Rachel De Lune's Blog
January 30, 2022
Do you like Enemies to Lovers?
It started as a standalone… but ended with an Enemies to Lovers romance set between London and Paris.
I used to say I didn’t have a sweet tooth, but I after reading Sweeter Than Sin, I think sweets are my guilty pleasure!
I used to believe in love.
Before him, that is. Before Ezra Steel.
His business takeover of the restaurant where I worked did two things. It cost me my promotion and forced my pulse to race with only his slightest glance. Ezra Steel was the cause of all my problems and my biggest distraction. The twisted tension between us was a thread winding ever tighter until it finally snapped, and I gave into temptation.
That kiss didn’t quench the fire between us, and one night together somehow led to a trip to the romance capital of the world, Paris. A dream. I couldn’t stop my heart from falling, and I allowed myself to hope.
But good things don’t always happen to good people.
And Ezra made sure I knew that. My world crumbled, and my hope turned into hate. It’s a strong word.
But Ezra deserved it.
https://mybook.to/SweeterThanSinRDL
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September 11, 2020
Leo Walker is coming sooooon!
We met Leo in The Two Halves of my Heart…. Well, I fell in love with him and his story is coming on 9th November. Read the blurb now…
A moment is all it takes for love to change your life forever…
All I wanted was a fresh start. Haunted by failure and the ghosts of my past, I met a stranger who caught my eye and quietened my nightmares. And from that moment, I never wanted to lose sight of her again. I didn’t believe in love at first sight, but that was before Astrid.
Beautiful, successful, and sexy, Astrid Cooper was the first girl I ever wanted to call mine. Of course, it couldn’t be that simple. I promised to always do the right thing—but that was a hard vow to keep.
I never told Astrid my secret, but it turned out, I wasn’t the only one with something to hide.
The lies were enough to break us, but I wasn’t going to give up. The last time I had something to fight for, I froze. That wasn’t a mistake I would make twice.
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June 18, 2020
New Release! The Two Halves of my Heart
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November 1, 2016
I popped my signing cherry in Dublin
I wanted to take a few weeks to reflect on the last month because it’s been immense and the main reason? I flew over to Dublin to do my first ever signing as an author at Claddagh Author Event, 2016!!!
First off, I was so nervous that it took a while for everything to sink in. Plus I know that I didn’t go and speak to nearly half of the people I wanted. But I had a blast. I’d only ever been to signings as a reader. I’ve stalked the authors I loved, collected swag and gone home with a massive smile on my face. This wasn’t that much different, although there was a lot more to organise. Swag, sharpies, how many books to take, tickets, luggage allowance, this was my life leading up to leaving. God, the conversations about carrying banners on the plane LOL! But this was all part of the experience and even though my bundle of nerves had me running around getting ready, I loved every minute of it.
I still count myself as a newbie author, so a signing was a huge step for me. I had a wonderful author friend who gave me the nudge I needed to go and do it. Charlotte E Hart is a wonderful friend and I’m so pleased that this author world has thrown us together – snogs lovely! We had a blast, and my bestie was with me as well so it was a proper girly weekend.
The signing room was amazing, although a little intimidating to start with, but once my banner was up and my table decorated, I could relax a little. The first signature I squiggled was a little shaky, but then I got into flow. Have I mentioned how much I love metallic sharpies?
As well as meeting new readers and bloggers, I got to meet a few authors that I’ve been waiting to say hi to for a while. Amelia J Hunter and Grace Harper. And some authors and bloggers that I’ve been fortunate to meet in the past. The wonderful C.J. Fallowfield and the lovely girls from Orchard Book Club and Hourglass Events. It’s so nice to finally meet people that you’ve only ever conversed through social media. That’s one thing that I’ll always be grateful for, the wonderful author/bloggers/readers that I’ve met along the way. Many of who I now count as friends.
My first signing was a fabulous experience and one that I will always remember fondly. It went so quickly and I want to do it all over again. Lucky for me, I have two future signings to look forward to…
White Rose Author Event, York, 13th May 2017
Hourglass Events, Leeds, 3rd March 2018
I’ll need more swag ideas, giveaways and competitions leading up to these, but for now, I’m going to get back to the writing!
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June 14, 2016
Why my book covers are so important to me
Every author loves their book covers. It’s the graphical representation of the story they have poured their soul into. The cover can often sum up both the author and the story; they can be tempting, exciting, beautiful and stunning. Covers can attract readers or put them off. But for me, my covers are a personal triumph.
If you know my writing journey, you’ll know that I never intended to publish. Then, when I finally thought I might self-publish, I knew that I’d want to work on the covers myself. So that is what I did.
I know in my genre the image of rippling abs or a passionate embrace is more expected, but that’s not what I wanted on mine. In More and Forever More, Sebastian sends messages to Izzy through flowers. The language of Flowers by Mandy Kirkby was a gift from a friend many years ago and sits on my shelf for me to refer to now and then. I used this for the research in the story as I wanted Seb to say very particular things in the flowers he sent. And the flowers on the covers are the exact flowers he sends to Izzy in the book. (I’m not going to give away any spoilers!)
