Wicked Blog Tour: Interview + Giveaway with Jenn LeBlanc

So our journey with Jenn and her remastered illustrated romance ends today. We may or may not break out the black bombazine to go in mourning for our beloved Roxleigh and Perry. But we know Jenn has great things ahead of her not only in writing and illustrating another book or two or more. She also is first and foremost a fantastic photographer and if you ever need a cover for your book, you should look at her romance stock photos. We do. Sometimes just to ogle.

Meet Jenn: 

I have several constants in life that define me:
Colorado, Canon, CJ, kids and curls.

Born and raised in a household of other people’s children in this beautiful state —very nearly with a camera in hand— I never left. I started my own family, got used to the curls, went to college, built a CJ, and started a business, all with a camera in hand.

I always had another passion; storytelling born from daydreams and nightmares. My fingers were never as quick as my mind, and no amount of practice got them there, so it was difficult and frustrating to have this inside me. When my second daughter was born her inherent traits kept me pinned— my only escape the keyboard. Spending my days in parenting chat rooms I got highly adept with one-handed typing and I can still type just about as fast with one hand as I can with two. It’s a great talent to have when engrossed in a scene and in need of a hit of caffeine. I recently finished my first novel but I quickly realized: I was born a photographer.

From the realization that someone ELSE would be shooting the cover of MY book my control-freak took over. What started as an easy cover shoot ballooned into this completely new kind of media, designed specifically for digital book readers.

I live and thrive off chaos and the constant flow of the creative process. I wear shorts and flip-flops year-round —much to the chagrin of my friends and family— and I am currently working on the illustrations for my second novel.

Find Jenn: Twitter | Facebook | Author Site | Blog | Tumblr (NSFW)

Ah yes, the woman that we have all been waiting for. The one that would reform that scandalous rake. She’s such a surprise and such a lovely, lovely girl. At first we wondered whether or not she would be able to hold her own with our dear Perry considering what happened to her at the hands of another man. Something as traumatic as that would take a while to get over. Perry has been kind enough to accompany the lovely Lilly Steele to talk with us today.

Kati: Hello Lilly and thanks for coming back Per-- my lord. *whispers to Jamie* Do we have to be all formal since we’re in the company of others?

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Jamie: Umm, yes. Best behavior Kati. Sit up straight and no slouching.

Perry: *glares*

Lilly: Hello Kati, Jamie, thank you for having me today.

*Perry takes her hand and kisses it*

Kati: We've been waiting FOREVER to finally meet you and Jenn didn't disappoint. It was a pleasant surprise as to who Perry gave his heart to. What was your first impression of Perry the very first time you met/caught a glimpse of him?


Lilly: Well I first met him a long time ago, when I was young, as was he. He was remarkable, even then. But when he returned to Eildon with His Grace, he took my breath away. Still I didn’t even consider...well I didn’t even give a second thought to him. I mean as a man, beyond the title and the rest. He was unapproachable then.

Kati: Has he always been this charming? What does your family think about him?

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Lilly: *blushes* I think, yes. Even when I was young he was a charmer. It did not matter who you were, he could charm anyone. Except, perhaps, His Grace. *Perry clears his throat* I mean, his brother. I mean, he is a duke Kati, it is overwhelming. I still just, well. Yes. As for my family? Well. I should let my father’s actions speak to that. They’ve become closer though. It wasn’t easy, that is for certain. As for when he met Daniel—

Perry: *shakes head*

Lilly: Oh...well, I guess I can’t speak on that. *smiles up at Perry*

Kati: Ah yes. I've heard the name Daniel a time or two but Perry is giving me The Gideon so I'll just--- Do you feel you had a better advantage at having a close-knit family because of your station than Perry? Did you like how I changed the subject? Seriously Perry, stop glaring or I'll have to call you Viscount Sourpuss.

Perry: *rubs thumb down his jaw*

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Lilly: I— uh...sorry I was a bit distracted. I— well, I do not know. I believe it possible. We have to work very closely together, and of course we live very close in our small house. I imagine Perry and His Gra— eh-hem...his brother, Gideon, could spend weeks in Eildon and never see each other. There were other factors to their distance though. So I’m not sure. But they have managed to make up for that a bit. They are nearly inseparable. Well, no, they are. But when they are together...to see them together is to know how close brothers can be.

Perry: *clears throat*

Lilly: Oh stop My Lord. You are.

Perry: *eyes widen*

Lilly: *giggles* As for family, I should tell you that once I saw Perry with mine, my fate was rather sealed. It was the first time I truly realized that we could suit, regardless station.

Perry: *raises brows* not before then?

Lilly: Oh well, my father, you know. And then when you spoke with him that first night, well I was rather worried.

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Perry: Your fate was sealed...when you climbed into my carriage.

Lilly: *fans self* *looks to Kati*

Jamie: What was it about Perry that made you let your guard down?

Lilly: I am not entirely sure. I think I trusted him because beneath it all I believed him to be honorable, even though he was a rake. The fact that he was a rake helped because I thought the idea wouldn’t be so terribly outlandish to him. It was happenstance really, being who he was is what allowed for me to put my guard down.

Kati: *narrows eyes at Perry* You randy rake. I'm going to have to call an inappropriate on that. So Lilly, I know this is a VERY touchy subject but Hepplewhatsit... It must have been very scary. Did you carry a knife after that or keep your back to the wall so you knew who was approaching you?

Lilly: No I didn’t. I’m not much for weapons, and I felt as safe as I could in the Duke’s—Sorry— Gideon’s household. I was terribly jumpy though, there wasnt much to be done about that. Well, I mean, there was but... oh my. *blushes*

Perry: *the biggest grin in the world*

Kati: Oh yes, here was much, much, much done about but I won't be as inappropriate with you as I was with Perry 2 weeks ago. Tell me about that train ride, minus the you-know-what. I've only been on a train going from Durango to Silverton. What are the trains like? Are they any different from modern trains?

