Lillian Marek: Lady Emily’s Exotic Adventure (Giveaway)

Hello Susana. Thank you for inviting me into your parlour today.

I’d like to talk about my Victorian Adventure series, which features the children of the Marquess of Penworth. They travel to exciting places and encounter dangerous villains, but there’s an aspect of their stories that you may not have noticed.

You see, in a previous life, before I discovered the joys of writing historical romance, I used to work on a newspaper. The part of the job I liked best was writing a weekly cooking column. That meant that I spent a lot of time thinking about food—not exactly a hardship for me!

As a result, I like to make sure my characters are well fed. You just know they must work up an appetite when they’re escaping from the thieves and kidnappers and other miscreants who pop up in their stories.

There are elaborate dinners, of course. We are, after all, talking about aristocrats! But sometimes they just have a snack.

In the first book of the series, Lady Elinor’s Wicked Adventures, the family travels to Italy to explore Etruscan ruins. Elinor has some more romantic plans as well. She and Harry have been riding through the hills where a number of Etruscan tombs are located. It’s a hot day, and they stop to rest in a bit of shade:

She heaved a sigh. It wasn’t Harry’s fault that she couldn’t win his interest. It was her own fault. She had mistaken his feelings. Although she was in love with him, his feelings were only brotherly. No passion. She had no right to complain. She wasn’t just being unreasonable. She was acting like a spoiled brat. Knowing it did not make her feel any better.

“Catch.”

She turned and put up her hands just in time to catch the object Harry had sent flying in her direction.

It almost splattered in her hands. “An orange. Lovely.” She smiled in delight and started peeling it immediately.

Harry had tossed aside his coat and neck cloth too, and unbuttoned his waistcoat. He plopped down on the ground beside her and grinned. “There’s another orange for you and some rolls. I remember how cranky you get when you haven’t been fed for a while.”

She slipped the first of the orange segments into her mouth, holding a hand under her chin to catch the drips. She held the morsel against the roof of her mouth with her tongue, letting the juices wash away the feeling of dust while the sweet-sharp scent of it cleaned the air she breathed. She swallowed and turned to him with a dreamy smile. “I forgive you.”

“Forgive me?” The grin disappeared and he looked startled. “What did I do?”

“Well, if you don’t know…” She turned away and shrugged.

There was a brief silence, and then they both began to laugh.

“Idiot!” she said affectionately.

“Ninny!” he replied.

By the time they had demolished the crusty rolls and licked up the last drop of juice from the oranges, Elinor’s mood had improved mightily. She stood up and stretched before looking around. Harry was lying back and seemed to have fallen asleep. She picked up his jacket and began checking the pockets to see if he had anything else to eat. Preferably something sweet.

Part of the adventure when you’re far from home is the food, which can be very unlike your usual diet, especially when your travels take you to Mesopotamia and the ruins of ancient Nineveh. In Lady Emily’s Exotic Adventure, food seems especially important to Emily the morning after her family’s arrival in Mosul. She had slept through dinner, so she wakes up very early and very hungry, She gets herself dressed and then sets out to find something to eat:

Some time later, when Lady Penworth entered the courtyard, her daughter was sitting on the side of the fountain in the dappled shade of an overhanging tree.

“Good morning, Mama.” Emily waved at a tree. “The one in the corner over there is a lemon tree but this one and the others are all orange trees. And this is Shatha. She is the cook and makes the most delicious soft, flat bread.” She smiled at the small woman dressed in multicolored garments who was bent over a brazier on which something sizzled with an appetizing meaty smell.

Lady Penworth smiled at the cook and nodded her head in greeting. “As-salaam alaikum,” she said, pronouncing the Arabic greeting carefully.

Shatha beamed back and bowed. “Wa alaikum assalaam,” she said. What followed was a spate of Arabic that sounded like questions. When the only response was blank looks, Shatha popped up and directed Lady Penworth to sit on a bench in the shade of the loggia that surrounded three sides of the courtyard. She placed a folding table beside her, which was in no time filled with bowls of yogurt and dried fruit, boiled eggs, and a plate of steaming bread.

“Have some bread and honey,” Emily said. “The honey is incredibly delicious.” She was trying to be her usual cheerful self, but given the peculiar look her mother was giving her, perhaps she was not entirely successful.

Lady Penworth did not make any comment. She did, however, beam with pleasure when Shatha produced a steaming pot of tea and some cups. “Would you care for some?” she asked, as she filled a cup.

My next book, A Scandalous Adventure, will be available on August 2. It sends the third daughter, Lady Susannah, on an adventure in a small German principality in the Swabia region, where a princess has been kidnapped and villains are planning to seize the throne. In this scene, Susanna and Max von Staufen are riding through the forest with a few of his men, on their way to recuse the kidnapped princess. But they cannot manage without something to eat!

Eventually—to her relief—they stopped beside a small stream to rest the horses and themselves. She sat down on a log. It was no softer than the saddle, but at least it did not move. Breakfast appeared from Josef’s saddlebags—bread, a hard yellow cheese, and garlicky sausages that he cut into chunks with his hunting knife. To wash it down, there was icy water from the stream. Like the others, she ate with her fingers and drank from a shared tin cup.

It was a meal unlike any she had ever eaten, but somehow one of the finest. Max sat beside her, close enough for her to feel the warmth of him. It was enough to make her feel safe. He always made her feel safe.

“Do you see them smile?” He smiled too. “They are yours now.”

She blinked in confusion.

“My men,” he said, tipping his head toward Josef and the two other men—they had been introduced to her as Hans and Gustav—who had ridden out with them. “You sit here and eat with them, and do not scorn their food. You ride with them and do not complain. They would have protected you in any case because you are my wife. But now, now they will follow you because you have won their respect.”

“Because I ate a sausage?” She choked down a surprised laugh. “They are easily won over.”

He continued to smile at her, and there was pride in that smile. “Not easily. Josef will have told them that you rode with him to my rescue, that you never flinched on the journey, that you never complained. And now they see for themselves that you are prepared to ride with them, to face hardship, to do what must be done. My warrior countess.”

“Goodness. All that from a sausage?” She flushed, embarrassed by the thought. She was about to protest that she was really a very conventional person, a proper English lady, but then a smile began to spread. Was she a warrior? Was that who she really was? A warrior countess. She liked that image of herself. It was certainly better than Susannah, the dutiful daughter, who always knew the proper thing to do and never caused anyone a moment’s worry. That Susannah who had somehow become very boring.

What about you? Do you like to read about food in historical romances? Or are there other things about life in the past that you want to read about? Leave a comment telling me what you think and I’ll send a copy of Lady Emily’s Exotic Journey to a random commenter.

And just for fun, I’m adding on a recipe for Hussar Rounds, a cookie that Lady Susannah might have enjoyed with her coffee while she was in Swabia.

Hussar Rounds

1 cup butter

½ cup sugar

½ teaspoon vanilla

¼ teaspoon almond extract

3 egg yolks

3 – 3 ¼ cups flour

1 egg white

3 tablespoon chopped almonds

jam

In an electric mixer, cream the butter and sugar. Add the vanilla and almond extracts. Beat in the yolks alternately with flour until firm and smooth. Shape into slightly flattened 1-inch balls and place on baking sheet. With a finger make an indentation in the middle of each cookie. Brush with egg white and sprinkle with nuts. Bake at 350° for 20 – 25 minutes. Before serving, place a dab of jam in the center of each cookie. (If you use several different colors of jam, it increases the jewel-like look of the platter.)

Note: If you are going to store them (they keep well), wait with the jam until just before serving.

