Author Q&A: Jillian Hunter, The Duchess Diaries

I'm excited to have Jillian Hunter here on the blog today!  Her newest book The Duchess Diaries which is book 3 in her Bridal Pleasures series is out tomorrow!   Here's a little info on Jillian.

About the Author:

Jillian Hunter is the author of nineteen critically acclaimed novels, among them the bestselling Boscastle series. She has received several awards, including the Romantic Times Career Achievement Award. She lives in Southern California with her family and is available for interviews and guest blog opportunities.

Welcome to Hanging With Bells, Jillian.  Can you tell me a little bit about yourself and why you wanted to become a writer?

Thank you for having me!  I’m the mother of three wonderful daughters and the author of twenty-three historical romances and one novella.  I’ve been a passionate reader ever since I can remember.

I never intended to be a writer.  Writing is probably the natural evolution of a girl who always had her nose in a book.

Have you always loved Historicals and what is it about the genre that you love the most?

I do love historicals.  Going back in the past makes it easier for me to suspend my disbelief.  Perhaps because of my upbringing I’m drawn to all things British.

What are some of your favorite books to read and did any of them influence your writing at all?

I’ve read too many books to count!  My earliest influences were Schoolgirls’ Picture Library in London—they were essentially comic books with multicultural and adventurous heroines; Louise May Alcott, Edward Eager, and all the Nancy Drew and Trixie Belden series.  I’ve studied Shakespeare and French/Spanish literature.  I love the works of Victoria Holt, Anya Seton, and Sergeanne Golon.  I could go on forever.

The Duchess Diaries is book 3 in the Bridal Pleasures series.  What is the common theme of the series?

            The common theme of the Bridal Pleasures series revolves around three men, rogues, who will stop at nothing to pursue and protect the ladies they adore.  The series is set in the Boscastle world but has expanded to include characters outside who are connected to the family.

How many books do you plan on having in the series?

            I have two more Boscastle books planned for now, and that’s as far enough ahead as I can plot.  I’m working on Colin’s book and should be done by summer.

What do you have in store for your readers in the future?  Are you interested in writing books for any other genre?

            I often read other genres.  Will I write outside romance myself?  Perhaps one day.  I think the future is exciting and wide-open for authors.  Romance, however, continues to intrigue me.

Thank you for taking the time to stop by the blog today, Jillian!

            Thank you all for letting me hang with you today.  I’m delighted to answer any questions you might have.

In THE DUCHESS DIARIES, headmistress Charlotte Boscastle is proud of the successful graduation ball she hosted for her accomplished students of Scarfield Academy for Young Ladies. The evening was uneventful and scandal-free—always an accomplishment when members of the Bostcastle family are involved—until Charlotte discovers her diary has disappeared. The very same diary where she indulged in her most intimate and scandalous imaginings, particularly her imaginings about one roguish duke.

Much to Charlotte’s dismay, the diary falls into the hands of Gideon, the Duke of Wynfield. Gideon is surprised to find that the woman he thought uptight and excessively proper actually possesses a very passionate nature. When the diary disappears from Gideon’s possession, he has to explain the embarrassing situation to Charlotte. His explanation leads to an impassioned kiss and a trip down the matrimonial aisle when they are caught by her brothers. Almost overnight Gideon finds himself married to a subtle temptress and engaged in a dangerous quest to rescue his wife’s diary from the person holding her secrets for ransom.

You can read my review of The Duchess Diaries here:  Link.  Charlotte is a strong female character and Gideon is a rogue who finds himself falling hopelessly in love with her. 

Find Jill online:

Website

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Goodreads