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Lilly: Modern trains? *looks to Perry* I don’t know, are they different? Will we have a chance to ride one? Stop grinning like a Cheshire Cat and answer a question, please. *Looks to Kati, whispers* We’ve been reading Alice In Wonderland. Jenn recommended it as one of her favorites. I can quite see why.

Perry: Yes, my sweet, we will have a chance for a train ride, the TGV actually, in France. It is one of the fastest trains in the world, and should prove interesting.

Lilly: Well, there you have it. We’ll be riding a fast train. I’m fairly fond of travel by rails. I don’t understand the flight thing, I mean beyond the whole falling from the sky thing, there isn’t much to see. I like to see the country. I know that your generation is fond of speed. I think trains are magical. The sound of the wheels on the track, the screech of the brakes at the station. Then there’s the way they move, and the way they make you feel, you can feel the vibrations throughout, OH! And that great crash when they couple. It’s wonderful. *looks to Perry* Milord, why are you grinning again?

Perry: *shakes head* next question please Kati.

Kati: Oy! Stop that communicating with your eyes thing or I'll have to ask you to kindly step out. Lilly, why did you decide to stow away? What was in London? And why Perry. I know that's quite a bit to answer and I'm a bit of a spaz. :)

Lilly: I suppose it was simple opportunity. I saw my chance to get away and I took it. I had been very overwhelmed in the Duk—Gideon’s household. Everyone was so thoughtful and kind. I know that sounds odd, but it’s actually quite difficult when you are trying your best to move on from something so horrific. I just wanted to get away from everything I knew. He was headed for London. I suppose it wouldn’t have made a difference even had he been headed for Glasgow or France, or anywhere else really. Anywhere.

Perry: As I said, you’re fate was sealed that night. *examines fingernails*

Lilly: I, well. *looks to Kati* are we nearly done? It seems to be getting a bit hot in here.

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Perry: *staring at Lilly* Yes, Kati, are we nearly done? I wish to put my mouth...on my wife. *grabs Lilly and kisses her senseless.* Sorry, I simply could not wait. Ladies?

Kati: INAPPROPRIATE!!! *sigh* I just can’t seem to let you both go. It’s time to break out the black bombazine until Jenn decides to share Warrick or Calder with us. Yes, you may go and put your mouth where ever it takes you *waggles eyebrows*. Don’t be shy. You certainly weren’t on the train, on the chaise, on the bed... *looks innocently at Perry* Whaaaat? We’re all about the inappropriate and sexy here at Romancing Rakes For The Love of Romance. *Looks towards Jamie* Um, I can’t seem to bring myself to ask any more questions about Hepplewhatsit cause he makes my screen crawl. Thank you so much for stopping by Lilly and *swats Perry’s behind as he stands up* and you can go misbehave now.

Jamie: There is no need to talk about that man, if one can call him that. Frankly, he got what he deserved. *clears throat* Anyway... Thank you so much for coming by Lilly. It was truly a pleasure to meet you and we are very happy for the both of you. And Perry, always a pleasure as well. Do say hi to your cousins for us, especially Warrick and Calder.

Lilly: Bye ladies! It was OH! *Perry sweeps her off her feet and stomps out*

Perry: *leans back through the doorway* This isn’t the last of me yet. *winks*

Jamie & Kati: *sigh*

RETRIBUTION: THE RAKE AND THE RECLUSE

A woman out of time.
A man stifled by propriety.
A nemesis determined to take her away.
A brother to the rescue.

How will a powerful Duke deal with a woman who doesn't know her place? How will a woman used to the 21st century survive in time where she is considered property?

THE RAKE AND THE RECLUSE Part Six. Perry must find the woman who has managed to capture his heart, then he must find a way to keep her. Someone else is on the hunt, someone from her past who doesn’t appreciate that she still lives and breaths.

Francine Larrabee woke up on the wrong side of the century. She was fairly certain she went to sleep in her own comfy bed, but she doesn’t quite seem to be there now. Only adding to her problems is that she has no voice, is constantly being glowered at by a large, stunning man who is obsessed with propriety, and she is apparently betrothed to another horrid little man, determined to ruin her, and any other girls that get in his way.
How does she find herself in the past, when she couldn’t even find herself in her present? How does a self sufficient businesswoman survive in a time when women were still considered property for the whole of their lives and what is she going to do with this man who draws her to him so fiercely.

Okay all you wonderful people, Jenn is giving away the FULL SERIAL NOVEL to one(1) lucky reader. As each installment releases, the lucky winner will get a copy for their e-reader. Here's how to get you hands on this one of a kind illustrated novel:

• Leave a comment for Jenn about illustrated novels, places to do The Sexy at, or any question you would like for her to answer.
• Fill out the rafflecopter form below.

If you follow Jenn's tour here, you'll get a chance at the GRAND PRIZE: a Kindle Fire or Nook Tablet (in the form of a giftcard so you can get your own). You can find the giveaway rules here.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Wicked Blog Tour: Interview + Giveaway with Jenn LeBlanc

Happy Valentines Day to you and yours. Today is such a perfect day to celebrate with one of our favorite rakes. Ever. We've been waiting and waiting and waiting (Jenn's giving us the stink eye all the way from Colorado) for Perry's story since last summer. Grab a drink and a snack because this interview is loooong. What? We couldn't help ourselves. It's PERRY for goodness sake! But before we get into the inappropriateness...

Meet Jenn: 

I have several constants in life that define me:
Colorado, Canon, CJ, kids and curls.