Lady Elinor’s Wicked Adventure

Amazon • Apple • Barnes & Noble • Books-A-Million • Chapters • Indiebound • Kobo

Lady Emily’s Exotic Adventure

Amazon • Apple • Barnes & Noble • Books-A-Million • Chapters • Indiebound • Kobo

A Scandalous Adventure (pre-order)

Amazon • Barnes & Noble • Books-A-Million • Chapters

About the Author

Lillian Marek was born and raised in New York City. At one time or another she has had most of the interesting but underpaid jobs available to English majors, including too many years in journalism. She greatly prefers writing fiction, where the good guys always win and the villains are properly punished.

The first book in her Victorian Adventure series, Lady Elinor’s Wicked Adventures, won first prize in both the Launching A Star and the Windy City Four Seasons contests. She was also a first prize winner in the Beau Monde’s Royal Ascot contest.

Sandra Masters: My Divinely Decadent Duke (Giveaway)

Apr7

The Kiss

by Sandra Masters

“What about love and passion?” she wondered until she realized she spoke the words aloud. Enough. Everything but the one thing I want. And you think you are not cruel, Gordon?

“They shall take care of themselves with time. I will not force myself on you… unless you wish it of me. I would like the opportunity to demonstrate to you I am a good man you may wish to know better, Cassandra. Goodness knows you’ve seen many sides of me.”

Somehow the arrangement didn’t sound as insane as before. It could work. At least she wouldn’t have to marry Ashcombe, a perfect stranger. Her choices were an older gentleman, or the younger scandalous rake she loved.

Her mind spun.

Her world twirled.

She swayed.

He held her steady in his arms.

Her heart broke.

And then he did a terrible thing.

He kissed her with tender gentleness and coaxed open her lips. Their mouths melded together. Her body molded to his and it was perfect. She heard heart beats, pulse beats, thunderous beats. To be so close to him, so near, so in need—it was so unfair. She rested her head on his broad chest and made her decision.

“You are an innocent and a temptation I cannot afford, but I want you,” he murmured.

Was it better to be miserable with him than without him?

When God wants to punish you, he grants your dreams.

About My Divinely Decadent Duke (Book 2, the Duke series)

Orphaned and abandoned by family, Lady Cassandra Montgomery yearns for love. Beautiful and innocent, she attracts the attention of a renowned rake, the Duke of Althorn. When her security is threatened, she offers him a proposal for an arranged marriage in exchange for his guarantee of safety for her and her ward. After her first taste of desire in his arms, she finds the sexual attraction irresistible. Finding herself in a family way, she leaves his home, unsure of his love.

The Duke is at first enraged by the brazen behavior, yet he sees Cassandra as a captivating caregiver for his mother and impossible to resist. He agrees. The arrangement becomes inconvenient because love and sensuality enter the equation.

Will she believe her husband truly loves her and return to his waiting arms?

Will the Duke admit his love and use his rakish skills to woo Cassandra back to his bed?

Amazon

Excerpt

It was time he schemed, too. “I’ll select a gown for you, if you like. I’ll be proud to have my two duchesses by my side in their jeweled tiaras. Your maid will bring all to you as befits this special occasion. The King’s ball demands no less of us.”

“Thank you.” A smile curled her lips, her eyes glistened. “I appreciate there is no ill will between us.” She turned her face away.

“You’d be surprised at how much more there’ll be between us, my wife.” He turned to the dowager. “I do believe my mother tires.”

“Shall I have a servant escort you, Mother?”

Before she could offer to leave the table with Lady Madelaine, his brow arched in contained fury; his gaze shot across the length of the table. Cassandra’s lips stilled.

“Thank you, Gordon.” The dowager arose and a servant walked behind her as she took to the steps.

He simply stared at Cassandra, perused her body, and how her generous bosom invited his attention even in the simple frock she wore. His face couldn’t hide his anger.

“You have left my bed of your own accord. That is a serious dereliction of duty on a wife’s part in England, punishable by beatings… and other dire measures.”

“It wasn’t the intent of our agreement to chain me to you and your bed.”

He poured more cognac into his snifter. “Now that conjures a seductive thought—perhaps you would enjoy such activity?”

“Stop it, Gordon. You are like a two-sided coin. One side is gracious and the other side is lascivious.” She clasped her hands in her lap.

“Did you expect me to jump for joy at the prospect of your early departure from my house on a permanent basis? After all we’ve shared, Cassandra? Did it mean nothing to you? Did you simply use me as a connoisseur of decadent lingerie?” He rose from his chair, glass in hand and walked the long length to her position.

“No, but I did not expect you to display fits of anger. It couldn’t have been a surprise to you.”

“Cassandra, allow me to recollect. You proposed the agreement. I originally refused and because I took pity on you, I agreed to our business arrangement, as you put it.”

“You took pity on me? Is that what changed your mind? I didn’t need you as much as you needed me to care for your mother and get her well. You ass.”

“I might well be an ass since I trusted you, but you have stolen from me, my wife.”

She stood and faced him with defiance. “I have stolen nothing and only taken those items that were mine. Gowns, jewelry, coins, all are left behind.” Her napkin dropped from her lap.

“You are a thief, Cassandra. You have stolen the love of my mother, stolen the love of my dog, stolen the affection of my staff, and you claim you’re not a thief?”

“I did not steal them. It was theirs to give and I accepted—all to please you. You’re a dolt.”

“Hmm, did you take the lingerie you designed?”

“Yes, they were mine. I paid for them before I met you, Gordon.”

“Do you intend to put them to future use?” he asked, and moved an alcohol-braced whisper’s breath away from her.

“How do I know? If you want them, I’ll leave them for you to lavish on one of your other women.”

His hand slid around her waist. “There have been no other women since I met you. You are aware of that fact, aren’t you?”

“I hadn’t given it a thought. You’ve kept me so occupied, I don’t have free time to think.”

“I believe you lie to yourself, however, I indicated I wouldn’t stop you if you wished to leave, and that is so. Yet, I wonder if you would entertain one last night with me for a final end to a four month marriage of convenience that has suddenly turned inconvenient.”

“I’d rather sleep in a stable than by your side,” she spat.

“I would never force myself on you, but perhaps you could be coaxed to have mercy on your poor husband who’ll be left without any conjugal rights available to him?”

“No.”

“Then one last kiss? The memory of it will warm me on cold nights.”

“If you do take to cold nights, a servant can bring you a warm brick, and perhaps you can strike yourself on the head with it.”

Then a simple thing happened. They laughed. He extended his arm. She accepted as they walked out of the room. Together.

As they ascended the steps, there were snickers and smiles. He pointed Cassandra to her chambers, opened his bedroom door, and closed it.

He would win her back, if it killed him.

Besides, the King’s Ball had many balconies, and they were dangerous together in such an atmosphere. How he loved a challenge. And the chase.

Two random commenters will win digital copies of My Divinely Decadent Duke.

The Duke Series

Once Upon a Duke

My Divinely Decadent Duke

Thorn, Son of a Duke

About the Author

Retired executive, Sandra Masters, rose from a humble beginning in Newark, NJ, a short stay at a convent in Morristown, NJ, to the board rooms of NYC, and a fantastic career for a broadcasting company in Carlsbad, California, to the rural foothills of the Sierras of Yosemite National Park, she has always traveled with pen and notebook. It’s been the journey of ten thousand miles with a few miles left. She left her corporate world behind and never looked back.

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Donna Hatch: The Suspect’s Daughter (Giveaway)

Mar31

Interview with Donna Hatch

Susana: What inspired you to start writing, and how long have you been doing it?

