Yes, yes, it’s the 15th. But awhile back, Hubby and I decided to celebrate Valentine’s Day on the 15th, rather than the 14th, and not because the candy’s on sale, though that’s a perfectly good reason. So this year, I’m doing something similar: we’re celebrating on the 15th – with vintage romances.
I recently had an email from a reader, DM, who found a Laurie McBain title she’d loved years and years ago on sale in the bookstore’s romance section – and she was so very happy to be able to buy a new one, as her old copy was long lost:
I just got back from my lunch break sweep through Borders. While snatching up the new Alice Hoffman, the latest Guildhunter & Loose Ends, a familiar and beloved name caught my eye from the new release rack: Laurie McBain. Yes, it was a soft cover edition of “Devil’s Desire.” I thought to myself, this is HUGE. Did I miss something? The bitchery should know this! There’s a whole generation out there who’ve missed out on the awesomeness that was Laurie McBain; the woman who started the hero as not such an alphhole rapist trend. One can only hope that the rest of her books are soon to receive similar treatment. Not that I’ll need to shell out for them I still have all the originals including the carrot topped fleeing virgin covered “Devil’s Desire.” I keep them away from the sun in a box marked “my precious”… Anyway, just wanted to share.
I admit, I never read a McBain, and DM says that among her favorites are Moonstruck Madness and Devil’s Desire. Woo hoo! Books to add to the romance re-read pile.
McBain’s books are being reprinted as part of the Sourcebooks Casabalanca Classics line, which is headed by Leah Hultenschmidt and brings new editions of classic romances to the bookstore. I asked Leah a few questions about the line, and about the books she’s looking to publish as part of Casablanca Classics.
What makes a good classic romance that you think has to be republished to reach a new audience?
We’ve been primarily concentrating on romances that helped define the genre in some way, yet still have an irresistible hero and heroine. They might not fit as neatly into today’s “romance” mold (if such a broad genre can be said to have a mold), but that’s what’s been so exciting about bringing them out again. To me, they’re “The Godfather” of romance—so much has been based on these works and the ideas have been adapted in a number of ways, but the original never feels old.
What are some plot points or characteristics that speak to readers today, and which ones do you think should be avoided?
I can’t tell you how many times I’ve heard “I wish they’d like romance like they used to.” These readers aren’t missing the potential does-she-want-it/doesn’t-she? sex scenes, the purple euphemisms or insipid heroines that you sometimes find in early works of the genre. Thank goodness we’ve evolved a lot in that respect—and the really good writers never bothered with them anyway. But there is a scope missing in a lot of today’s books, that epic sense since you used to get in historical romance that page-count requirements and the drive for pacing have often eliminated in the current market.
For example, in Laurie McBain’s TEARS OF GOLD (Aug.), we’re more than 100 pages in before the main characters are even in the same state. I’d not likely let a newer author get away with separating the hero and heroine so long. But in Laurie’s book, it absolutely works and by the time they do come together—HELL-O! The anticipation leaves the reader begging.
And in LEGACY (March), Jeanette Baker does what we’ve been calling a timeslip—a modern-day hero or heroine going through a similar struggle as counterparts in the past. No one actually goes back in time a la Diana Gabaldon (another favorite), but you get a great sense of how a historical conflict is still immensely relevant today.
What authors or books would you LOVE to republish, and which of the books released so far as a Casablanca Classic do you adore the most?
I’ve always been a huge fan of Laura Kinsale, so having those books on the list has been a dream come true for me. Same with Roberta Gellis—her historical detail is stunning.
As for who comes next, I’d love to hear what your readers have to say! Anything out of print at least 5 years but preferably 10 is fair game. And if they’re bestselling award-winners, all the better.
OK, then, let’s tell them what to do. Leah and the Sourcebooks crew have a few sets of the Classics line to give away for your guys. Yay! Books! All you have to do is leave a comment and tell us what book you’d like to see as part of the Casablanca Classics line, a romance from long ago that would rock our house today, and you’re entered to win. If you don’t have a book to suggest but you love the older romances, tell us something you love about them that you don’t see so much in romances published today – good or bad.
