Instant Attraction

February 3, 2009 | Filed under: Stuff

Update: I went to random.org for the five winners. Here’s what came up:

Random Integer Generator
Here are your random numbers:
37 14 8 48 1
Timestamp: 2009-02-04 03:48:52 UTC

So congrats to . . .
#37 Marie
#14 Julie
#10 Tabitha
#48 Randi
#1 Nina

Email me with your snailmail addy and a few book choices!

Original post:

One day about a year ago I was fretting over not knowing how to start my book. All I knew was that I had three brothers running an adventure expedition company. I wanted the guys to be big and bad and tough, and of course sexy, and I wanted them all to be felled, one by one, by love. I wanted them to fall hard and messily, and I even knew by who.

What I didn’t know was who the hell the first hero was and what he was so damn reluctant and reticent and wounded from, I had no idea what had made him who he was.

And then this song came on the radio. It was by Lifehouse, one of my favorite bands, and as I listened to the song, I realized they’d been kind enough to solve all my problems. The words to Whatever It Takes had me suddenly fully understanding the hero.

I love it when that happens.

As you might have noticed given how much I keep mentioning it, INSTANT ATTRACTION is on the shelves. I just wanted to give a big shout out and eternal THANK YOU to Lifehouse for writing the song that put everything into perspective when I most desperately needed it. Here’s the lyrics that started it all.

Whatever It Takes
By LIFEHOUSE

A strangled smile fell from your face
It kills me that I hurt you this way
The worst part is that I didn’t even know
Now there’s a million reasons for you to go
But if you can find a reason to stay

I’ll do whatever it takes
To turn this around
I know what’s at stake
I know that I’ve let you down
And if you give me a chance
Believe that I can change
I’ll keep us together whatever it takes

She said “If we’re gonna make this work
You gotta let me inside even though it hurts
Don’t hide the broken parts that I need to see”
She said “Like it or not it’s the way it’s gotta be
You gotta love yourself if you can ever love me”

I’ll do whatever it takes
To turn this around
I know what’s at stake
I know that I’ve let you down
And if you give me a chance
And give me a break
I’ll keep us together, I know you deserve much better

But remember the time I told you the way that I felt
That I’d be lost without you and never find myself
Let’s hold onto each other above everything else
Start over, start over

I’ll do whatever it takes
To turn this around
I know what’s at stake
I know I’ve let you down
And if you give me a chance
and believe that I can change
I’ll keep us together whatever it takes

Yep, this song solved it all for me, and out of it came one tortured Cameron Wilder and the woman who would forever change his life. For those of you who haven’t yet gotten the book, click here for an excerpt of this and other upcoming books of mine, or if you really want to make my day and keep me from filling out that Taco Bell application, click here to buy.

In the meantime, I royally screwed up a couple of weeks ago when I held a contest, got really sick, and never named a winner. I’m so very sorry. To make things up to you, I’ll draw FIVE names from today’s comments, all of whom will get a book of their choice from my backlist.

But before you go, here’s the question of the day. In today’s economy where we’re all pinching pennies, what books are you buying, if any? Have you cut back? Still grabbing them off the shelves? Or buying ereads? Paperbacks? Or still hardcovers? Just your absolute favorite authors (which ones?), or are you still taking chances on a new-to-you author? Buying only on recommendations? Or gut instincts? Inquiring minds want to know. As for me, I’ve been having some fun rereading some old favorites like Janet Evanovich’s Plum series.

Posted by Jill @ 1:00 am | Make a Comment

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Nina says:

Actually the financial crisis has not affected my bookshelves yet. Okay, living on a tight student budget doesn’t allow for much book shopping and I might tighten the budget for the big booksale in late Feb, but not so far. I have cut back on buying a lot of other stuff though like clothes and shoes which I only buy when needed. I have too much clothes anyway but I cannot have too many books.

