Interview with Sir Nicodemus Wulfson from ENCHANTING THE BEAST, by Kathryne Kennedy

Author:  “Hello, Sir Nicodemus.”

Nico turns around in the pond he’s been swimming in. The sunshine filtering through the forest canopy makes the drops of water that cling to his muscular torso glitter like diamonds. “Who the hell are you?” he says in a gentle growl at being caught unaware. 

Author:  “No one terribly important.  I’m just the one who created you.”

Nico tosses his damp hair away from his eyes, the blond strands within the brown refusing to cooperate, falling back over his forehead.  “You think so? How do you know that I don’t exist in some alternate universe and I created you to tell my story?”

Author, frowning:  “Very clever, but that’s beside the point.  I came here to interview you for my readers.”

Nico shoos away a water sprite. “Ah, I see.  Then I am happy to oblige, madam.”

He emerges from the pond, and Author realizes he’s naked as the day he was born and turns her back.  Hears the rustle of clothing, takes a peek, and is half-relieved to see that he’s pulled his trousers on. 

Author:  “Um, can you tell my readers a bit about yourself?”

Nico shrugs, muscles rippling beneath smooth skin. “I’m a were-wolf, I live in a castle that my brother swears is haunted, and I have a sister-in-law who tries my patience.  Is that sufficient?”

Author, smiling:  “No, not quite.  Tell me about Philomena.”

Nico:  “The ghost-hunter?”  His dark brown eyes glaze a bit, the golden specks in them glinting with something akin to hunger.

Author shivers.

Nico:  “She really can talk with ghosts, you know.  Amazing woman.  Her companion is a were-snake and she has a spirit-guide named Tup.”

Author:  “I understand she’s a bit older than you.”

Nico:  “That doesn’t signify.”  He scowls.  “Although she uses it as an excuse to keep me at arm’s length.  Not that it will work, mind you.  I bloody well get what I want.”

Author:  “I have no doubt.”  Takes a step back from the predatory gaze in his eyes, then scolds herself for being foolish.  Despite his look, the man wouldn’t harm her.  “But you’ll have to deal with some issues before that can happen, won’t you, Nico?”

The shadow of his were-self surrounds Nico.  “Know about that, eh?”  Picks up his white linen shirt from the mossy bank and shrugs into it.  “What am I saying, of course you do.”

Author:  “But my readers don’t know yet.  Can you enlighten them?”

Nico cocks his head, more hair tumbling over his eyes, as if he’s trying to hide behind that shaggy screen. “So what do you want me to say?  That I fear my very nature?  That I enjoy it when my wolf hunts, when he devours our kill?”  He paces the mossy bank like a caged beast, the movement parting his unbuttoned shirt and revealing the hard ridges of his belly, the sculpted contours of his muscular chest.  “That doesn’t mean I killed my fiancée, damn it.  I would never murder anyone.”

Author, soothingly:  “Of course you wouldn’t, Nico.  But you need to prove it.”

Nico:  “I can.” Fists his hands.  “I will.”

Author:  “Maybe Phil can help you.”

Nico stills, his handsome face calms. “Yes, she believes in me.  But I’ll solve my own problems.”

Author, smiling indulgently:  “We shall see, Nico.”

http://www.kathrynekennedy.com

Meet Were-Snake Sarah in ENCHANTING THE BEAST, By Kathryne Kennedy

A letter from Sarah Pluckett, companion to the infamous ghost-hunter Lady Philomena Radcliff, dated August 2, 1861:

Dearest Mama:

We have arrived at Grimspell castle without too many misadventures, which as you know is the usual case when my mistress travels.  Despite having to walk from the village of Trollersby and a stickman attaching itself to my lady’s skirts, we arrived to find the baronet, Sir Nicodemus Wulfson, frolicking with his hounds.  My protective instincts could not be denied, and I found myself shifting to my were-form to protect my mistress from the beasts, although in hindsight, it proved to be quite unnecessary. 

Sir Nico appears to be a gentleman, despite his predatory nature, and much to my surprise, dearest Mama, he does not abhor my were-shape.  Indeed, his entire staff consists of shape-shifters, which is quite unusual, and despite their instincts to fear my snake-form, I feel more accepted here than I have ever felt before.

I do not want you to worry, but I must confess that Grimspell castle is a queer, haunted place, and the members of Sir Nico’s family are perhaps a touch…eccentric.  But as you know, this is exactly why the baronet hired my mistress and I have the most absolute confidence that she will ferret out the mystery behind this family and their ghostly visitations.

