Please help me welcome guest author Deidre Knight. As many of you know, both Maria and I loved her latest release BUTTERFLY TATTOO. (You can read my review here.) Today Deidre is giving away a copy of BUTTERFLY TATTOO and an autographed copy of RED FIRE to two lucky posters.
BUTTERFLY TATTOO BLURB:
Just when the darkness seems permanent, fate flips a switch.Michael Warner has been drifting in a numb haze since his lover was killed by a drunk driver. As the anniversary of the wreck approaches, Michael’s grief grows more suffocating. Yet he must find a way through the maze of pain and secrets to live for their troubled young daughter who struggles with guilt that she survived the crash.
Out of the darkness comes a voice, a lifeline he never expected to find—Rebecca O’Neill, a development executive in the studio where Michael works as an electrician.
Rebecca, a former sitcom celebrity left scarred from a crazed fan’s attack, has retreated from the limelight and from life in general, certain no man can ever get past her disfigurement. The instant sparks between her and Michael, who arrives to help her during a power outage, come as a complete surprise—and so does her uncanny bond with his daughter.
For the first time, all three feel compelled to examine their inner and outer scars in the light of love. But trust is hard to come by, especially when you’re not sure what to believe when you look in the mirror. The scars? Or the truth?
Warning: This title contains a three-hankie redemptive romance, a man with a complicated past, a heroine who’s stronger than she knows, and tender, explicit sex scenes that may just break your heart—and make you believe in love once again.
As an author, I encounter one question fairly frequently: “Is all that stuff you write about from your own life?” Or maybe they’re a bit more risqué as they grin with devilish glee and ask, “Did your husband help you practice all those steamy parts?”
When the questions arise, I just smile and say something demure or make a bad joke (especially regarding inquiries about my married sex life!) The truth is, however, that even though I don’t fight evil aliens or demons every day like my paranormal romance characters, nor have I been attacked by a stalker like the heroine of BUTTERFLY TATTOO, there have always been bits and pieces of “me” in every book that I write. And, by far, of all the books I’ve ever written, today’s Samhain release, BUTTERFLY TATTOO, is nearest to my heart, drawn from more personal experiences than most of my other novels.
Now don’t get me wrong—this novel isn’t autobiographical, not by a long shot. Because my writer’s task is all about how I reweave my life’s threads, taking the frayed bits and the mismatched ones, tying them into something wholly new. I even have a line to that effect in BUTTERFLY. From Rebecca: When you work with writers for a living like I do, life’s little details are an herb garden, and you pluck a few ripe things here and there to give away.
No, Rebecca isn’t a literary agent or an author, but she is a development executive in Hollywood which means that like Deidre in Real World 1.0, she reads manuscripts for a living. In a way, too, that quote from the book is a reflection of a reflection! In other words, I’m writing about a woman who has a job like mine, who in turn is ruminating that in creating stories, she herself sometimes mines bits and pieces of her own life. Does that mean that Rebecca is me? Not at all. But did I reach inside my own herb garden, perhaps, and harvest, oh, some basil? Or cilantro? In a way, yes.
Another question that I often hear in interviews or at cocktail parties is this one: “Where do you get all these crazy ideas! I mean, how do you think of this stuff?” BUTTERFLY TATTOO began with a single kernel of an idea. That long-term partners have a daughter together, and then one of them is killed by a drunk driver while the little girl is in the car. That was the tiny seed that planted itself in my mind and wouldn’t stop growing.
Now, it’s pretty easy to see that as a married woman, I’ve never lived this particular storyline. But I do have two daughters, and I’ve also been in a very long-term successful relationship. I’ve been married for going on eighteen years this June. Not only that, but another element of my life touched this plot: my husband lost his older brother to a drunk driver. So I have seen and experienced firsthand how that kind of violent loss impacts an entire family, and how—no matter how many years pass—the pain never fully goes away.
Not only that, but while writing this novel about loss, grief and ultimately redemption, my own stepmother died unexpectedly of a heart attack. I never had the chance to say goodbye to this woman who was literally my other mother for thirty years of my life. One moment she was alive and in my world, and the next she was just gone. Some days I still wrestle to wrap my heart and mind around that fact, but I can honestly say that I tried to pour those feelings of heartbreak into BUTTERFLY. Tried to imagine how Michael Warner felt when he got the call that Alex was dead and he never got to say goodbye.
