I've actually had the pleasure of reading 'Never a Gentleman" and it is one of my most favorite books ever. I love that the heroine is able to capture the love and attention of all the men that she meets on the battlefield following her father because she is willing to give so much of herself and ask for nothing in return. I love how Diccan falls in love with her -though he pretends he isn't to protect her life- for the very same reason, and while I wanted to hate Diccan at times, I couldn't because he was hating himself enough for all of us. I know the part Eileen is referring to where some people have criticised Grace for not acting like they would act - but they weren't thinking like someone who was Grace - someone who doesn't have expectations that a man like Diccan can ever love her, that she was married only because of being compromised, and that she was throwing herself at him to tell him that she was willing to be his everything if he was willing - I thought it was one of the most powerful and emotional part of the whole book! This was writing at its best - you will laugh, you will cry, you won't want to put this book down, its just that good.
I love getting newsletters from authors that keep us up to date even when the author doesn't have a book coming out 'right at this moment'. I like when an author shares personal stories, a recipe, pictures - whatever - it makes me have a more personal connection with the author.