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Want to read a hot romance but pre-holiday preparations have you too busy for a full-length book? We suggest you check out novellas to get your romance story fix. Today, author Karen Erickson tells us why she loves to read (and write) these quick stories and gives us a sneak peek at the latest in her Merry Widows series, "Her Christmas Pleasure." Plus, just in time for the holidays, Karen is giving readers a chance to win a gift card!
Sigh…I love a good historical romance. The first adult romance I ever read — after cutting my teeth on teen romances, especially the Silhouette ones — was The Flame and the Flower. I also became hooked on Jude Deveraux’s various series (Montgomerys and Taggerts — LOVED them all!) as well as LaVyrle Spencer’s heartfelt historical romances. I always wanted to write a historical romance but my first attempts oh, so long ago were…
Awful. Terrible. Which left me discouraged and I gave up (with reason, trust me).
That’s why I’m so excited I finally have a historical romance series out with Carina Press. The second novella in the Merry Widows series, "Her Christmas Pleasure," just came out earlier this week.
So why novella length? There’s not many short historicals out there so I thought perhaps my stories could fill a void. I personally love short stories and novellas. They’re the perfect fix when I’m craving a romance but don’t have a lot of time to read.
When I set out to write what would become "Lessons in Indiscretion," I knew it was going to be short—around twenty thousand words, tops. A quick bit of sexy historical fun—who could ask for anything more?
Well, lots of readers could. I’ve received many a review and comments from readers that they wished the stories were longer! Some readers were pretty upset at the short length. I felt bad. I let them down. But, I also took it as a compliment. They liked the story so much, they wanted more.
I have another Merry Widows novella ("A Scandalous Affair," release date TBD) coming out and it’s a bit longer. Probably still not long enough to satisfy those who want more but hopefully someday, I’ll have a full-length historical romance available to my readers…
Tell me what YOU think. Do you prefer a full-length book or a novella? How about a mixture of both? (I’m in that camp) Let me know your opinion in the comments section and I’ll draw one lucky winner to receive a $10 gift card to either Amazon or Barnes & Noble (winner’s choice!).
And I hope you enjoy "Her Christmas Pleasure" as much as I enjoyed writing it.
- Karen Erickson
You can pick up your own copy of Karen Erickson's newest Merry Widows novella, "Her Christmas Pleasure," now! For more information about the author you can visit her website or follow her on Facebook for her latest updates. And to stay in the loop about all the latest in the genre by stopping by our Everything Romance Page!
GIVEAWAY ALERT: One reader will win a $10 gift card to either Amazon or Barnes & Noble (winner's choice). To enter, just leave a comment about whether you prefer to read a full-length book or a novella. Alternatively, you can email your answer here with your US mailing address and the subject line "Karen Erickson Gift Card Giveaway." The winner will be notified on December 13.
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Novel or Novella?
Submitted by wsl0612 on December 13, 2011 - 1:51pm.
I love both, it depends on the skill of the author, as long as I'm interested it doesn't matter. And a well written novella just leaves me ready for more :-)
Definitley Full-Length
Submitted by jbeth28 on December 13, 2011 - 12:30am.
Novellas can be nice if I only have a short period of time to read, but more often than not, they leave me wanting something more. Full-length novels give the characters and their relationships time to grow and develop in a more satisfying way. Although I definitley prefer full-length, if I love an author I'll read anything they write because I know the length of the story doesn't matter as long as it's written well.
Both!
Submitted by dragongirl_71 on December 8, 2011 - 10:36am.
I love both the full length novels but adore when the novella ties the ends together. So waiting to see if Qhuinn and Blay get their own novella! (BDB)
It depends how much time I
Submitted by Joanne B. (not verified) on December 7, 2011 - 3:33pm.
It depends how much time I have. If time doesn't matter, then a full length novel. If I have less time, then a novella. As long as they're both good stories, I don't think it matters. I'd be happy with either one.
I read both, but I tend to go
Submitted by emilly (not verified) on December 5, 2011 - 7:26pm.
I read both, but I tend to go for a full length. It's really hard to find a good romance novella--there's some really excellent ones out there, but a lot of times I find the characters aren't fleshed out enough for my liking.
Karen Erikson Romance Novella Giveaway
Submitted by Sunnymay on December 5, 2011 - 5:46pm.
On the internet, it's easier to read a novella and I've read a few graphic novellas there. I also like serial novellas where you get a short chapter or page a day on the internet. Full length stories are great for reading in hand and getting to know the characters more thoroughly, so that's what I tend to buy. I've also seen anthologies which have three shorter novels in one, yet have a theme in common.
Full-length book or a novella
Submitted by Susan T. (not verified) on December 5, 2011 - 3:07pm.
I'm all for full length. Reading novella always leave me feeling that it could have been more. Thanks for the giveaway.
Like to read
Submitted by Lindsey L (not verified) on December 5, 2011 - 6:13am.
I read both novels and novellas, sometimes concurrently. I will take the ereader with me while running errands and have a book by the bed to read at night. I like getting to finish a story and sometimes do not have time for an entire novel.
Karen Erickson Gift Card Giveaway
Submitted by cyn209 (not verified) on December 3, 2011 - 8:45pm.
i prefer a full-length novel...........gotta get all of the characters backstories!!!
thank you for this giftcard giveaway!!!
full length or novella
Submitted by marlenebreakfield on December 3, 2011 - 12:19pm.
I like both types of stories. It just depends on my mood.
marlenebreakfield(at)yahoo(dot)com
giveaway
Submitted by ajpohren on December 2, 2011 - 11:04pm.
I have always been a full-length novel lover. However, over the past 6 months or so I have been venturing more into the area of novellas for a nice break between longer books.
For me it's about my mood.
Submitted by Katherine O'Grady (not verified) on December 2, 2011 - 2:26am.
For me it's about my mood. Sometimes I want a quick read with a fast payoff - instant gratification. Other times I want to lose myself in a longer book, enjoy the slower building of the relationship. So for me it varies depending on my mood.
Listening pleasure
Submitted by LilMissMolly on December 2, 2011 - 12:15am.
I enjoy listening to books on CD that are full length, as I can listen almost anywhere - commuting to work, gardening on walks, etc. But when it comes to laying in bed or cuddled up on the couch, I prefer a paperback and novellas are just fine!
GIVEAWAY
Submitted by Eva (not verified) on December 1, 2011 - 2:35pm.
I read both, mostly full-length, but love anthologies for a quick read.
Love to read both!
Submitted by Eva P. (not verified) on December 1, 2011 - 2:09pm.
I think it depends on what I'm in the mood for, sometimes I want to read a story that will take some time to develop, getting to know the characters, etc., other times, you just want a wham-bam-thank you-ma'am type of story ;) it will be short and sweet and just enough to satisfy me...it's great to have the option of either one!
I prefer a full length book
Submitted by Leagh Christensen (not verified) on December 1, 2011 - 1:07pm.
I prefer a full length book only because I tend to not get enough of the characters when reading a novella. I do however like novella's when they are part of a series and tell the story of a secondary character. Novella's are also great when I am looking for a palette cleanser and don't know what genre I want, a novella will give me a quick dose of a certain genre and then I can figure out what to read next. :)
Both
Submitted by CrystalGB on December 1, 2011 - 11:13am.
I like to read both. It depends on how much time I have to read. If I am short on time, a novella is just right to get my romance fix. Thanks for the giveaway.
Crystal816[at]hotmail[dot]com
I prefer a full-length book
Submitted by Robin D (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 10:53pm.
I prefer a full-length book but enjoy novellas too - especially if it is part of a series! Her Christmas Pleasure looks great!
Full Length or Novella?
Submitted by Karen C (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 9:18pm.
I prefer full length novels but enjoy novellas, too. On one hand, novellas can be frustrating because I'm just really getting into the story and it's over. On the other hand, I find novellas satisfying if I'm in one of those moods where I don't know what I want to read. Yup, I like them both!!
Karen C
kacbooks(at)hotmail(dot)com
Novellas or Full Length?
Submitted by Barbara Elness (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 8:40pm.
I actually like both. There are times when I want to read a story that I can finish quickly and a novella fits that need very well. Then there are the times when I want to sit and read all day and I'd rather have a full length novel for that. They both have their uses and I'm glad there's a choice.
Full length though I do enjoy
Submitted by Amanda Cantu (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 7:46pm.
Full length though I do enjoy a novella, I want more character depth and interaction. Pick Me!
HISTORICALS
Submitted by Deborah Brent (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 6:47pm.
I love to read both. I've found lots of new authors by reading anthologies, short stories and novellas.
Thanks for the great giveaway!
Submitted by Kimmy Lange (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 6:45pm.
i like reading a full length book because I love reading about the history of the couple and about the other characters.
I like them both
Submitted by BrooklynShoeBabe on November 30, 2011 - 6:06pm.
I like historical novellas because it isn't my favorite genre. I don't need such detailed descriptions of the scenary, the dresses, or the politics of the time. I just need a simple time set up and then I'm ready to dive into the characterizations! In general, I do like my romance novels to be under 200 pages because I'm a slow reader and I love to read. If everything I read was as big as the last Harry Potter novel, I would only read 2 books a year. lol.
Novella vs. Full Length Novel
Submitted by Anonymous (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 5:50pm.
I like having both options. A full lenght novel allows for character development and a more detailed plot. Novellas are great for a quick fix. I especially enjoy them when I don't have time for a full length novel - it's satisfying to finish reading a story within a reasonable timeframe.
novella or full length book
Submitted by Paula Osborne (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 5:40pm.
I love most books but it is nice once in a while to read shorter ones like the novella, your book looks interesting, thanks for sharing today.
Paula
Novels or Novellas?
Submitted by June M. (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 5:23pm.
I have to say that I love both. I like novels because they are longer, you get to learn more about the characters and the worlds they live it. However, I do love novellas too. They are great for when I want a quick read. There have been times though the the novella was so good that I wished it was a novel, because I did not want it to end.
manning_j2004 at yahoo dot com
Novellas vs full length books
Submitted by Deborah N (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 4:58pm.
I prefer full length books, but I occasionally read novellas, too. BTW, I love the cover of "Her Christmas Pleasure"! Whoever did the design, did a fantastic job! :)
Hmmm... tough choice
Submitted by Alana P (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 4:43pm.
I love both options, but with the full length novels there is just so much more to read and time to get attached to these characters. BUT the novellas allow me to get to the happy ending sooner. It's like the difference between a movie and a tv show... kinda.
Both!
Submitted by Tanya C (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 4:38pm.
I love both novels and novellas. Sometimes I'm in the mood for a quickie, and sometimes in the mood for a long, drawn-out read. It all depends. I love having the options.
Full Legnth Book vs. Novella
Submitted by Jen B. (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 4:36pm.
I don't have a preference. I read a mix of both depending on how much time I have to read, whether or not it is part of a series I am reading, if I find a new author I want to check out, it is part of an anthology, etc. Some novellas are great and some stink. The same is true for full length novels. jepebATverizonDOTnet
I have a soft spot for short
Submitted by Marci (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 4:36pm.
I have a soft spot for short stories. They are great for me because I tend to get sucked in and refuse to put the story down to do boring things like work, eat, sleep, converse with people....
Short or Longer Stories
Submitted by Stephanie G (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 4:34pm.
I MUCH prefer full-length books. One of my favorite reads of all time was a huge book with bite-sized chapters, though. It fit my reading schedule perfectly.
Full length books ftw!
Submitted by Beguile.thy.Sorrow on November 30, 2011 - 4:32pm.
I admit I rarely read novellas, but only because I'm one of those readers that likes to read everything in order from a series and many times I can't figure out where in the timeline a novella fits! lol
Plus, I like reading a full book and getting to know the characters in depth; it lets met enjoy their experiences more and also understand why they've done the things they've done:)
Enjoy them both
Submitted by Na S. (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 4:29pm.
I enjoy both full-length and novellas but read more full-length stories. Some of my favorite Christmas reads are novellas such as A Wallflower Christmas by Lisa Kleypas. I just want a great story but I guess with novellas it has to get to the point :)
Full Length All The Way!
Submitted by Sarah R. (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 4:18pm.
I almost always prefer full length books of any genre because I am such a fast reader that I want something in which I can immerse myself. Every now and then, and based upon the recommendations of friends who read the same genres, I will purchase an anthology if the authors are heavy hitters or favorites. I usually enjoy the anthologies if they are well written, especially if they are themed so the stories link.
v/r,
Sarah R.
Full-length stories are my
Submitted by Leni on November 30, 2011 - 4:06pm.
Full-length stories are my first choice, but if I'm limited on the time that I have to read I will go for the shorter stories.
While I tend to read more
Submitted by Cathy MacDonald (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 4:05pm.
While I tend to read more novel length stories, there is definitely a time and place when a shorter story totally works. Especially around the holidays, when I can sneak away for a bit of me time, getting a chance to finish a fun story in one sitting has it's advantages.
caity_mack at yahoo dot com
Giftcard giveaway
Submitted by KayM (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 4:05pm.
I've not read too many novellas but I've recently downloaded a few to my Kindle. I think they are a great way to enjoy a short read when I don't have a lot of time to devote to starting a book that I won't want to put down.
giveaway
Submitted by Brenda Bell (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 3:45pm.
I like both, it just depends on what kind of reading mood I am in at the time.
Great post and Giveaway
Submitted by Debbie Haupt (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 3:36pm.
I prefer a full length novel, but a great storyteller can make me really enjoy a novella too.
deb
Full-Length or Novella?
Submitted by Felicia M. Ciaudelli (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 3:33pm.
This is a good question - for the most part, I prefer a full-length book - however, I do also enjoy novellas - they are great and "hit the spot" when, as you mentioned, there isn't time to really get into a full-length story!
giveaway
Submitted by blueyes247 (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 3:02pm.
i like reading a full lenght book because the stories last longer
Great post and giveaway!
Submitted by Ashley Applebee (not verified) on November 30, 2011 - 2:50pm.
I'm in the both camp too Karen! Sometimes I read a full length novel that just seems to drag on and should have been shorter, and sometimes I read a novella that ends too quickly and I wish it was a longer story! But I definitely read both :)
Ashley A
ash_app@hotmail.com
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