In The Beginning
It all started in a Reno hotel suite at the 2005 RWA conference, when Silhouette Desire’s senior editor Melissa Jeglinski (MJ) told the gathered authors that she’d love to see some author-led continuity. Something like the family-based series which have been so successful for the line…only different.
I was instantly enamored. I would get to brainstorm with friends! In a meaty project I could sink my teeth into! But I had other contracts going as did my friends. The timing wasn’t right.
Fast forward eight months and Desire had just signed two new authors from Australia and New Zealand. MJ suggested that now there were six authors from “down under”, we might like to think about proposing a continuity series. When five of the six authors put up their hands to participate, we set about brainstorming a premise.
Putting The Series Together
MJ wanted scandal, passion, high drama, and glamorous exotic settings. We thought: Dynasty Down Under. We needed a series backdrop and were inspired by Argyle Diamonds. The Argyle mine in northwest Australia produces a quarter of the world’s natural diamonds but is best known for its signature gem, the rare and valuable pink diamond.
Diamonds extracted from the harsh outback earth, cut and polished to reveal every hidden facet, then crafted into exquisite designs. The billion-dollar business, the illusion of glamour and sophistication, the diamond ring’s symbolism of romance and commitment. This all sounded like the perfect setting for a Desire series. All we had to do was think fantasy and forget the reality of a tightly controlled industry.
Our family dynasty was created through the marriage of Howard Blackstone to Ursula Hammond more than 30 years ago, a union that caused a family brawl amid allegations of diamond greed and sly business ethics and straight-out theft. Much fun was had creating the backstory, the family tree, the structure of Blackstone Diamonds, and in brainstorming reasons why the animosity between the Hammonds and the Blackstones had spilled into the next generation.
Distinctive pink diamonds go missing for decades before reappearing. A Blackstone and a Hammond die in a plane crash, igniting rumors of an adulterous affair. Add a paternity dispute, a prodigal daughter, a missing heir, several reading-of-the-will shocks, and a twist of surprise. Mix and shake vigorously. And you have one delicious soap-opera-inspired cocktail. We named it Diamonds Down Under.
Putting My Book Together
We’d created a larger-than-life world filled with juicy external events, but within that world we had a family. Real people with virtues and flaws and emotional hang-ups that were about to be tested by those external events. And by the prospect of love.
My key character from the family tree: Kimberley Blackstone, Howard and Ursula’s only daughter. My key situation: the fatal crash which kicks off a chain of reaction within both families and the company. How would the death of her father impact on Kimberley? Apart from shock and grief, what else?
I decided that Kimberley was estranged from her father and working for “the enemy” at House of Hammond. His death would cause tremendous guilt due to a recent row in which angry “over your dead body” words were spoken. And later disillusionment, because he — the man she’d grown up adoring, who’d shaped her ambition and life choices — had let her down again.
With that backstory, Kim’s romance had to be a reunion story. The hero had to work for Blackstone Diamonds. He had to be involved in Kim’s alienation from her father. And he had to be the one who traveled to New Zealand to break the news of the jet’s disappearance.
And so Ric Perrini was born. Alpha, Italian-Australian, sexy as sin. But beneath the good looks and polished façade, lurked a boy still dealing with the childhood rejection that fired his ambition. To prove himself he’s climbed the ladder to second-in-command at Blackstone Diamonds. He is a success, a real golden boy, whose one big mistake was letting Kim go. This time he will do anything to make sure she stays where she belongs, at Blackstone Diamonds and in his bed.
Kim has plenty of reason to mistrust Perrini’s motivation. Is he acting out of vengeance, to win her back from his adversary at Hammonds? Does he need her onside to secure his position as chairman? What part will her inherited shares play in that struggle for boardroom control?
That’s the set-up to VOWS & A VENGEFUL GROOM. The story is set mostly in Sydney, at the Blackstone family’s palatial harbourside residence, the corporate headquarters of Blackstone Diamonds, the Blackstone Jewellery flagship store, and at Perrini’s home on a clifftop overlooking the Pacific Ocean. There is plenty of drama and passion and heat; there’s more than a touch of bling; but the book’s heart is Kim and Ric and their struggle to deal with the intense emotions of love and loss.