Born and raised in a household of other people’s children in this beautiful state —very nearly with a camera in hand— I never left. I started my own family, got used to the curls, went to college, built a CJ, and started a business, all with a camera in hand.

I always had another passion; storytelling born from daydreams and nightmares. My fingers were never as quick as my mind, and no amount of practice got them there, so it was difficult and frustrating to have this inside me. When my second daughter was born her inherent traits kept me pinned— my only escape the keyboard. Spending my days in parenting chat rooms I got highly adept with one-handed typing and I can still type just about as fast with one hand as I can with two. It’s a great talent to have when engrossed in a scene and in need of a hit of caffeine. I recently finished my first novel but I quickly realized: I was born a photographer.

From the realization that someone ELSE would be shooting the cover of MY book my control-freak took over. What started as an easy cover shoot ballooned into this completely new kind of media, designed specifically for digital book readers.

I live and thrive off chaos and the constant flow of the creative process. I wear shorts and flip-flops year-round —much to the chagrin of my friends and family— and I am currently working on the illustrations for my second novel.

Find Jenn: Twitter | Facebook | Author Site | Blog | Tumblr (NSFW)

The day has come to for us to interview Quarterback Viscount Sexoverlord. Ahhhh!!! What a relief it is to talk to a familiar, friendly face instead of Hepplewhatsit. That was quite a nerve wracking interview. Thank goodness Jamie was there with her trusty, handy dandy riding crop. And well, we are such total fangirls of Perry (Lord Peregrine Trumbull, Viscount Roxleigh for the rest of the ton) since the beginning and the infamous piano sex scene definitely sealed the deal for us. We loved him more. Enough of this mindless chit chat, on to chatting with Perry and asking him inappropriate questions.

Kati: *jumps on Perry* Ahhhh!!! Perryyyyy. Hello. Hi. Okay. I’ll get off of you now. *pats down Perry’s oh so hard torso* You look presentable now. Ahem. Sorry. You’re just quite... Shall we wait for Jamie or get down to business?

Jamie: *runs in* I’m here! I’m here! Where is he? *spots Perry and jumps on him* Yay! You’re here! Hiiiiii! *gives one last squeeze* Ok, sorry about that. I’m good now. Shall we all sit down?

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Perry: Well hello ladies! That might just be one of the best welcomes I have ever received. And I do like to receive. *winks*

Kati: so I've heard. Let's talk about you. Who IS Lord Peregrine Afton Trumbull? Consummate rake? Sexy quarterback? Piano player? Guardian to 4 French chits? Oh by the way, Happy Valentines Day. Will you be my Valentine?

Perry: I do believe I already have a Valentine, but were it not so, my dear Kati, you would be at the very top of my list. I suppose I am all these things, or I was at one time or another. Though I’m guardian for only two French girls, really. What is a quarterback? Does that have something to do with the horses? No, no that’s an American term correct?

Kati:Oh all right. I suppose I'll just have to dream about it seeing as how you now have a lady love. A quarterback is the guy who throws... Well, just ask Francine the next time you see her. Maybe she'll even teach you how to play. Let's talk about your instrument and how magnificent it is. How long have you been playing?

Perry: *grins wickedly* Well Kati, my piano an 1868 Streicher Concert Grand. Handmade of rosewood, for me, in Vienna. It is the same model used by Brahms in his composition. A beautiful instrument, with very consistent, smooth, mellow tones.

http://www.shafferpianos.com/streicher/

Jamie: Katiiii! Inappropriate! You just can’t ask a man about his “instrument” like that. Even if it is magnificent.

Perry: Don’t worry Jamie, I can handle Kati. And it is magnificent. Quite, in fact.

Kati: What? I did mention that we were going to end up asking inappropriate questions. I mean look at the guy, he looks like that model we know. The perfect twin or is it triplet since the Trumbull boys look the same?

Perry: We do look very similar, though my brother, well, he is older and wiser and crankier and less fun. *winks* don’t tell him I said that. It would ruffle his duke-ly feathers.

Jamie: Oh yes. THAT model. And of course I knew it was going to get inappropriate but I figured we let Perry get comfortable. Anyway, let’s get back to Perry and his magnificent instrument. And by instrument I mean piano. So, you seem to really enjoy that piano. How long have you been playing?

Perry: I have been playing for a very long time. I believe my father hired my master when I was about six years old. He wanted to give me something to do to keep me from underfoot as he oversaw Gideon’s lessons in dukefication. Or should it be dikificense? Not sure. Don’t think me flip though, I very much respect my brother’s position. I suppose it worked rather well.

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Kati: I saw a picture of your instrument. It's a beauty. As for his deflowering dashing dukeliness, he knows he's a total cranky pants. I might have mentioned how he was a bit cranky/glowering to his face so he knows. If he gives you any trouble you can come to me and I'll take care of it :) I want to so badly talk about your lady love but for those who have not read your story and found out what happened in the last installment, I don't want to ruin the surprise.

Perry: We can certainly talk about my lady in general terms. I must say she was as much a surprise to me as assume she was to you. I simply refuse to cross Jenn, however, she is a devil when she is angry. So what can I tell you about her?

Kati: Never cross Jenn, she'll cut off your man candy supply and you start getting the shakes and well, let's just leave it at that. Your lady love will be my final interview. I was pretty surprised. There was quite a bit of whaaat? what? Whaat? (say it like The Doctor)

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Perry: I have no idea what a man candy supply is, but I’m rather certain I have no use of one. I do love Jenn, and know how she feels about all of us. She truly gave us life and she gave me my lady and that is something I could never repay. I can only imagine your surprise when you found out who was in my carriage! I was horrid to my lady in the beginning. I will spend the balance of my days making up for my egregious behaviour. She is such a treasure, genuine, strong, beautiful inside and out. And now as I’ve gone purple in my prose I believe I shall stop ruminating thank you very much.

