Michelle M. Pillow's Blog, page 4
May 9, 2024
The Allure of Gothic Romance Books
The Allure of Gothic Romance Books: A Comparison of Modern vs. Regency GothicIf you are a fan of romance books, you must have heard of Gothic Romance. These books have been captivating readers for centuries with their dark, brooding heroes, mysterious and evocative landscapes, and spine-tingling plots. However, not all Gothic Romance books are the same. In this blog, we will take a look at some of the key differences between modern Gothic and Regency Gothic, explore some of the common tropes in the stories, and recommend the top five current Gothic Romance books, including Forget Me Not by Michelle M. Pillow.
Modern Gothic vs. Regency GothicGothic fiction is a genre of literature that emerged in the late 18th century and early 19th century. It is characterized by its dark, creepy settings, and its focus on the supernatural, macabre, and terrifying. In modern Gothic, the setting and themes are often contemporary, and the focus is on exploring the psychological turmoil of the characters. In Regency Gothic, the stories are steeped in the historical context of the late 18th and early 19th centuries, with elements of romance and horror. Modern Gothic books often feature a strong female protagonist, whereas Regency Gothic often features a damsel in distress.
Common Tropes in Gothic RomanceGothic romance books feature several common tropes, such as:
A haunted or forbidding mansion or castleAn isolated or remote location, such as a moor or an islandA dark and mysterious hero who is often tormented by a tragic pastA young, innocent, and naive heroine who is often in perilA supernatural or paranormal element, such as ghosts, werewolves, or vampiresA focus on emotions such as fear, horror, and romanceA tragic or bittersweet endingTop Five Current Gothic Romance Books – Get to Reading! Forget Me Not by Michelle M. PillowFrom NYT Bestselling Author Michelle M. Pillow comes a tragically beautiful love story that defies perception.
“Authors like Michelle Pillow are keeping the Gothic tradition alive and well by utilizing standard Gothic plot devices but making them their own as the Gothic evolves into something more spiritual and less terrifying than its originators may have first imagined.”
– Tyler Tichelaar, Ph.D, The Gothic Wanderer
Regency Paranormal Gothic Romance
For readers who enjoy good gothic mysteries, the Regency era, Haunted and Isolated English manors.
Gothikana by RuNyxThe eternal romance of Beauty and the Beast meets the gothic suspense of Dracula in this erotic dark academia story of epic love from bestselling author RuNyx.
An unusual girl. An enigmatic man. An ancient castle. What could go wrong?
An outcast her entire life, Corvina Clemm is left adrift after losing her mother. When she receives the admission letter from the mysterious University of Verenmore, she accepts it as a sign from the universe. The last thing she expects though is an old, secluded castle on top of a mountain riddled with secrets, deceit, and death.
An enigma his entire life, Vad Deverell likes being a closed book but knowing exactly everything that happens in the university. A part-time professor working on his thesis, Vad has been around long enough to know the dangers the castle possesses. And he knows the moment his path crosses with Corvina, she’s dangerous to everything that he is.
They shouldn’t have caught each other’s eye. They cannot be. But a chill-inducing century-old mystery forces them to collide. People have disappeared every five years over the past century, Corvina is getting clues to unraveling it all, and Vad needs to keep an eye on her.
And so begins a tale of the mysterious, the morbid, the macabre, and a deep love that blossoms in the unlikeliest of places.
Listed as a Best of BookTok
The Countess by Catherine CoulterCatherine Coulter’s revamped first novel—a gothic regency romance.
The #1 New York Times bestselling author’s very first novel, rewritten as a Gothic. A woman who makes the wrong choice for a husband may not live to marry the man of her dreams…
Haunting Adeline by H. D. Carlton
The dark and sensual allure of becoming the target of one man’s dangerous obsession is on graphically raw display in this compelling read. – Zoe Blake, USAT Bestselling Author in Dark Romance.
The Manipulator
I can manipulate the emotions of anyone who lets me.
I will make you hurt, make you cry, make you laugh and sigh.
But my words don’t affect him. Especially not when I plead for him to leave.
He’s always there, watching and waiting.
And I can never look away.
Not when I want him to come closer.
The Shadow
I didn’t mean to fall in love.
But now that I have, I can’t stay away.
I’m mesmerized by her smile, by her eyes, and the way she moves.
The way she undresses…
I’ll keep watching and waiting. Until I can make her mine.