Pieces of trivia:
• We ended up with a six-book six-author series after Paula Roe sold in late 2006.
• My working title was Perrini’s Boardroom Bride. MJ came up with the alliterating titles.
• Originally Kimberley was Alexis Blackstone, but MJ pointed out that Rick and Alexis were a power couple on a daytime soap. Who knew?
So, are you a fan of soap operas? How about the big glitzy prime-time soaps of the 80’s like Dynasty and Dallas? Is there a more recent family drama that has captured your attention — Brothers and Sisters, perhaps? Or do you prefer your family series in books and if so, what is your favorite long-running family dynasty?
Join the discussion for a chance to win my January giveaway: a copy of Vows & A Vengeful Groom, a fun book titled “Everything You Didn’t Need To Know About Australia”, and a packet of delicious pink Tim Tams. And keep a watch out for further giveaways at Bronz Blog.
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I’ve only ever watched two. . . for a while I watched Another World, then when it was cancelled, I moved to Guiding Light which I’ve been watching since. (Ah, around 10 years now I guess?). . . I know there is a lot of complaints about it nowadays, but I’m fairly happy with it, I watch all the stories, but I loooooooooooooved that Edmund came back at the end of the year last year! And sure hope he comes back soon!! 
Lois
by Lois
on January 19th, 2008 at 7:35 am
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Hi Bronwyn,
I love your books. So compelling and unique. I watched every episode of Dallas and enjoyed it greatly. I loved the characters and the storyline and was sorry when it ended. This was the best soap ever featured. Nothing could compete with the acting and episodes were riveting. This was my fave. Alas, I do not watch any soaps now since none measure up and that was my one and only.
by ellie
on January 19th, 2008 at 10:11 am
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I also love your books… I am abit fan of the soaps… my mom and I watch All My Children and we used to love Dynest and Dallas, and still watch the re-runs!
So, the Desire series, in general, appeal a lot ot me
by Nathalie
on January 19th, 2008 at 10:39 am
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In the summer, when I was younger and an idle student… I used to see those re-runs of Dynasty - the first 4 seasons - and loved them. However, I don’t watch any soap or primetime series ressembling to one, maybe because I don’t have much time!
by Lily
on January 19th, 2008 at 10:42 am
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Remember Peyton Place? Loved that. Now I watch Brothers and Sisters.
by Karen B
on January 19th, 2008 at 10:55 am
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I did watch Dynasty and thought that it was so enticing and sophisticated. Of course, I loved watching John Forsythe. He was the draw for me. The ultimate male and perfect in the role. Too bad it stopped. I do not watch soaps at all now since that was superior to most. Your books are a delight and I love your blog.
by ruth
on January 19th, 2008 at 10:57 am
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The only one that I watched was Falcon Crest. this soap was great. I enjoyed the setting, the actors and the story. I know that this dates me but I prefer the old ones which were awesome.
by anne
on January 19th, 2008 at 11:24 am
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About 20 years ago when I lived in England, I got hooked on an Aussie soap called Neighbors. Loved it. Some of the actors have since become Hollywood stars, although I can’t remember their names right now.
by Laidybyrd
on January 19th, 2008 at 11:43 am
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There was a wonderful soap which enthralled me in Canada, years ago when I lived there and then it was discontinued. Street Legal always kept me glued to my seat. I cannot forget it and still miss it.
by jenna
on January 19th, 2008 at 12:30 pm
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Hi Bronwyn!
I always love reading every explanation about how “Diamonds Down Under” came about. I also have to admit I *love* the pink diamonds- sparkly *and* pink?! And also… I’m inordinately fascinated by pink wish tim tams. I’d never ever heard of tim tams until I found them trolling your site. I haven’t seen many soaps. I think it had to do with my being in class always during daytime soaps. I did watch Guiding Light for a while, however - and one of the actors (I can’t remember who) actually sang as well - and I happened to be at a concert where he sang with the Cleveland Orchestra. Very fun.