Donna: I’ve always been imaginative—as a child, I played make-believe constantly—but when I was about eight, a little voice inside my head kept nagging me until I finally wrote what it told me to write. Later, I learned people call this little voice “The Muse.” By eighth grade, after I’d written many stories both short and long, a teacher suggested I should aspire to be a published author, something that had never occurred to me to attempt. But I didn’t know how to go about it, so I was a closet writer for years until I finally found the courage and knowledge necessary to submit my novel to a publisher. It was a long path, with plenty of rejections, disappointments, learning, and revising. But three years after getting serious about writing as a career, my first book, The Stranger She Married, Book 1 of the Rogue Hearts Series, was accepted for publication.

Susana: Are you a plotter or a pantser?

Donna: I am a combination writer. I start with a concept and characters, then form a few basic plot points in the story. After that, I write more or less by the seat of my pants.

Susana: Tell us something about your newest release that is NOT in the blurb.

Donna: The murder plot in my newest book, The Suspect’s Daughter, Book 4 of the Rogue Hearts Series, was inspired by a true event in England known as the Cato Street Conspiracy, which thankfully, was averted largely in part due to an undercover Bow Street Runner. This event happened in 1820, the same year my book takes place. When I read about that, I knew something like this just had to be Grant’s story.

Susana: Are you working on something at present that you would like to tell us about?

Donna: I am working on a 100-page novella for a new series, and also Book 5 of the Rogue Hearts Series about a fugitive charged with the murder of her husband. By the way, all of my books are stand-alone, so you don’t have to read the first three in the series before reading Book 4.

Susana: What author or authors have most influenced your writing?

Donna: Laura Ingalls Wilder heavily influenced me. Reading her books as a child instilled in me a love of historical novels, as well for as a romance plot. Charlotte Brontë’s Jane Eyre helped cement my love of romance. And I couldn’t be a Regency author if it weren’t for Jane Austen’s brilliance.

Susana: What is your work schedule like when writing?

Donna: I write sporadically, whenever I can fit it in. With a busy family, I don’t have the luxury of sitting down to a clean desk with candles and music to inspire me. Most often, I write while waiting in a doctor’s office, or during soccer practice, or early afternoons when my children are gone, or even late at night when everyone is asleep.

Susana: If your publisher offered to fly you anywhere in the world to do research on an upcoming project, where would you mostly likely want to go? Why?

Donna: That’s a no-brainer—I’d want to go to England. I’ve done tons of research, but I’ve never seen it in person. Since my novels take place in England, I’m dying to go there. I could have a much better grasp on the sights and sounds and smells of England to create an even more believable setting for my books.

I’m also planning on writing a book that takes place in Italy, so I’d love to go there, too.

Susana: Who gave you the writing advice that sticks with you to this day?

Donna: Marsha Ward, author of western novels, told me once that I should set a really underwhelming daily word count goal. Hers, I believe, is twenty words. It sounds pathetic, doesn’t it? And counterproductive. But I discovered the wisdom of that advice. If I think I don’t have time to write on any given day, I think, “But I only have to write twenty words.” It’s pretty easy to make time to write a mere twenty words. Usually, those twenty words turn into a hundred, or five hundred. Even if I only wrote that very small, daily minimum goal, in a year I could write a full-length novel.

Thank you so much for hosting me!

Note: The author will be giving away e-copies of The Stranger She Married to two random commenters on this blog post.

About The Suspect’s Daughter

Determined to help her father with his political career, Jocelyn sets aside dreams of love until she meets a mysterious gentleman with dangerous secrets. Working undercover, Grant’s only suspect for a murder conspiracy is the father of a lady who is getting increasingly hard to ignore. They must work together to find the assassins. England’s future hangs in the balance…and so does their love.

Smashwords • B & N • Amazon

About the Author

Donna Hatch is the award-winning author of the best-selling Rogue Hearts Series. A hopeless romantic and adventurer at heart, she discovered her writing passion at the tender age of 8 and has been listening to those voices ever since. She has become a sought-after workshop presenter, and also juggles freelance editing, multiple volunteer positions, and most of all, her six children (seven, counting her husband). A native of Arizona who recently transplanted to the Pacific Northwest, she and her husband of over twenty years are living proof that there really is a happily ever after.

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Cerise DeLand: Masquerade with a Marquess (Giveaway)

Mar23

Cerise DeLand gives you a Marquess, a Baron,

and a little fact with your romance for 99 cents!

We all love a historical that gives us a bit of the period. Some fact with our entertaining fiction. In Masquerade with a Marquess, I give you a few real mysteries taken from the period of my story.

My heroine, Sophia di Contini searches for two paintings by famous French painter Fargonard taken from her family by Pauline Bonaparte. That lady, like her brother, was infamous for appropriating art works from others. Here, Sophia has good reason to know who might be responsible and she gets help from our hero, Victor Cameron. As the two rekindle their romance of five years before, Sophia finds more than her paintings. She finds lost treasures that belonged to Pauline!

Those treasures (and I won’t tell you what they are) were truly lost by Pauline and their loss may indeed have changed the circumstances of her brother, Napoleon’s life. In fact, he may have never lost at Waterloo and never lost his imperial crown!

But I will tell you that she did indeed sell her Paris house to the British agents in 1814 and that house became and still is (drum roll!) the residence of the British Ambassador to France! In fact, the money she earned from the sale bankrolled Napoleon for much of Waterloo campaign! Yes, ironic and true.

I do hope you read Masquerade with a Marquess, #3 in my Regency Romp series, and #4 Interlude with a Baron!

And now, for a nibble of my newest cherry!

Excerpt

Victor made his way toward the threesome—and stopped in his tracks.

Across the room, a woman stood near the wall. Attired in a simple gown of cream, she portrayed a Greek or Roman queen. Her half mask was white, covering a straight nose and framing eyes that darted and scanned, settling here and there and moving on. Her hair glowed like pale sunlight. Beneath a headband of gold and white satin, her tresses curled in a braid high around her head. In a bow to current fashion, delicate wisps dangled at her ears. But the disarray made her more elegant, more classically beautiful. He could not drink in enough of her—and his mind stalled.

His stomach clenched. Oh, most definitely, this was the elusive housemaid. Or more accurately, Sophia di Bertolla di Contini, the daughter of the famous Italian courtier and poet, Marco di Bertolla.

Why would she come here to this party disguised?

The irony that she should appear here in plain sight when he had searched for her for weeks had him setting his teeth. What game did she play?

The woman had disappeared from Whiting’s house that night in December. He’d run out into the streets to search for her, to no avail. He’d hired men he often employed to track thieves or those who owed him money. But they’d found no one answering her description in any lodgings in greater London. He’d extended their territory to search for her in Dover and Calais, assuming she might seek refuge there to book a packet across the Channel. They had come up short.

But here she was.

No maid’s drab cloth for her tonight. The opposite. Poised, shining and polished as a marble goddess, she surveyed the guests, all grace and purpose. She spoke with no one. In truth, she seemed to hug the walls. Was she here alone?

He made his way across the ballroom. In the crowd, that took him time. Too much, in fact. And as he wove his way among his guests, she left her secluded spot to wander toward the central hall. Odd, that. The ladies’ retiring room was on this wing. If she wondered precisely where, she need only ask a servant who would redirect her. But she didn’t.

She continued toward the foyer. Scurrying, really.

Then she froze. Her eyes rounded.

Victor followed her line of sight.

