I love movies. The more things blow-up, the more car chases and intrigue, the happier I am. As a romance author, I know my first movie love should be chick flicks. Not me. Sorry. Those storylines hold my attention in books - love ‘em in books - but when it comes to the screen, the suspense movies are my absolute favorites. Movies like hose in the Bourne trilogy (BOURNE IDENTITY, BOURNE SUPREMACY and BOURNE ULTIMATUM) offer just what I need: an adrenalin shot of suspense, good guys versus bad guys and…well, Matt Damon.  And is it just me or did other people not think of Damon as hot until he played Jason Bourne? So what that he can kill you with his pinkie or crush your larynx just by looking at you. Photos of Damon in action from this movie win me over every single time. Give a guy a gun, a short haircut, clipped speech and make him run around dodging bullets, and you have one satisfied moviegoer.
But the Bourne movies aren’t the only spy-related movies (if that’s even a term) I love. Many other movies in this genre are less about the act of spying as they are about the spies. You know the type I’m talking about. Movies like, TRUE LIES, SNEAKERS, MR. AND MRS. SMITH and the list goes on and on. So when it came time to write my second single title, RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW I thought about this idea of the personal life of spies and started spinning a few “what if” scenarios in my head.  They may fight bad guys during the day, but what happens at night when they come home. Do they just watch television or go to the grocery store? Not in my world.
And I must admit that I had a little help. One of the things that happens when you’re a divorce lawyer in Washington, D.C. is that you eventually represent and come into contact with people who work undercover or work for government entities other than the ones referenced on their paychecks. It’s a strange fact of life. And the ones you’d never suspect…well, you get the idea.
 This is exactly where the idea for my newest release RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW started. Take two people who work undercover for different parts of the government, throw them together outside of the workplace and see who blinks first. I’d describe the background of the book this way: what happens when two people who lie for a living have to figure how to tell each other the truth about how they feel about each other? That last part is not an easy task for those of who aren’t spies. Now imagine you can’t tell your date about your real job or disclose any real facts about you. Basically, you can’t fully trust or tell. Kind of cuts down on the first date chit chat at the restaurant, doesn’t it?
And that leads me to the first scene in the book. This book starts with a break-up. Not just a “hey, let’s date others” brush off either. This is a wine-throwing fight. Admittedly, this is not the usual way to begin a romance novel, but that was part of the fun. After all, torturing by making them lie to each other was not enough. May as well tear the relationship apart and make them try to reconcile too!
At the beginning of RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW, Reed and Gabby had been dating for weeks. Gabby was ready to make a move and take the relationship into the bedroom. Reed was ready to end it. Talk about a communication problem. Sure, Reed is doing the dumping for the “right” reasons, but those right reasons relate to his undercover job and Gabby can’t know about those. She thinks the “it’s not, it’s me” speech is real so that when Reed realizes he needs to win her back as part of his undercover job…well, let’s just say that doesn’t go all that smoothly.
Now you see the personal lives of spies dilemma in action.
 The good news is that when you your romance couple starts with a break-up and there are about 300 pages left to the book, the relationship can only get better. It works this way with movie spies too. In the case of MR. AND MRS. SMITH, the parties nearly killed each other before they realized they were in love. For Reed and Gabby the road is a bit smoother, but not much. There was some groveling, some fighting and the pesky problem with the continued lying. In the end they work it out…but it is almost a war before they get there.
So, what about you guys? Are you chick flick movie fans or spy movie fans – and why? Are your taste different when it comes to books? What is it you like about your favorite movie genre and your fav book genre? For those who are unsure or leaning toward the chick flick side, let me try convince you. For those who are already in the pro-spy camp, let me give you a chance at a reward. How, you ask? Well, comment here this weekend with your favorites and why and you’ll be entered to win one of two gift packs. Both include DVDs of the movies MR. AND MRS. SMITH and SNEAKERS as well as a copy of my book, RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW.
Two chances to win. Now let’s hear your thoughts…
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Hi Helen Kay!
I don’t know about spy movies in particular but I love action movies in general. As much as I love reading romance, my taste in movies leans toward action being the primary focus. Although I don’t think that’s to say that the action precludes romance. I think it actually tends to enhance it. As an example, my favorite action movie is Speed and there is all kinds of chemistry between Keanu Reeves and Sandra Bullock.
by Cheryl S.
on March 1st, 2008 at 7:12 am
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Hi HelenKay!