Kati: She's such a wonderfully nice person and a fantastic photographer. Those who know her are blessed and those who don't should get to know her. But I'm just gushing because I love her. And I'm not even saying this with a riding crop pointed in my direction. Haha.

Perry: Oh dear, I have heard about the riding crop. Do you know how forceful she can be in the studio? Bloody tyrant really. She will read this won’t she. Well she knows. She is. There are words for people like her, commanding, dominating and forceful come to mind. Perhaps that’s why we mesh so well. *winks*

Kati: One day I hope to watch her in action without having to traipse all over Cherry Creek. It's my dream to peek inside her studio. Be all Edward Cullen creeper like in the corner. Forget asking Brangelina to adopt me, I'd rather have Jenn. So... How does it feel to be the guardian of 2 innocents? Do you find yourself imbibing more than usual? Do you wake up in random places not knowing how you got there?

Perry: I have come to terms with my guardianship, though I must say Gideon has rather stepped up there, as has my beautiful new sister. Even though she was wary at first, I mean, under the circumstances it was difficult for her. She was terribly out of place with them, not knowing these girls who were supposedly her kin. I only overindulged the once...well, recently anyway. I only wake up wondering how I could have been so fortunate after everything I have done.

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Jamie: Are you happy with the way things have turned out? Did you ever imagine yourself having this kind of life?

Perry: Oh no my dear Jamie, not in my wildest dreams was there a single woman. Two women perhaps, sometimes three. I believe once there may have been five, but I digress. One woman. That’s rather daunting is it not? Aside of that, there are the girls, no, I did not imagine being responsible for young women, not a man like me, who is familiar with the ruination of the very same.

Kati: *bites tongue before saying something totally inappropriate* oh what the hell. You can ruin me any time. Actually, you've ruined me for pianos since The Scene. I can't pass by one without giggling.


Perry: Well I do what I can. After all I have one lady now, but I do still like to hear I can...what is it you say? Drop your panties? Yes. It’s nice to know I can still manage to drop some panties. You modern women are so terribly awkward to me. *shakes head* Is that meant to be literal?

Kati: Yes and no. Depends on where you are ;) If you could travel into the future (like Francine's future) would you?

Perry: No I don’t think so. I don’t belong there at all and from what Francine has told me knowing would only make life more difficult either way. Whether I liked it or not. I happen to like, very much, where I am. I have no need for anything else.

Kati: Let's talk about Hepplewort. Compose yourself. Breathe. I see you clenching your fists. How is a slimeball like him still allowed to be received in polite society? Titles be damned!

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Perry: unfortunately some are still allowed in society regardless of their actual worth as humans. He is a horrid man. Simply horrid. There are words for him as well, though nothing like those I used for Jenn. I would say, terrible, but that’s a threatening word and he is at all threatening. He is small, unworthy, and unfortunate. That is truly as nice as I can be.

Jamie: Ugh, that man is scum. He doesn't deserve to be allowed in polite society, he belongs behind bars with his mother.

Kati: he takes the whole mamas boy a little too far. How long has his family lived next to yours? Did you ever interact or see him when you and Rox were children?

Perry: Their estate isn’t very close to Eildon, it is closer to Westcreek, but we did not spend as much time there. I really never met the man before this...ordeal. Thankfully.

Kati: Had you heard any rumors pertaining to Hepplewort? Mistreatment of his mistresses *shudder* or any woman? If you could dole out his punishment, what would it be and why? Don’t worry, you don’t have to tell me what happens to him since Jenn is giving me the evil eye trying to sweet talk you into telling me how it all ends. :) That’s for next time.

Perry: I had never truly heard anything before we were forced to speak with him. Once we were aware of him, however, we learned more than I ever wished to know. Unfortunately he mistreated more women than I would like to think on. He deserves much more than...He deserves to be— mishandled. I should leave it at that. There is no end to my anger where he is concerned. As for next time, I shall accompany my lady, she is terribly nervous about speaking with you. I hope that is agreeable.

Jamie: Oh. I am very excited about … your lady coming to visit. I’ve been waiting to meet her for a long time. But I promise to be on my best behavior.

Coming 2/28

Perry: Thank you Miss Jamie, I very much appreciate this.

Kati: *sigh* I promise we won’t be as inappropriate as we were with you but yes, you may accompany her. I suppose this interview has gone on too long and well, you’re just...quite. But I don’t want to end on a yucky note so one more question before we let readers have a go at winning a copy of the Trumbull brothers’ story. If there was one piece of music that you could play over and over again without getting tired or totally sick of it, what would it be and why?

Perry: *grins* I’ve recently become quite fond of The Pineapple Rag. But I suppose if I had to chose a single work, I would probably go with *sigh* really, I am a music lover. The music I listen to is very dependent on mood. Thomas Tallis and his lilting crescendos, Bethoven and his melodramatic rise. Mozart...I would say one of my favorites is Confutatis, it is a piece of his final work, Requiem K. 626. The juxtaposition of the vaulting bass lines against the angelic sopranos is incredibly powerful. Undeniable, simply intoxicating.

Pardon...*clears throat* but you must see it live to truly appreciate it. The tones will reverberate through your soul.

Now, my brother warned me you have some odd questions. I have come prepared. Continue.

Kati: *shakes head* Oh Gideon. These odd questions were more to his one-word answer liking I think. But then again, he WAS glaring and brooding most of the time.

