Those who know me well, will smile when I say this is a fair summation of my views regarding posting newsy tidbits of note or 'glory.' Too much can sound like bragging. Too little, and something that may have interested readers might slide by unnoticed.

While I enjoy sharing the special places in Scotland that help guide my pen, and even though I love to delve into the lore (and lure!) of medieval Scotland, I am hesitant to step forward and announce anything that might seem even remotely boastful or self-aggrandizing. Or more bluntly: I do not want any  "Wow! Look at me!" announcements jumping out at you from my website's Home Page. I like keeping a low profile, and rather than drawing attention to myself, my only wish is to be able to  keep writing books that will continue to please my readers. I want you to fall in love with Scotland - not me.

As mentioned on this website's Homepage, I much prefer the quietude and peace of a cozy, thick-walled cottage with its smoky sweet peat fire, to the glory and grandeur of a medieval worthy's sparkling court.

But, since the 'birth' of this website, I have received quite a few wonderfully warm e-messages from visitors asking for news of my books. And I have also been blessed with some exceptionally nice experiences ... such as seeing DEVIL IN A KILT win RT's Reviewers' Choice Award for "Best First Historical Romance of 2001".

Therefore, to address the interest expressed by those who have asked, I am adding this section where you can learn about anything new and exciting regarding my books.

My friends will chuckle again, for this mindset saves me from feeling as if I am posting my good tidings on a banner and waving it from the most prominent castle tower, accompanied by trumpet blasts and fanfare! They know I would much prefer you catch such messages yourselves ... perhaps by wandering through a dark and windswept bog on the fictitious Hebridean Isle of Doon (the setting of KNIGHT IN MY BED) and coming upon old Devorgilla. She is a most mischievous crone in my second book ... an intrepid soul who would not be at all shy about wagging her tattling tongue to regale you with all manner of prattle.

Here, too, for those who so desire, is a form to sign up to receive periodical e-updates about my books, appearances such as at writing conferences or RT's annual Booklover's Convention, and other such tidbits that may be of interest.

There is also the possibility to sign up to receive postcards of my book covers, flyers, and even a birthday card via regular mail ... if you like.

Join the mailing list

Or simply visit this page on occasion to see what is happening and where my bold and braw heroes and their courageous-hearted ladies are taking me. Until next we meet ....

Brightest Blessings!

Although Sue-Ellen roundly believes that horn tooting is vile enough to have one vanishing in sulfurous puffs of brimstone, old Devorgilla with her cheeky impudence, has conjured the stunning RT ad Warner Books did for Robbie's book, Sue-Ellen's July 2005 release, ONLY FOR A KNIGHT. Dear Devorgilla is also bold enough to share a wee snippet from the ad's wording: "A passion hot enough to sear souls. How long can two lovers resist the desire that burns in their hearts?"

To be sure, the high moors and emptiest glens must be echoing with old Devorgilla's delighted cackles, for that one's redoubtable skill and charms have reaped yet more wonder, awe, and magic: WEDDING FOR A KNIGHT, the crone is excited to reveal, has gone into its third printing.... and within a mere week or two of its release. Those near enough to Devorgilla's lovely Isle of Doon are heartily invited to stop by her cottage to join her in lifting a glass (or two) of fine heather ale to celebrate.

A certain black-garbed someone, a mischievous crone named Devorgilla, renowned far and wide... or, at least, throughout the Isles and Highlands of medieval Scotland, is in a great stir to announce that all her charms and spelling goods have worked their magic at last: her lady's Sept. 2004 release, WEDDING FOR A KNIGHT is a USA Today Bestseller!

Much exultation has come to old Devorgilla's spirit of late: yes, she is capturing a fresh, heather wind to bring you the news that her lady's latest book, WEDDING FOR A KNIGHT has received another 4-1/2 Star Top Pick review from Romantic Times.  The old crone is well-pleased, too, that this book will also be available from Doubleday Rhapsody Book Club and the Doubleday Book Club.

Pssht! All aught know by now that Sue-Ellen would rather walk naked through a patch of stinging Highland nettles than participate in horn-tooting or anything that even remotely smacks of self-aggrandizement. Nevertheless, a certain black-garbed somebody who is possessed of a decidedly bolder heart, has sheerest mischief dancing in her eyes and wants to share the lovely RT ad her lady's publisher ran for WEDDING FOR A KNIGHT in the Sept. 2004 issue. If you cannot read the fine print, Devorgilla has dipped her quill for you:

 

Her marriage was arranged for money, and now her husband wants nothing to do with her. But Amicia won't stop until the most stubborn knight in the realm surrenders to her seduction.