Indeed, Mama, my only worry is that Sir Nico--despite the disparity of their ages--is intensely attracted to Lady Philomena.  I feel it my duty to discourage the handsome young man, and I fear that I will have to rely on all of my were-senses to stay one slither ahead of him in his pursuit of my mistress.

Despite the strangeness that surrounds me (or perhaps because of it?) I find myself most content here, and have even made friends with many of the staff.  So rest assured that I am safe and well, and will protect and serve my mistress as faithfully as I ever have.

Your Loving Daughter,

Sarah

PS. I should mention that there is a footman named Cheevers, who, despite being a were-duck (do not laugh, Mama) is quite an extraordinarily charming young man. 

Read more about Sarah and her mistress in ENCHANTING THE BEAST, which earned a Top Pick rating from Romantic Times BOOKreviews, Night Owl Reviews, and Romance Reader at Heart! http://www.KathryneKennedy.com

The re-release of ENCHANTING THE BEAST is in bookstores, and I've got a contest to celebrate!

That's right! Since all the books in the RELICS OF MERLIN series take place in a magical Victorian London, I'm giving away a gorgeous blue cameo pendant on my website contest for ENCHANTING THE BEAST. It's easy to enter, and you can check out all the details here: http://www.kathrynekennedy.com/contest.html

In case you missed my post on why ENCHANTING THE BEAST is one of my favorite books, I'm posting it below...along with all the release information of this magical book!

1. The hero, Nico, holds such an element of mystery and danger that he's suspected of murdering the local girls. Of course, my heroine, Philomena, sees his true heart and knows he's innocent...

2. A heroine much older than my hero. It was fun. And a bit hard...holding complexities to their relationship that I had to work through.

3. There's a haunted castle. I adore castles. Making them haunted was an added bonus. Having them haunted by a handsome blue knight only made it better.

4. There's a major mystery. Although all my books hold some sort of mystery, a reason for my reader to keep turning the pages in curiosity, there's a major element of it in Enchanting the Beast. Skulking in the bowels of the castle looking for a treasure map. Hints and clues about who might be killing the local girls...and how it could be all tangled up in another search for one of Merlin's relics. It was such fun, and probably one of the most difficult books I ever wrote, giving enough clues so that it's logical who the killer is, but holding back just enough that we can't ever be quite sure who it is until we get to the end.

5. Sarah. Pluckett. She's my heroine's assistant. And she's a were-snake. I guess she's kinda scary in a way, but there's a scene where she starts to shed her skin that had me laughing. An example of my sometimes rather odd sense of humor.

6. Tup. He's Philomena's spirit guide. But he's haunting her for deeper reasons, and those touched my heart.

7. The romance. The passion. Again, all my books are filled with it. But it was a lot of fun dealing with a younger man and older woman in the bedroom. Let's just say, I hope it's as good for you as it was for me.

8. Which brings me right back around to my hero again. A moonless night watching fairylights flicker in the distance. A kiss as gentle as it is frightening. Sliding down a haystack. Perspiration gleaming off a naked chest. A secluded grotto with rain pounding from above, and below...

Yes, there are many reasons why I adore this book, and these are just a few. I hope you can add your own to my list as well.

ENCHANTING THE BEAST BY KATHRYNE KENNEDY--IN STORES APRIL 2014

DARK THINGS LURK IN GRIMSPELL CASTLE

Sir Nicodemus Wulfson is haunted by memories of murder--and ghosts. He brings in a ghost-hunter in the form of celebrated spiritualist Lady Philomena Radcliff, and promptly, all hell breaks loose. Is Phil a threat to his already suffering family? Or can Nico trust his burgeoning attraction to her?

IS IT HIM SHE SHOULD FEAR?

Lady Philomena has resigned herself to a life of spinsterhood performing seances for the aristocracy--until she meets sexy young were-wolf Sir Nico. She agrees to try ridding his castle of its increasingly restless spirits. But there are more mysteries within Grimspell Castle than even Nico is aware of, and when a local girl turns up dead, Phil wonders if she's risking her life as well as her heart.


"Kennedy brilliantly and seamlessly lures readers into a realm where magic exists and Merlin's legacy continues."
Romantic Times BOOKreviews 4.5 STARS/TOP PICK/2009 Historical Paranormal Nominee


"The heartfelt and well-rounded characters will easily become some of your favorites."
Night Owl Romance, REVIEWER TOP PICK

"Once again Ms. Kennedy weaves her magic and pulls the reader in from the first page."
The Good, The Bad & The Unread, A+
 

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 three very tiny dogs. She welcomes readers to visit her website where she has ongoing contests at: www.KathryneKennedy.com.