Dray appeared straight ahead of her in the doorway, his ginger hair mussed by the wind and the half-black mask he wore. She turned aside, deftly weaving around Dray with not so much as a nod of greeting. That easily, she slipped out.

Victor hastened to catch her. But damn the crowd.

Threading his way through the throng required more greetings and diplomacy than he had expected. Next year, by god, he’d stay home. He wished to speak only to this intruder who appeared here as a guest. A creature who perennially danced in his memory like Salome.

Muttering to himself about his failure to eradicate her from his thoughts, Victor picked up his pace toward the hall.

But in his path stood Dray.

“I must speak with you.” Dray stepped toward him, straightening his tailcoat but looking oddly agitated.

“Later.” Victor clasped his step-brother’s hand. “Wait for me, please.”

“This is important. Where’re you going?” He turned as Victor passed him by.

“A guest.” He’d explain her identity later. “She’s headed the wrong way to the retiring room.”

“Put a footman to the task. I have news from Windsor—”

“Dray, wait.”

“I can’t!”

Victor ignored him and hurried away.

At the first floor landing of the staircase, he came to a stop. He turned to one side, the movement of a figure catching his eye. But it was a man, not Sophia.

In a stealthy move, the man shut the door behind him. As the latch clicked, so did knowledge of who the man was.

Otis Underwood. A degenerate of the first order.

Was he stalking Sophia? Was she in that room?

The reason that she might have gone there rose like bile in his throat. Did she seek an assignation with Underwood?

Preposterous. She had better sense than that. Or had years ago. Why would she consider alliance with such a man as he? She had no reason.

But he squeezed his eyes shut a second. Of course, it was her looks. The soft blue eyes that mesmerized a man. The lush rosy lips that inspired erotic fantasies in any man who gazed upon her. Young, old, infirm, any man with blood in his veins took one long look and coveted her.

Distaste for Underwood and his nefarious actions washed away all condemnation of Sophia.

Still, why was she floating around Winterbourne’s house?

She wasn’t a thief. Or hadn’t been that night at Whiting’s.

But was she in that room and if so, what did she want?

Flummoxed, he ripped off his mask and swung about, once more in complete review of the hall. No doubt of it. Unless she’d left the house, she was in that room where she should not be.

He’d root her out. He would.

He took the hall on cats’ feet. With utmost care, he turned the knob and thrust open the door.

Ah.

Across the moonlit room she stood in profile to him facing Underwood. The man advanced on her, a salacious smile upon his fleshy lips, his hawk-like nose hooked like the predator he was.

Giveaway

Cerise is giving away a digital copy of Her Beguiling Butler to one random person who comments and Masquerade with a Marquess to another random person.

A BIG SALE!

LIMITED TIME!

To celebrate the release of my 2 new Regencies, Masquerade with a Marquess and Interlude with a Baron, I put on sale all of the following for a limited time:

Lady Varney’s Risque Business, Regency Romp #1

Amazon • ARe • NOOK • KOBO

Rendezvous with a Duke, Regency Romp #2

Amazon • ARe • NOOK • KOBO

Masquerade with a Marquess, Regency Romp #3

Amazon • ARe • NOOK • KOBO • iTunes

Interlude with a Baron, Regency Romp #4

Amazon • ARe • NOOK • KOBO • iTunes

Her Beguiling Butler, Delightful Doings in Dudley Crescent #1

AMAZON • ARe • NOOK • KOBO • iTunes

About the Author

Cerise DeLand loves to cook, hates to dust, adores traveling…and lives to write! She is #1 Bestselling Regency Author of spicy romances starring dashing heroes and sassy women. Her box set The Stanhope Challenge was recently on the bestseller list for ONE solid YEAR!

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Erica Ridley: The Duke’s Accidental Wife (Giveaway)

Mar16

Interview with Erica Ridley

Susana: Where do you live?

Erica: I was born in the United States, and have lived in six different countries. I currently live on a macadamia farm in the rainforests of Costa Rica, and love it immensely. Given my wanderlust, I wouldn’t be surprised if I found myself somewhere else a few years from now, but for now I’m more than happy in Costa Rica.

Susana: What is one place that I should see if I visit your hometown?

Erica: I live in Nuevo Arenal, Costa Rica, a stone’s throw from Lake Arenal, the biggest and prettiest lake in the country. So definitely you should come see it! If it’s a clear day, there will be windsurfers on the lake, and you may even be able to see one or two of the closest volcanos.

Susana: What place that you haven’t visited would you like to go?

Erica: India is high on my list! I’ve been invited twice by friends who live there, but both times the round trip airfare was cost-prohibitive. I’ll make it there eventually!

Susana: When did you realize you wanted to be a writer?

Erica: Ever since I could read! I was told it wasn’t a very practical idea, so I ended up going to university to study International Business. I managed to stay in the corporate world for about ten years, before I decided that I absolutely had to try to become a writer, come what may. I’m so glad I did!

Susana: What’s been the highlight of your career to this point?

Erica: Even better than hitting the New York Times bestseller list is getting feedback from happy fans. Nothing else in this world can compare to hearing someone say that one of my books made their day, or got them through a tough time, or made them miss their subway stop for the second time in a row.

During the dark days of revision and editing, when I worry that every book is never going to be finished, those kinds of comments are what helps me get through.

Susana: Do you prefer paper books or e-books?

Erica: I have an unholy collection of both, and it looks like it’s going to stay that way for the near future. I use Calibre to manage my e-book collection (although I’m bitterly disappointed that my new kindle won’t import my Calibre tags as shelves/collections) and my paper books are actually piled on bookshelves in two countries, lol. I have books spilling off the shelves here in Costa Rica, and three times as many back in storage in the United States. I donate books to libraries and charities every chance I get, but they still multiply behind my back like gremlins. Wonderful, heartwarming, totally addicting gremlins.

Susana: If you were a cartoon, which one would you prefer being? Why?

Erica: I would like to be Sherman, so I could get to hang out with Mr. Peabody and travel in the way-back machine. (The Mystery Machine is a close second… Maybe I like machines?)

Giveaway: E-book copy of The Captain’s Bluestocking Mistress

If you were a cartoon, which one would you prefer being? Why? A random commenter will win an e-book copy of The Captain’s Bluestocking Mistress.

About The Duke’s Accidental Wife

The Dukes of War historical romance series features roguish peers and dashing war heroes who return from battle only to be thrust into the splendor and madness of Regency England.

Reader Group: http://facebook.com/groups/DukesOfWar

Miss Katherine Ross is a wealthy, eccentric socialite who knows precisely what she wants: No husband. No children. No candlelit tête-à-tête with the insufferably emotionless Duke of Ravenwood. She’s convinced his heart is ice — until she touches that chiseled chest for herself. One lapse in judgment is all it takes to turn both their lives topsy-turvy…

The Duke of Ravenwood isn’t cold and haughty, but a secret romantic who has always dreamt of marrying for love. Instead, he gets Miss Katherine Ross — a headstrong hoyden intent on unraveling his carefully ordered world. He doesn’t know whether to kiss her or throttle her. Can they survive each other’s company long enough to turn a compromise into love?

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About the Author

Erica Ridley is a New York Times best-selling author of historical romance novels. When not reading or writing romances, Erica can be found riding camels in Africa, zip-lining through rainforests in Costa Rica, or getting hopelessly lost in the middle of Budapest.

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Callie Hutton: The Highlander’s Accidental Bride (Giveaway)

Mar9

Dearest Mother,

This is a difficult letter to write since I have done something very foolish. Please do not think from my actions that I in any way disavowed your upbringing or teachings. I was merely not in a frame of mind at the time to consider my words.