I went to my local florist, spoke to her about what I needed, the specifics, what was in season. I had to do a few tweaks as to what I originally wanted, but we got there. I went to collect the flowers a few days later and took them home to photograph. The flowers were beautiful and I enlisted the help of my friend Vic to support me in setting up the photos in my little office.
The added bonus, and personal touch on the cover of Forever More, is that the flowers are resting on my wedding dress. I loved my dress and thought it was the prettiest dress in the world. Now, it’s on the front cover, of one of the books that I wrote. *Grins widely as I type this.*
I had only intended to write these two stories, much to my publisher’s horror. But, she had faith in me, and my third book in the series will be having its cover revealed next month. My design skills got me though my first two books, but I’m glad to hand over that job to a much more talented lady (L J) this time around, and she’s done a fantastic job.
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March 16, 2016
Forever More goes on Tour
Forever More, the second book in The Evermore series is going on tour, thanks to the lovely Wendy and Claire at Bare Naked Words.
The following wonderful blogs will be posting a review of Forever More (there might be some reviews of More as well!). My heartfelt thanks to all of the blogs who have agreed to read and review.
During the tour, I’ll be running a giveaway as well. I’d love it if you could stop in and share the love.
Monday 21st March
Through The Eyes Of A Book Goddess
Tuesday 22nd March
Wednesday 23rd March
Thursday 24th March
Friday 25th March
Books are my friends, come see why
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March 14, 2016
Books, squiggles and friends at #LeedsAuthorEvent2016
This time last year, I attended my first ever book signing in Peterborough. It was fantastic and despite the long car ride home I was buzzing from the experience.
One year later and the wonderful girls at Hourglass Events did it again, this time in Leeds. #LeedsAuthorEvent2016 was an EPIC weekend, and I wasn’t even signing. I knew after Peterborough that I wanted to go back and meet the authors I had met, cement the friendships that had blossomed on social media and support my fellow writers and #PYB Wordy Warriors.
People have asked me ‘what was Leeds like’ and it as easy as it is difficult to try and explain the weekend to those who weren’t there. I felt like I found my extended family. These friends I’ve been talking with on facebook and twitter, supporting book releases and other more general life events are now real people that I’ve hugged and celebrated with. And in turn, they have been supporting me. To meet and hug them, some for the first time, was such a joyous occasion.
Plus THE BOOKS!! I pre-ordered a fair few of these babies and I did have to make a pit-stop at my room before my arm fell off. And I still went back for more. A special part of the day was getting all of my fellow #PYB Wordy Warriors to sign Framed, the anthology that was put together to raise money for Cancer Research. Only the authors have been able to order the paperback and my signed copy is now a cherished possession of mine.
I now have a rather happy book shelf with LOTS of signed books (some of those will be offered as Giveaways soon… keep watching!)
A few special mentions from me…
Leanne – I need to hug you some more! Thank you for all of your support and I’m so glad that we’ve finally met.
Heather – You finally have your man. I’m sure it won’t be long before you’re demanding the next one!
Charlotte – You’re wonderful.
Lisa – Thank you for bringing me into the #PYB world. It was so lovely to meet you. Your gifts were perfect.
Cameron – The mask, the dancing… you certainly know how to party. Here’s to the next one.
Wendy and Claire – Where would I be without you two. You’re new glittery bags were amazing!
David – You were smiling the entire time. I hope the trip was worth it. Here’s hoping for the next one.
Victoria – You are so sweet. But you made me cry. Lets not do that part again, ok??!
Rebecca – I have Benny. Enough said.
Jo and Rachel – Thank you for devoting your hours in making this such an amazing event. I can’t wait for the next one.
#LeedsAuthorEvent2016 will be a special memory for me for so many reasons and I can’t wait until the next event.
For more pictures of what went on, check out Hourglass Events website.
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February 3, 2016
My collection of book boyfriends
We all have them, those books that you get so wrapped up in you want to jump into the pages with the characters.
I love books, and have often lost a full day just sitting with my kindle. Some of the books have characters you simply can’t forget, and I’m not ashamed to say that the ones that seem to hold in my memory are the men!
So here are some of my top book boyfriends and who I’ve imagined them to be!
Jesse Ward from This Man (Jodi Ellen Malpas)
Jesse is a force to be reckoned with in this series and he’s one hell of an alpha. Jessie seems to be the perfect fit for Mr Ward. 
Jessie Pavelka (Source)
Lucien Knight from Knight and Play (Kitty French)
This story had me from the moment that Sophie sealed her application with a kiss! Lucien swept me off my feet and Alexander Skasguard is the man to play the part of Kitty’s Viking sex god.
Alexander Skarsgard (Source)
Rhage / Hollywood from the Black Dagger Brotherhood (J.R.Ward)
This series has a whole host of potential book boyfriends, but Rhage is my favourite. He’s a big softie under all that muscle, brute strength, not to mention his ‘beast’ side. I’d happily supply him with Tootsie Pops!! There isn’t anyone else I picture when I read Rhage. Thor.