Amazon

Barnesand Noble

BooksAMillion

Chapters/Indigo

Kathryne’s Bookseller Directory

Sourcebooks 

Behind the Scenes of the RELICS OF MERLIN Series by Kathryne Kennedy

There are many elements that go into the making of any work of fiction. Generally, a combination of personal experience, imagination, and research. Each author has their own unique well of experiences to draw on, and their own perspective on how they viewed their experiences, which is why regardless of the idea, each writer can bring a unique perspective to any novel. Today I’d like to share with you some of the elements that went into the creation of the RELICS OF MERLIN series, which includes: ENCHANTING THE LADY, DOUBLE ENCHANTMENT, ENCHANTING THE BEAST and the upcoming brand new story (December 2013), EVERLASTING ENCHANTMENT.

When I’m crafting a novel, sometimes the world comes first, sometimes the characters, sometimes the plot:

In the RELICS OF MERLIN, the world came first. Although the books are stand-alones, they are all connected by Merlin’s thirteen relics—jewels that the sorcerer Merlin crafted, each holding a different spell of power. In my alternate Victorian reality, titles are held by the inheritance of magical powers, with the higher title possessing the more powerful magic. The only power greater than a royals’ is one of Merlin’s thirteen relics, and their location is as mysterious as the spell each relic contains. From that premise different story lines and different characters sprouted, with each book dealing with a different relic and two new characters’ love stories.

I developed the Underground, the dark-wizard city beneath London, with an understanding of caves through personal experience:

I went cave-crawling (literally, with knee pads) in a Kentucky cave. This wasn’t a tourist cave, but one my brother-in-law had discovered. Once inside it widened considerably, but to get inside we had to crawl through some very tight squeezes. The absence of light and the maze-like passages were terrifying, and the first time I went in I raced back out within five minutes. But I don’t like to let fear control me, so I plunged back in. I wish I could say it was fun, but the hand-light went out at one point, the cave crickets on the ceiling looked like giant gray spiders, and a river ran through the larger passages and that water was cold. But it did give me an understanding of the London Underground I envisioned for my book, and an experience I’ll never forget.

I took real historical facts and research and changed it with magical touches to create a vision of my alternate world:

I’ve read and own many books on the Victorian era, from architecture to furniture to social economics. (I listed many of my research books on my website blog). I have always loved that time period, so I found the research fascinating. Then I created maps of my alternate Victorian London to keep track of changes to name places (Pall Mall became Pall Mage, Belgrave Square became Gargoyle Square, and I added the Hall of Mages next to Buckingham Palace, for example) because with the influence of magic, the city would develop differently. I also have a ‘map’ of a Victorian mansion, with the type of furniture for each room listed (In England, the first floor of a home is the ground floor, and the first floor is called the second, which is often confusing to my American mind :}).  I also have a chart with hereditary titles, how each peer is addressed, and their level of magic. I keep a dictionary of my own words, because I often make them up; and a chart of the relics, when they were discovered, what type of jewel and spell (if known). I also create character sheets along with animal references, since my heroes’ natures are so strongly influenced by their were-creatures.

I keep my world fresh in my mind:

By writing everything on loose paper, and then use binder clips to keep them organized. I print pictures of Victorian costume, architecture, etc. and keep them with that packet, so that I have visuals as well as notes to refer to.

I’m careful with research details I include in my books:

When it comes to historical research, if I need it for the storyline it goes in. I have research that never goes into the story because it isn’t necessary, but it still gives me a general feel of the world, so it’s not wasted. When it comes to the magical elements that I weave into the world, I’ll go into a bit more detail, because I try to instill that sense of realism into the story.

I consider setting almost as another character:

And another element I have to weave into the plot. I try to add in the rules of my magic early on, so the reader knows what to expect. But again, I try not to dump it in all at once, but use it to enrich the plot.

I’ll leave you with an excerpt from ENCHANTING THE LADY to show how I use visuals, setting, and the logistics of the magic by weaving them into the scene:

“Look at Lord Gremville’s new coach and four.”  Uncle Oliver’s voice dripped with disdain.

Felicity stared out the window.  Marquesses’ powers were limited to illusions and the transfer of objects, so she knew that the white unicorns with golden horns weren’t real, that the gilded coach camouflaged a plain black finish.  Still, the sight took her breath away, and she longed to stroke the foreheads of the animals.

Until Next Time,

My Magical Best,

Kathryne

ENCHANTING THE LADY & ENCHANTING THE BEAST are honored with...