Nina
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 1:47 am
MJ says:

I’ve bought yours, CJ Lyons and Robyn Carr’s newest in the past two weeks, but I’m getting SEP and Suzanne Brockmann and Lisa Kleypas’s new hardcovers from the library. Sorry, ladies!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 3:45 am
Debbie says:

I’ve been re-reading what I have instead of buying new, but there are some authors that I save up for their latest release. Besides you, that includes Karen Rose, Robyn Carr, Nora Roberts/JD Robb. Deb
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 3:47 am
KZA says:

My husband just got laid off, so my book-buying habit is on indefinite hiatus . If I were to do any purchasing, I’d be interested in your books (honestly, I’m not trying to suck up, it just reads that way) and anything by Rachel Gibson, Susan Elizabeth Phillips, Kresley Cole and Karen Hawkins. In the meantime, I’m re-reading favorites, going to the library and reading my daughter’s Twilight books that she got for Christmas.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 4:23 am
Stacy ~ says:

Jill! I totally love Lifehouse. I saw them @ the 4th of July last year. They totally rocked.

I’ve been reading from my TBR pile mostly. But I definitely bought Brockmann’s book. I’ll also be getting Lisa Kleypas’ book.

I put so much aside from each paycheck into a book fund. I know, I’m such a dork (and I’ve mentioned this many times before about my weird savings habits), and I have an acct for my car, vacation, Christmas, clothes. This helps me keep track of my money and not spend it so carelessly. It actually works. I save my change and put that towards bills. It’s amazing how much I’ve managed to save and still enjoy treating myself. And there’s no way I can give up books! “Instant Gratification” is on my tbb list
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 4:32 am
Pat L. says:

Paperbacks. Hd Covers are too expensive – if it is something I really really want to read before it comes out in paperback, I get it from my library.

Must read authors are Jill something or other, Robyn Carr, SEP, Susan Mallery, Rachel Gibson, Catherine Anderson, Toni Blake, Lori Foster to name a few. Some I will buy, some I get from my library. I got a lot after Christmas with my Borders gift certifs and since they had lots of great cpns, really stretched the gc’s – saved about $40 – I got a lot of books.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 4:33 am
StaceyB says:

I still buy a lot of book, but I have cut back. I use to buy series, so I can read them all at one time. I’ve stopped. I’ve learned to read the first book, then decide if to buy the rest. That leaves me open to buy more of my favorites and new authors that catch my eye.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 4:47 am
Laura says:

It’s not the economy that has me cutting back on book buying – it’s being in school and having no time to read that’s doing it. But, I have some friends that have books coming out and time or no time, I’ll be buying those books so that they’re immediately available when I do have time to read.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 4:48 am
Jac says:

I have definitely had to cut back. I refuse to buy hardback books, always have. What’s the point of spending 3 times the amount to have a book that is less comfy to read? I did get a lot of books for christmas and my bday, so that was nice, but now it’s off to the library I go. I still buy some books new though whenever I have a little extra money. And then I usually pick by how colorful the cover is. Weird, I know.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 4:57 am
Tabitha says:

I said I would cut back on buying books, and I have to a certain extent. I am buying more used books now than I have before and when I purchase new I always go to Borders and use coupons. Whereas before I would not hesitate to buy hardcover books now I stick to hardcovers for select authors — ie. Karen Rose, Nora Roberts, and J.D. Robb. As for paperbacks, my author somewhat extensive due to some long-time favorite authors and lots of new-for-me authors which I have discovered through recommendations such as Book Binge, Dear Author, Stacy’s Place on Earth, and Smart Bitches. Now I don’t often lack for books to read, and I’m thankful for that because my commute to and from work is 2hrs and that’s a long time if I have nothing to read.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 5:13 am
Tina L says:

I don’t buy a lot of books. The library is my best friend. The books I do buy are usually at the Good Will or rummage sales or the bargin bin at the bookstore. I do buy some paperbacks at discount stores. I always ask for B&N gift cards for holidays and birthdays and use those to buy books that I want to own.

I have a large stockpile of books right now that could keep me busy for several months including two of yours.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 5:14 am
Tami Brothers says:

I’ve definitely had to cut back. I wish I could pick them all up, but after the co I worked for closed up shop back in March, we’ve had to tighten our belts big time.