And once she is, I’ll never let her go.
Not even when she begs me to.
On the Amazon Charts
Thunder with a Chance of Lovestruck by Mandy M. Roth
When Detective Drest Bright meets his newest charge, sparks literally fly. There is no denying the instant attraction he feels for Rachael Frankenstein. But she’s off-limits, and he knows as much. Her family has been a thorn in the side of the Nightshade Fae Hunters for over a hundred years, and they aren’t about to let him run off into the sunset with her without a fight. But if it’s a fight they want, it’s a fight they’ll get because this lovestruck Fae will do anything he can to be with his mate again.
The Grimm Cove series is full of gothic references and goodness.
Read Regency Gothic Novels
Some of the most popular Regency-era gothic novels include “The Castle of Otranto” by Horace Walpole, “The Mysteries of Udolpho” by Ann Radcliffe, “The Monk” by Matthew Lewis, and “Northanger Abbey” by Jane Austen. These novels feature themes of mystery and horror set amid the aristocratic society of 18th and early 19th century England. Other notable Regency-era gothic novels include “Horrid Mysteries” by Carl Grosse (1) and “Orphan of the Rhine” by Eleanor Sleath (2).
And don’t forget the most inspiring gothic horrors like Bram Stoker’s “Dracula“, Mary Shelley’s “Frankenstein“, Henry James’ “Turn of the Screw“, and Shirley Jackson’s “The Haunting of Hill House“.
Gothic Romance is a genre that has stood the test of time and continues to captivate readers of all ages. Whether you prefer modern or Regency Gothic, there is something for everyone in this genre. So if you are in the mood for a dark and moody romance, pick up one of these top five Gothic Romance books today!
In this article: Gothic Romance, Modern vs. Regency, Forget Me Not. Views of the article writer do not necessarily reflect the views of the author, who may or may not have read the books mentioned.
Sources:“Regency Literature: Gothic.” Regency Reader – regrom.com, 14 Dec. 2010, regrom.com/2010/12/14/regency-literat..., Jane. Northanger Abbey. Oxford World’s Classics, 2003.
May 5, 2024
Paws and Pages: How Supporting Local Animal Shelters Can Change Lives
Here’s a picture of me puppy-wrangling the on-air talent, Roscoe, in the dressing room. He thought my hair was the best toy, lol. (Spoiler Alert: It looks like Roscoe has since found his forever home after filming)
🐾 Supporting Our Furry Friends
Last weekend, I had the opportunity to volunteer as a production assistant for a documentary vignette produced and directed by my husband, John, for Anita and Abandoned to Adored, an animal shelter in Marshall County, Mississippi. Please go like, love, watch, and support the new project!! I greatly admire what Anita and her shelter partner do on a daily basis.
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Watch the Documentary Vignette HERE
See more pictures of Michelle and Roscoe on set!
🐾 Supporting Our Furry Friends – A Message from Your Favorite Romance AuthorHey there, book lovers!
Last weekend, I had the opportunity to volunteer as a production assistant for a documentary vignette produced and directed by my husband, John, for Probohno, Anita and Abandoned to Adored of Marshall County, Mississippi. Please go like, love, watch the documentary vignette, and support the new project here!!I greatly admire what Anita and her shelter partner do on a daily basis.
As a romance author, I know the power of love, compassion, and second chances. Beyond the realms of fiction, there’s a real-world narrative that often goes overlooked – the stories of animals in need of care and kindness. Today, I want to share with you something close to my heart: supporting our local animal shelters.
Our local shelters are filled with wagging tails and gentle purrs longing for a forever home. These shelters are more than just brick and mortar; they are sanctuaries of hope for our furry friends. They offer a safe haven, medical attention, nourishment, and most importantly, love to animals who have faced abandonment or cruelty. By standing with these shelters, we’re giving these beautiful souls a chance at a brighter tomorrow filled with warmth and affection.
By donating your time, money, or resources, you’re not only helping animals in need but also spreading love in its purest form. Every contribution, no matter how big or small, makes a difference.
Speaking from personal experience, volunteering at an animal shelter can be incredibly rewarding. From walking dogs to cuddling kittens, every moment spent with these animals is filled with gratitude and unconditional love.