First, it saddens me to inform you that the driver and footman you hired to accompany me and my maid on the journey to visit Sybil was killed in a carriage crash. The carriage was also destroyed in the accident.

Alice and I are unhurt, however. We met two lovely gentlemen on the road, professors at the University of Scotland, who assisted us to reach the nearest inn. Mother, you will never guess, but one of the professors is cousin to Lady Margaret’s husband, Laird Duncan McKinnon! I was quite relieved to discover that since Professor McKinnon offered—well actually I asked—his company for the remainder of the journey to Sybil’s home.

It was while traveling with the professor that my situation… changed. It appears somehow in the confusion of trying to obtain a room at an inn that was quite full, I inadvertently… Well, I accidentally…

I wish there was another way to say this. But, I unintentionally…

Mother – I am married.

Love,

Sarah

A bit of history on ‘irregular marriages’ from Wikipedia:

Under early modern Scots law, there were three forms of “irregular marriage” which can be summarized as the agreement of the couple to be married and some form of witnessing or evidence of such. An irregular marriage could result from mutual agreement, by a public promise followed by consummation, or by cohabitation and repute. All but the last of these were abolished by the Marriage (Scotland) Act 1939, from 1 January 1940. Prior to this act, any citizen was able to witness a public promise… A marriage by “cohabitation with repute” as it was known in Scots Law could still be formed; popularly described as “by habit and repute”, with repute being the crucial element to be proved. In 2006, Scotland was the last European jurisdiction to abolish this old style common-law marriage or “marriage by cohabitation with repute”, by the passing of the Family Law (Scotland) Act 2006. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marriage_in_Scotland.

If you lived in the Regency period, what would you hate the most? What would you like the most? One commenter will win a $5 Amazon gift card, along with an ebook copy of the USA Today best-selling book The Elusive Wife. That book is the first in the Marriage Mart Mayhem series. If the winner has already read it, they can select any other book in the series.

About The Highlander’s Accidental Marriage

On the way to visit her twin sister in the Highlands, Lady Sarah Lacey makes a huge mistake which has the ability to change her life’s plans… Now what does she do?

Lady Sarah Lacey is on her way to the Highlands to visit her twin sister, Lady Sybil MacBride, when she meets with an accident. Stranded on the road, she encounters Professor Braeden McKinnon, traveling to his home near Sarah’s destination. She cajoles him into escorting her and her maid.

As they take to the road together, Braeden finds the fiery Lady Sarah a handful of trouble. But nothing prepares him for the words she utters in front of witnesses that binds them together in matrimony. Waiting for word that he has been selected to work on an archaeological dig in Rome, he had no intention of taking a wife for a long time. Now that she has accidentally married them, however, perhaps it would not be such a bad thing, after all.

Except Sarah has no intention of being anyone’s wife. She has other plans…

http://calliehutton.com/the-highlanders-accidental-marriage-marriage-mart-mayhem-book-6/

Excerpt

She smiled at him. “Yes. I am ready.” Without another word, she sashayed over to his horse and stood next to it, her eyebrows raised. “Well. Are we leaving?”

Professor McKinnon had to shut his mouth, which hung open. He stomped over and, grasping her waist, flung her onto the horse’s back. She immediately began to slide to the other side, the weight of the wet clothes pulling her over. He reached out and grabbed her, tugging her the other way. Her arms flailing, she slid toward him and fell off, landing on him, sending both of them into the mud.

She lay sprawled on top of his muscular body, not more than an inch from his surprised expression. Mud splattered his spectacles as well as the rest of his face. Unable to help herself, she burst out laughing. He glowered at her and then his muscles relaxed, a slight smile teasing his lips which turned into a grin. “I’d love to lie here with ye on top of me, lass, but I dinna think we’ll get very far if ye do. ’Tis not fond of an audience, I am.”

About the Author

USA Today best selling author of The Elusive Wife, Callie Hutton writes both Western Historical and Regency romance, with “historic elements and sensory details” (The Romance Reviews). Callie lives in Oklahoma with several rescue dogs, her daughter, son, daughter-in-law, twin grandbabies (thankfully all not in the same house), and her top cheerleader husband of thirty-nine years. Callie loves to hear from readers, and would welcome you as a friend on Facebook. You can contact her through her website: www.calliehutton.com.

If you would like to keep informed on sales, contests and new releases, sign up for her newsletter.

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2016 releases

Stephen’s Bride, April

Wild Western Women Boxed Set, Volume 3, April

The Earl’s Return, Marriage Mart Mayhem #7, August

Wild Western Women Christmas Boxed Set, October

The Christmas Wager, Marriage Mart Mayhem novella, November

The Matchmaker Series, Book One, December

Gloria Gay: The Road to Winterhill

Mar2

Interview with Gloria Gay

Susana: What inspired you to start writing?

Gloria: I was given a book as a gift at school. Later the Nancy Drew, Dana Girls and Judy Bolton books inspired me to write, but I thought people were born writers and I didn’t know if I was born to be a writer. A silly idea but that’s what I thought at the time.

Susana: How long have you been writing?

Gloria: I began to think seriously about writing when I became obsessed with Rebecca by Daphne DuMaurier and I thought I’d write a gothic novel similar to Rebecca.

Susana: What advice would you give to writers just starting out?

Gloria: Read read read the kind of book you would like to write. It’s important for a person who wants to be a writer to understand that there is a structure to a novel and if you don’t learn how to do this you get your reader either bogged down with too much description at the beginning or the reader becomes lost with too many characters, etc. A person wanting to become a writer should read a few books on plot, structure, characterization, etc. A few courses on writing would also be of immense help. Also, join a writers club.

Susana: Do you ever suffer from writer’s block, if so, what do you do about it?

Gloria: I suffer from what I call daily writer freeze rather than writer’s block. Each day I have to force myself to start, by doing the following: I read the last paragraph and I either add to it or re-write it. Once I get going, I’m all right.

Susana: What comes first, the plot or the characters?

Gloria: For me the characters have always come first for inspiration. Usually either a scene pops up in my mind without any effort on my part or I think of a character that has started to “call” at me and I make up a scene in my mind. So it’s always a scene or character, never plot unless small slivers of an idea for the plot are tangled up in the character because of the way the character is.

I’m definitely a pantser, as you can see from the previous question.

I’ve never outlined a plot before writing a book. I do start writing the synopsis and list of characters once I have some of the book written but only so that I will have an idea of where I’m going and will not get tangled up with the characters.

Susana: Tell us something about your newest release this is not in the blurb.

Gloria: My heroine is an ugly duckling, a timid, kind, sweet girl who is her mother’s victim and this kind of heroine is not popular with readers of Regencies in the United States, unfortunately. In England they seem to love ugly duckling heroines because I got a few five-star reviews right away and the book is doing well there.

The heroines of all my other Regencies are beautiful and feisty, some spectacularly so. These are the kinds of heroines Regency readers like although this kind of heroine does not reflect real life. But I guess readers prefer to identify with beautiful and feisty. There are some reviewers in Amazon who are the mirror bullies of the school ground and they are allowed to do so by the hide-behind the fake name system.

Thankfully, blog reviewers stand behind their review with their name. This, to me is a breath of fresh air that is going through the publishing world.

About The Road to Winterhill

In the silence of St. George’s Cathedral, the clergyman’s voice rang out unnaturally loud: “Do you, Richard Branston, Earl of Berrington, take this woman, Belinda Presleigh, of Hunsley Manor, as your lawful wedded wife, to love and honor until death do you part?”