BUT, I still have my moments. There will be times when I see one book on the shelf (while grovery shopping) and grab it. Then there are the times when I see five books on the shelf. Those are the times I go with out my Chi tea or vow to take the time to make waffles for my son’s breakfast instead of the toaster ones. Oh, the sacrifices we have to make…grin…
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 5:18 am
Fannie says:

I have had to cut back on buying books since I retired. In the winter especially when heating bills are higher. I do still buy a few each month but only paperbacks. Hard backs are just too expensive. I just bought Wicked Games by Lisa Jackson and Nancy Bush. Good. Prize by Brenda Joyce, also good and Sizzle and Burn by Jayne Ann Krentz. I just started it but really good so far. I plan to buy Your book when I go to WalMart to pick up my monthly medicine. It sounds really good from the excerpt. I volunteer once a week in my church’s Thrift Store and usually can find a few used books to read also. People donate them after the read them. Have a great day and hugs to all.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 5:31 am
julie says:

I’ve bought your new one and Suzanne Brockmann’s new one. And I’m hoping to get Karen Rose’s new one soon but we’ll see.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 5:49 am
Cindy says:

Having just made a new family budget for the year
, I have found most of our money getting eaten…literally. With 3 boys who have decided to go through their growth spurts together, that’s where a huge chunk of our money goes. My hubby is coming home for lunch now or packing lunch to take with him to work.

Book wise, I’m not buying hardcovers. I have found a nice used bookstore where I have been able to trade/buy some good titles. Mostly, Paperbackbookswap.com has been a lifesaver!! I have gotten most of my new releases from there. Some I have to wait longer than others, but I’ve saved a TON! As for my special Jill titles…my birthday is next week and a Barnes&Noble card is going to be in my grubby little hands. Nuff said! Like previous posters, I seriously read the review from many sites and look at my Romantic Times mag to get a good idea of the book.

Cindy in VA
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 5:49 am
Sonya says:

Cut back on books? They’re my “cookies”!!! Besides, I only have a dozen or so authors that I faithfully read so I try to stick to that list. But in these economic times I don’t buy outside of my favorite author list unless it comes with a high recommendation.

LOVED Instant Attraction! Can’t wait for the other Wilder brothers to fall.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 6:08 am
Laurie says:

I’ll admit to cutting back a tad – I’m a little more reluctant to try new authors. I’m also doing a lot of rereading of some old faves.

There’s a celebration for the release of INSTANT ATTRACTION with a giveaway on my blog – Jill’s giving away two books! Please pop in!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 6:42 am
Liza says:

I usually only buy JD Robb’s books in hardback now. I don’t think I’ve really reduced the number of books I’m buying. I am getting new-to-me authors from the library first. I’m also getting more new releases in hardback from the library and waiting to buy for the paperback.

I’m also trying to read more books from my tbr pile.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 6:48 am
Shannon says:

No matter what, I’ll always buy the newest Nora Roberts/J.D. Robb book, whether it’s in paperback or hardback. There are a few others that I buy new, like Janet Evanovich.

Generally speaking, I do not buy books by authors that I’ve never heard of, unless it’s on a recommendation from a friend. However, I did buy my first Jill Shalvis book without knowing who you were. I was at the Green Valley Book Fair and I saw a book with a pretty cover of a beach that I liked…so I bought it. Turns out it was The Trouble With Paradise by the talented Jill Shalvis and I’ve been buying all your books I can get my hands on since!

I’ve also just recently introduced your books to a friend. I loaned her my copy of Instant Attraction yesterday and she finished it last night and called me begging for more book titles!! I told her she needed to go to the store and buy her own copies!! Haha
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 6:55 am
Melinda says:

KZA I wanted to let you know that I had been laid off over the summer and was able to find a job, so there is hope. Hang in there.