"There is little doubt in this reviewer's mind that Ms. Welfonder is on her way to stardom." ~ Romantic Times

And with a further gleam in her eye, old Devorgilla is beaming with cheeky delight to tell you that the other Warner author sharing this RT ad, Toni Blake, has crafted a scorchingly hot contemporary with her book, The Red Diary. Not that Devorgilla knows what a 'contemporary' is, mind you! Suffice it to say, she claims Toni's book is fiery enough to set the heather ablaze. For more info, visit Toni at:  http://www.toniblake.com/

Always an enthusiastic co-conspirator in the happenings revolving around her lady's scribblings, dear old Devorgilla is letting a wisp or two of fine, curling peat smoke carry you the fine tidings that Sue-Ellen is showcased in the June Author Spotlight at the Historical Romance Club. To read a brand new interview with Sue-Ellen, Devorgilla advises you to clink here: http://www.bcsupernet.com/users/wodan/ing/welfonder02.html And if you'd enjoy reading a new review for Sue-Ellen's April 2002 release, KNIGHT IN MY BED, this link will take you there: http://www.bcsupernet.com/users/wodan/ing/page3.html#rev3
Now if only our black-garbed and much-loved crone could conjure a way to share the smoky-sweet delight of burning peat with you. But alas, for some things nothing but a journey to Scotland will do!

Merrymaking of all kinds can be enjoyed across the Isle of Doon as Devorgilla gleefully proclaims that RIO ( Reviewers International Organization ) has declared MASTER OF THE HIGHLANDS a Finalist for RIO's "Award of Excellence" in the "Best Long Historical of 2003" category. The prestigious award was formerly called The Dorothy Parker Award and is one of the industry's most respected. Needless to say, old Devorgilla's famed heather ale is in great demand on Doon just now and the revelry can be heard on neighboring isles!

From across the Atlantic deeps and braving icy plumes of spray thrown high against black-gleaming cliffs, old Devorgilla has ventured forth to very edge of Doon's shores to spread word that her lady's favorite book, Sir Marmaduke's BRIDE OF THE BEAST, has been honored as a nominee for an RT Reviewers' Choice Award for "Best Scottish Historical Romance of 2003".

With good heart and an impish smile, old Devorgilla has roused herself from dreams of fearless warriors, star-crossed lovers, and magical otherworlds, to share joyous tidings: the valiant Sir Marmaduke's BRIDE OF THE BEAST has been declared The Historical Romance Club's

Historical Romance of the Year 2003

She has also reached deep into her satchel of charms to bring you an URL where you can read the news for yourself: The Historical Romance Club. And as you'll see if you take a wee peek, Sir M's leal friend, Duncan, garnered an Honorable Mention for his book, DEVIL IN A KILT.

***

Further, lest any doubt remains to dear Sir M's prowess and gallantry, Devorgilla is delighted to share that BRIDE OF THE BEAST has also been honored by MyShelf.com as one of their

2003 Top Ten Reads

Devorgilla says you can view the list at: MyShelf.com. She also warns that any who remain unimpressed shall be transported into an enchanted slumber. Sue-Ellen, however suggests that might not be such an ill fate ... not if a braw and bonny Scotsman were to end such a deep sleep with a soft and sensual Highland kiss!

Past the shadow-edges of seven long centuries and through a veil of cold blue-gray mist, Devorgilla is braving the chill of a windless winter night to hasten new tidings to you - her lady has two new interviews to share with you. A Dec. 2003 "Author Spotlight" at The Historical Romance Club: http://www.bcsupernet.com/users/wodan/ing/page12.html and yet another "Author Spotlight" interview in fellow medieval author, Tina St. John's own fabulous newsletter, Romancing The Middle Ages. You can learn more about Tina's medieval-interest newsletter at her own website: http://www.tinastjohn.com/RTMA.html and you can read Sue-Ellen's interview in the Nov. 2003 edition by clicking here.