The few wedding guests crowding around them waited for Berrington’s response which was long in coming. Belinda saw their smirks and heard their muffled laughter.

She felt the sting of tears in her eyes at the long pause and realized she could not undo what she had done. The awful deed had come to roost in her heart.

She wished he would say no. She’d rather be jilted than that awful hesitation in which everyone looked at each other, some with smirks of “I told you so.”

Finally, Lord Berrington’s voice rang out—loud, impatient and clear: “I do.”

Amazon

About the Author

Author Gloria Gay’s love of painting and writing has always been entwined in her life. Her debut novel, First Season, earned a four-star review from Romantic Times Book Review. She recently published a new, expanded version of First Season under the title, Love in a Dangerous Season.

Recently, Boroughs Publishing Group published her Regency historical romances, Scandal at Almack’s and Lovely Little Liar.

Gloria also published a new edition of Canceled Courtship under the title, Kissed in the Dark, as well as Enchanted Summer, a Regency romance and A Bridge Through Time, a time travel romance.

Gloria and her husband Enrique, an architect, have three grown children and six grandchildren and they are lucky to have them all living near them in San Diego, California.

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Meara Platt: A Midsummer’s Kiss and Once Upon a Regency (Double Giveaway)

Feb3

Susana, thank you so much for having me on Susana’s Parlour, a particular thrill for me because I’m a fan and often peek in to learn more about my favorite authors. For those who don’t know me, I’m Meara Platt and I write Regency-era historical romances. Some of your readers may know me from my Farthingale series; all three books released to date have been Amazon international bestsellers, and I’m looking forward to the release of Book 4 in the series, A Midsummer’s Kiss, scheduled to release this week!

Also scheduled to release this week is a box set called Once Upon A Regency: Timeless Tales And Fables, a set of nine Regency romance novellas inspired by fairy tales. My story in this set is Wish Upon A Kiss based upon Sleeping Beauty. Samantha Grace, Sue London, Ari Thatcher (she also writes as Aileen Fish), Amanda Mariel, and others—all have stories inspired by one of their favorite tales or fables: The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Little Red Riding Hood, Alice In Wonderland, etc. It has been so much fun working with them and I look forward to more collaborations in the future. Our Once Upon A Regency launch party is February 5th. We’d love to see you there.

I also have a gift for all who stopped by my guest blog today. Please read through to the end and you’ll find a thank you from me as well as a contest where I’ll be giving away a prize.

Interview

Susana: What inspired you to start writing?

Meara: Actually it wasn’t inspiration, but a matter of chance. I’ve always loved historical romance, then several years ago I read a string of bad Regency romances, and after grumbling and tossing aside book after book, my husband suggested that I stop whining and write one myself. So I did, and it was AWFUL! Fortunately, I was not so deluded to think it was a masterpiece. I knew I needed help, lots of it. So after bumping into Nora Roberts in a NYC elevator – and by chance we happened to be wearing the same dress, which is what got us briefly chatting – I took it as a sign that I had to start writing. She was there for a Romance Writers of America conference, so I lurked and poked around and realized this was for me. I joined and am a member to this day. I also joined my local RWA chapter, went to all the monthly meetings, took workshops, went to conferences, and absorbed as much knowledge as possible. The ability to write an engaging story comes naturally to some of the lucky few. That wasn’t me. English is not my native language, but that was the least of it. I didn’t understand the concept of writing a tight story, had no clue what plot or conflict really were, and didn’t realize that by giving my hero and heroine certain strengths and weaknesses, I could create their goals and motivations to propel their story. Hopefully, I finally got those details right with the Farthingale series. The stories aren’t just love stories, they’re also about family, and the chaotic humor and character of this large family is as much a part of the romance as the compelling love story for each sister as she falls in love with (and creates heaps of trouble for) the man she’s destined to marry.

Susana: What is the best advice you can give to other writers?

Meara: The best advice I can give writers is to learn as much as you can about story structure, characters, conflict, and goals, and then take that knowledge and write from your heart. Write with affection and respect for your characters whether they’re good or evil, make them as real as they can be, and also respect your readers. Be honest about what you’re giving them. Don’t design your covers or write blurbs to entice a reader, then fail to deliver. Also know your strengths and weaknesses. Even though I may give my characters some difficult emotional baggage, as I did for my hero, Ian, the Duke of Edgeware, in The Duke I’m Going To Marry, I don’t think I’m capable of writing a dark story – so no matter what I throw at my hero or heroine, it’s done with a gentle hand and liberal use of humor to soften whatever pain they’re experiencing. My readers know they will always get strength and optimism in my stories as well as (hopefully) some laugh out loud moments as my alpha hero is brought to his knees in surrender by the clueless and innocent Farthingale sister who will steal his heart.

Susana: What happened when you got “the call”?

Meara: When I got “the call” it came after many rejections and very close calls and lovely revision letters, but the timing was right for me. Any sooner, and I would not have understood my strengths and weaknesses as a writer, or found my natural voice. You know the saying, when it rains it pours? The offer from my publisher came as I was about to receive an offer from another publisher. My publisher offered a generous multi-book deal and their business model was a perfect fit for me, so I accepted and have not regretted the decision. I also must add that this book deal came about because I knew a writer who had just published with them and she recommended me – it came out of the blue and the publisher acted fast because of the recommendation. She put her reputation on the line and would never have recommended someone she thought would make her look bad. As much as we write the books of our heart, this is also a business. Others rely on you to get your part done on time and to work with others from editing to cover art to promotions, and with other authors on boxsets or other collaborations. While artistic temperament might inspire a writer to create, that unreliable temperament will be viewed as toxic to others. So I’ve cleaned up a favorite saying of mine, a great line from a good friend of mine. It’s a simple bit of caution that applies to all we do – don’t be a jerk. Your position is never elevated by stepping on others.

Susana: How do you deal with writer’s block?

Meara: That’s best answered by talking about my characters. I may have trouble writing a scene or figuring out an ending that readers will remember, but I don’t really have writer’s block. I have diarrhea of the mouth (or typing fingers) and have so much in my head that I hope I’ll have the time to get it all out! After years of trial and error, I found that what works best for me when starting a book is to decide upon the characters first and figure out what they need the most and what they want to avoid at all costs. My heroes especially will spend their entire story avoiding what we all know is best for them. For example, in my debut book, My Fair Lily, I knew that Lily Farthingale had to be a spectacle-wearing bluestocking who is gorgeous – dark hair and vivid blue eyes – who knows everything about books and nothing about men. I paired her with Ewan Cameron, an irreverent Scot, a man of action, who detests all things English and only comes down to London because of a deathbed promise made to his father. He’s brought along his shaggy, loveable but clumsy sheepdog, and his dog falls in love with Lily at first sight. So does Ewan, but he’s too stubborn (just like a Scot) to admit it to himself. Lily has an identical twin, Daffodil, and her story is The Duke I’m Going To Marry. I paired Daffodil, a girl with a big heart and lots of love to give, with Ian Markham, the notorious Duke of Edgeware, a man who has sworn he’ll never marry or fall in love. Most think he’s just arrogant and independent, but it’s really because he’s harboring a dark secret. It takes Daffodil’s strength, her intelligence and sharp wit, and her ability to love, to finally convince Ian to open up his heart to her and allow himself to find happiness. In Rules For Reforming A Rake, Daisy Farthingale enters her debut season with a slight tarnish to her reputation. To regain her respectability, she’s decided to marry the most respectable man she can find. Of course, she falls in love with Gabriel Dayne, London’s most notorious rakehell. What is Daisy to do? She sets about reforming him, of course. The right match helps the story to tell itself. In my upcoming release, A Midsummer’s Kiss, Laurel Farthingale accidentally runs down Graelem Dayne while riding her horse, and amid the chaos, Graelem’s leg is broken. Graelem has to find a girl to marry by Midsummer’s Day or he’ll lose a vast inheritance. When a remorseful Laurel gives her sacred promise to do whatever it takes to make it up to him, he accepts and tells her that she can make it up to him by marrying him. Graelem is another stubborn Scot (I love those heroes) and Laurel is hot-tempered, independent, and will only marry for love, not some sham betrothal that she agreed to because she gave her word. Graelem has only thirty days – and while hindered with a broken leg – to convince Laurel that they’re meant to be together.