I do watch some night time shows, though I’m having trouble picking out which ones are “soaps” - but I generally/used to catch Desperate Housewives, Grey’s Anatomy, Private Practice, and Gilmore Girls (not one I personally ever considered a soap). Another weakness I have, is foreign shows. Have you ever seen an Asian drama? They’re frighteningly addicting.
by JSL
on January 19th, 2008 at 1:00 pm
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When I was able to catch glimpses of Knot’s Landing I enjoyed this show. The glamour and the actors made it real. I rarely did watch soaps since I was either working or at school. Your Diamonds Website is absolutely fascinating. I read about the characters and the diamonds. Pink is the ultimate for this. Best of luck on your series. Sounds fabulous.
by diane
on January 19th, 2008 at 1:04 pm
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I’m a soaps fan,I watch One Life To Live and General Hospital. There’s a hot Aussie on GH who plays the charater Jax(I thenk his real name is Ingo or something along those lines)
I’d love to travel to Australia someday, I have a cousin who lived there for a few years living in hospices, he said he wants to move back,but wants to stay near family for a few more years.
by danette
on January 19th, 2008 at 1:36 pm
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I used to watch Knot’s Landing, Dallas, The Edge of Night(soap), Dynasty but don’t watch any now; the odd time I catch re-runs and watch them.
Pink- diamonds, Tim Tams - I’d take either if possible or both; lol.
by RobynL
on January 19th, 2008 at 1:45 pm
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I love all the ABC soaps, “All My Children” and “General Hospital.” I didn’t watch those 80’s primetime soaps like “Dynasty.” I don’t really watch family dramas. I’m into crime dramas like “CSI,” “NCIS” and “Law & Order.” I do remember watching sitcoms like “The Jeffersons,” “Family Ties” and “Growing Pains.” I hear a lot about “Neighbours” and how many famous Australian actors and actresses got their start on the soap. I wish we could see it here.
by Jane
on January 19th, 2008 at 1:46 pm
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Hi Bronwyn. Diamonds Down Under sounds great.
I am a fan of Guiding Light and Days of Our Lives. I loved those 80’s primetime soaps, Dynasty, Dallas, Falcon Crest, Knots Landing.
by Crystal B.
on January 19th, 2008 at 2:08 pm
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Oh, I remember Dynesty and Dallas. But only soap opera I’ve ever really liked was Soap. Like Jane, I prefer crime dramas. My favorites are Bones and Numb3rs.
by Minna
on January 19th, 2008 at 2:16 pm
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i love soaps like general hospital and all my childrens. Was forced to watch dynasty and dallas and the like by my mom. not particularly fond of them.
by Pamk
on January 19th, 2008 at 5:46 pm
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–So, are you a fan of soap operas? How about the big glitzy prime-time soaps of the 80’s like Dynasty and Dallas? Is there a more recent family drama that has captured your attention — Brothers and Sisters, perhaps? Or do you prefer your family series in books and if so, what is your favorite long-running family dynasty?–
I watched soaps back in university oh so many years ago. It wasn’t until my later years, too. I was an ABC junkie (most of sorority sisters watched that station) and soon became a fast Luke and Laura (General Hospital) storyline.
Never watched Dynasty or Dallas as a must see. Love Brothers and Sisters.
Some of my favorite “family” series romances… Linda Lael Miller’s McKettricks.. she’s now doing modern day McKettricks which is a lot of fun. Nora Roberts has some wonderful family romances.
I love the new continuity series, Bronwyn but you know that since I’ve blogged about it on eHarlequin.
by Ann M.
on January 19th, 2008 at 5:50 pm
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For sometime when I was very little, I was very much into Falcon Crest and Knots Landing. I don’t think I missed any episode of these two.