"Devorgilla has spent many long hours in all seasons and weathers mumbling spells and casting enchantments so that her lady's books find favor with readers. She is convinced her unflagging efforts are taking seed and shares this cover and ad from the Sept. 2003 Doubleday Rhapsody Book Club catalogue as proof. Whether you believe Devorgilla is responsible or nay, you'll surely understand the cailleach's glee upon seeing 'her' Iain the Doubter' dubbed as Rhapsody's "Heartthrob of the Month!" She was further thrilled to see the following quote from the Rhapsody editor, Laurie Balut: "If you like the historicals of Julie Garwood, you'll love this magical story by Sue-Ellen Welfonder!"

Old Devorgilla has been holding vigil beneath luminous northern skies, awaiting the Romantic Times review for Iain's tale, MASTER OF THE HIGHLANDS. And now it's come, she raised gnarled hands to halt the wind and quiet the sea ... just long enough to share that RT has awarded Iain the Doubter another 4-1/2 Star Top Pick rating. She's also conjured a wee bit of Highland magic so you can see the book's lovely RT ad. (click on ad for a larger view.)

Dauntless and ever unwearying in spreading my good tidings, Devorgilla has climbed a well-worn sheep track to the very top of Doon's loftiest cliff and raised her voice above the sound of breaking waves on Doon's western shore to announce with greatest glee that DEVIL IN A KILT has gone into its third printing.

Whilst combing a stony cove beneath Doon's westward cliffs for driftwood and flotsam, Devorgilla was filled with delight when the white mist drifting along the shore parted long enough for her to catch a fine glimpse of the ad her lady's publisher ran for BRIDE OF THE BEAST in the Jan. 2003 RT. For those of you unable to peer through the mists as easily as Devorgilla, she kindly worked a spell to make the ad appear here .... (click on ad for a larger view.)

Devorgilla has just settled herself before her cozy peat fire, a comfy old plaid across her knees, and poured herself a sizable portion of fine and frothy heather ale to celebrate her lady's latest good tidings: word has come to her that DEVIL IN A KILT is to be translated into Russian for sale in that country. She promises to give you a peek at the book's Russian cover as soon as she can get her gnarled hands on a copy.

"In the highest of spirits, Devorgilla is heartily pleased to share the good tidings that DEVIL IN A KILT has gone into its second printing. She also wishes to declare her lady's appreciation to all the readers who've loved this book."

Though I won't let old Devorgilla conjure ear-splitting blasts of massed trumpets, I am postively over the moon and so very honored to let her inform you that DEVIL IN A KILT has won the Romantic Times Reviewers' Choice Award for "Best First Historical Romance of 2001." Now I'd best hie myself to Duncan's great hall at Eilean Creag where I can already hear the first strains of celebratory music and shouts of joyous revelry.

With a twinkle in her cloudy eyes and a smile in her heart, Devorgilla is mightily pleased to share what Jennifer Russell at The Romance Readers' Connection has to say about KNIGHT IN MY BED:

"This is the second book by Ms. Welfonder, and if it's any indication of her future work - we are going to be seeing some really great things from this lady.

The perfect blend of intrigue, forbidden love, and danger. KNIGHT IN MY BED is a story you will want to devour. A sympathetic heroine, a gorgeous Highlander ... the chemistry between them is page-searing! Ms. Welfonder will surely make a name for herself with Donall and Isolde's story. This book should be on everyone's wishlist. 4 1/2 Stars ~ Jennifer Russell

With a gleam in her eye and a warm glow settling 'round her heart, Devorgilla is pleased to let you know that DEVIL IN A KILT placed as Nr. 10 on RRA-L Romance Readers Anonymous Top Ten Books of 2001 list!

You may enjoy passing some time by reading through a wonderful Romance Roundtable discussion I recently participated in. It's online at www.AuthorsOnTheWeb.com but Devorgilla will give you the direct link. She's especially proud because I am in very good company: the great Nora is one of the 16 authors, as is Susan Wiggs, and my own Warner sister and dear friend, Lauren Bach. I am thrilled to have been asked to participate ... of course, we all know who is preening herself about it. Yes, that old bird claims all the glory, insisting it was the recitation of a few magical words that nabbed me such an honor. In any event, you should find the discussion interesting.

The Romance Author Roundtable is LIVE on AuthorsOnTheWeb.com.
It can be found here:
http://www.authorsontheweb.com/features/0202-romance/romance.asp

More good news: KNIGHT IN MY BED has been picked up by the Doubleday Rhapsody Book Club as a Featured Alternate, specially highlighted as one of Rhapsody's Newest Loves. Yes, that, too, was Devorgilla's doing, I'm sure. And don't even think to ask me if this has swelled her head. For a wee stoop-shouldered person of her tiny stature, a swollen head can be a formidable sight, believe me! So let's all humor her and be glad, of all my books, it is hers that has rung up such a coup! Though, I'll admit to being quite pleased myself.