In the end, I think our greatest task as writers is to take life’s experiences—the pain, the joy, the struggles—and translate them for our readers. We reinterpret them into something beautiful and amazingly new, and hopefully if we strike solid gold, our words bring the readers a transcendent experience that’s all their own. They find healing, release; they take the journey with us and come out changed. At least that’s my greatest hope as a writer, no matter what kind of story I write.
I hope that journeying into the world of BUTTERLY TATTOO will bring you just that kind of magic. I’d love to hear from you after you read the book, and welcome emails at Deidre@DeidreKnight.com.
What books or story lines have you read that have given you a transcendent or ‘ah ha’ moment?
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Marisa
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 6:01 am:
Hi Deidre – thanks so much for joining us today and for sharing with us a glimpse into your process. As you know I loved Butterfly Tattoo and it’s definitely one of my top 10 picks for most romantic read of 2009.
Certainly your book gave me a ‘transcendent’ moment – as matter of fact, many transcendent moments. There have been numerous books over the years that have done that for me. They are all on my keeper shelf. And when I look at the various books that are on my keeper shelf, I realize that they are all so different. Each one reflecting back to me a sense of myself at a different point in my history. When a writer can do that… well that’s when I not only clutch the book to my chest and sigh – but definitely re-read it. It’s amazing the power of words and how when put together a certain way they create a sense of welcoming, a sense that someone else knows how you feel. A uniting, if you will, through space and time, with some one you’ve never met and who doesn’t know you. NOW that’s magic.
Stacy ~
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 6:34 am:
Hello Deidre. I’ve heard wonderful things about “Butterfly Tattoo” and I’m very interested now in picking it up myself. Sounds like an amazing story, and after Marisa’s declaration of it being in her top 10, I’m more than a little intrigued.
I would say Diana Gabaldon’s “Outlander” series transcends me, especially the first 4 books. Such incredible detail that I almost feel like I’m there, in Scotland, right next to Clare and Jamie. It’s a beautiful, bittersweet, amazing experience to read those books.
Anne Bishop’s Black Jewel series is similar, though maybe a little less so because the world-building is less realistic, but still quite wonderful.
These are the books I can’t get out of my head.
PJ
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 7:07 am:
Good Morning Deidre! Welcome to RNTV and thank you for that glimpse into the inner workings of your creative muse. I’ve been intrigued by this book since reading Marisa’s review but am even more so now that I’ve read your blog. It sounds like something very special.
The book that changed me was Laura Kinsale’s Flowers from the Storm. I was so touched by Christians’s struggles and Maddy’s determination to help him. Little did I know at the time that my own husband, a brilliant and extremely articulate man, would face those same obstacles following a stroke that left him unable to read, write or speak. During the weeks, months and years following that devastating stroke, people often remarked upon our courage and determination, in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds, to overcome the effects of the stroke and regain his ability to communicate with the world. You can imagine their shock when I would tell them that courage and determination came from a romance novel. I don’t know that I would have had the same amount of compassion, patience and determination had I not lived through the struggles with Christian and Maddy first.
Maria Lokken
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 7:45 am:
Hi Deidre – so glad you’re with us today.
I was completely hooked from page one of BUTTERFLY TATTOO – I couldn’t put it down. The story, the characters, the emotion – it is a wonderful book, and the writing is brilliant.
I’ve read so many books that I can’t pick a single one that gave me that ‘ah-ha’ moment. However, when I read a story where the characters have to overcome an obstacle despite any and all situations – it stays with me, and it gives me more personal determination to achieve my goals and to create new ones.
Kati
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 8:46 am:
Good morning Deidre – Long time no see! LOL! *I’ve been stalking Deidre this week all over the internets*
I’ve already told you how incredibly moved I was by Butterfly Tattoo. I’ve been gushing all over the place this week about it. The raw emotion of the book, as well as the incredible father/daughter story is amazing. Will it be coming out in print? (Or is it already? I read it electronically) Because it’s one I’d like to own.