Now I’m more into South American Soups in Spanish. Usually I’m attracted first to the theme of the series – great songs in Spanish- then once I get to see the hero and heroine I’m hooked. 
by Mona
on January 19th, 2008 at 6:07 pm
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I grew up watching Young and the Restless, sometimes I still watch it but I am not into soaps anymore. I was to busy watching MTV when Dallas and Knots Landing was on but I remember my mother never left the tv when those programs were on.
by Karrie Millheim
on January 19th, 2008 at 6:19 pm
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I am a soap opera addict! I started watching All My Children over 30 years ago with my mother and I have been hooked ever since. I watched the campy soap opera Dark Shadows. I watched Dallas (getting my husband hooked in the process) and Falcon Crest. My current favorite soap opera is One Life To Live and I enjoy watching Brothers and Sisters. I have not gotten into any family series in books but I have not been aware of them until now so that may change shortly.
by Linda F
on January 19th, 2008 at 8:46 pm
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When I first had children and was home for the first time, I got hooked on soap operas. Another World was one of them and I just happened to be switching channels the other day and darn if the lead guy isn’t still there (I’m talking almost 20 years here). But my all time favorite was Dynasty. In fact, I went into labor and didn’t leave for the hospital until I had seen my show roflmao.
by catslady
on January 19th, 2008 at 9:35 pm
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Hi Bronwyn!
How is the weather your way? It is mighty cold here! We are in the single digits here right now. Brrr…..2 degrees above zero in Northern Indiana. I can’t wait for spring!
I watched a lot of the shows mentioned above. Falcon Crest, Dallas, Knots Landing, and Soap. I would have loved to have seen the old soaps like Dark Shadows. I was to little at the time to understand it. I never got into the daytime soap operas. I went to college for many years then worked full-time for 18 years. Now I am working part-time and loving it!
Your book reminds me of those sweeping sagas filled with history, family, romance and suspense. I love these kind of stories where they transport you to another time and place. Your story sounds like an award winner!
Hugs,
Michele L.
by Michele L.
on January 19th, 2008 at 9:48 pm
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Hi Lois. Although I’ve heard of noth Another World and Guidling Light, I’m not sure that they’ve been picked up in Australia. If they have, they didn’t have the profile of some of the other soaps. Days, Young & Restless, General Hospital, Bold and Beautiful — I’m sure there are others, but those are the ones that spring instantly to my mind. Bron
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Hi Ellie, and thank you for the lovely compliment on my books. I, also, was a big Dallas fan. Loved the larger-than-life characters and all the human and family drama as well as the Texas setting. Bron
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Hi Nathalie…and thanks! Oh, and how could I have forgotten All My Children in my earlier listing of the favouyrite daytime soaps? That was/is (?) a biggie, too!
Bron
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Lily, I was a fan of Dynasty as well. I’ve been contemplating buying a DVD set, just to relive the glory days (so long ago and there haven’t been any reruns in my part of the world.)
Karen, oh yes, Peyton Place! How could I forget? That was a real forerunner, wasn’t it? Also enjoyed Brothers and Sisters for a while, then became too busy to watch but have the DVD’s to catch up…when I have time! 
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Hi Ruth. Another vote for Dynasty and I love your comment about John Forsythe. Blake Carrington was the quintessential alpha tycoon character, wasn’t he? And thank you for the lovely comment re my books and blog.
Anne, as you can see you are not the only one with a fondness for the older soaps. I’d forgotten Falcon Crest. Was it set in California? Wracking my memory…
Laidybyrd, did you know Neighbours is STILL going strong (well, maybe not as strong as in the past and they’re bringing back some of the old characters in an attempt to prod the ratings.) As for the stars, there have been quite a number who started out in this Aussie soap but probably none as big as Kylie Minogue.
Bron
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Jenna, Street Legal is an enticing series name, that’s for sure. Wonder if it’s ever on cable? I will keep my eyes peeled. It’s always cool to see shows produced in Canada — I enjoyed Intelligence last year.
Jennifer, pink diamonds, pink Tim Tams — both yummy! 
Have watched some seasons of Gilmore Girls, Desperate Housewives and Grey’s Anatomy. I must admit that I don;t know where the line is drawn between “soap opera” and “drama” but, like you, I wouldn’t classify those shows as “soaps” although some may display classic symptoms (DH, for example, although it has the black humour and doesn’t take itself too seriously.)
Bron
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Hi, Diane, and thanks for visiting and for your comment. Knots Landing was a big one here, too. Was it a spin-off from another series? (Wracking my memory again!)