My editor from Dorchester Publishing, Leah Hultenschmidt, kindly emailed me to let me know that Enchanting the Beast was nominated for Romantic Times BOOKreviews Reviewers' Choice Award in the Paranormal Historical category.

(I'm also thrilled to know that there is a Paranormal Historical romance category...what I write used to overlap several genres (historical, fantasy, paranormal, romance and sometimes you could even throw in a bit of mystery), and now it has one all to itself. Yay, RT! And, um, if that category existed before, blame me for living under my rock. And, maybe one day there will be a Historical Fantasy Romance category, which truly defines what I write.)

So with this announcement, I'd also like to congratulate my fellow authors in my Desert Rose chapter for their nominations as well: Linda Style, Pamela Tracy & Jennifer Ashley. With such stiff competition, I don't worry about actually winning...I'm just pleased to be listed among such fabulous talent!

And...

ENCHANTING THE LADY was also honored by placing first (a first for me!) in the 2009 VCRW Laurel Wreath contest in the paranormal category. Congratulations to all my fellow winners, and they are as follows:

2009 LAUREL WREATH WINNERS

SHORT CONTEMPORARY
1st place – Their Secret Child -Mary J. Forbes - Silhouette
2nd place – Finally a Bride - Lisa Childs - Silhouette
3rd place - Italian Doctor, Sleigh Bell Bride - Sarah Morgan - Harlequin

LONG CONTEMPORARY/ROMANTIC ELEMENTS
1st place – Windswept - Ann Macela - Medallion Press
2nd place – She’s On Top - Susan Lyons – Kensington Aphrodisia
3rd place – Blush – Opal Carew - St. Martin's Griffin

PARANORMAL/TT/FANTASY
1st place – Enchanting the Lady – Kathryne Kennedy - Love Spell
2nd place – The Accidental Demon Slayer - Angie Fox - Dorchester
3rd place - La Vida Vampire - Nancy Haddock - Berkley

ROMANTIC SUSPENSE
1st place – Out of Her League - Kaylea Cross - Wild Rose Press
2nd place – Pitch Black - Susan Crandall - Forever
3rd place – Conspiracy of Silence – Martha Powers - Oceanview

HISTORICAL
1st place –The Wagonmaster - Nita Wick – Freya’s Bower
2nd place –Unmasked - Nicola Cornick - Harlequin/HQN
3rd place - An Improper Aristocrat - Deb Marlowe - Harlequin

With Appreciation,
Kathryne

Interview with Kathryne Kennedy

I’d like to welcome our guest today, Kathryne Kennedy. It’s a pleasure having you come visit us at Much Cheaper Than Therapy, where chocolate is plentiful and advice is free. So grab some chocolate and a lounge chair. Your therapy session has begun.

I understand you have a new release out called Enchanting the Beast. Can you tell us a little bit about your fabulous new book?

Enchanting the Beast is about ghost-hunter Philomena Radcliff, who is hired to solve the mystery of Sir Nicodemus Wulfson’s haunted castle. Nico is a were-wolf who has more difficulties than a few spirits. Phil is a spinster who finds herself extraordinarily attracted to the young Sir Nico, and is soon tangled up with him in more ways than just hunting for his ghosts.

Enchanting the Beast is a very interesting title. How did you arrive at that name?

The previous books in the series are Enchanting the Lady and Double Enchantment, so the title of this book follows naturally. And although she can’t quite tame him, Phil does enchant Nico’s beast.

What made you decide to write in this genre?

No decision here. I love the genre, and I write what I love.

Where did you get your idea for this particular book?

I’m fond of gothic romances and a haunted castle always has mysteries. And lately I’ve been watching the SciFi Channel series, Ghost Hunters, and I knew I had my heroine’s occupation. Throw a Relic in the mix and a young sexy were-wolf accused of murder and I was having the time of my life.

What are your favorite fantasy research books, and why?

I think the best way to research fantasy is to read it. Lots and lots of it. Some fabulous authors I can think of right off hand are: Robin Hobb, Patricia McKillip, Patricia McKinley, Sharon Shinn, Patricia Briggs, Midori Snyder & Andre Norton.

Which character did you like writing about the most, and why?

I fell in love with Nico, and I admired Phil’s calm practicality. Tup made me cry and Sarah the were-snake cracked me up. I wanted to strangle Edwina and save Royden. They were all such fun to write!

Tell us about how you develop your characters. Do you create character sheets, do interviews, that sort of thing? How does your research and world affect your character development?

I’ve answered this in a previous interview at MCTT, so I think I’ll just expand on it by saying that as I write, my characters develop right along with the story. I get to know them almost at the same pace as my reader does. My worlds provide different challenges for my characters, and I think this helps to develop their strengths and weaknesses.