Susana: Tell us about what story you’re currently working on.

I’d like to talk a little about Once Upon A Regency and my contribution to it, Wish Upon A Kiss for several reasons. The first is that it is a new release, so I’m excited to talk about it. The second, and most important reason, is that it is a collaborative effort with authors I admire and with whom I’ve since become friends. It is this bond of friendship that is as important to me as any book I’ve written. The same amazing thing happened with the talented authors who, along with me, were a part of Kathryn Le Veque’s Kindle World of the deWolfe Pack launch. We’ve all become as close as sisters and chat every day. My contribution to the deWolfe Pack world is Nobody’s Angel – another story about the power of love to conquer all, and how miracles can happen. But back to Once Upon A Regency and my Sleeping Beauty inspired story. Obviously, it is about Winnie, my heroine who is raised by her three ditzy godmothers. She lives quietly in the Lake District countryside and doesn’t know her true identity. The hero, Ardaric, comes upon her and is drawn to her from their first meeting. He insists on remaining to protect her when her life is suddenly threatened. As in Sleeping Beauty, he defeats evil to save the girl he loves. Winnie is a strong heroine in her own right and worthy of Ardaric’s love. What is the secret that I am about to reveal only to readers of Susana’s Parlour? As I finished the story, my nephew’s wife gave birth to their first child and they called him Ardaric. I fell in love with the new baby and his name – so STOP THE PRESSES! My hero’s name became Ardaric. So this story has special meaning for me beyond pride of authorship of this story!

In my books, family plays a big role. In this, I feel my childhood influenced much of my writing. I was born in Cairo, Egypt and spent most of my childhood moving from country to country before my family finally settled in the US. So we’ve lived in Egypt, France, and Australia until finally reaching the US. Although having to leave Egypt led to some very difficult times for my family, I can look back with happiness on the time I spent there. We spent only a short time in France, but several years in Australia (loved, loved, loved those wonderful years in Sydney, Australia) before leaving to join the rest of our family in the US. To me, Australia was paradise, and I was sad to leave. My twin sister and I still have the stuffed koala bear toys we were given as gifts from our friends and we treasure them to this day. Amid all the upheaval, the one constant in our lives was love of family and deep appreciation for the friends we made along the way. When I write about the power of good over evil, it has a very real meaning to me and I hope it will also have meaning to many readers who have faced hardships in their lives. My stories are also messages of hope – to stay strong, be kind to others, and good things will come to you.

Susana: Tell us about your favorite authors.

Meara: I’m an avid reader and enjoy reading many genres, but Regency is my favorite. A close second are the other historical (medieval, highlander, Viking, Victorian) romance genres. I also love a good cozy mystery or fantasy/paranormal tale. I don’t like stories that are dark and painful or about evil, twisted characters or selfish characters. I’m a hobbit in real life – I like warmth and comfort and don’t do well with nasty adventures that make me late for dinner. When I read, I want to feel good and cheer for the heroines as they find love with their worthy heroes. Judith McNaught is my all time favorite historical romance author. Today, I read Christi Caldwell and Julie Johnstone – love their books. I’ve also read Victorian romance author Amanda Mariel and love her stories. I also highly recommend the authors in the Kindle World of the deWolfe Pack – they’re all best sellers in their genres and are most deserving of the glory.

Susana: What are your writing plans for 2016?

Meara: There are more stories coming from me in 2016. Along with the Regency romances, I’m also launching a paranormal Regency series – an ambitious 4-book series that may grow into more books. I’ve always been a fan of fairy tales and fairy lore, so several years ago I decided to create a Fae world that exists in Regency times – in the Lake District, which is a favorite place of mine – and as we know, faeries and faerie lore were very popular in the 1800’s. Faeries (unlike Tinkerbell depicted in Disney’s version) are a form of demon. So are dragons and, ahem, hunky alpha dukes who happen to be able to shift into dragons, and protect England from those really, really evil demons of the underworld who intend to wreak havoc on the British subjects. There’s a Fae prophecy involved and everyone is searching for the Regency lass who is the only one who can save Fae and humans from domination by these underworld demons. Lots of fun, chaos, and Regency heroines who are strong enough to conquer demons even though they don’t know how to wield a battle sword, much less be able to lift one. No matter how dire the circumstances, there may be death and destruction, but in any Meara Platt book, there will also be laughter and happily ever after endings.

Susana, I’ve enjoyed my visit to your parlour so much! I hope those who joined us enjoyed this chat as well. I’ll be giving away a Farthingale ebook of choice to one winner. To be eligible, just leave a comment answering this question:

Would you read a Regency romance with paranormal elements and – strictly optional – let me know what you like about them?

For all who joined me in Susana’s Parlour, here’s the link to my newsletter where you’ll find the freebie Farthingale novella as a gift from me to you. It’s called If You Kissed Me. http://bit.ly/FreeRegencyNovella. If you would rather not sign onto my newsletter, just email me at plattmeara@gmail.com and I’ll email you the novella.

About A Midsummer’s Kiss

Sometimes love happens at the most unexpected times and in the most unexpected places. Sometimes it quietly sneaks up on you, and sometimes it knocks you over on a London street, just as it happens to Lord Graelem Dayne when Laurel Farthingale’s horse runs him over and breaks his leg. Graelem has until Midsummer’s Day, a mere thirty days away to find a wife or lose a large inheritance, so when a remorseful Laurel begs his forgiveness and promises to do anything, anything for him, he takes her up on that promise and insists that she marry him.

Laurel Farthingale has no intention of becoming Graelem Dayne’s biddable bride and is furious that he’s tricked her into a betrothal. She plans to marry another, her long-time friend and childhood infatuation who is now in London to propose to her, for she’s a Farthingale and everyone knows that Farthingales only marry for love. But as she comes to know Graelem, she realizes that he may very well be the man she’s destined to love. Can he ever love her above his desire to secure his baronial fortune?

My Fair Lily (Book 1)

The Duke I’m Going to Marry (Book 2)

Rules for Reforming a Rake (Book 3)

A Midsummer’s Kiss (Book 4)

Once Upon A Regency: Pre-order for 99 cents

Nobody’s Angel

Excerpt

“Blessed Scottish saints,” Graelem said in a husky murmur. “Are you saying that I’m the only man who’s ever kissed you?”

“In that crude and plundering way. Yes.” In that wonderful, fires-of-hell-take-me-I’m-yours way that still had her blushing and wanting to rip the shirt off his body and run her hands along his hot, golden skin? Laurel cleared her throat. “In any way at all? Yes. You’re the first.”

A solemn quiet came over him, but he shook out of it quickly. “Laurel, lass.” He spoke with a gentleness not present before. “You can’t possibly love him.”

“I knew you were going to say that.” She curled her hands into fists and returned his gaze with a scowl of exasperation. “I do love him. I don’t love you. The kiss we shared was a mistake. I wasn’t myself. I was distraught and uncertain.”