I’ll draw five winners, and each winner will receive a set of the following books:
Disclaimer: I’m not being compensated for this giveaway. Void where prohibited. Black socks, they never get dirty. The longer you wear them, the stiffer they get. Open to international entries, though the shipping will probably take awhile. Any resemblance to any persons living or dead will probably be remarked upon on some blog somewhere.
So, tell us: what vintage romance should be back on your shelves, all shiny and new?
Add my name to the list of “A Rose In Winter” fans. My decades-long crush on Christopher Seton shows no sign of abating.
Spamword child83. I wasn’t a child, but that book was published in ‘83.
Seconded.
The Windflower. I know that many before me have mentioned this, but I think we’re all in the same boat. We’ve heard so many raves about the book on sites like these, but it’s impossible to find a copy at a reasonable price.
I’ve also heard a lot of good things about Linda Howard’s early romances, but I’ve never run across any. If they were reprinted, I’d definitely give them a try.
Previous mentions that I heartily agree with:
– Anything out of print by Loretta Chase. It was awesome that they reprinted the earlier Carsington books leading up to LC’s lastest release.
– The Judy Cuevas books and Judith Ivory’s out of print titles
– The Windflower (I’ve not yet read it but y’all have me looking forward to it!)
– I have been so thrilled to see Georgette Heyer’s books republished. I, too, wish they weren’t so pricey, but just having them on the shelves for new readers to discover rocks my socks.
– I’m really excited about all the Mary Balogh titles scheduled to be reprinted. Hopefully they’ll get to all of them as some are very hard to find. ^_^
– I love Laura Kinsale. Hopefully if any of her titles are still out of print that’ll be fixed soon. Yay Sourcebooks! Looking at the publication dates for these books has me realize how startling it is that 5 years ago was 2006, and ten years ago was 2001. Good grief but time flies!
I am new to the genre, but I love the older Georgette Heyere -esqe books!
Well, they aren’t straight romances, but Jane Aiken Hodge and M. M. Kaye are both certainly good authors.
I would absolutely love to see Laura London’s The Windflower reissued! I paid an ridiculous price to get my hands on a copy—so worth it—but I would love it if everyone else could enjoy this book too. How awesome would it be to have The Windflower as a book club selection?!
HI Leah!
First I would like to thank Sourcebooks for the Classics line. I think it’s brilliant to be republishing these romances that have been out of print and bringing it to new readers like myself. I found Laura Kinsale because of it and look forward to whatever other authors you decide to republish.
Personally I am a huge Patricia Cabot fan (before she became Meg Cabot). I love love love IMPROPER PROPOSAL, and EDUCATING CAROLINE.
And some of Kat Martin’s earlier romances, definitely not like being written today…then of course there is Bertrice Small. Her Skye O’Malley series is definitely epic and I do miss that in romance today which is why I’m glad you are bringing back some of these “classics”. Any of her books would be a great addition.
A few other authors I like to see back in print are older Judith Ivory and Patricia Grasso.
You have the best job ever!!!
Can I add a vote for LaVyrle Spencer? Even if her “contemporary” books are dated like pegging pants, they have a sweetness to them that’s hard to find these days. I saw Morning Glory was reprinted . . .
Johanna Lindsey’s DEFY NOT THE HEART or HEARTS AFLAME or SAVAGE THUNDER…really I could go on, she wrote some great heroines that didn’t take all the alpha crap handed to them!
I hope they could reissue the old loveswept romances that are out of print. I had a wonderful time reading early romance novels of great authors like Suzanne Brockmann, Erin St. Clair (Sandra Brown), Iris Johansen, and Tami Hoag. I wish they could publish some of the titles by Barbara Boswell. Another author I enjoyed reading is Patricia Burroughs.
Heartily seconding the wish for a re-issue of Windflower—though in my case it’s because I’m eager to read it for the first time based on reputation alone, and would love to get attached to my own shiny new copy.
And YES to the scope of old-school romances being something I wish there was still more of.
All of the Woodiwisses (Woodiwissi?). In no specific order.
Ann Maxwell. Ann Maxwell, Ann Maxwell, Ann Maxwell. Specifically The Diamond Tiger. I love this book so much: suspense, strong heroine and hero who cooperate intelligently with each other, an interesting take on racial politics, research and detail that never felt like info-dump. This is the first contemporary that I read that convinced me that contemporaries are worth reading.