Boxers or briefs I’m told commando would be the proper answer for this. *winks*
Dogs or Cats Big dogs.
Singing or playing the piano Piano
Dancing or Riding Dancing
Wallflowers or Belle of the Ball Wallflowers *chuckles*
Alpha or Beta Alpha
Virgin widow or Secret baby Secret baby
19th or 21st century 19th
Heir or Spare Spare
Love or Duty As love is my duty I see no difference now.

Jamie & Kati: Thanks Perry for spending time with us. *looks sheepish* Oh, and the readers. We can’t wait to see you in two weeks when we interview your lady love :)

Perry: Have a good day ladies. *grins*

SUBMISSION: The Rake and the Recluse 

A woman out of time.
A man stifled by propriety.
A nemesis determined to take her away.
A brother to the rescue.

How will a powerful Duke deal with a woman who doesn't know her place? How will a woman used to the 21st century survive in time where she is considered property?

THE RAKE AND THE RECLUSE Part Five Perry leaves Roxleigh House without a backward glance only to be tossed headlong into one of the most difficult trials of his life. How will he protect the very thing he is dedicated to pursuing? How will a man dedicated to the pursuit of pleasure survive a woman who refuses to relent, when he knows he cannot have her.

Francine Larrabee woke up on the wrong side of the century. She was fairly certain she went to sleep in her own comfy bed, but she doesn’t quite seem to be there now. Only adding to her problems is that she has no voice, is constantly being glowered at by a large, stunning man who is obsessed with propriety, and she is apparently betrothed to another horrid little man, determined to ruin her, and any other girls that get in his way.
How does she find herself in the past, when she couldn’t even find herself in her present? How does a self sufficient businesswoman survive in a time when women were still considered property for the whole of their lives and what is she going to do with this man who draws her to him so fiercely.

Okay all you wonderful people, Jenn is giving away the FULL SERIAL NOVEL to one(1) lucky reader. As each installment releases, the lucky winner will get a copy for their e-reader. Here's how to get you hands on this one of a kind illustrated novel:

• Leave a comment for Jenn about illustrated novels, rakes (the sexy kind, not the garden tool), or any question you would like for her to answer.
• Fill out the rafflecopter form below.

If you follow Jenn's tour here, you'll get a chance at the GRAND PRIZE: a Kindle Fire or Nook Tablet (in the form of a giftcard so you can get your own). You can find the giveaway rules here.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Wicked Blog Tour: Interview + Giveaway with Jenn LeBlanc

Welcome to another installment (pun intended) of The Wicked Blog Tour! Today isn't really our favorite day since we're picking the brains of Hepplewhatsit er, Lord Hepplewort, the guy that sent his dogs after Francine and takes mama's boy to a whole. 'nother. level. We want to thank Jenn for letting Fergus *snort* out of his cage.

Meet Jenn:
I have several constants in life that define me:
Colorado, Canon, CJ, kids and curls.

Born and raised in a household of other people’s children in this beautiful state —very nearly with a camera in hand— I never left. I started my own family, got used to the curls, went to college, built a CJ, and started a business, all with a camera in hand.

I always had another passion; storytelling born from daydreams and nightmares. My fingers were never as quick as my mind, and no amount of practice got them there, so it was difficult and frustrating to have this inside me. When my second daughter was born her inherent traits kept me pinned— my only escape the keyboard. Spending my days in parenting chat rooms I got highly adept with one-handed typing and I can still type just about as fast with one hand as I can with two. It’s a great talent to have when engrossed in a scene and in need of a hit of caffeine. I recently finished my first novel but I quickly realized: I was born a photographer.

From the realization that someone ELSE would be shooting the cover of MY book my control-freak took over. What started as an easy cover shoot ballooned into this completely new kind of media, designed specifically for digital book readers.

I live and thrive off chaos and the constant flow of the creative process. I wear shorts and flip-flops year-round —much to the chagrin of my friends and family— and I am currently working on the illustrations for my second novel.

Where To Find Jenn: Twitter | Facebook | Author Site | Blog | Tumblr (NSFW)


Oh sweet Jaysus. Today on the blog, Hepplewhatsit aka Lord Yuckness is sharing his side of the story. Ugh. I felt totally creeped out and unclean after sitting in a room with him. Thank goodness he agreed to do the interview in a well lit and very crowded room. Francine suggested that I bring along the boys (Rox and Perry) but I figured I’d get nothing out of Hepplewort so instead, I invited Jamie to help me out. Strength in numbers and all that jazz. We’re keeping it short so we won’t have to be in the same place for that long.

Kindle | Nook | All Romance

Kati: *grabs Jamie’s hand* Oh god. I don’t know if I can do this. Help me...

Jamie: Have no fear. I have brought my trusty riding crop so he better behave or I will not be held responsible for what I do. Now, where is that swine? *cracks riding crop*

K: *spots Lord Hepplewort and drags Jamie, riding crop and all* Hello Lord Yuc-- um, Hepplewort. I brought my friend here since she also has questions pertaining to your behavior towards your ex-intended.

J: *points riding crop at Hepplewort* You, sir have some explaining to do. Before we even get to the atrocities towards Francine lets start from the beginning. What were you thinking buying a bride? Seriously, were you that desperate?

Lord Hepplewort: It is my responsibility as the heir to the Earldom, to procure a bride of appropriate upbringing, tutelage and quality. My mother hand selected my bride for her family. I did not purchase her, I merely provided for her family in exchange for them taking such good care of my future wife. My Countess.

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Kati: Pfft. That’s still buying her considering the fact that money exchanged hands. And why in the world would you let your MOTHER choose your bride? Do you do EVERYTHING that your mother tells you to? If she told you to go jump off a cliff, would you?

H: Out of respect for my mother and her wishes I do what is asked of me. She is knowledgeable, and knows what is required of the peerage. Why wouldn’t I do what my mother asked of me? She is my mother! I love my mother.