If you find yourself deeply touched by the animals’ stories and want to do more, consider becoming a temporary foster parent. Fostering is a beautiful way to provide a safe and loving environment for an animal while they await their forever home. It’s a temporary commitment that can make a lasting impact on both the animal’s life and your own.
Whether it’s offering a warm bed for a senior dog or socializing shy kittens, fostering allows you to be part of their journey toward finding happiness and security. The bond that forms during fostering is truly special and can bring immense joy to your life as well. And if you do, be sure to share pictures in the Author FB group! We want to see!!
Our local animal shelters aren’t just facilities; they are pillars of our communities that extend care and education far beyond their walls. They organize outreach programs, educational campaigns, and community events that promote responsible pet ownership and cultivate empathy toward all living beings. By supporting these endeavors, we contribute to building a kinder and more nurturing society for both humans and animals.
So, let’s join paws (or hands) and make this world a better place for all creatures, big and small.
With heartfelt gratitude & thank you for listening,
Michelle
As a romance author, my heart is filled with stories of love, compassion, and second chances. But beyond the pages of my novels lies a real-world narrative that tugs at my heartstrings – the plight of countless animals in need of care and shelter. Today, I want to talk about an issue that is close to my heart: supporting local animal shelters.
The Love Connection:
Local animal shelters are more than just buildings with cages; they are havens of hope for animals in distress. These shelters provide a temporary home, medical care, nourishment, and most importantly, love to animals who have been abandoned or mistreated. By supporting these shelters, we are not just providing for basic needs; we are giving these animals a chance at a new life filled with love and compassion.
The Power of Adoption:
One of the most impactful ways to support animal shelters is through adoption. When you adopt a pet from a shelter, you are not just gaining a furry companion; you are saving a life. Every adoption opens up space in the shelter for another animal in need and helps reduce overcrowding – a serious issue that many shelters face. Furthermore, adopted pets often form strong bonds with their owners and become cherished members of their families.
Community Impact:
Local animal shelters play a crucial role in our communities beyond caring for animals. They often run outreach programs, educational initiatives, and community events that promote responsible pet ownership and kindness towards animals. By supporting these initiatives, we can help build a more compassionate society where both humans and animals thrive together.
Volunteerism and Donations:
If adoption isn’t feasible for you at the moment, there are still many ways to support local animal shelters. Volunteering your time can make a world of difference – from walking dogs to socializing cats or assisting with administrative tasks. Additionally, donations in the form of money, food, blankets, or toys can go a long way in ensuring that shelters have the resources they need to care for their furry residents. Also, please consider becoming a foster. You can commit as little as a week or two in some cases.
Spreading Awareness:
Another impactful way to support local animal shelters is by spreading awareness about their work within your community or on social media platforms like Instagram. By sharing stories of successful adoptions or fundraising events happening at local shelters, you can inspire others to get involved and make a difference in the lives of homeless animals.
A Message from the Heart:
To me, supporting local animal shelters isn’t just about charity; it’s about extending kindness and compassion to our fellow beings who may not have a voice but certainly have feelings as deep as ours. As someone who believes in love stories both on paper and off it, I urge you to consider how you can contribute to this tale of hope and transformation by supporting your local animal shelter today.
When we support local animal shelters, we aren’t just helping animals – we’re fostering empathy, creating stronger communities, and spreading love in its purest form. So let’s come together across borders big or small and make a difference in the lives of those who bring us so much joy – our beloved furry friends.
Remember: Every paw print counts in this beautiful journey called life.
Are you ready to make an impact? Reach out to your nearest animal shelter today to find out how you can support their cause through adoption, volunteering or donations! Together, we can write tales of rescue, recovery, and redemption.
#SupportLocalShelters #AdoptDontShop #AnimalWelfare
December 24, 2023
Twas the Night Before Christmas (2 Free Box Sets)
with Michelle M. Pillow & Mandy M. Roth
Get the books!
Mandy’s PSI-Ops Set eBooks 1-3 Links:
AmazonNookKoboGoogle Play
Apple Books
Michelle’s Dragon Lords Set eBooks 1-4 Links:
AmazonNookKoboGoogle PlayApple Books‘Twas the night before Christmas, in a world so divine, two best friends prepared a gift, of magic combined. Mandy M. Roth and Michelle M. Pillow, their friendship so tight, authors of paranormal romance, on a holiday night.