Hey, Danette. You DEFINITELY have to visit Australia some day. And now you have piqued my curiosity — I must check out who the GH actor is.
Robyn, LOL at your comment about taking both the pink diamonds and the pink TimTams. A perfect combination! Haven’t heard of The Edge of Night but what a fascinating title.
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Jane, you are so right about Neighbours providing the launchpad for a number of Aussie stars. But would you believe I’ve never watched it? And I call myself an Aussie!
Crystal, Minna, Pam, thanks for stopping by and joining the discussion. I’m actually surprised no one to now has commented AGAINST the soaps. They’re definitely not for everyone. Minna, smiling that the only soap you liked was SOAP — was this the show which took a tongue-in-cheek poke at soaps, or am I thinking of another show entirely? (I love a good parody, BTW.)
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Ann, I’ve never watched General Hospital and yet I’ve heard of Luke and Laura. I guess that makes them a power couple! 
Your comment about sorority sisters watching together has me nodding. I remember the days of the Melrose parties, when girlfriends got together to watch the show. Often alcohol was involved. And/or chocolate.
And I’m so glad you’ve addressed the favourite family in series books question. I haven’t read the McKettrick’s but the bestsellers’ lists say they are VERY popular. As are Nora’s families like the McGregors. And what about Julia Quinn’s Bridgertons. Any others???
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Mona, Spanish soaps? You’ve captured my attention, absolutely. I think they would do the passion and drama VERY well.
Linda, has All My Children really been running 30+ years? That is truly amazing. Definitely you should try some family-series books. I think you would enjoy!
Catslady, I think the producers of soaps should pay special homage to young mothers. That’s definitely a prime time for getting hooked, while pregnant or nursing. Also while treadmilling. 
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Michele, the weather here is WET. Which is a very unusual thing for me to be saying, as we’ve had a number (too large a number!) of years of drought. Being wet and the middle of summer, it’s a bit cooler and absolutely delightful. (Hope that doesn’t make you feel ick about the cold, because on the plus side, that’s a great time for reading!)
Thanks you for the lovely comments about our series. That description is perfect!
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Hi Bronwyn!
It was funny but as I was reading your summary of the series I immediately thought of the show Dallas, that I loved. When I was in college we all watched soap operas between our afternoon classes. Our favorites were All My Children and General Hospital. In fact, our whole dorm was in one room to watch the wedding of Luke and Laura. Your series sounds great, with a whole group of people to watch and see who does what to who.
by Maureen
on January 20th, 2008 at 6:09 am
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I used to watch Dallas as a kid. Gilmore Girls was a favorite of mine. I don’t have a lot of time right now to watch tv much.
by Stacy S
on January 20th, 2008 at 10:22 am
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Yep, it was that SOAP opera.
by Minna
on January 20th, 2008 at 1:16 pm
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I was a big fan of Melrose Place when it used to be on, me and my girlfriend would gather round the tv and watch each episode together when it aired weekly.
by Teresa W.
on January 20th, 2008 at 4:26 pm
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I don’t watch soap operas–hardly watch tv at all.
I do like family series books,but don’t have a favorite family.
by Estella
on January 20th, 2008 at 5:14 pm
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When I was younger I used to watch Dallas and Dynasty (and Falcon Crest) but nowadays I’m like Minna, more Bones and CSI and NCIS.
by Eva S
on January 20th, 2008 at 5:18 pm
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Hi Maureen! Although we didn’t draw definitively on any one series, we definitely used the aura of larger-than-life families such as the Ewings and Carringtons as a subconscious inspiration, I’m sure. Love that you all got together to celebrate the Laura-Luke wedding; like your own reception!
Stacy, if it’s a choice between reading a good book or TV, the book usually wins at my place. Unless I have a small grab of time and then it’s usally a half hour or hour of TV. I’m a reader who needs to keep reading — I’m not good at reading a bit here and putting the book down.
Thanks, Minna. Wasn’t sure I had the right one!
Teresa, those Melrose parties were quite the thing back in the day. Then Sex In The City (not a soap, but a series that attracted the same better-shared-with-girlfriends feeling) and then Desperate Housewives or possibly Grey’s. Although it’s just as good alone! 