K: Good grief man! Have a fecking backbone. How old are you again? You shouldn’t let your mother rule you with an iron fist. Sheesh! How long was Fran--Madeleine staying with you until she decided that you were all sorts of creepy?

H: I don’t believe she thought I was creepy. She was TAKEN from me. She is a woman, she has no opinions. Don’t be ridiculous.

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J: Can I hit him Kati? She can’t have an opinion because she a woman! You, sir need a good whacking! Stupid momma’s boy.

K: *aside to Jamie*When the interview is over, have at it. *glaring at Hepplewhatsit* Whoa! Compose yourself jackass! She was not taken, taken. She RAN AWAY and you sent dogs after her. What are your plans now that you probably won’t get her back?

H: Well I must find a bride of course, since that Damned Duke took her for himself. There’s no hope for me to get her. I’ll away to London, I’ll find a bride there. It shouldn’t be too difficult, of course she won’t be as well trained and all, but I should be able to find one suitable I AM an Earl after all. I do have nearly Ten thousand a YEAR.

K: But you’re, well, YOU. Someone has to be quite desperate to agree to marrying you. What was your childhood like? Did you not get enough love?

H: My mother taught me what it was to be an Earl. My mother took very good care of me. My mother did everything she was supposed to do. I was expected to follow my father, I had to be trained to take the title, to be successful!

coming 2/14

J: So you’re off to London to “find” another bride? Are you going to bribe this one too? What about love?

H: love has no place in duty. My duty is to the crown. My wife’s duty is to bear my issue. It is that simple. You should not try to confuse everything with love you would be better for it. I feel for your husband, he has quite a great deal of work ahead in your training. Both of you.

K: *mutters* bear my issue, what the feck? *smiles politely* Well Hepplewhatsit, I think we’ve taken up enough of your time. I hope for your sake and for the sake of all the single ladies of the ton but especially for YOUR sake, you don’t go about finding some woman to “bear your issue”. You might find yourself facing down the barrel of a sword or gun or riding crop.

J: You don’t know a thing about love! *mutters* train me my arse. *smiles at Kati* Can I hit him now?

K: *holds out arm in grand gesture* Be my guest. On the count of three? *pulls out glittery pink riding crop out of boot* One... two...

H: *widens eyes* You can’t do THAT to me! Do you not understand who I AM?!? I am an EARL! I am Hepplewort! You cannot treat me with such callous abandon. You have no right to even address me.

coming 2/28

K: Yeah. See, we’re not from around here. We don’t have to play by your rules. The only thing we understand is that you’re some slimy, super shady rapist that should be drawn and quartered and then fed to your own dogs!

J: You know what My Lord you should just leave. Seriously, the sight of you makes me want to hurt you. So off you go, back to your mother. Oh, and just so you know, we'll be watching you so don’t even think about hurting another woman or I will not be held responsible for our actions. Good day sir. 

Disclaimer: We do apologize for the shortness of the interview. He was a slimy little man and all sorts of shifty. He might have had some muscle waiting somewhere to just pounce on us and drag us away to Hepplewort's lair. Got the hell out of Dodge real quick like. Didn't even have time to do our usual either/or questions.

RUINATION: The Rake and the Recluse 

A woman out of time.
A man stifled by propriety.
A nemesis determined to take her away.
A brother to the rescue.

How will a powerful Duke deal with a woman who doesn't know her place? How will a woman used to the 21st century survive in time where she is considered property?

THE RAKE AND THE RECLUSE Part FOUR has Gideon racing to find Francine before the unthinkable happens. Francine tries desperately to hold on, but her belief that Gideon will find her begins to slip. This is the fourth installment of the completely revised novel, with all new material.

Francine Larrabee woke up on the wrong side of the century. She was fairly certain she went to sleep in her own comfy bed, but she doesn’t quite seem to be there now. Only adding to her problems is that she has no voice, is constantly being glowered at by a large, stunning man who is obsessed with propriety, and she is apparently betrothed to another horrid little man, determined to ruin her, and any other girls that get in his way.
How does she find herself in the past, when she couldn’t even find herself in her present? How does a self sufficient businesswoman survive in a time when women were still considered property for the whole of their lives and what is she going to do with this man who draws her to him so fiercely.

Where To Buy: Kindle | Nook | All Romance

Okay all you wonderful people, Jenn is giving away the FULL SERIAL NOVEL to one(1) lucky reader. As each installment releases, the lucky winner will get a copy for their e-reader. Here's how to get you hands on this one of a kind illustrated novel:

• Leave a comment for Jenn about illustrated novels, ruination or women bought as chattel.
• Fill out the rafflecopter form below.

If you follow Jenn's tour here, you'll get a chance at the GRAND PRIZE: a Kindle Fire or Nook Tablet (in the form of a giftcard so you can get your own). You can find the giveaway rules here.

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Wicked Blog Tour: Interview + Giveaway with Jenn LeBlanc

Although I had a fantabulous time trying to coax answers out of the Duke of Roxleigh (it wasn't like he was revealing his deepest, darkest secrets or anything), I thoroughly enjoyed my time hanging out with Francine, Rox's lady love. She's got more to say and I'm glad her voice came back because I'm not well versed in sign language. Note to self: learn. Anyway, we talked about Rox, Perry (duh!), Hepplewhatsit *shudder* and finding out that Madeleine has sisters who are now hers. 


Meet Jenn: 

I have several constants in life that define me:
Colorado, Canon, CJ, kids and curls.

Born and raised in a household of other people’s children in this beautiful state —very nearly with a camera in hand— I never left. I started my own family, got used to the curls, went to college, built a CJ, and started a business, all with a camera in hand.