With twinkles in their eyes and hearts full of glee, they whispered to each other, “Let’s make readers happy!” Mandy’s PSI-Ops Books 1-3, where wolf-shifters roam, and Michelle’s Dragon Lords Books 1-4, in lands unknown.
The moon cast its glow on this enchanted eve. As they planned to give readers stories to believe. “We have FREE* eBooks for you, our dear readers,” they said, “A world of magic and romance within these tales spread.”
So, open your hearts, let your imaginations soar. As you seek these treasures, each magic-filled lore. Mandy and Michelle, with a friendship so dear, wish you a Merry Christmas and a fantastic new year!
*Offer is not available in all countries and at all vendors. Limited time offer, so act fast!
December 3, 2023
Galaxy Alien Mail Order Brides Series Box Sets
Earth women better watch out. Things are about to heat up.
NYT Bestselling Author, Michelle M. Pillow, shows what happens when hot aliens looking for love land in Las Vegas, the city of decadence and sin.
(click on the below links for more format options & info)
Included in the Galaxy Alien Mail Order Brides Books 1 – 3 Box Set:
Spark
Flame
Blaze
Books 1 – 3 Box SetEarth women better watch out. Things are about to heat up.
EbookAudiobook
Apple Books
(click on the below links for more format options & info)
Included in this box set are series books 4 – 6, the blue alien collection:
Ice
Frost
Snow
Books 4 – 6 Box SetDon’t let the blue fool you. These are three hot aliens!
EbookAudiobook
Audible US
Audible UK
Amazon
Apple Books
Lords of the Abyss Box Sets
Can’t get enough box sets and bundles? Get the COMPLETE series!
While mythology may label him and his kind as monsters, this alpha male shapeshifter is simply a man with needs.
Welcome to the underwater world of Atlantes! A paranormal merman (mermaid) shifter romance by NYT Bestselling Author Michelle M. Pillow
(click on the below links for more format options & info)
In the Lords of the Abyss Books 1-3 Box Set :
The Mighty Hunter
Commanding the Tides
Captive of the Deep
Lords of the Abyss Books 1 – 3 Box SetEbookAudiobook
Apple Books
(click on the below links for more format options & info)
In the Lords of the Abyss Books 4-6 Box Set:
Surrender to the Sea
Making Waves
The Merman King
Lords of the Abyss Books 4 – 6 Box SetEbookAudiobook
Audible US
Audible UK
Amazon
Apple Books
Captured by a Dragon-Shifter Series (The Complete Box Set)
(click on the below links for more format options & info)
This Box Set includes books 1-6, the COMPLETE Captured by a Dragon-Shifter series:
Determined Prince
Rebellious Prince
Stranded with the Cajun
Hunted by the Dragon
Mischievous Prince
Headstrong Prince
He’s a dragonshifting prince, and she’s a human. What could possibly go wrong?
NYT Bestselling Author, Michelle M. Pillow’s paranormal shifter romantic comedy series.
EbookAudiobookAudible US
Audible UK
Amazon
Apple Books
Dragon Lords Box Sets
Like buying books in bulk? You’re in luck! Box sets for the Dragon Lords paranormal shifter series are listed below and include both audiobook sets and ebook sets. Please note that book 9: The Dragon’s Queen is not currently in a box set, except for the Michelle’s Bookstore (all) links where you can buy a bundled set of all 9 ebooks.
(click on the below links for more format options & info)
Dragon Lords 1-4 Box Set Includes:
Barbarian Prince
Perfect Prince
Dark Prince
Warrior Prince
Once mated, these shifters will do anything to protect the women they love!
EbookAudiobook
(click on the below links for more format options & info)
Dragon Lords 5-8 Box Set Includes:
His Highness the Duke
The Stubborn Lord
The Reluctant Lord
The Impatient Lord
Once mated, these shifters will do anything to protect the women they love!
EbookAudiobook
Audible US
Audible UK
Amazon
Mede is a strong-willed dragon shifter who refuses to marry. Prince Llyr wants her for himself — but with enemies gathering and time running out, can he persuade her to become his queen?
Dragon Lords Book 9: The Dragon’s QueenEbookAudiobook
November 29, 2023
Romance Audiobooks on Spotify Premium!
TL;DR
If you’re a fan of love stories, then we’ve got just what you need! Spotify Premium now offers over 200,000 romance audiobooks for you to indulge in, including several of Michelle M. Pillow’s fan fave series!