I have read it so many times that it is now in four parts: the cover and three sections, all held together by rubber bands.
Captcha: figure68: I figure this book caused me to buy at least 68 books I never would have tried before that I now totally enjoy. (Including books on mineralogy, arctic travel, gemstones, Australian politics, photography, and desert survival tactics as well as contemp romances)
I want to second Roberta Gellis, especially Bond of Blood, Jane Aiken Hodge, Madeleine Brent, and Patricia Veryan.
Special mention should also go to Red Adam’s Lady by Grace Ingram.
I’d also like to throw in a word for Sheila Simonson’s regencies and backlists by Carla Kelly, Kathleen Gillis Seidel, Barbara Samuel/Ruth Wind.
All of these are well worthy of being re-released.
I wish to read this Windflower everyone keeps talking about. Every time it comes up in the comments, I keep wishing I could find it…waiting just for me on the shelves of the used bookstore.
Jude Deveraux and Johanna Lindsey’s earlier books should be on everyone’s shelves because they rock.
Nonsuch Lure by Mary Luke—this was my gateway book into paranormal romance-lovely story about reincarnation with well done history…I really want to read this one again.
Anything by Jill Barnett. Also, the anthology “Lovers’ Legacy”.
Essie Summers! She wrote Mills and Boon based in New Zealand in the 50s through 70s, and I LOVE them – I’ve spent many hours searching second hand shops in search of copies to keep for my own but they’re really hard to find.
Because I’m fussy I have to correct myself and say 50s through to the 90s, which I didn’t know until just then. Many thanks, Wikipedia.
I’m going to have to say Windflower, even though I’ve never read it, because with all these recommendations I really want to now!
I would love to see Madeleine Brent’s historical romances re-published. It took a while to collect my favorites, but thanks to Paperbackswap I got Moonraker’s Bride, The Long Masquerade, Merlin’s Keep, Tregaron’s Daughter, and Stranger at Wildings. If they ever decide to release shiny new copies I would get those too.
@Daisy – I’m pretty certain I have a couple of Kay Hooper Loveswept in a box in storage. What title are you missing? No promises and no idea when I will get to that box – potential rennovations looming, but if I have it, I’d be happy to send it to you.
I must say these comments are a happy walk down memory lane – I recognize so many of the old series authors… Essie Summers, Jane Donnelly, etc. etc.
Oh, I’d adore the old Dinah Dean Masquerades, both the Russians and the Country Cousins. Tatya’s Story, Flight from the Eagle, The Briar Rose, The Country Cousins. I loved them, and they are soooo hard to get.
I would love to see a reprint of The Windflower. I’ve never read it and if it were reprinted, it would immediately jump to the top of the TBR pile. I’d also love to read Anne Stuart’s early work.
Are some of Jo Beverley’s old enough to count?
cent25==It’s not my two cents, ‘cause it’s worth more!
It’s already been said a few times, and I don’t think I’m someone with contest-winning mojo, but just in case: Mary Balogh’s backlist! Yeah!
“Windflower” by Laura London—but then it would just cause a bunch of angst because they never followed up with Cat’s story.
I don’t know that I’m old enough to come of with republishable books lol. can I still enter?
Anything by Patricia Veryan needs to be re-published. It’s a crime that everyone remembers Heyer and forgets her 🙁 I love them both, but Patricia wins, for better plots, more interesting characters and less random historical info-dump in weird places. A number of hers were re-published in paperback with really pretty updated covers (those old paperbacks and hardcovers are getting kind of worn, and they cost up to $150 to replace, eeeek!). They totally have to do all 29 books, but at the very least The Wagered Widow, The Tyrant and The Mandarin of Mayfair because they’re all awesome hilariousness and adventure. And probably Never Doubt I Love and Love Alters Not, because the latter wins the award for the Almost Only Romance Author Who Almost Has An Old Skool Rape But Decides To Actually Have the Heroine Bonk the Drunken Hero On the Head 🙂 which really was kind of bad for me, because I was totally unprepared when I read the Flame & the Flower at 16 and I was like “WHAT???? NO WHACK THE HORNY HERO???? You’re just going to be all ‘oh noes!…oh wells!’ ?????”…oh well.