I always had another passion; storytelling born from daydreams and nightmares. My fingers were never as quick as my mind, and no amount of practice got them there, so it was difficult and frustrating to have this inside me. When my second daughter was born her inherent traits kept me pinned— my only escape the keyboard. Spending my days in parenting chat rooms I got highly adept with one-handed typing and I can still type just about as fast with one hand as I can with two. It’s a great talent to have when engrossed in a scene and in need of a hit of caffeine. I recently finished my first novel but I quickly realized: I was born a photographer.

From the realization that someone ELSE would be shooting the cover of MY book my control-freak took over. What started as an easy cover shoot ballooned into this completely new kind of media, designed specifically for digital book readers.

I live and thrive off chaos and the constant flow of the creative process. I wear shorts and flip-flops year-round —much to the chagrin of my friends and family— and I am currently working on the illustrations for my second novel.

Where To Find Jenn: Twitter | Facebook | Author Site | Blog | Tumblr (NSFW)


Okay lovelies. It’s been two weeks since we spent some time with Gideon Alrick Trumbull, 10th Duke of Roxleigh. Today, we’ll be hitting up his lady love, Francine Larrabee. Yes, the pretty blonde girl who goes brunette after getting into a taxi, thrown into the path of a bent for leather curricle and loses her voice, all the while thinking her father is a loon for saying that certain people in the Larrabee family are out of their own time and a higher power is trying to get them to the correct one.

Anywho, Jenn has been kind enough to let me interview Francine. I’ll try not to get too inappropriate but I’m sure she can take it because she’s from our time. She doesn’t seem like a prude. I think.

Kati: Hi Francine. Thanks so much for taking the time to hang out with my readers today.

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Francine: Hi Kati! *grins* I’m so happy to be here. I have missed the 21st century a LOT. Is that an iPad you have there? *snatches it* ohhhhhh...this is beautiful! Wait...Is that GIDEON?!?! *gasp* Kati!!

K: *blushes sheepishly* He is utter perfection is he not? Er, sorry. Um the author who wrote your story keeps sending me inappropriate pictures of Gid--Roxleigh. And yes isn't this thing just GORGEOUS??? Your book is just lovely on it. So tell me, do you miss anything about the 21st century? Music, movies, celebrity gossip, toilets? Can't be all that fun peeing in a chamber pot. Seems a bit awkward squatting like that.
F: It's not too bad, we do have water closets, but I happen to know that toilets are not far off and we are already making arrangements at Eildon for the installations. It's handy having an architect in your back pocket who doesn't ask too many questions when you pose an odd design challenge. ;) I do miss music, I miss my iPhone and my Mac but not nearly as much as I thought I would. Gideon does keep me busy and I look forward to things like balls and concerts I ways I never did before because you could just DVR it and watch it later.

It's really a greater adventure, and the world is slowly picking up pace. It's very exciting to watch. Cars are coming soon!! Gideon is thrilled by that prospect, though I doubt he'll ever give up Samson, he will enjoy cars.

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K: Hmm... Gideon would seem like a car guy but I think Perry would enjoy it more and look good in a sports car. lol. Water closets? Is there like a toilet in there and how do you flush?
Is it weird having someone wait on you hand and foot? I think it would be seeing as how we do things for ourselves here.
F: well, the mechanics are rather outhouse in nature, there is no flushing- that comes with the new toilets, but at least it isn't a pot.

It was difficult getting used to being dressed like a toddler, but it is physically impossible to dress yourself in Victorian England. I need a map just to figure out what goes where, I actually got trapped in a dress once trying to get into it on my own. Gideon cut me out of it, there was no hope for it. It was terrible.

But for the most part, when we are home, I stick with trousers and Gideon's shirts. Partially because of the ease and comfort, but primarily because it gets a rise out of him. *winks*

Honestly I still refuse a great deal of help in my private rooms, but it's rather like living in a hotel. Except for the...uh...room service. *waggles brows*

K: Inappropriate! Let’s talk about TRATR Redux Part 2. We are introduced to new characters like that fantastic architect Amberley Shaw *giggle*. Were you surprised that he knew sign language? What makes it different from ASL?
F: I was! I was more surprised at how much I remembered though, I suppose it's a bit like riding a bicycle. The differences are mostly in the alphabets. If you consider that sign language is primarily an inherently created language of hand signals it makes sense that the signs for words would be at kinda similar. The alphabet though isn't inherent at all, it’s based on each languages' respective alphabets, but the differences can still be great.

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K: *face palm* Oh. I’m supposed to be interviewing you for part 3 but since Roxleigh wasn’t forthcoming with answers in his interview, I guess I’ll backtrack a little with you. Okay, let’s dish about Perry. *sigh* What was it like the first time you met him? I mean, he’s like baby Roxleigh. Wait, that came out wrong. He’s like a Roxleigh miniat--okay, maybe you get the picture. There are two of them. *dies*
F: Gideon not forthcoming? No!!! I'll have to speak with him about that. *grins* So, Perry. It took me forever to use his "Christian" name you know. Once I was entrenched in the strictures of society it felt so odd. We really take that familiarity for granted these days, particularly in America.

Anywho, Perry. I love him so dearly. I was terribly overcome at first sight of course I mean, yes TWO OF THEM, and I was still rather out of sorts at the time. I think I may have likened them to football players and visitors to the Mad Hatter’s Tea Party. *ponders, shrugs* One was overwhelming enough. But Perry has a very different soul from Gideon, they are both solidly rooted in tradition and driven by grace above all. Perry though, oh he does have some surprises doesn't he? I don't think I should say too much about him. *claps hands* I can’t WAIT for everyone to hear about him!!