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Hmm… don’t watch much TV now because as you mentioned, Bronwyn, it really cuts into my reading time (which is precious enough). I remember Dynasty and Dallas, but didn’t watch them regularly. Was hooked briefly on General Hospital one summer but didn’t keep up. Watched Melrose briefly also–that was definitely fun to follow with friends! I do really enjoy books about families, and Nora Roberts has done a few of my favorites–the Chesapeake Bay ones, the MacGregors; I also really liked Marilyn Pappano’s Heartbreak Canyon (although those were loosely related); and loved Julia Quinn’s Bridgertons. Lori Foster’s Winstons and Buckhorns, Janelle Denison’s Wildes, and Leslie Kelly’s Santoris… Oops! Sorry, I’m getting carried away!
by Fedora
on January 20th, 2008 at 9:59 pm
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Hello -
I forgot about the books - but I’d agree with Fedora on a lot of the books series - Lori Foster’s Winstons and Buckhorn Brothers, and Julia Quinn’s Bridgertons (although I will say I liked the earlier books a bit more). Definitely the McCloud brothers and MacNamara family in Shannon McKenna’s books. And this isn’t exactly all a family, but the Chicago Stars books by Susan Elizabeth Phillips. - On the topic of soaps, this made me think of it- as a kid I loved the “Sweet Valley Sagas” by Francine Pascal. Haha, I can’t believe I even remembered that.
by JSL
on January 20th, 2008 at 10:53 pm
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Hi Bronwyn, I love the premise of these books. I read a book a couple years ago about adventure, murder, and romance all surrounding diamonds set in Australia. Ever since then I think about and wish there was more to it. I’m so glad you and fellow authors have started this series., so I can get another diamond and down under adventure.
I loved Dynesty and probably only missed three episodes of it. I only watched Dallas for a few years. The only soap opera I watch is General Hospital, I started when I was 12 so it’s been almost 30 years. That’s crazy thinking about it.
by Dena
on January 21st, 2008 at 12:15 am
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Funnily enough, I was reading the TV section in a magazine liftout of yesterday’s paper and there was an article on the 10 most memorable soap opera hooks. Things like who shot JR? and the infamous (copout) Bobby’s-death-was-all-a-dream and Fallon being abducted by aliens. Any other time I would have skimmed right by it, but because of this discussion I noticed and I read. Some were truly outlandish. My favourite: we had a soap in Australia called Sons and Daughters (which I’d forgotten) with Pat the Rat as the lead villain. When the actress wanted to leave the show, they sent Pat for plastic surgery allowing the introduction of a new actress in the role. Then, a year later, they brought back the original actress as her twin sister!
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Fedora, LOL about being carried away. I love following families as well, although most of my favourites are trilogies or perhaps a few more. Not so much the longer family series, although I am a fan of Barbara McCauley’s Secrets which started out with the Sinclairs and moved on to the Blackhawks. I agree about Nora’s families. Love the Chesapeake series but my favourite (although it’s a tough call) is probably the MacKade brothers.
Bron
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Jennifer, I suspect a lot of romance resaders may have cut their teeth on Sweet Valley High. Oh, and yes!!!, about those McCloud brothers!
Dena, the series you read may have been Miranda Lee’s Hearts of Fire…although I think it was more about opals than diamonds. So maybe it’s not that one…
Hard to believe some of the favourite soaps have been going for decades, isn’t it? testament to their popularity.
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When I was a teenager I used to enjoy watching Dynasty and Another World. Now that I have two kids under the age of 5 I just don’t have the time to watch Soap Operas. I would rather use the little bit of time I do have in the evening when the kids are in bed to read.
by Cherie J
on January 22nd, 2008 at 10:12 pm
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Cherie, with two under 5 I hope you do find some time for reading. Bron
Now, about that prize…
I’m going to dig into my barrel of numbers and pick a winner, and that is (DRUMROLL):
#7 = Anne. Please email me with your address and I’ll get your prize in the mail.
Thanks everyone for joining in and remembering our favourite soaps and dramas.
Bron