Devorgilla has one more bit of news to share with you about her book and I'd best tell you before she sends some wicked, black wind to lay waste to my writing office: the first reviews of KNIGHT IN MY BED are beginning to trickle in and they are looking good so far. Here is a tidbit from the Romantic Times Magazine review:

RT's Kathe Robin says: "With her debut novel, DEVIL IN A KILT, Sue-Ellen Welfonder attracted many readers' attention. She returns this year with a tale as equally unique and emotional. There is little doubt in this reviewer's mind that Ms. Welfonder is on her way to stardom." SENSUAL 4 1/2 Stars Top Pick.

Devorgilla is particuarly pleased that RT has honored her hero, Donall the Bold, as an RT K.I.S.S. of the Month Hero!

Fair greetings from Devorgilla! She's taken a wee respite from stirring mischief to let you know that Sue-Ellen has a new Interview posted on the Historical Romance Writers website. She says you can find the interview at this link. She'd take you there herself, but, at the moment, a driving rain is shrouding the bonnie Isle of Doon and she'd rather not venture from her cozy cottage.

Devorgilla is eager to let you know that she esteems herself quite proud of having convinced Sue-Ellen to do an interview with Romance Reviews Today. With a cackle and a grin, she wants to tell you to be sure to read the answer to the question about 'what makes a hero appeal to women?'

With great pride, Devorgilla also wants all and sundry to be aware that the following link will take you to an article Sue-Ellen wrote about the 'Magic of Scotland.' Truth tell, Devorgilla could not quite contain her excitement when Laura Novak at The Romance Journal asked Sue-Ellen to expound on what exactly it is that makes Scotland so appealing to romance readers. Of course, Devorgilla claims her splendorous homeland doesn't need any expounding and can well stand on its own, so glorious is Scotland, but she is proud of the article regardless. She also wants you to know the photos were graciously contributed by Laura Novak.

Since Devorgilla is not a gentlewoman, bound by position to be demur and unassuming, she loudly proclaims that Jennifer Russell at The Romance Reader's Connection also recently interviewed Sue-Ellen. Devorgilla says this Link will take you a review of DEVIL IN A KILT, and if you desire to read the interview, you must scroll all the way down. She is particularly pleased with this interview because Lady Jennifer chose to ask Sue-Ellen about her interest in all things mystical ... a topic near and dear to Devorgilla's heart.

Devorgilla is mighty pleased to announce that DEVIL IN A KILT has been nominated for "Best First Book" in RT's prestigious 2001 Reviewers' Choice Awards.

Devorgilla is fired with newsy ardor, especially pleased to wag her tongue with the latest tittle-tattle drifting o'er the boggy moors and rugged headlands of Doon. Indeed, the brisk sea wind carried more than salt spray this day: Romantic Times Magazine, Aug. 2001, has bestowed a 4 1/2 Star Top Pick rating on DEVIL IN A KILT.

RT's Kathe Robin says, "DEVIL IN A KILT will catapult Sue-Ellen Welfonder onto "must-read" lists. This dynamic debut has plenty of steamy sensuality, a dusting of mystery and a touch of the paranormal. You'll be glued to the pages not only by her fresh, vibrant voice and strong emotional intensity, but by her ability to make you believe you are there." SENSUAL "
~ Kathe Robin

Devorgilla shares that RT has honored Duncan by naming him as one of their August K.I.S.S. heroes. Knights In Shining Silver, RT calls these extra-special heartthrobs. Devorgilla would like to whisper what is being said about Duncan:

"Duncan MacKenzie is all man, but he needs a woman to teach him about love in debut author, Sue-Ellen Welfonder's DEVIL IN A KILT." -- RT K.I.S.S Hero for Aug. '01

Devorgilla also wants you to know that my article in the Aug. 01 issue of Romantic Times Magazine -- a 'Behind The Scenes' Feature Article on page 58 -- is full of the legend and lore of Celtic Scotland. She is pleased because it delves into the background and inspiration of the Marriage Stone Legend and Ceremony I created for Duncan and Linnet to perform during their wedding feast in DEVIL IN A KILT. She insists she helped me come up with the idea. I have my doubts about that, but Devorgilla is not one to cross ....