Polly Williams is an "Angel" of Love, plus a book giveaway

Introduction by Gail Allison

**Giveaway is now closed**

Today we introduce Polly Williams and her latest novel "The Angel at No. 33." In 2006, Polly Williams’ debut novel, "The Rise and Fall of a Yummy Mummy" hit the shelves, and she’s written a book a year (!) since. Before becoming a successful author, she studied English Literature and language at Manchester University. After leaving University, her first real job was editing and launching her own fashion magazine (!!). She has also worked for numerous other magazines, including In Style. When she became pregnant, she thought to herself, "I’m going to do it! I’m going to take an early maternity leave and write The Book!"...and then her son arrived six weeks early. Luckily, this turn of events inspired her to write about the myth of the "yummy mummy," which launched her career as an author.

Thanks to Headline we have TEN copies of "The Angel at No. 33" to give away to some lucky readers anywhere in the world.

Visit Polly at her website, Facebook and Twitter pages.


Favorite date in a novel:
One of my recent favourites is the wonderful scene in Jojo Moyes' book, "Me Before You." It's not so much a formal date, but all the more romantic for it. It takes place on holiday in Mauritius during a tropical storm and the electricity between the characters surges too. Brilliantly written. I cried.


Favorite couple from a TV series:
The best couple on TV recently were the Danish prime minister Birgitte Nyborg and husband Philip in the political thriller, Borgen, but only when their marriage was on track! Sadly it all goes horribly down hill during the series, but in the beginning they are this very sexy, domesticated married couple, who keep getting caught by the kids trying to have nookie (as opposed to falling asleep on the sofa or fighting over the remote control.)


Favorite romantic song:
"Harvest Moon" by Neil Young. Makes me cry every time. I referenced it quite a lot in my new novel, "The Angel at No. 33." It is played at the dead heroine's funeral. 'Because I'm still in love with you, I want to see you dance again.' Shivers up the spine stuff.

Most memorable date:
It would have to be with my husband. Soho House, ten years ago. We just clicked. I was pregnant five months later!

Guy you would date from a chick lit novel:
I'd date Ollie from "The Angel at No. 33." He's gorgeous, creative, kind, sexy and being newly widowed, available!

Favorite Valentine's Day memory:
I'm a sucker for flowers. I absolutely love them. And my husband does good flowers. My favourites are cornflowers.

Best movie kiss:
When Harry Met Sally.

Favorite romantic gesture:
A lie in! I have three young - very noisy - children and being brought toast and tea in bed by my husband is my idea of heaven.

Special thanks to Polly for giving us a glimpse into her romantic mind and to Headline for sharing "The Angel at No. 33" with our winners.

How to win "The Angel at No. 33":
Please comment below with your e-mail address. (Please note: Entries without an e-mail address will NOT be counted. You can use AT and DOT to avoid spam. Or provide a link to your facebook page or blog if you can receive messages there.)

Bonus entries (can be listed all in one post):
1. Please tell us: What is your favorite romantic gesture (either experienced or something you'd really like to have happen)?
2. Follow this blog and post a comment saying you are a follower (if you already follow, that's fine too).
3. Post this contest on Facebook or Twitter or in your blog, and leave a comment saying where you've posted it.
4. Join Chick Lit Central on Facebook. Edit settings if you don't want to receive a lot of messages at your e-mail account. Please read our posting guidelines as well. (If you're already a member, let us know that too.)
5. Add a friend to our Facebook group. (Tell us who you added.) Be sure to remind them to edit their settings.

Giveaway ends February 26th at midnight EST. (Don't wait till the Oscar for best picture is announced though!)