How do you go about building your world? Do you use maps, charts or drawings?

All three, including timelines of events, both magical and historical.

Do you have any authors that inspired you?

I can’t think of a single book I’ve ever read that didn’t offer me some new insight, idea, or way of looking at life.

What do you feel is the most effective promotion you have done for your book?

My contests & my newsletter, combined. I give away fabulous jewelry, which I have fun shopping for, and it generates interest in my books. I combine this with signing up for my newsletter and have garnered some loyal readers.

What do we have to look forward to next?

My Victorian romance novel, My Unfair Lady, which inspired the Relics of Merlin series, will be released this year from Sourcebooks Publishing! Details will be on my website soon.

Thanks, Kathryne!

To celebrate her book release, Kathryne is offering an autographed copy of Double Enchantment to one lucky commenter on today's blog. (Please check the comment section Monday evening to see who won) She will be around all day today. I'm sure some of you have questions or comments for her, so please ask away...

Kathryne Kennedy is a multi-published, 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.

Check out author’s website at http://www.kathrynekennedy.com

Buy http://astore.amazon.com/kathkennauth-20 .

Interview with Sir Nicodemus Wulfson

Interview with Sir Nico from Enchanting the Beast, by author Kathryne Kennedy:

Author: Hello, Sir Nicodemus.

Nico turns around in the pond he’s been swimming in. The sunshine filtering through the forest trees makes the drops of water that cling to his muscular torso glitter like diamonds.
Nico: Who the hell are you?

A: No one terribly important. I’m just the one who created you.

Nico tosses his damp hair away from his eyes, the blond strands within the brown refusing to cooperate, falling back over his forehead.
N: You think so? How do you know that I don’t exist in some alternate universe and I created you to tell my story?

A, frowning: Very clever, but that’s beside the point. I came here to interview you for my readers.

Nico shoos away a water sprite.
N: Ah, I see. I’m happy to oblige, madam.
He emerges from the pond.

Author realizes he’s naked as the day he was born and turns her back. Hears the rustle of clothing, takes a peek, and is half-relieved to see that he’s pulled his trousers on.
A: Can you tell them a bit about yourself?

Nico shrugs, muscles rippling beneath smooth skin.
N: I’m a were-wolf, I live in a castle that my brother swears is haunted, and I have a sister-in-law who tries my patience. Is that sufficient?

A, smiling: No, not quite. Tell me about Philomena.

N: The ghost-hunter? His dark brown eyes glaze a bit, the golden specks in them glinting with something akin to hunger.
Author shivers.

N: She really can talk with ghosts, you know. Amazing woman. Her companion is a were-snake and she has a spirit-guide named Tup.

A: I understand she’s quite a bit older than you.

N: That doesn’t signify. He scowls. Although she uses it as an excuse to keep me at arm’s length. Not that it will work, mind you. I bloody well get what I want.

A: I have no doubt. Takes a step back from the predatory gaze in his eyes, then scolds herself for being foolish. Despite his look, the man will not eat her. But you’ll have to deal with some issues before that can happen, won’t you, Nico?

The shadow of his were-self surrounds Nico.
N: Know about that, eh? Picks up his white linen shirt from the mossy bank and shrugs into it. What am I saying, of course you do.

A: But my readers don’t know yet. Can you enlighten them?

Nico cocks his head, more hair tumbling over his eyes, as if he’s trying to hide behind that shaggy screen.
N: So what do you want me to say? That I fear my very nature? That I enjoy it when my wolf hunts, when he devours our kill? He paces the mossy bank like a caged beast, the movement parting his unbuttoned shirt and revealing the hard ridges of his belly, the sculpted contours of his muscular chest. That doesn’t mean I killed my fiancée, damn it. I would never murder anyone.

A, soothingly: Of course you wouldn’t, Nico. But you need to prove it.

N: I can. Fists his hands. I will.

A: Maybe Phil can help you.

Nico stills, his handsome face calms.
N: Yes, she believes in me. But I’ll solve my own problems.

A, smiling indulgently: We shall see, Nico.

Enchanting the Beast is in bookstores!

Enchanting the Beast
By Kathryne Kennedy
ISBN: 978-0-505-52764-6
Leisure Love Spell
$6.99
Historical Fantasy Romance

A Romantic Times BOOKreviews Top Pick for May!

In the third book of the Relics of Merlin series, ghost-hunter Philomena Radcliff comes to Grimspell castle to rid the residence of spirits, but she finds most haunting of all a reclusive werewolf suspected of murder.