I do not watch a lot of movies but I do remember True Lies as a really fun movie and have watched it a couple of times. I have wanted to watch Mr and Mrs Smith but haven’t gotten to it yet. If it’s done right I think the undercover aspect and how to work that into a relationship can be fun and you never know what can happen next. I really like the dumping of the wine and the girlfriend in the same scene.
by Maureen
on March 1st, 2008 at 8:19 am
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Hi HelenKay! I totally agree with you - I love action movies! I’d rather watch a spy movie then a chick flick. The Bourne Identity is a great film. I haven’t watched BOURNE SUPREMACY or BOURNE ULTIMATUM yet but I can’t wait!
Right Here, Right Now sounds awesome! I especially like that it starts with a break-up scene, that’s funny. 
by Wendy
on March 1st, 2008 at 8:52 am
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Hi,
I prefer chick movies, light comedies like Legally Blonde 
by Nathalie
on March 1st, 2008 at 8:53 am
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Hi HelenKay, I also love the action movies more. I love all the intrigue and cool techno tools, the traps and danger and excitement that go with spy movies. You never know who to trust- and someone who is an friend might actually be a foe - or vice versa. I loved Mr. & Mrs. Smith, and all the Bourne movies.
I also really like the premise of “Right Here, Right Now” and have been waiting to read this book!
Chick flicks often are too kitschy, and the acting is over the top. Somehow, the death defying crazy moments of a spy film are much more believable, or at least bearable. There’s also the aspect of not knowing what comes next. They’re not spy movies, but I also like the intrigue and complexity of the Ocean movies - (I’m watching Ocean’s 13 now.)
by JSL
on March 1st, 2008 at 9:51 am
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I like the spy movies best. For me it is all about the action, fast moving pace, extreme intensity, and of course the hot sexy heros 
I am the same way about books but occasionally I will throw in a romance or two for good measure
by Cheryl
on March 1st, 2008 at 10:24 am
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Great post, HelenKay! Don’t enter me to win because I already ordered your book. Can’t wait to read it.
I prefer action movies too! My husband will watch them with me, so that’s a plus, and I love sexy, dangerous men. Matt Damon is explosive as Bourne.
This is so funny because I just watched EASTERN PROMISES last night. I loved Viggo Mortensen in A HISTORY OF VIOLENCE, mainly because he fulfills this secret housewife fantasy of mine: your husband is not the man you think he is.
EASTERN PROMISES was not my favorite, despite the full frontal nudity. The scene had a big impact, ultimate violence vs. ultimate vulnerability, but…not sexy.
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I enjoy action/suspense books and movies. My favorite action movie is patriot games.
by Joyce
on March 1st, 2008 at 10:51 am
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Love, love, love the spy movies. But sorry, give me an old James Bond movie and I’m in heaven every time! And yes, Sean Connery is still the best Bond there was! I also love spy novels - so looking forward to reading yours.
by DeeAnn
on March 1st, 2008 at 10:53 am
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I completely forgot about sneakers I haven’t seen that movie in forever. I enjoy both chick flicks and spy movies. It just depends on what I’m in the mood for. The same goes for books, as long as it sounds good I will read it. I’m pretty much open to anything as long as it looks or sounds interesting.
by Rebekah
on March 1st, 2008 at 11:01 am
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Somehow I knew you’d be a spy movie fan. I’m a Bond, James Bond woman–especially when he was played by Sean Connery. And Daniel Craig is pretty yummy as well.
by Darlene
on March 1st, 2008 at 11:13 am
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I do enjoy those action spy movies BUT I like the lighter ones. I really loved Harrison Ford in the Clancy ones (Patriot Games, Clear and Present Danger, etc.) but I am a sad case of “ack!”  when it comes to tension–I completely come unglued as the suspense and tension mounts. My husband really prefers not to watch these movies with me anymore 
So I enjoy fluffier ones that aren’t even really spy movies like like the who’s going to dupe who Oceans and Charlie’s Angels…
by Fedora
on March 1st, 2008 at 11:53 am
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I enjoy suspense, thriller and action books and movies. They keep me on the edge and are great! Love all theJames Bond films and Indie ones.
by alissa
on March 1st, 2008 at 11:57 am
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I too love not just spy movies but action movies in general. Casino royale is my favourite James Bond movie. I also love spies on TV as well, Alias was my favorite. Chick flicks have never kept me interested, though like you they are my favorite books to read. I also enjoy reading mysteries, but more of the cozy/chick lit mysteries than the intense high violence mysteries.
by Lauren
on March 1st, 2008 at 12:10 pm
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I am a huge fan of action/adventure movies. But I also enjoy my chick flicks. And I love old movies.