Jill I love your books!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 7:13 am
sls-rainey says:

I am still buying books. I have cut back a smidge. Mostly because I have no room for more books. I went digital because of space issues. Most of my books I’m buying digital now. Some (if not avail in digital or I can’t stand to wait) I will purchase in pbk or hrdbk. I don’t have a preference in styles it’s all about how much I want the book and if I can stand to wait. Or if the roads are ICY and I have to wait like I did for IA. Loved the book not the wait.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 7:18 am
Tina says:

I haven’t cut back. I don’t drink (alot)or smoke so my list of vices is only books, so I think I am entiled to them.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 7:37 am
Maureen says:

I still buy my paperbacks and it’s usually based on authors I like but sometimes I’ll pick up an author I don’t know if the blurb looks good.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 7:48 am
Natasha says:

I haven’t found that it has. I had already cut my book buying WAYYY down as it was beginning to get ridiculous. I am now making use of my library and their Inter Library Loans. But I also know that if I don’t buy any books I will go on a binge, SO, I have also set aside $20 a month that I am allowed to use to buy books. I have begun the switch to e-books, as I find them easier to read(I don’t have to take a book with me everywhere, it is all on my iPhone), plus we plan to move soonish, and I don’t want to lug the books all over!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 7:54 am
april says:

Sadly, I haven’t curbed any of my book buying though I did cut back years ago and stuck to that habit. This month, I bought everything it seems. Not to mention I bought a Tara Taylor Quinn book as a reward to myself at the grocery store last week. I’m 2 books behind with her (but I do own them), but she’s one of my favorites “oh, I forgot I liked her” authors.

Kristin Hannah’s True Colors
Suzanne Brockmann’s Dark of Night
Jill Shalvis’s Instant Attraction
Pam Jenoff’s Almost Home (for book club)
Susan Elizabeth Phillips’s What I Did For Love & Glitter Baby
Farrah Rochon’s Rescue Me
J.D. Robb’s Promises in Death
Susan Wiggs’s Fireside

I have very few books coming out in the next few months at least. The hard part is that many of them are hardcover which were annoying. I also didn’t realize that J.D. Robb’s comes out LATE February so I have to wait for all the EARLY February releases.

I’ve heard nothing but good things about Instant Attraction so I can’t wait to read it!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 7:55 am
Moonlissa says:

I have not really cut back…but last Tuesday when BN did not have a new harback discount on Suzanne Brockmann and Susan Elizabeth Phillips new hardcovers I did turn right around and return them. (I asked the cashier if they were discounted and she said yes!) I just ordered them from Amazon so I could make sure to get a discount. It didn’t really matter because I had a new Jill Shalvis to read!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 7:59 am
Ashley says:

So far thank goodness, I’ve still been able to afford my book addiction :relieved: The books are a little cheaper on the Kindle so that helps some! And I’ve also been re-reading my favorites, like your Sexy series, which is awesome! I tend to stick with my favorite authors(which you are at the top of my list of faves) but if something catches my eye I’ll definately give it a shot.
Have you read Plum Spooky yet, it was really fun!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 8:10 am
Stephanie says:

i’m utilizing the library more and more right now. if i find a book that i just adore then i go out and buy it.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 8:41 am
Jennifer says:

My book buying for myself has decreased over the last 3 years, owing to moving to the MIDDLE OF NOWHERE, Alberta. When I do get to see the city lights, I’m *almost* ashamed to say I head for the nearest Chapters. I’ve done some shopping on Amazon, and the local drugstore has a selection of the Top Ten Best Sellers (paper back), so I do occasionally pick up one there. I’ve discovered that a good friend and I share the same book genre interest, so we’ve been swapping books. That sure helps, as I seem to need a book (or three) on the go at all times. (and I’ve even had to resort to my hubby’s sci fi collection..shudder) However, school book orders appear around here regularly, so I’m still buying books every month…for my daughter. She’s a more voracious reader than I right now. She’s in grade 2 and LOVES to read, so there are lots of Sandy Lane horse books and Rainbow Fairies books kicking around.