Read the first chapter, watch the book video, and read the reviews at: http://www.kathrynekennedy.com/EnchantingtheBeast.html

Enter to win a 5-carat London blue topaz princess-style necklace at: http://www.kathrynekennedy.com/contest.html

Read the author’s interview with the hero: http://www.dorchesterpub.com/Dorch/SpecialFeatures.cfm?Special_ID=2667

Get your own widget for your blog or website here: http://kathrynekennedy.blogspot.com/

Win a copy of ENCHANTING THE BEAST and have some fun!

The Good, The Bad & The Unread have four copies of ENCHANTING THE BEAST to give away to readers who post a comment on their blog today! Enter to win at the bottom of my interview at: http://goodbadandunread.com/2009/04/28/duck-chat-enjoy-some-magic-with-kathryne-kennedy/#comment-119798

And just for fun, answer the question: What type of shape-shifter are you? at: http://freshfiction.com/page.php?id=1735

See you there!
Kathryne

Romantic Times Convention...and Mr. Romance!

I'll be attending the Romantic Time's Book Lovers Convention in Orlando, Florida, from April 22-26, 2009. You can read more about this fabulous reader's event here: http://guest.cvent.com/EVENTS/Info/Summary.aspx?i=D5EAF74A-2974-4576-90AD-F1E39D41E9F4

Here's my schedule of appearances that I've worked out so far:

On Thursday, April 23, from 8:00 pm to 12:00 am, I will be attending the Faery Ball as part of the Faery Court. I will be a Seelie (one of the good faeries ;}) and will be dressed as a Victorian Faery inspired by my Relics of Merlin series. You can meet all the fae, good & bad, here: http://www.thefaerycourt.com/faerycourtindex.html

On Saturday, April 25, I will be signing books at the Giant Book Fair from 11:00 to 2:00 pm. On that same day, from 5:00-7:00 pm I will be attending the Mr. Romance competition (more about that below!) Then from 8:00-9:00 pm I will be at the Dorchester Authors Mixer. And then from 9:00 pm to until-I-keel-over I'll be at Dorchester's Splashing by the Shore Dance Party.

Now, a bit about the Mr. Romance contest. Dorchester Publishing is again sponsoring this competition, where one lucky winner will have the opportunity to model for a Dorchester romance cover. The models will be portraying the heroes from several books...and my hero from Enchanting the Beast (book 3 in the Relics of Merlin series) has been chosen! This is my very first RT conference, and how wonderful it will be to see my hero brought to life. I can hardly wait!

Here's the mini character write up I did for the model:

Sir Nicodemus Wulfson

Basics: Goes by Nico. Wears Victorian clothing: Black frock coat, waistcoat, black trousers and boots, all a bit worn and frayed. His cravat is often undone and just slung around his neck with his white linen shirt half-buttoned. He rarely wears a hat. His hair is long and often shaggy, slung over his forehead and eyes, as if to hide his thoughts from others.

Nico info: Nico is a were-wolf, whose beast enjoys the thrill of the hunt and the taste of his kill, which often worries the man. He swims nude in moonlit glades and is more comfortable in the forest than his own castle. He goes after what he wants with single-minded ruthlessness. He cannot be tamed, but he can be gentled, and the right woman for him will have to meet his predatory gaze without fear.

;}

Enchanting the Beast will be released around the time of the RT convention, and hot off the presses from my publisher.I was already incredibly excited about attending my first RT, and now I'm just over the moon! If you live in Florida, or are attending the event yourself, I do hope I meet you there!

All My Magical Best,
Kathryne

Second 'Magical' Jewel Contest for ENCHANTING THE BEAST

ENCHANTING THE BEAST is the third novel in the RELICS OF MERLIN series. Merlin used thirteen different jewels as a focus for thirteen mysterious spells, and the 'magical jewel' in ENCHANTING THE BEAST is a blue topaz. For this second contest, the prize is a 5-carat Swiss blue topaz pendant. (Go to: http://www.kathrynekennedy.com/contest.html for a photo and description of this 'magical' jewel.)

This contest is all about your friends. Just send your friend an email telling them about the RELICS OF MERLIN series, and ‘cc’ or forward a copy of that email to kathryne_kennedy@yahoo.com. I will keep your friend's email address confidential and I will only contact them to verify that it's a valid email address.

How many times can you enter? That depends on how many friends you have.:} Please though, no spamming. You will be disqualified.

