As my readers already know, I love historical romance. No surprise, right? So it makes me very happy to have a fellow historical romance writer on the blog today, and one who writes outside the standard, sometimes very confining boxes. She’s Jannine Corti Petska and she’s the author of historical fiction novels and romances set in a variety of different time periods and locations, and with really interesting heroes and heroines–including a gypsy, an Italian knight, a professional gambler in the Old West, and a French spy in Naples. Cool!
Jannine is hear today to tell us a little bit about her herself and new book, set in Medieval Italy. Take it away, Jannine!
SURRENDER TO HONOR is the second book of my 4-book Italian medieval series. It’s set in 15th century Palermo and takes a look at the beginning of the Mafia.
What genres besides your own do you like to read in?
I read romantic suspense. I also love to read autobiographies and biographies of celebrities from the golden era of Hollywood as well as those of Italian soccer stars.
Do you do a lot of reading while you’re writing a book, or does that mess with your voice?
I haven’t had time to read an entire book in years, which is unfortunate. There are so many great stories I’ve missed out on. However, I’ll try to find a book that’s around my era, and when I get stuck or feel like I’m straying from the era, I’ll read a few paragraphs and get back into medieval or western mode. The problem is, 99% of my medievals are set in Italy. It’s not a place where books are usually set.
I don’t think it messes with my voice. At least I’ve never felt it was a problem.
Do you listen to music while you’re writing?
I used to, but the older I get, the more peace and quiet I need so I can concentrate. <g>
You’re stranded on a deserted island and can only have two luxury items with you. What would they be?
I’ve answered a question like this before. I can’t recall what I said, but at this moment it would be a computer and never-ending coffee. I think a hunky guy would be a distraction, lol. Of course, I’d have to have at least one dog.
I can definitely relate to having a dog with you. And now, a little info about Jannine’s series…
THE LILY AND THE FALCON, book 1 of Jannine’s Italian medieval series
Bianca degli Albizzi is outraged when sworn enemy Cristiano de’ Medici asks for her hand in marriage. With her father’s blessing, she weds the handsome warrior to end the war between Florence’s two powerful families. But headstrong Bianca vows to teach her husband that loyalty cannot be bought…not even by seduction.
Cristiano, a well-known warrior with the wealth of a king, could have any woman he desires. But for the sake of peace he ends up with a defiant bride who awakens his deepest passion. Her vengeful scheming puts them both in peril, but is he prepared to sacrifice his life to safeguard the woman who has stolen his heart?
SURRENDER TO HONOR, book 2 of Jannine’s Italian medieval series
Prima Ranieri seeks retribution for her family’s death and loss of home and land. Her plans go awry when the heir to the powerful Massaro family returns home. After only one glance, Prima’s attraction to him undermines her furor toward those she blames for her plight.
After a fifteen year absence, Antonio Massaro returns to Palermo to find a war raging between his family and the evil Falcone. His refusal to accept his rightful position as the head of the Honored Society carries serious consequences. The welfare of the people of Palermo is at stake. But one look at the beautiful woman Prima has become costs him his heart. She’s a deadly distraction…one that jeopardizes her life as well as his own.
Oh, my gosh! They sound wonderful, don’t they? And so different! Readers, check out the details on Jannine’s website, which includes excerpts, buy links, and reviews for all her books.
And for my readers today, Jannine is giving away a copy of one of her books. Just tell me which type of romantic hero you’d prefer to woe you: an Italian knight, a gypsy lover, or a French spy? One person who comments will win a copy of Jannine’s book!
I’m loving the idea of a French spy. All the intrigue & deception. Though I have to say I would not toss an Italian knight or a gypsy lover out in the cold.
an Italian knight sounds romantic, a gypsy lover sounds mysterious and a French spy sounds intellegent. i think i choice all the hero 😉 *greddy
Ooh..such difficult choices… If I can’t take all 3, I’ll have to choose a French spy… It’s the French accent…
LOL, the French spy has caught everyone’s attention. Actually, the hero is half French and half Italian. That book, Dante’s Flame, is book three of my Italian medieval series and will be released close to summertime.
Ann, Eli and May, thank you so much for reading my interview and commenting.
Jannine, though I know publishers are drawn to settings and eras that are proven sellers, I am very interested in your medieval stories set in Italy. I love the rich history of the period, and must confess I am less informed about the age in Italy than in the UK.
Thanks for providing another angle and setting for this fascinating time.
I love this series and can’t wait for the next installment. I recommended these on my blog. Keep on taking us to unique destinations, Janine!
I would loved to be wooed by a scottish highlander. I would want to find out what they wear under their kilts:)
Alas, Gail, I don’t write Scottish historicals. Sorry.
Derek, when I began writing medievals set in Italy in the mid-90s, all I heard from editors and agents is that Italy will not sell. They told me to set them in England instead. Well, I’m Italian, and that’s where my heart will always be. And of course, being a stubborn Italian, I never gave up shopping my series around. 🙂
Angela, thank you so much for the recommendation. You have made my day!
I love this time period as a romantic novel setting. Can’t wait to read it!
Doesn’t it sound great, Isabella? Oh, and I think I’d go with the Italian knight. Since my mother’s family was Italian, I don’t think I’d have much choice!
How to choose? They all sound dreamy. A French Spy turns my emotions on, so I’ll go with him. Wonderful post, Jannine. Best, Joy
Isabella, I love your name. The name of my heroine in my short story Mine to Keep is Elizabella, a variation of your name. That story was written for the Love Letters Anthologyfrom The Wild Rose Press and should be out later in the year. It’s set in 1405 Padua.
Thanks for coming by.
What part of Italy is your mom’s family from, Vanessa?
As for the Italian knight, I don’t care what he is as long as he’s Italian. LOL
They’re from the Naples area, Jannine – one of the villages outside. Very beautiful country!
Vanessa, book 4 of my Italian medieval series, Dante’s Flame, is set in Naples. The hero is the French-Italian spy everyone seems so crazy about.
Grrr, I made a boo boo. Dante’s Flame is book 3.
Joy, my sweet, dear friend. Thank you for commenting.
I miss seeing you. We’ll have to get together for coffee soon.
Ciao bella.
An Italian knight appeals!
LOL, that’s what I thought, too!!!
A french spy
Your books sound very good.
I’m loving the idea of a italian knight, especially when have word Black and Dangerous..LOL!!
Thank you everyone for visiting and commenting.
And Vanessa, I had a blast here. Many thanks.