Okay, that was probably more info than most folks want to read. lol Have a great Tuesday Jill and Jill-readers!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 8:42 am
Jackie C says:

I have been counting my lucky stars that I live in Las Vegas. There is one of the finest library systems on the left side of the country here. I have two fav used books stores and a huge wish list at Amazon. Weekly I check on the newbies at the grocery mass market racks and will grab a new release from my list of fav authors. No HB’s now…nope, no more the last one I bought from a fav author, the story was so short and awful that I haven’t bought any more from her and no more on HB.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 8:44 am
Melissa says:

I have not cut back at all on my book buying. It seems like everyday lately I am buying a book from somewhere or another. Jill I buy books like you eat cookies. It is definetly an addiction. Just recently I have bought books from Jill, Lori Foster, Julie Garwood, JoAnn Ross, Jennifer Crusie, Erin McCarthy, Monica McCarty, Lucy Monroe etc, etc. Just recently re-read all of Tara Janzen’s Crazy and Loose books. They are fantastic if you haven’t read them. I don’t plan on cutting down in the near future that I know of. I am however very interested in digital books. Would really like to know more about the Kindle and if it is worth buying. Wuold appreciate it if anyone could tell me.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 9:01 am
trish c says:

I am still looking for Instant Attraction. Living in RI stinks when it comes to finding a Jill Shalvis book. For reasons unknown, the big bookstores don’t seem to carry them. I just bought Lori Fosters My Man Michael because it was at Target. (Luck) :rotfl: I just read the Shack (not romance) by William P. Young, but I think everyone should get there hands on a copy. I love SEP as well, but no more money right now. When I get my check this week it will be Instant Attraction and I will have to buy it online!!!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 9:02 am
Robin says:

That’s the one area where I still spend my money. I love books! I’m addicted to buying them. I was lucky to get several gift cards over the holidays to Barnes & Noble so I’m still using those and my TBR pile is way too big, but I can’t stop. It makes me happy to hold a new book in my hands. I always buy my favorite authors, will buy on recommendation, but will also buy if something just grabs me. BTW, the Stephanie Plum series is one of my all time favorites!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 9:08 am
sarah says:

I’ve fallen so in love with reading on my iPhone, that I’m still buying like crazy from eReader.com. They have discounted prices, and then member rebates — I’ve earned several free books, so, I guess it is saving money over buying off the shelves.

Also, I asked my sister for a gift certificate for Christmas — she gave me $50 at Fictionwise, and with all of their member rebates, I’m definitely taking chances on new-to-me authors.

It’s so much easier to go grab an author’s backlist online, too, once I’ve enjoyed a recent book.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 9:27 am
Jen R. says:

Hey Jill! It’s my birthday today, so if I win the drawing, I will just be one plum happy girl! We’ve already talked a bit about the economy and its impact on reading. I’m buying my favorites – you and Nora Roberts mainly – and then I get the eHarlequin eBook deal for Blaze every month. I spend <$20 a month on books. I feel bad for that, even, although it’s my one guilty pleasure and source of entertainment! I buy eBooks because it is better for the environment and many times better for my pocketbook. I only really make an exception for Nora Robert’s books just because I tend to reread each one ten or more times, and if our world came crashing down and I couldn’t access electricity anymore (this is totally tongue-in-cheek!) I would have to have her books on hand.

I only get hardback in my favorite sci-fi/fantasy books because I also reread those ones so many times that the paper bindings break. I read a lot (at least a book a day), and I tend to reread more than I read new books, just because I always forget to return books to the library on time (and can’t afford the fines) and I can’t afford new books!

…That’s probably more information then you really wanted. In any case, I look forward to checking back and seeing if I won a book.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 9:40 am
Stephanee says:

I’ve been catching up on my TBR and not buying as much as I used to. But, if I see a really good excerpt or intriguing concept, I’ll still buy from either old favorite authors or newbies, I’m just limiting myself to only 1-3 purchases a month. Always on the lookout for discounted prices and/or freebies on the Kindle, which means I can sometimes buy more. You know, girl math!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 9:48 am
Marie says:

Lifehouse is sooo good! I heard that they’re coming out with a new album later this year, can’t wait.