Let’s see, romances that are transcendent for me. Well, my favorite romance of all time is The Windflower by Tom and Sharon Curtis. That’s mostly for the prose and unexpected humor that abounds in the story. The romance that’s moved me the most is probably Blue Eyed Devil by Lisa Kleypas, Haven’s struggle was just so…real. I read it with tears rolling down my face.
Like Stacy, I loved the Black Jewels trilogy. The romance in it is so powerful, as is the father and daughter love story. I also truly adore Fallen from Grace by Laura Leone. The story of Ryan and Sara’s struggle is also very powerful to read.
Deidre, it’s so good to have you visiting with us today. Thank you again for Butterfly Tattoo, it’s a really marvelous story!
katiebabs
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 8:51 am:
The Bronze Horseman by Paullina Simons was the book that gave me the “ah ha” moment.
Thank you Deidre for an awe inspiring read with Butterfly Tattoo. Not many can take chances like you did and make it work.
Louisa Edwards
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 8:56 am:
Butterfly Tattoo is quite possibly my favorite thing you’ve ever written–and that includes the books I personally edited! It’s just so special and unique, and I think its closeness to your heart really shines through the characters and the writing. This book, as well as Suzanne Brockmann’s Jules/Robin storyline in her Troubleshooter novels (specifically Hot Target, Force of Nature, and All Through the Night), gave me the courage to write the book of my heart–so even more than an ‘ah ha’ moment, you literally empowered me to reach for my own dream! Thank you for writing BT, and thanks to Angela James for publishing it. New York is going to be sorry it missed out.
Roberta Harwell
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 8:56 am:
Hello Deidre,
I would have to say most of my “ah ha” moments come when I’m reading a Love Inspired book. I haven’t had the opportunity to read your works but would love to. Your books sound interesting. Have a great day.
Deidre Knight
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 9:15 am:
Such wonderful comments!! I love reading about your ah-ha moments!
Marisa, thanks so much for inviting me to blog and thanks to everyone here at Romancenovel.tv for letting me join you. You guys ROCK! And, Marisa, I’m awed that BUTTERFLY would be in your top ten of 2009!! WOW.
Thanks Maria, for the lovely comments on the book. So glad you loved it. PJ, this book is definitely special to me, and I hope it’s going to be for the readers. So far that seems like the reaction I’m getting and it’s just an absolutely dream come true. So thanks!
Louisa, thanks for saying I gave you the courage to write the book of YOUR heart. (Gang, Louisa’s debut comes out later this year, CANT STAND THE HEAT, and you’re going to love it!)
Kati, BUTTERFLY will be out in print next January!! I can’t wait, either!
And thank you very much for the kind words, and thanks Katiebabs, too!
Thanks, everyone!! I’m off to pack for RT, but will definitely try and swing by again before I hit the road, or check in from Savannah tonight. hugs, Deidre
Kati
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 9:18 am:
So, Deidre, would that make the book eligible for a RITA, if it’s out in print? Because it certainly strikes me as a book that could win some awards…
Deidre Knight
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 9:36 am:
Kati, I wish so much that it would be, but Samhain books don’t now qualify for RITA entry. Isn’t that WRONG??? It’s very infuriating! For all the great authors who are writing e-books, it’s just very frustrating. Thanks, though and hugs!
Kati
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 10:01 am:
Well that just sucks sideways, if you’ll forgive the ugly sentiment! Hm.
Wow. Now I’m pissed.
Maria Lokken
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 10:45 am:
You know – good writing will always be recognized by readers. There is no price or prize like “word of mouth” and this book definitely has word of mouth.
Laura
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 10:54 am:
Hi Deidre,
Usually this kind of book does not interest me, but the reviews from everyone here make me want to go out and try it. I love the fact that you are an author that goes with your own experiences when writing, I think that transends on the pages. So, I promise to give it a try. Also, to answer the question about a Ah ha moment, I had to think for a moment about my all time favorite read that I have gone back to over and over. I never really had a ah ha moment with it, (The Majic of You/ Johanna Lindsey)until now. I think I love that book so much because I laughed out loud through the whole story, and that’s because it’s me and my husband. Are marriage has had ups and downs, and what has made it so wonderful, is the abillity to laught at ourselves and dare I say, each other. Have a great day and good luck with the book.