Most of Georgette Heyer’s were re-published with very pretty covers, but on Amazon they seem to change and switch around (the advertised cover for The Black Moth was the cover I received when I ordered These Old Shades…weird).
Also, Anne Stuart’s oldies, like Lord Satan’s Bride (that was like, the first almost or almost first romance I read after The Tyrant) and The Demon Count, because I love the story but really hate the covers of both (the cover for Lord Satan’s Bride has really weird faced peoples, and there’s bunches and lumps in awkward places, like the heroine’s lap…).
A Rose in Winter has a really gorgeous snowy castle with a rose cover that I just bought…just for the cover…because my old copy was a really random purple solid with some dumb silver snowflake on it.
Windflower. Kind of obvious – everyone has talked it up so much that I am just crazy to read it, and can’t. Feh.
Gaffney’s Wyckerly, ditto. My library only had one, and not the one I wanted.
Carla Kelly’s Signet backlist – I’m missing 3, and they’re driving me nuts.
Older Kleypas, Chase & Julia Quinn would be excellent, too.
@Jennifer
NAL is reprinting some of her trad regencies, and it looks like others are slowly reprinting her Rogues and other backlist titles.
Hmm re-relased romance?
Mary Balogh
Patricia Gaffney
Laura London
Laura Kinsale
I can never find these author’s older books = (
I’m so late here everyone has eaten all the food and already left but I had to add that I LOVE McBain and still have battered copies of both those books. I hope they re-release the rest. The book that came after Moonstruck Madness, Chance the Winds of Fortune, is also brilliant – a sumptuous, romantic read full of cross dressing and wicked pirates and slippery naked baths and having come on here and quickly glanced at what I’ve missed I see from the comments that there is a THIRD book which somehow slipped off my radar, Dark Before the Rising Sun. Sarah as you have a hotline to Sourcebooks please ask them to HaBO and reprint that one quickly!
Mary Balogh!
I LOVED Laurie McBains’ books! It’s a shame she stopped writing after her father passed away. Another favorite was Jo Ann Simon. Her books are Love Once In Passing, Love Once Again and Hold Fast To Love. I lost my copies somewhere.
I also loved reading Patricia Gallagher. Especially Mystic Rose,
Castles in the Air, No Greater Love & On Wings of Dreams. My copies are all yellow with age.
Oh, yes! You didn’t she let Dante knock up Rhea Claire and not have to meet her FATHER?! Not to mention resolve his stepfather’s betrayal. That woman left out nothing.
Totally need new editions or whatever of Patricia Veryan’s novels. The woman got me through high school and college, I love her books 🙂 They’re like Baroness Orczy met Georgette Heyer and said “let us a create someone to write the adventures and the wittiness and the romanticalness but without the info-dump or the inability-to-get-over-your-original-hero-and-heroine-and-instead-have-them-show-up-in-ever-damn-sequelness, and without the rapetasticness and we shall put our minds into yon blender and mold such a creature and she shall be named Patricia Veryan” ha ha. Oh, and she was David Niven’s secretary during WWII so like…she gets heaps of bonus points for just being awesome 🙂
Sweetwater Seduction by Joan Johnston – discovered this early 90s gem at my library. It was a reprint, but it must have been reprinted awhile ago because I can’t find it now. Fabulous historical set in the old west, complete with feuding ranchers and farmers, an uptight school marm heroine trying to keep the peace, and a gunslinger hero hired by one of the feuding sides. Oh, and the h talks the women of the town into withholding sex to try to convince the men to make peace, and the men convince the gunslinger to seduce her. Awesome.
I second the vote for 1990s era Amanda Quick – so sorry I got rid of my Quicks when I was in grad school and trying to eliminate all distractions from my life.
I’m not completely sure that books from the 90s count as “classic” but one thing I love about my favorites from that era is the humor and the quirkiness of both the characters and the plots. Yes, there are romances today that are funny and quirky, but they tend to hit you over the head with their quirkiness – I miss subtlety.