She paused a moment and swallowed hard. “But thank you for not taking advantage of me. Had you tried, I think I would have let you.” Because she was crazed and hurting. No other reason. Certainly not because she felt any desire for the oaf.

Goodness and mercy! Why would she feel anything for him?

“I know, lass,” he said with a nod. “But I gave you my promise that I wouldn’t touch you against your will and I’ll keep to it. You wanted the kiss and it was harmless enough.” He leaned closer still. “Granted, you wanted more. But I will not have you shamed or living with regrets for your actions on one of the most difficult days of your life. When you marry me—”

“If I marry you. Which I won’t.” Drat! The words sounded uncertain even to her ears.

“I’ll make you a bargain.”

She shot to her feet, instantly wary. “What sort of bargain?”

“I’ll agree to attend these bloody teas and musicales if you stop dismissing the idea of our marriage.”

She nibbled her lip in thought and noticed that Graelem’s eyes darkened as he watched her. Honestly, why did the oaf have to be blessed with dangerously seductive eyes? They should have been watery or rimmed in red. They weren’t. His eyes were clear and magnificent. “No more dismissing the idea of our marriage? I’ll agree not to mention it when we chat”— but I’ll still think it— “so long as you don’t dismiss out of hand the young ladies I plan to invite to said teas and musicales.”

“Agreed.” He gave her a heart-melting smile. “Care to seal it with a handshake?”

No, she’d much rather seal it with a kiss. A lips-locked, tongues-plundering string of kisses to be precise. “Blessed Scottish saints,” he said in a hoarse whisper and rose from his chair to stand beside her. “Don’t look at me that way, lass.”

“What way?” She felt her heart beating faster and the heat in her cheeks was now spreading through her body, blazing a fiery trail through her veins. Graelem stood too close. She put her hand on his chest to nudge him back, but somehow her hand curled against the front of his shirt and she found herself tugging his big body closer instead.

Oh, dear. The wrong way.

“What’s it to be, lass?” His mouth felt feather soft against her ear. “Do we seal our bargain with a safe and proper handshake?” His cool breath sent very hot tingles up and down her spine. “Or would you rather we seal it with a dangerously improper kiss?”

She let out a soft gasp. Did the man have no shame?

About the Author

Meara Platt is happily married to her Russell Crowe look-alike husband, and they have two terrific children. She lives in one of the many great towns on Long Island, New York, and loves it, except for the traffic. She has traveled the world, occasionally lectures, and always finds time to write. Her favorite place in all the world is England’s Lake District, which may not come as a surprise since many of her stories are set in that idyllic landscape, including her Romance Writers of America Golden Heart award winning story to be released as Book 3 in her paranormal romance Garden series, which is set to debut in 2016. Learn more about bestselling author Meara Platt by visiting her website at www.mearaplatt.com.

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Diane Dario: The Rake’s Redemption

Jan27

I have been reading romance novels since the age of fourteen.

Regency romances are one of my all-time favorite eras (grand ballrooms, dinner parties while sitting next to a grand duke or war hero just returned from fighting against Napoleon and the French, hey I girl can dream, can’t she).

When I am not reading or writing the stories I have visions in my head, I am enjoying the joyful moments with my growing family, the ballet and romantic movies.

Writing has always been a great passion for me, a long road of many ups and downs (and lots of online writing classes) and the years it took to get the craft right, finally, all my time and efforts paid off and now my dream of becoming a published author is now a reality.

It just goes to prove dreams can come true as long as you do not give up on them.

Susana: What is your favorite part of writing?

Diane: The research and having the opportunity to let my imagination run away with me as I go into another place and time while creating romantic stories.

Susana: Your current release, The Rake’s Redemption, takes a slightly different spin on the “left at the altar” storyline. Where did you get the idea for your unique spin on this familiar theme?

Diane: I always enjoyed reading second chance on romance books and I thought I could do this and the hard part was trying to come up with a plot that wasn’t used before. I do hope you like Caroline and Pierce as they found the love they once shared wasn’t lost forever.

Susana: This story also has elements of the difficulties soldiers face when they return home. Who or what was your inspiration for this secondary theme?

Diane: The anniversary of Waterloo and I thought what must it have felt like to be battle, seeing your fellow soldiers and friends die right before your eyes.

Susana: What do you have coming up next?

Diane: January 2016 – A Christmas Regency novella – The Earl’s Christmas Embrace – matchmaking gone astray. First of a series of war heroes coming home and searching for their missing friend.

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD)

While researching for my debut novella The Rake’s Redemption, I stumbled upon PTSD and thought my hero, Pierce Mortimer, just returning from the Napoleonic wars, most likely had suffered this illness on this return home.

In Regency England, they would not have had the name or medical understanding that we have today. It was not until World War I that they termed the condition shell shock.

Research on the condition of PTSD in the 18^th century has meant significant digging and piecing together information given to them in bits and pieces. Suffering with PTSD could lead one to re-experiencing experiences through recollections, dreams or acting as if the event is still going on.

PTSD is not limited to just re-experiencing. There are many pieces of the puzzle. There could be attempts to numb or avoid the topic of what he experiences with copious amounts of alcohol. There would be outburst or anger or one might have difficulty in social situations.

The Napoleonic wars were long and drawn out and it is not inconceivable that soldiers did not return with PTSD. They just would had a different name for it.

In regards to the Royal Navy, they were believed to just be melancholy. War and its consequences (death, disease) were so commonplace during the 18^th century that those who had symptoms of PTSD were called cowards. The names they had for PTSD were cerebro-spinal shock or wind contusions. The condition was treated with skepticism which had to be difficult for a soldier who had no physical wounds.

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About Rake’s Redemption

Rake’s Redemption is a story of love interrupted by a young man’s call to duty…

Pierce, a younger son, realizes that the life of a military officer is far beneath what the woman he loves deserves. Despite her reassurances, he makes a decision to leave her behind, which will haunt him even after he returns from the war.

Caroline, socially ruined by a failed elopement, yearns for a husband and children of her own. Finally deciding to accept the attentions of eligible bachelors, her world is turned upside down once again when her brother in law returns from fighting Napoleon on the peninsula.

When Pierce returns to his childhood home, he and Caroline soon realize they share a sizzling physical attraction. But will the lingering pain of rejection she carries and his dark memories of battle stand in the way of love?

About the Author

Always an avid reader, Diane was introduced to the world of historical romance at the age of fourteen by favorite aunt. From that day, she determined to create her own world of romance, filled with the British aristocracy and the turbulent Regency era, during and after the Napoleonic Wars.

When not reading or writing about dukes, earls, and their ladies, Diane spends her time making beautiful memories with her husband and children, attending the ballet, or watching movies (love stories, of course!).

Pamela Labud: To Catch a Lady

Jan20

Interview with Pamela Labud

Susana: What inspired you to start writing?

Pam: I was raised in Illinois, with only 3 TV channels and a small library, I couldn’t wait for more stories, so I started writing my own at age 13. I didn’t really finish a novel until much later when I read Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander, and knew I had to write. Shortly after that I started my first historical romance novel!

Susana: How long have you been writing?

Pam: I’ve been writing romance for twenty years! Before I wrote mostly short stories and as a teenager, very depressing poetry. But, once I started writing romance, I never looked back. I love the genre and plan to write it forever!

Susana: What advice would you give to writers just starting out?

Pam: Read everything you can get your hands on! All genres and all ages. Not just in your comfort zone. Read nonfiction as well as fiction. