What me - funny? Guest Post by Amanda Forester withand Giveaway

What me - funny?

by Amanda Forester

Two years ago I was on the edge of my seat waiting for the reviews of my first book, The Highlander's Heart.  I was thrilled when Publisher's Weekly gave me a favorable review writing, "the talented Forester has constructed a highly entertaining debut romantic comedy."   Great!  Wonderful!  Wait... comedy?  I wrote a comedy?

Now don't get me wrong, I enjoy a good laugh as much as the next person, but I have no idea how to write anything amusing.  If someone asked me to write something funny, I would stare blankly and edge for the door.  Fortunately, I am not the one in control.  My characters are.  And they are infinitely more amusing than I could ever be. 

Take this moment in True Highland Spirit where my heroine, Morrigan, is trying to spark a little romance in her life:

Etiquette books were of no use whatsoever. Morrigan rummaged through her mother’s things trying to find something useful. She had spent the past two hours struggling to read a book that purported to be a guide for ladies but it was no help.

“Morrigan? Are ye… reading?” asked Alys.

Morrigan glanced up at her sister-in-law. “I think I might show my earlobes.”

“Pardon?”

“This book is no’ verra helpful, but it did warn showing the earlobe may send a man into an uncon­trolled, lustful frenzy.”

“Ye canna show yer earlobe. ’Tis no’ proper.”

“Hang proper. I’m looking for uncontrolled, lustful frenzy.”

I do enjoy reading humor.  In fact, I started reading romance during a particularly difficult time in my life and I naturally gravitated toward books that could make me laugh.  I already had enough of things that could make me cry.  It is the amazing power of humor to lift the spirit and to give the gift of laughter even in difficult circumstances.  Those books were vital and life-affirming to me - so important during the rough times. 

So when I write, I naturally write things I would enjoy reading.  This includes action, adventure, romance, and even if I don't intend it, a moment or two of humor to make it all the more enjoyable.  I especially enjoy characters who are able to laugh at themselves - a very important attribute we all could use!

Do you enjoy humor in books?  What authors have you read that make you laugh out loud?  I love books that make other people in the room stare at me because I'm suddenly overcome with giggles and they have no idea what is wrong with me.  Good times...

Comment for a chance to win a copy of True Highland Spirit!!

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* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.

* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on March 30, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
The WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on March 31. 
Winner will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.