Chris Hemsworth (Source)
Griffin Fiske – The Original Sinners (Tiffany Reisz)
Boy oh boy! This series is one of my favourites and I love Griffin. He’s sexy, dominant but the way he takes care of Michael… Put some tattoos and a kilt on Nick and there you have him! Griffin in all of his gorgeous glory!
Nick Bateman (Source)
Simon Weston – Masters and Mercenaries (Lexi Blake)
Now, again, this series has some top contenders for who to could hit my book boyfriend list. I love Big Tag, but I’m just not up for fighting Charlotte for him! So the next Dom for me is Simon Weston. Dreamy, loyal, protective and patient. He’s British and never without a suit. *Sigh*!
Philip Winchester (Source)
Master Z – Master of the Shadowlands (Cherise Sinclair)
This is a wonderful series, but it wouldn’t be the same without Master Z. You can’t help but swoon at his superior alpha and dominant nature and downright wonderfulness! Mr Gandy would play him soooo well.
David Gandy (Source)
Sebastian York and Lucas Clark – The Evermore Series (Rachel De Lune)
I’m biased! But hey. Seb has been in my life for a good few years now but he was cast pretty early on. Seb has amazing eyes—an aquamarine that can be blue, clear or green. It’s the stone on my wedding band so is a special significance to me. 
Ian Somerhalder (Source)
Seb is my first hero I’ve written and so will always hold a place in my heart. He’s the good Dom. The considerate Dom who will worship you as much as he’ll make you scream his name.
Lucas, or Luke, is my new alpha and he’s a little rougher than Seb. A little more Dominant. You’ll get to meet him in the third book of my series. And yes, I have cast him.
Jake Gyllenhaal (Source)
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November 26, 2015
Music and words
Music and words
So who is listening to Adele’s new album at the moment? I had to listen to each of the songs a couple of times before I fell in love with the album. It’s now on repeat when i’m sat at my desk working (not writing!). Listening to her lyrics got me thinking about the songs I had in mind for More. I put this collection together a while ago and shared it with Peggy from Reading Keeps Me Sane Book Blog.
When I’m writing, I’m completely obsessed with the story and my characters. I fall into little day dreams about a scene or a new plot line. And when I’m listening to the radio, I’m listening out for words and songs that resonate with the story I’m crafting.
These are some of the songs that I’ve collected that for me, tell the story of More.
I’m a huge fan of Sam Smith. His music will feature through all of my books. The words always resonate with me and some of his words make me think of my characters.
Here is the first of Sam’s songs that feature on my soundtrack for More.
Make It To Me, Sam Smith
This next track I fell in love with as soon as I heard it. Again, the lyrics seemed to be echoing just what Izzy was going through and it’s been stuck on my own little playlist.
Wicked Games, Parra for Curva
This is a bit more of an upbeat song, although I think it captures the desperation that Izzy feels at times.
Poison, Rita Ora
More is an emotional love story and the heart of it, the pain that love can cause. Paloma Faith has a wonderful voice and this song has been on repeat for much of the editing process of More.
Only Love Can Hurt Like This, Paloma Faith
The second Sam Smith track…
I heard this first with the hype around the new Bond film, it hasn’t been off the radio. I listened and fell in love with the words and the song. There is some debate though, if this is the song for Izzy or for Seb.
I’d love to know what you think.
Writing’s on the Wall, Sam Smith.
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November 23, 2015
Exclusive teaser for The Aftermath by R.J. Prescott
It’s #TeaserTuesday, and the lovely R.J. Prescott has given me this new and exclusive teaser to share with everyone. Isn’t it gorgeous! Once I put my tongue back in my mouth, I got chills from the quote. Looking forward to reading more of R.J’s words.
Preorder Link:
UK: http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B010PIF9AW
Releases 15th December 2015
When you’ve got nothing, you’ve got nothing to lose. But what happens when you have everything you ever wanted? You fight to keep it.
Cormac “the Hurricane” O’Connell’s star is on the rise. Billed as the most promising young boxer of his generation, his new career is taking him to places he never dreamed. But O’Connell only needs one thing in life: his wife. In her final year of college, Em cannot follow him around the world but together they make it work.
Just when everything they ever wanted is on the horizon, the past resurfaces to haunt them and O’Connell realizes that justice might not be a part of his happy ever after.
He couldn’t protect Em once before, but in the aftermath of the hurricane, he will make sure that never happens again.
More ‘visually stimulating’ teasers for both The Aftermath and The Hurricane are on R.J. Prescott’s Facebook page…
If you’re new to R.J. Prescott, you have time to catch up on her USA Today Bestselling smash, The Hurricane, where we meet O’Connell and Emily.
UK – http://www.amazon.co.uk/The-Hurricane-R-J-Prescott-ebook/dp/B010MI6DXM
US – http://www.amazon.com/The-Hurricane-R-J-Prescott-ebook/dp/B010MI6DXM
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