I’m not buying as many books as I used to. If I buy anything I stick to my favorite authors and paperbacks. And I’ve been re-reading at lot of my old favorites.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 9:55 am
Georganna says:

I used to buy whatever books looked interesting in the stores. With the economy, I’ve had to curb my purchases to only my auto-buy authors. The rest I try to get out of the library. Our county has a great library system, and there have been only a few books that I haven’t been able to find.
My auto-buy authors are J.R. Ward, S.E. Phillips, Jennifer Crusie, Carly Phillips, and, of course, Jill! :yes: (Just to name some off the top of my head.)
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 10:09 am
Kirsten says:

Recently, I’ve been relying on my local library and inter-library loan for most of my books. I read a book from the library and if I feel I’ll read it over and over I’ll purchase it. I’ve never liked holding hardbacks, have shelves full of paperbacks, and I am slowly going digital. Looking forward to reading IA.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 10:14 am
Anna says:

About 6 months ago I started using the library more. Not because of the economy, but because I was determined to finished off the dang auto loan in December. Socking all that extra money to the auto loan REALLY cut into my extra spending cash.

Then for Christmas hubby got me a Sony eReader, so now I’m going to try buying more ebooks. Yay!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 10:38 am
Victoria says:

I haven’t held back cuz of the economy. I bought a car in November so I have a car payment so I can’t buy as many books. I mostly buy my favorite authors like you, of course, Alison Kent, Karen Rose, Rachel Gibson, Tami Hoag, etc. And not hardbacks. I just read them at the library and buy later. And I don’t buy new authors anymore. I try to get at least one of their books from the library first just to make sure I like their writing style. I mean, the story idea could be great but if it’s not written with style it seems such a waste.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 10:48 am
Darlene says:

I’ve cut back on the book buying and am trading with my friends. They have some I want to read and vice versa. I need more friends!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 11:06 am
Steph says:

I’m horrendously broke and in college, so I can almost never afford books (and with the job market the way it is and no guarantee of a job after graduation I’m in no position to spend money I don’t have on a credit card) So at the point, I’ll find out about an author, read a whole lot of excerpts from them online (Google Books it particularly helpful, because they get a big enough except to get me into the story and then just cut me off so I HAVE to go bet the book) to see if I’m really going to like them/lower the risk of wasting my money.

And even then, sometimes I just can’t justify spending the money, so I just torture myself reading the excerpts.

It’s a stupidly long process, but if I don’t buy their book, I’m just going to see if I can get it from the library the next time I go home and tell myself I don’t have the time to read while at school anyway. Which is true.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 11:24 am
Steph says:

(wow, sorry for all those typos)
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 11:25 am
Andey says:

Okay, after reading Instant Attraction (finally- took me a few days to hide from the kids so I could read it, stupid snow days), I have to agree- that song describes Cam perfectly.

Excellent story as always… I’m looking forward to reading Stone and TJ’s stories.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 11:35 am
cheryl c. says:

The financial crisis has not affected my book-buying. I always get the mass-market paperbacks, and I think the modest cost is worth the hours of entertainment that I get. Book-buying and reading are my biggest vices, and I am not going to give them up! :no:
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 11:49 am
Susan says:

Over the past 30 years that I have lived on a budget I have learned how to manage to figure out where cuts can be made so I won’t have to cut back on books. It would be a sin to cut back on books! :yes:
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 12:16 pm
Randi says:

I always buy Jill’s books and Janet Evanovich’s books. There are others that are most reads, too, like SEP. I am always at the library or looking at the website and putting books on hold there. Also, paperbackswap.com has been a great way for me to read new books and continually swap them with others who want to read them. It’s been wonderful for me and my children’s reading!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 12:16 pm
SonyaM says:

I’m still buying books by my favorite authors and some new ones, but not buying them as quickly as I once would have. I’m not getting all my books on their Release Date. My puchases have been spread out…
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 12:22 pm
Donna M says:

My financial crises started a couple of years ago due to being laid off–yuck! After job hunting for a year and a half with no luck I decided to just be retired. Due to a much smaller income I do buy fewer books. I do still buybut with more discretion. The library system in my county is taking up some of the slack, I wait until I get a discount w/ coupons or have earned a bit extra with my pet/house sitting so can have a splurge. I’ve been active at eHarlequin for several years which gives me a chance for discounts, a free book now & then, I am a member of an online book swap which is great when you want older books. Books are my vice, my must haves, my entertainment along with to much TV!! I will pick up Instant Attraction as soon as the checkbook allows!! Mostly I stick to favorite authors but will use the library to try a new one then decide if I want to buy or just read when the library has the next book. Another bargain for books is the big book sale that Friends of the Library has twice a year. The books are cheap and the money helps the library which is suffering due to lack of funds a win-win situation for all. For a long time I’ve mostly read paperbacks. Hardbacks are to heavy and way to expensive.
By the way, I am reading On The Street Where She Lives which I am loving. How did I miss this book when it first came out. Can’t remember how I got this copy but it is a good read. I’m close to the end and I can’t wait to see how it all wraps up.

Everyone enjoy the day!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 12:43 pm
Jill D says:

The economy has put a curb on buying as many new. I am fortunate to have two daughters, a mother-in-law and sister-in-law to share with so I do feel my book buying is justified when 5 people or more are going to be sharing. But I do only purchase paperback unless hardback is a very good deal. But in my household of 5 the only one who doesn’t read is the man, the rest of us have a book at all times and a pile waiting! In our town the hospital holds a book fair every summer with donated books in all categories for just .60¢ a book! :thumbsup: I try to stock up and save those for in between new books. I tend to buy from my favorite authors but a cover of a book will also cause me to pick it up and give it a look (especially when there is a hunk on the cover like IA). The internet is a great tool for finding info and excerpts to help with buying decisions to find out what the new books are plus you can read an excerpt and decide if you want to read it. I enjoy visiting my favorite authors web sites and reading their blogs and keeping up with their news about new releases.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 12:46 pm
Christina T. says:

I have not cut back on buying books. I have a huge tBR pile. My sister and I share books, but more me sharing b/c I read so much faster than she does. I will sometimes have her go and buy a book I know she will read. My fav authors to list a few are: Jill, Suzanne Brockmann, Rachel Gibson, Janet Evanovich, Kay Hooper, Catherine coulter. Lauren Danes hmm I could go on and on!!!
I just picked up your new book at Borders yesterday I asked the clerk how many had she sold and she said out of the 20 they got in, I bought the last one!!! So you are popular here is NW Florida!!!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 12:48 pm
Lisa Freeman says:

Hard backs have never been in my budget and I have cut back on the number of trade books I buy. Some of them cost $15 now! I’ll buy authors I know I like and look for others at the Goodwill store. As for MM, occasionally I’ll pick up a new author but only if someone recommends it that shares my reading tastes.

I know Laurie has recommended Instant Attraction and that’s good enough for me. I’ll look forward to finding this one on the shelves.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 12:57 pm
limecello says:

Jill – Wow – that’s so generous! (I’m going to keep my fingers crossed – and whine because this week and today esp have been shitty so …) But anyway I’ve cut down a lot on my book buying, but that’s because I went on giant spending sprees right around/before Christmas. Well, and also for all the other obvious reasons. I’m a book store member so I get coupons and discounts… but I’ve always been a library lover.
I’ll probably buy Kresley Cole’s newest at some point – especially because I have all her other books in the IAD series. (I get sucked into series, which is also why I can’t stand them.)
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 1:00 pm
Brandy says:

When grocery prices and gas prices started to rise last year I had to cut back on my book purchases. I don’t buy hardcovers-I get those from the library. I buy very few trade size unless it’s an author I absolutley adore (Jill) *g* and I buy a few MM paperbacks a month. I also visit the UBS.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 1:41 pm
trish says:

Purchased (ebook) and read “Instant Attraction” on Sunday – loved it!! I have been waiting impatiently for this book because I lived and worked that whole outdoor adventure thing in the past. You did a great job getting the details right (I get annoyed by other authors who send a heroine with flower-scented hair out on the trail and she doesn’t immediately die from a massive black fly attack). Now I can’t wait to read about the brothers!