A winner will be chosen using RandomNumber.Org. Entering the contest automatically signs you up for the author’s newsletter. Your information will be kept confidential. Contest ends May 1, 2009. Void where prohibited by law. You must be 18 years or older to enter. No prize substitution permitted. This contest is subject to all federal, state and local laws and regulations.

Advance Reviews for ENCHANTING THE BEAST

ENCHANTING THE BEAST - Kathryne Kennedy
Relics of Merlin, Book 3
Love Spell ISBN-10: 0-505-52764-2 ISBN-13: 978-0-505-52764-6
May 2009
Paranormal Romance
Trollersby, the surrounding area, and London, England - 1861

Sir Nicodemus Wulfson's brother Royden thinks their home is haunted. Roy's health and well-being have been compromised by these "ghosts", and so, Nico finds himself in London hunting someone who can convince Roy the spirits have been sent away. Being a baronet and a were-wolf, Nico is immune to magic and thus not much inclined to believe in such things, but when he meets Lady Philomena Radcliff, ghost-hunter, he finds something, or rather, someone, he's definitely not immune to.

Philomena is more than willing to help Nico and his brother, and with her assistant Sarah (were-snake) journeys to Grimspell Castle to do her best to ferret out the reason for the recent disturbances. However, the ghosts in residence seem reticent to communicate, making her job a difficult one. Then, of course, there's Nico and the constant distraction he provides. The man is an utter Adonis, and he seems to be a bit overenthusiastic in his attentions to her person. In fact, if she didn't know exactly how unlikely a scenario it is, Phil would be certain the young man wants her in a very intimate way.

Nico's human side isn't the only one interested in Phil; his wolf finds her intriguing as well. Can he convince Phil that true love can occur between an older spinster and the young man who appreciates her for all that she is? And then there are the ghosts in Grimspell Castle, just what is their agenda?Nico, like many men, has secrets. In his case, it's the knowledge that his former fiancée appears to have been killed by a wolf. Nico lost control for a while after her death and fears he could lose his humanity entirely if the circumstances are right. Could Phil's talent for ENCHANTING THE BEAST keep them both safe, or will his beast turn on them both as he might have done once before?

Phil may be a spinster, but her talent has given her insight into the ways of passion (her home is a former brothel with a very instructive ghost in residence). Unfortunately, Phil is convinced that society would never allow a lady of her age to marry a man of Nico's. Luckily, Phil is at heart a sensible woman, and I feel sure that with Nico's persistent nature, she'll realize that true love should never be denied, no matter the circumstances.

Sarah is a loyal and true friend to Phil. She doesn't hesitate to protect Phil with her life when the situation warrants it, and she's one of the reasons Nico realizes so quickly that Phil is a special woman. After all, most non-weres aren't exactly comfortable around weres, and Phil has completely embraced Sarah and her idiosyncrasies. Edwina, daughter of Lord Magift (the local magistrate and Baron of Bargest House) is Royden's wife. Edwina is insecure at best and worries about the day when Nico takes a wife and she loses her position as mistress of Grimspell. Nico's brother Royden is a man with a terrible burden (and no, I'm not talking about Edwina, though that case could be made). The ghosts are trying to impart a message to Roy, and if Phil can't figure out what it is, Roy's very life may be at stake. Sir Edgar Hexword and his daughter Jane are fellow were-wolves and members of Nico's pack. Sir Edgar has a great fondness for history. Jane, beautiful young thing that she is, has that same fondness for Nico. She thinks she's the right mate for Nico, and Phil isn't certain she's wrong. Last, but not least, I must mention Tup. A ghost boy from the streets of London, he's Phil's spiritual guide and pseudo son. It's obvious he and Phil love each other, and it's a fortunate circumstance that he's able to follow her to Grimspell and aid her in her investigation.

Like the rest of the Relics of Merlin series, ENCHANTING THE LADY (January 2008) and DOUBLE ENCHANTMENT (September 2008), this book has been written in such a way that you need not read the others to understand the plot. One of the best books I've read this year, ENCHANTING THE BEAST cannot fail to capture your imagination with its fully developed characters and the magical world they inhabit. Don't miss it! It's a keeper, and you'll be up all night reading it!

Lori Ann
Romance Reviews Today

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ENCHANTING THE BEAST: RELICS OF MERLIN
Kathryne Kennedy
ISBN 978-0505527646
April 2009
Dorchester - Love Spell
Paperback

Fantasy Romance
5

Sir Nicodemus Wulfson, Baronet of Grimspell castle has come to London seeking a medium, a ghost hunter, who will chase away the ghosts that haunt his brother, Roydon. While the baronet shape shifters are immune to magic, family members without an animal form, are not. Nicodemus, or Nico as those close to the baronet call him, does not believe in ghosts and does not fall lightly into the glamour of magic. To help his brother though, he will do anything and everything possible.

