I’ve been on a mission the past couple of months, trying to figure out where to branch out next as a writer. I’ve put together submissions for major publishers and am waiting now for verdicts. While I wait, I hatch. Part of the incubation period (tired of this analogy yet?) is research.

This past week I read one Harlequin Intrigue a day to get a feel for the line and to see if I’d even be interested in giving them a shot. The results were uneven. Two of the books completely blew—characters who all spoke the same, including Native Americans, and an 8-year old boy; plot holes big enough to drive a semi through; a female cop too stupid to report a stalker (oh, it might just be boys having some fun (puhleez!)—you name it, I suffered through it.

The middle three were all right, but nothing I would aspire to write because I was tempted several times to put them down and find something to eat—never a good sign when I read a book, because I know I’m bored.

One was very good, but still had a couple of logic leaps in the plot, but then there was THE ONE.

He was known as a tough-as-nails tycoon. Then one pregnant beauty penetrated his steely reserve.

Shipping tycoon Jackson Champion hadn’t become a Texas billionaire by crumbling under pressure. So when his sexy assistant, Ysabel Sanchez, decided to walk away from him and his mega-successful corporation, he wasn’t taking no for an answer. After all, memories of their recent one-night stand had consumed him, and now Ysabel’s inability to meet his eye made him wonder what she wasn’t telling him. But exploring their feelings had to wait. An unknown enemy intended to bring down Champion Shipping, and Jackson was an expert at protecting what was his. But could he also lay claim to Ysabel and the secrets she had yet to reveal?

You are going to say I’m prejudiced because Elle James is my sister. But my sister will tell you I’d be hardest on her because we are related! Her book had everything. Non-stop action, sensuality simmering on every page, humor, REAL characters! And it was set in Texas! If you’ve never tried an Intrigue, start here! Yes, the title is silly and the cover doesn’t do a thing for me—but neither of them were her choices. The story inside is to die for!
Read the rest of this entry »