K: No. I don’t think you should. Then what would the readers have to look forward to? I love Westy. Er, Mrs. Weston. What was your first impression of her?
F: Westy is just down to earth. I mean, she runs the house like a General, there is no getting around her, her word is law there. I guess I shouldn't call it a house. She is wonderful though. So very dear. I wish she would retire and just move in, but that isn't done, so she continues to work so she can be with us. She doesn’t have kids of her own, I’m trying to get her story, but she is so tight lipped! And oh my how she loves the boys. *smiles*

K: Well, after Jenn sent part 3 I must say: YOU’RE SUCH A HUSSY!!!! It starts off with some sexiness. What the heck brought this on???
F: I was suddenly terrified that I would be sent away. i know Gideon had promised me that he would not let anyone take me, but I had heard that so many times before and I really had not begun to truly trust in him, yet. I was so scared, I just can’t even begin to explain what it feels like to never know whether you’ll sleep in the same bed twice. So I went to him. Part of me wanted an experience to remember, and part of me wanted to make sure he knew how much I felt for him. A little convincing so to speak. I guess it was a bit of a hussy move, but he certainly showed me.

Coming Soon

K: *blushes* Ahem. Yes. A bit of a hussy move but you go girl! Now let’s move on the Hepplewhatsit. I know you probably hate me for asking but life isn’t all about butterflies and fluffy bits of cotton candy. What was your first reaction to finding out who he was?
F: Sheer panic. He...what he did to Lilly. I really just can’t even talk about how angry he makes me. I don’t even think about him as far as what he has done to me. Because I survived fairly well. I was strong enough and smart enough to get away. Not that Lilly isn’t smart and strong, but she was raised in a time when women weren’t rude to men, much less an aristocrat! I just feel for her. That man, that man took everything from her.

K: Ugh. He’s so gross! I’m putting on my big girl panties and interviewing him next. I’m bringing Jamie for that one. Safety in numbers and all. Plus she wields a mean looking riding crop. Anyway, how did you feel about finding out you had “sisters”? And poor Perry. Drinking...
F: Please do have protection. Perhaps the boys should be there to protect you? Though he might not speak at all. Actually, we shouldn’t tell the boys, they might show up and...well. Hmm. Yes, definitely bring Jamie.

Sisters, well I never had sisters, I had foster siblings but wasn’t anywhere long enough really, except maybe Ava. And the girls seem so much younger than me. It’s funny that in our society once you hit 18 everyone under 18 seems a generation apart. But we have become quite close. Though for awhile I was half expecting them to go turning into other people before I learned— things that I should probably not speak on right now. Can you delete that part?

Anyway we are getting along well. Maybe not as sisters, but at the very least as friends. They need more of a mother figure so that’s where I have fallen.

K: I think I’ll keep that if you don’t mind. I actually do agree with you. Okay. Now on to the fun part. No more talk of Lord Yuckness.

Either/Or (I asked Rox the same questions and he gave his legendary one word answers or glared at me. Heh!)

Boxers or briefs
Well...I’m going with commando. Because he does. INAPPROPRIATE!!

Dogs or Cats
Dogs, big ones.

Singing or playing the piano
Oh, have you hear Perry? There is nothing like it. Piano. Oh sorry I’’m supposed to be doing one word. Sorry. From here on out one word. Promise. Perry and the piano. Don’t even get me started.

Dancing or Riding
Wait, I can’t...riding? No dancing. No riding. Yes...riding.

Wallflowers or Belle of the Ball
Wallflowers

Alpha or Beta
Alpha

Virgin widow or Secret baby
Haha, Secret Baby? Maybe? Gasp! Do you have something to tell me???

19th or 21st century
Wherever my Gideon is. pfft. That was Rox’s answer. I mean, where ever you are.

Heir or Spare
Heir.

Love or Duty
Love, without a doubt.

Thanks Francine for hanging out with me. You’re wayyyy more talkative and funner than His Grace. But don’t tell him that. He might have me drawn and quartered.

Haha! I won’t tell, but he might see it! Thank you for having us, this little trip to the 21st century has been fun. Now it’s time to get back to Eildon! I can’t wait. Bye Kati!! *waves*

Noooo!!! Take me with youuuuu. *tries to follow* Well. Damn.


TAKEN: The Rake and the Recluse 

A woman out of time.
A man stifled by propriety.
A nemesis determined to take her away.
A brother to the rescue.

How will a powerful Duke deal with a woman who doesn't know her place? How will a woman used to the 21st century survive in time where she is considered property?

THE RAKE AND THE RECLUSE Part THREE brings Francine and Gideon closer than they ever imagined possible, until the unimaginable tears them apart. What will Gideon do if he loses her, this time, forever? This is the third installment of the completely revised novel, with all new material.

Francine Larrabee woke up on the wrong side of the century. She was fairly certain she went to sleep in her own comfy bed, but she doesn’t quite seem to be there now. Only adding to her problems is that she has no voice, is constantly being glowered at by a large, stunning man who is obsessed with propriety, and she is apparently betrothed to another horrid little man, determined to ruin her, and any other girls that get in his way.
How does she find herself in the past, when she couldn’t even find herself in her present? How does a self sufficient businesswoman survive in a time when women were still considered property for the whole of their lives and what is she going to do with this man who draws her to him so fiercely.

Okay all you wonderful people, Jenn is giving away the FULL SERIAL NOVEL to one(1) lucky reader. As each installment releases, the lucky winner will get a copy for their e-reader. Here's how to get you hands on this one of a kind illustrated novel:

• Leave a comment for Jenn about illustrated novels, time travel or sign language.
• Fill out the rafflecopter form below.

If you follow Jenn's tour here, you'll get a chance at the GRAND PRIZE: a Kindle Fire or Nook Tablet (in the form of a giftcard so you can get your own). You can find the giveaway rules here.

a Rafflecopter giveaway