Lady Philomena Stanhope has the gift, as it were, of being able to speak to and hear ghosts. She can tell the difference between a memory and a real ghost. While she may not always see the dearly departed, she has seen enough of them to be convincing in a séance. With the help of her shape shifting assistant Sarah and the little boy ghost, Tup, she has been able to bring peace to those who have lost a loved one, whether those ghosts appear or not. When Nico appeals to her for help, with the added enticement of a hefty sum, she leaves the crowded streets of London and journeys to Grimspell Castle. There she learns that not only is Roydon quite ill and fading more each day, but that the handsome Baronet may be the killer of his fiancé, Beatrice. After all, Nico’s animal form is a large wolf and a large black wolf was seen in the area where Beatrice’s body was found. Yet when Phil, as her friends call her, sees how Nico cares for not only his family, but those that live on his grounds, she cannot believe he is capable of such a heinous act, be he wolf or human. It isn’t long before she finds herself, despite telling herself she is far too old for him, falling in love with the handsome baronet.

The Relics of Merlin are thirteen stones each enchanted with a different spell and each incredibly dangerous. Despite their immunity to magic, the baronet shape shifters can smell the dangerous relics. Each of the Relics of Merlin books stand on their own. For me, Enchanting the Beast is the best yet. Nico is written in such a way you feel as if he has stalked off the page and prowled into your life. Ms. Kennedy creates an incredibly sexy and compelling character. While each of her shape shifting heroes are lifelike and true to their animal self, Nico is the most gripping. You feel his anguish and pain over Roydon’s illness, his playfulness as he courts Phil, his care for his family and friends. He is secure in himself, yet not an overbearing alpha male. In a word, he’s yummy.

Among the many aspects of Enchanting the Beast that I liked is how wonderfully Ms. Kennedy portrayed the blossoming love between the twenty-seven year old Nico and forty year old Philomena. It is endearing and natural and I found myself rooting from Nico to win her heart from the git go. The relationship from start to culmination is a reminder of why we read romance. Ms. Kennedy teases and temps and makes the reader sigh wishing for the same kind of romance. Enchanting the Beast is the personification of true romance.

The secondary characters are equally enchanting. Despite their brief appearance, the way Ms. Kennedy describes Samuel and Charles, paints the picture of two sexy, well built men whose animal form are horses. Roydon’s plight pulls at the reader’s heart and his wife Edwina is entertainingly confusing.

I highly recommend this series. It gets better and better with each tale. There is a part of me that says Ms. Kennedy cannot possibly top how wonderful Enchanting The Best is yet I cannot wait for the next book to see what new enchantment she has planned for her readers.

gina@loveromancesandmore.com

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ENCHANTING THE BEAST- RELICS OF MERLIN, BOOK 3
KATHRYNE KENNEDY
ISBN- 10: 0505527642/ 13:9780505527646
May 1, 2009
Dorchester- Love Spell
www.dorchesterpub.com
Paperback
$6.99
376 pages
Victorian Fantasy Romance
Rating- 5 cups

Lady Philomena Radcliffe is a very interesting woman. At the age of forty, she is a spinster who lives in an old brothel which is haunted by some interesting ghosts. She and her assistant, Sarah – a were-snake-, earn a living by hunting ghosts and conducting séances for the people of London.

Sir Nicodemus Wulfson –Nico, to friends and family- is a young man of twenty seven and he is on a mission to help his brother, Roydon. Sitting in on séance Lady Philomena is conducting makes Nico believe she is the right person for the task at hand.

The ghosts of Grimspell Castle are haunting Roydon causing him to lose sleep as well as his appetite. Nico is concerned for his brother, but does not believe in ghosts though he is a werewolf and owner of an enchanted forest. Seeing the way in which Lady Philomena conducts her séance, Nico thinks her “acting skills” may be good enough to convince his brother that there are no ghosts in Grimspell Castle. Philomena and Nico are both in for a few surprises in this wonderful adventure.

Ms. Kennedy weaves a spell from the very start. The world she has created is one in which I find myself longing to be. Grimspell Castle, with its ghosts, and Grimspell Forest, with its wondrous creatures, calls to my soul. This story is full of romance, mystery and the paranormal. The characters are lively and colorful. The author gives her readers such a wonderful experience when they read her magical tales. I am looking forward to picking up the other books in this series.

Kimberly
Reviewer for Coffee Time Romance & More