Some of my favorites are : all the Lethal Weapon movies, The Transporter movies, GI Jane, Four Weddings and a Funeral, Steel Magnolias, Alfred Hitchcocks (just watched Vertigo and the Birds last week!) and Sleepless in Seattle. I also have this fascination with Bruce Campbell flicks like Army of Darkness and Bubba Ho-Tep. And if it has Gerard Butler in it, well I am all over it!
by Angie-la
on March 1st, 2008 at 12:59 pm
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I like all kinds of movies, but at the moment I like most action/adventure movies.
by Minna
on March 1st, 2008 at 1:28 pm
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HI,
I’m a spy movie lover. What’s better than intrigue, murder, secret agents and battling terrorists. The James Bond and Bourne movies supply great entertainment. I also love action/adventures like the “Mummy” movies and historical epics like “Gladiator,” “Braveheart” and “300.”
by Jane
on March 1st, 2008 at 2:42 pm
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I love both types of movies but my favorite are fantasy type movies. Lord of the Rings is my favorite, I even have my whole bedroom decorated with statues, swords and ornaments from Lord of the Rings
by Karrie
on March 1st, 2008 at 3:13 pm
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I haven’t watched a movie in at least 25 years. I do read a lot tho—all genres. My favorite being romantic suspense.
Am looking forward to reading Right here Right Now
by Estella
on March 1st, 2008 at 3:21 pm
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I am a spy-movie fan too, though I like there to be a bit a romance in there, so Mr. and Mrs. Smith definitely worked for me. And loved the Bourne trilogy. Like the suspense, use of high tec gadgets, and smart people. Something about people using their brains to solve things is just sexy to me. Even if it’s unrealistic, it totally sucks me in. Lots of great book releases for 08 with romantic suspense storylines that I’ve really enjoyed, too. Shannon McKenna, Lora Leigh, Christine Feehan and Marjorie Liu, to name a few.
by Cathy M
on March 1st, 2008 at 4:03 pm
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Chick flicks are okay on dvd or tv but when I go to the movies I want more - action, thrillers, fantasy, scifi, bigger than life movies. I enjoyed the Bourne movies, LOTR, Braveheart, The Mummy, Men in Black, Ladyhawke, Thunderdome, Legend, to name a few. As far as reading, romantic suspense and historicals and thrillers are my favorites but I read anything. Books have so much more details and take more time so you can absorb so much more.
by catslady
on March 1st, 2008 at 4:39 pm
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Hi HelenKay! I’m a big fan of spy/action movies too. The Bourne movies are some of my favorites! And yes, Matt Damon got much hotter after making them! The Saint is a great movie. If you haven’t seen it, rent it! I also loved The Fifth Element, the original Die Hard and Casino Royale. I do like chick flicks too. (I really just love going to the movies.) I recently saw 27 Dresses and really enjoyed it. And any movie that combines spying with romance (which The Saint does) is a slam dunk for me! Just like your book - which was terrific!!
by Robin
on March 1st, 2008 at 7:41 pm
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I agree with you Helen. I prefer the spy movies because they are action-packed, thrilling, suspenseful, and have sexy men in them. When it comes to books, it depends upon my mood as to which genre of book I want to read. My favorite spy movies are Three Days of the Condor, The James bond films, and the Bourne trilogy. Partly because of Robert Redford, Sean Connery/Robert Moore, and Matt Damon and partly because they are so full of action that the time goes by so quickly. There is no time to be bored..
by Linda F
on March 1st, 2008 at 7:50 pm
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I just saw the commercial for DOOMSDAY and ohmygod, it looks so good!! I love those types of movies, I can’t wait to watch this one! Do you guys know which one I’m talking about?
by Wendy
on March 1st, 2008 at 8:05 pm
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i love it, love mr and ms smit. so good. i love aliaas. ilove action films love jackie chan and jet li.
by kim h
on March 1st, 2008 at 8:29 pm
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love spy movies and the bourne are some of my favs. i also love paranormal and scifi movies and books. I lke just about any thing excerpt war movies and I love to hate disaster movies. lol
by Pamk
on March 1st, 2008 at 10:41 pm
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I prefer chick flicks or drama. Anything character based. Action spy movies and adventure just doesn’t do it for me, sorry.