I have cut back on buying dead tree books – but only because I finished entering my collection in LibraryThing (code name trishkit over there) and came to the shocking realization that I own almost 1,700 books!!

For the last 6 months I have been buying most of my romance and scifi as ebooks. I have a Cybook and love it. Ever since I discovered sites such as Dear Author and SBTB I find that I now buy MORE romance than before, thanks to the reviews. That’s how I discovered you! Prior to that I would test out romance authors through my family’s book-lending chain or by library borrowing.

I still purchase all of my non-fiction in dead-tree format. For some reason I still prefer to buy my mysteries at the bookstore. Probably because so many of them are series.

I love the library – but I tend use it to find older books.

Now I have a question: Do authors make the same amount of money from ebook sales?
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 1:43 pm
Robyn says:

To be honest i have not cut done my book-buying though i probably should…just this weekend i bought your new book and the new one by lori foster…i dont really buy hardcovers to much. mostly though i get my books from the UBS unless its a new and must have release. so all in all its not that bad.
BTW: the new book was GREAT!!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 2:25 pm
Stacy S says:

I have put myself on a book budget :hissyfit: . I’ll space them out. I do buy new to me authors still. If several of my favorites have books out the same week then I’ll go ahead & get them, but then I can’t buy any new ones for alittle bit.
Already got my copy of IA and thought it was great!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 3:04 pm
Karin says:

I haven’t had a chance to pick up Cameron’s story yet, but I’m really looking forward to it – now more than before.

My book buying hasn’t really slowed down. I still pick up some new authors, but they’re mostly be recommendation. On occasion when I’m just wandering around the bookstore, I may pick something up randomly, but that doesn’t happen often because I don’t have much time to actually go to the bookstore.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 3:32 pm
Jane says:

I have cut back a little. If I want to try a new author, I’ll borrow it from the library if it’s available. I haven’t bought a hardcover in a long time.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 3:44 pm
Diane W says:

Sorry to hear you have been ill :sick: but glad you are on the mend .
Since reading is something I love to do, I have not cut back on my books so much as I have become more particular about which books I buy. Tried and true authors that have become favorites of mine, I have no problem buying the actual book. I like the feel of a book in my hands and I can throw it in my purse for the doctor’s office or the airport. New authors (new to me) I am not sure of, I usually start out with E-books and move to the real thing if I like the story and writing style of the author.
I buy a lot of books from Amazon.com. I like to see the book, read the reviews, and I really like it when I can read an excerpt of the book. Let’s me get a feel for it. Same goes for the E-book sites I visit. Like I said, I have become more particular!
As for hardcover, I really have to want the book!! For example, I have pre-ordered the next J.R. Ward, Black Dagger Brotherhood book that is being released in hardcover. Love the series and cannot wait for the paperback. I need to know what happens!
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 5:02 pm
Diane W says:

Sorry!! One more thing! I read and loved Instant Attraction!! I have been reading mystery-suspense and vampire stories and I needed a change. Instant Attraction was the perfect book to break my trend. Smart, funny, no one gets their throat ripped open…who could ask for more? I am eager for the next book in the series and yes, I buy your books, not E-books. You are one of my favorites and you books are on my keeper shelf.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 5:13 pm
Rebekka says:

Yeah! Great book. I first found your books last summer at the library and the “local author” tag caught my attention. I am not a dedicated romance book reader but read all your books that the library had then went ahead and bought a few as well. I’m looking forward to the next in the Wilder series.
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 8:39 pm
kh says:

ty wtg winenrs
Posted on February 3rd, 2009 at 10:04 pm
Robyn says:

I never buy new. There are several buy and trade book shops near by that I go to. The gals there know me and put back those paperback books I’m looking for. I have come across hard to find books in thrift stores and church bazaars. Hard covers are too expensive and take up too much room. I have my favorites such as Linda Howard, Julie Garwood, Diana Palmer, Beverly Barton, to name a few that I buy no matter what. I love the short story and books with 3 or 4 authors. That’s how I started reading your work. :thumbsup:
Posted on February 4th, 2009 at 11:21 pm