw of historicals is the chance to visit another era, to be transported to someplace different from your everyday life.
Plus, you can often learn some of history from reading the books and you don't feel like it is being jammed down your throat. Amazing what I have learned by reading historicals.
And, though I know it isn't politically correct, I like the thought of being treated like a lady, at least for a short time. It would be great to experience it, but I think I would haul off and hit someone after too long, since I definitely like my independence and the ability to try whatever I like. But I still like to be treated like a lady sometimes.
I love historical settings because they are so different from this day and age and it intrigues me.
wandanamgreb (at) gmail (dot) com
Thanks so much! This book sounds so fun.
I enjoy reading books in a historical setting, particularly if it's set in a period that fascinates me like ancient Japan or regency England or a similarly historically romantic period.
gaby317nyc AT gmail DOT com
It's hard to say exactly why I first started reading Historical novels. I watched Dark Shadows when I was growing up and that may have had a small influence on me. Or it could have been the novels my mother read.
I just know I love England especially during the Victorian time. I love the women of that time period. They were to have been so helpless and dependent on their husbands and fathers and I love how their manners reflect that dependence but they are really strong and capable in their time. Things were so much simpler and classes were well defined but I love how they are also crossed in novels.
Don't even let me get going about Scotland in the 1700's. And the big brawny men in their kilts. My knees just go weak.
Fantastic guest post and excerpt! *happy sigh* :)
Books with a historical setting are probably the closest I'll ever get to time travelling to the past. :)
Reading historical romances transports me to a different world where problems don't exist!
delilah0180(at)yahoo(dot)com
I think that what draws me are the way things were done. The proper way society expected everyone to act. And the way people tried to rebel quietly from those expectations.
Thanks!
Amy M
atc218 at aol dot com
I am a bit *coughquitecough* late to the conversation.
It is interesting what the sense of smell will bring to mind; I quite agree it is a powerful stimulant of long ago memories.
I find, though, that I prefer it when the author uses it sparingly--overuse can completely obliterate the author's intent. (See Jessica's post on this)
I so enjoyed this book! I'll be giving my ARC copy away so I would absolutely adore a brand spanking new copy on release day =)
To answer your question dear Kimberly...I've never really been into historical fiction. I'm just now slowly dipping my toes into it. Bust I must say I thoroughly enjoy traveling back in time. This London Victorian setting in Leanna's book was just lovely. I don't have too much to compare it too but I thought it was beautifully done!
I'm so, so exicted to read this book! I've always had a love for historical/fantasy stories. I think the most basic reason that I'm drawn to historical fiction is the fact that I'm a historian. I love to see how other people see what the past is like.
deathmouse AT comcast DOT net
Love historicals cause I wouldn't be able to go back in time to experience it.
cindyc725 at gmail dot com
I would love to read this book. I hate history but love dark fantasy so if the history is included in something I enjoy it like taking bad tasting medicine in something delicious... Thanks :)
layersofthought at gmail dot com
Ms. Hieber's book sounds wonderfully unique. Percy is going to be great to read about. I read historicals because I'm an old soul. I feel as though I somehow belong there, and I feel like there is more adventure in historical settings!
I loved the excerpt. I usually read urban fantasy, but will read a historical novel here and there. Especially if there is a paranormal twist, or even a humorous twist to it. For some reason I like to read about leather bound books also.
The excerpt is absolutely intriguing... as for the theme of this interview, scent is so important for memory and our first impressions that it's wonderful to see it included in the details that create character and scene.
Please enter me in the giveaway! oilsdragon (at) hotmail (dot) com
(sorry for the double comment)
As for why I read historicals... I love immersing myself in new worlds, and that includes the history of this world. So much opportunity to play with characters in strange new settings!
I love entering a world that existed in the past.
Thanks for the great interview. I think I love historicals becuase it is usually so 'other'. Either it is the time or place, I get a sense of the exotic and that for me, is a winner every time!
mmillet at gmail dot com
I have read a couple of good reviews on this book, so I would like to read it if I can.
Please enter me in the drawing if it is open worldwide.
Thank you.
Carol
buddytho {AT} gmail DOT com
Count me in please!
Historicals seem more romantic and ideal...its a nice escape from everyday life
throuthehaze at gmail dot com
Count me in.
I'm normally not a fan of historical novels but, something about this book caught my attention.
Thanks for the contest!
*Jen*
iiiioneloveiiii AT gmail DOT com
I like historicals because of the way that people interact with each other and the way there everyday life was run
I love the mix of Victorian and fantasy, with the gothic, and the excerpts I've read have me wanting to read it, Renee.