Here’s why you should try Spotify Premium for your next literary escape:
Easy purchase and listening process.Switch seamlessly between your favorite music, podcasts, and audiobooks.Exclusive benefit of 15 hours of audiobook listening every month with a premium subscription.Discover new romance authors and titles.Create the perfect ambiance for your romantic getaway.To find Michelle M. Pillow’s audiobooks:
Go to the audiobook page and find the book you’re interested in.Click the Audiobook Link Dropdown menu.Click Spotify. If the book is currently there, it will be listed on this page.So, whether you’re commuting to work or cozied up at home, let the captivating narrations carry you away into one of Michelle’s magical worlds of romance.
The Magic of Romance with Spotify Premium AudiobooksSpotify Premium, the beloved streaming platform, now brings you an extensive collection of romance audiobooks from Michelle M. Pillow. Whether you’re a long-time fan of romance novels or a newcomer to the genre, Spotify Premium offers a convenient way to indulge.
Endless Selection of Audiobooks:
With Spotify Premium, you gain access to over 200,000 audiobook titles in their subscriber catalog, including a wide range of Michelle’s novels. Since finding authors and audiobooks can be a little tricky on Spotify, we have included the direct links on the pages of the book on this website.
Easy Purchase and Listening Process:
If you’re looking to listen to individual audiobooks on Spotify, Premium allows you to do just that. Through the Spotify Web Player, you can explore audiobook titles available for purchase. Once you’ve found a title that catches your interest, simply make a one-time purchase by providing your payment details. The audiobook will then be ready for your listening pleasure, easily accessible in the app on all your devices.
Seamless Listening Experience:
Spotify Premium lets you seamlessly switch between music, podcasts, and audiobooks all within a single app.
15 Hours of Audiobook Listening Time:
As a Premium subscriber, you now have the exclusive benefit of enjoying 15 hours of audiobook listening time every month from Spotify’s subscriber catalog. This means you can listen to 15 hours or Michelle’s stories every month! Make the most of those stolen moments during your commute, workout sessions, or before bed.
PRO TIP! If there is an audiobook being given away for FREE by an author, listen to the 15 hours of paid audiobooks first. So the free book doesn’t count toward your 15.
Premium audiobook availability may vary by region and subscription type. Visit Spotify’s official website for the most up-to-date information
November 28, 2023
Flash Giveaway: FREE Audio King of the Unblessed
Ends Dec 1st!
King of the Unblessedby Michelle M. Pillow
Realm Immortal Book 1
A scintillating romance: When the elfin king Merrick tricks Lady Juliana into entering his realm, he plans on seducing her and claiming her as his own. Can she resist his temptations, or will she give in to his immortal will?
Free Audiobook for a limited time!
Grab it at these vendors:
iTunes
Love what you see? Click the graphic to check out the series!
November 20, 2023
New Book: The Eighth Potion
You can now binge-read the COMPLETE series.
Amazon Googleplay Apple Books Kobo Nook All Links The Eighth PotionOrder of Magic Series Paranormal Women’s Fiction & Romance from NYT & USAT Bestselling Author Michelle M. Pillow.
After a fake psychic scammed her mother out of her retirement, Cynthia Clarkson has made it her life’s mission to expose every single one of those charlatans. So when she hears a rumor that a group of women in Freewild Cove are claiming to help loved ones move on after death, she’s all over it.
Josh Adler is just the latest in a long line of victims. Cynthia is determined to help him see the truth, and falling for him isn’t part of the plan. She thought she’d seen every trick in the book, but there are some phenomena she can’t explain. These women are good, but she’s better. Even if it kills her, she will get to the bottom of the mystery.
Unless, of course, the demon they claim is after her catches her first.
5 Stars! “This group of more mature women kick a**! (As Vivien says) This whole series will grab your attention and keep you reading. The characters are so diverse and interesting and the storylines do not lag. I love the whole series.”
topcat952Bookbub
5 Stars! “This is an awesome paranormal romance! I liked it very much. It is clever and interesting, with wonderful characters.” Marianne, Bookbub (2023)
5 Stars! “Another winner in the author’s series includes women over forty who still have lives to live and adventures to find, and even possibly love.” Cheri, Goodreads (2023)
5 Stars! “Another book in a fantastic series. You get to see the other characters from previous books interact and do what they do best, creating an extended family and defeating evil.” Lydia Cain, Goodreads (2023)