Lisa Freeman
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 11:41 am:
I don’t know that they give me ah ha moments, but I find myself pulling some of Linda Howards or Sandra Brown’s earlier releases off the shelf to read when I want a pick me up. Titles like After the Night by LH or Slow Heat in Heaven by SB. Some of the scenes in those books just stay with me.
I’ve always thought word of mouth by other readers is the best advertising and it’s great that this release is getting so many recommendations. Looking forward to trying it myself.
Donna
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 12:11 pm:
Deidre, Your book sounds like somthing I would like to read…. I agree about the Outlander series and nother book I ah ha’d was The Promise by Danielle Steel…I could read that one over and over….. I also liked older Barbara Delinsky and Sandra Brown… I love to pass along any book that I really enjoyed…
Donna
Fedora
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 12:50 pm:
Deirdre, thanks for sharing some about how this story came about for you–I love hearing how an author weaves a story together. I’ve just pulled it up on my computer (no e-reader yet!) and hope to have time to get reading later today. As for ah-ha reads, I really enjoyed Tamera Alexander’s Fountain Creek trilogy and Lisa Wingate’s Tending Roses series–I guess it’s more stories that feel more true to life that usually hit the ah-ha factor for me.
Buffie
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 12:53 pm:
Hey Deidre!!! Sorry I’m late to the party, that pesky job always gets in the way
I have heard some really fabulous things about this book and I am so looking forward to getting my hands on a copy of my own.
I don’t have an answer to your question about the books I’ve read as the majority of my brain is still wrapped around the stack of files on my desk *see previous mention of said pesky job* LOL!
JJ
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 1:40 pm:
Bravo for writing this story, Deidre!!! I am excited to read BUTTERFLY TATTOO and know you will make a beautiful impact with this story.
Hugs, JJ
azteclady
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 3:03 pm:
Maria nailed, it, IMO: word of mouth is where it’s at, for sure: I’ve been
stalkierm… following Ms Knight through the blogosphere because of it. Whether I get it in a giveaway or not, I will be reading this one.Here’s wishing you great success, Ms Knight!
Jody F.
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 4:13 pm:
Hi Deidre! As a disabled person I’m very excited to see the heroine in Butterfly Tattoo be less than perfect and yet still be strong and able to have a HEA. I wish there were more storylines out there featuring characters that are flawed physically.
And a book that really wowed me was Annie’s Song by Catherine Anderson. I just loved seeing how far Annie progressed.
Shelley
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 5:32 pm:
Congratulations on your new release, Deidre. I’d have to agree with an earlier commenter about Laura Kinsale’s Flowers From the Storm. That’s an amazing book that stayed with me for a long time after I read it.
Deidre Knight
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 10:45 pm:
Hello, friends!!
I’m on the road heading to RT! Stopping over tonight in Savannah which is just as gorgeous as ever. For those who’ve read my Gods of Midnight series which launched with RED FIRE last fall, you know that the series is set in this city and that I LOOOOVE IT!
So, a winner…winners! I drew randomly and Jody F won Butterfly Tattoo! I’ll have to email it, so Jody please email me, okay? My address is Deidre@DeidreKnight.com. Fedora, you won RED FIRE (autographed copy)! I need your physical addy, so also please email me off list! CONGRATS, ladies!!
And thanks to all of you for the tremendous support. I’ve spent all day in absolute awe. You ladies rule! HUGS!! Deidre
orannia
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 10:47 pm:
Thank you Deidre. I’ve heard so many wonderful thing about Butterfly Tattoo – I can’t wait to read it. I think it is those ‘a-ha’ moments that keep me reading. Yes I read to escape, but sometimes a book can reach right past all of your defenses and…not just touch your soul but illuminate something, maybe even a path you didn’t know was there.
I will echo those who have commented on the Black Jewel trilogy – for me, it’s the theme of familial love that winds throughout the series. But my biggest a-ha moment would have to lie with Lisa Kleypas’ Blue-Eyed Devil. As I said last year, it changed the way I see myself
All the best for the release of Butterfly Tattoo – and have a safe trip to RT!
azteclady
on Apr 21st, 2009
@ 11:51 pm:
*applause* congratulations, Fedora and Jody!
Thank you, Ms Knight and M&M
orannia
on Apr 22nd, 2009
@ 9:22 pm:
Congrats Jody & Fedora and thank you Deidre, Maria & Marisa!