Leanna, I admit that it was the title of your book that drew me in and made me want to read more. The excerpt had a feel of Harry Potter to it -- that magical, world unto its own, feel -- and the romance scene convinced me I need this book.
Historicals let me visit another world, one that is warm and familiar, like the remnants of a wonderful dream. They also provide a look back to my dormant European
roots and are almost like seeing family again.
Thanks for sharing. I can't wait to read your book!
Sherri M.
Looks like a good book - please count me in!
What draws me to books with historical settings is the opportunity to learn more about the history of a certain era or part of the world.
Thanks ~ megalon22{at}yahoo{dot}com
hello,
much to my surprise - your book arrived early this morning. I've read to Chapter 10 so far, and it is a wonderful tale. Mr. Rickman should surely be flattered. If not, we will haunt him in the usual fashion until he sees the error of his ways! *s* j/k Well I'm off now to the opera. Best of luck!
Mr. Darcy
Historical romances are a perfect chance to indulge in my escapism. Plus..who can deny the strong pull to memory that smell has? And I'm glad that someone else is acknowledging that the smell of leather-bound books pushes their happy buttons!
This book looks very good and I look forward to reading it!
I am loving what people are saying about why they love historical settings in fiction, it's so encouraging to hear, it will inspire me when I write! I couldn't agree more with your sentiments on the lure of history and escapism and I'm glad my post and excerpt has been resonant!
(And always happy to find fellow Alan Ricman fans, lol)
I like reading historical books because I feel like I'm traveling back in time.
If it's international, please count me in on the giveaway. :)
I love reading historical fiction cause they're so different and oftentimes very romantic. :)
the draw for me is reading about a time different to that i know today. things really were different then, i find it very interesting.
thanks for the chance to win!
stampitchick at yahoo dot ca
I have alread commented but have your give away posted on my blog.
http://layersofthought.blogspot.com/2009/08/gotta-love-give-aways-august-21-2009.html
Thanks,
Layersofthought{@}gmail{dot}com
Hi Leanna,
just finished your new book and I believe Jane Austen is smiling wherever she is! It was captivating, charming, luminous, and very touching. Had a powerful
thunderstorm going on as I read the last two chapters which added to the overall experience of being lost in another world of magic, evil forces and heart wrenching
romance between the major characters (Alexi and Percy). It was a book that you never really want to end, and yet you cannot wait to see what will happen as the final chapters write themselves. 'A writer paints with words' and you certainly painted
a lovely tale. Well done! Bravo!
Mr. P. Darcy (box 5, Pa)
Great interview and post!
I'm drawn to reading books with a historical setting because I like to think what it was like during that time period and the clothes.
Terri W.
Great post. Please count me in.
cindyc725 at gmail dot com
*waving* Hi, fellow Popculturediva!
Your Haunted London Blog Tour seems to be going along like a streak of lightening!
I've only read your excerpts, but already Alexi Rychman has to be one of the most captivating characters I've come across. As for historical paranormal stories, I adore dissolving into a world like your Strangely Beautiful one.
Hi Kimberly and Leanna!
Great interview and review (on previous post)! And Congrats on a great release!
I'm attracted to historicals because of the settings - moody castles, highlands, moors, and the characters themselves - the clothing, language, everything. A trip through time is remarkable. Throw in a few ghosts, and the trip goes from remarkable to fascinating. I love it all.
Thanks for the great contest!
Dottie :)
gymmom_027@yahoo.com
Being a history major in college, I adore studying the past. While I love first hand accounts/documents of historical eras, sometimes works of fiction create more sense of authenticity then straight rendition of facts. And there's always something about the restrictive gloominess of the Victorian era that make books with a magical/supernatural twist so intriguing, I simply can't resist them. :)
The Victorian era captivates as no other , with it's strict etiquette. So, baring the sense of touch, my sense of smell becomes the first "safe" sexual sense,leading my mind on to ,"what would he be like to touch, caress etc. etc." A great smelling guy is SO HOT!!
I read books in a historical setting because I love history! I am getting my Master's Degree in it and absolutely love a book that can take me back in time.
Valorie
morbidromantic@gmail.com
Historical fiction fascinates me because it seems so alien, but awe-inspiring because it includes things that actually existed and happened. I especially love historical fiction if fantasy in involved, or if it's an alternate history.
paradoxrevealed (at) aim (dot) com
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