My reading taste is the same. I know, boring, but hey, that’s me. Oh, wait a minute. I do like some suspense like The Night Listener with Robin Williams or Vacancy with Luke Wilson (Luke Wilson being in the movie helps). I like some horror, too. Not the gory, blood and guts kind, but spooky and eerie. Paranormal stuff, I guess.
by Carol
on March 1st, 2008 at 11:01 pm
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Always enjoy Mission Impossible 1, 2 & 3 with Tom Cruise. Loved the Bourne trilogy too! Loved: I Spy, Man From UNCLE, & Mission Impossible TV shows when I was growing up. I even watched ALIAS for awhile. Along with the first 2 years of 24!!
Books all of my favorite authors have gone to romantic suspence: Nora Roberts, Sandra Brown, Heather Graham, Linda Howard, Karen Robards, Christina Dodd, Alison Kent, Catherine Coulture……………. Love Sherrilyn Kenyon’s BAD series too!!
One of my all time favorite books is Linda Howard’s White Lies”.
I have a hard time getting into many of the “chicklit” books and I am not upset about it’s demise.
It’s hard to beat protecting our country and it’s ideals & beliefs! Intense chemistry!! and the unknown… whose good or bad. Plus this action usually takes place in exotic locales with great stunts!
by Laurie G
on March 2nd, 2008 at 5:43 am
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How about Shannon Mckenna? She’s Romantic Suspense, I haven’t read her one out but I’ve read the others and they are so good! I can’t wait to read Extreme Danger.
I was a HUGE fan of Alias, that tv show was great!
by Wendy
on March 2nd, 2008 at 8:06 am
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I love spy/action movies and books. Some movies are: Die Hard, The Bourne Supremacy, Jackie Chan’s ‘Twin Dragons’ movie. These get the heart beating faster and one sitting on the edge of their seat. Also, you never know what will happen next and it’s a guessing game.
by RobynL
on March 2nd, 2008 at 5:09 pm
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I like romantic comedies and movies like Bourne Identity, Michael Clayton - after all - Clooney is in it - LOL, and Indiana Jones, etc.
by Pat L.
on March 3rd, 2008 at 6:25 am
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My tastes is very wide when it comes to movies. I love romance and chick flicks. The Notebook and A Star is Born are two of my favorites is this category. I also like a good action and suspense movie. I just recently watched The Brave One this was a very powerful movie with Jodie Foster. I also enjoy a good horror movie, such as The Saw movies and I recently watched Halloween movie by Rob Zombie. Books and movies I can’t get enough of them.
by Teresa W.
on March 3rd, 2008 at 6:57 am
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I love chick flicks and spy movies depending on the mood I am in. Sometime I love the fast action movies where something is always happening and keeping my eyes glued to the screen and other times I like to relax more and enjoy a slower pace with romance and light heartedness plus sometimes a little humor to lighten my mood and put a smile on my face. My all time favorite still remains as ‘An Affair to Remember’ as I loved Cary Grant and I always want a happy ending, but another one I definitely enjoyed was ‘Miss Congeniality’. I also liked the Mission Impossible movies as they were fast paced plus I love to watch sci-fi movies with lots of action. I am not a big fan of movies with a lot of violence and gore in them as I get more than enough of that in real life by just watching the news sadly.
by Shari C
on March 3rd, 2008 at 10:58 am
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Hi everyone!!!
I love the movie examples you gave. Daniel Craig as Bond (tho DeeAnn is right that Sean is the Bond King), the Mummy movies - yes!!! I don’t know what DOOMSDAY is, but I plan to check it out.
My only questions is this: Estella, have you really not seen a movie in 25 years?? Wow.
Robin - I’m thrilled you enjoyed RIGHT HERE, RIGHT NOW. I hope everyone else agrees!!
Now to the main event… the winners are: Rebekah (comment #10) and Linda F. (comment #23). Congratulations!!!! Email me with you contact info and I’ll get those prizes out to you.
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I don’t go to movie theaters because they are too spendy and I watch very little tv, so have not seen a movie in 25 years.
by Estella
on March 3rd, 2008 at 2:14 pm
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Congrats, Rebekah and Linda! Thanks for the fun topic, HelenKay!
by Fedora
on March 3rd, 2008 at 2:28 pm
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I like chick flicks and hubby likes the action flicks. Most of time he wins and we get the action movies. Sometime I will get one for myself. As far as books go I love historicals, but read a little of everything.
by Virginia H.
on March 3rd, 2008 at 5:45 pm
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Thanks so much Helen! I have emailed you my info. I can’t wait to read Right Here, Right Now.
by Linda F
on March 3rd, 2008 at 6:28 pm
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wtg winners
by kim h
on March 3rd, 2008 at 9:42 pm
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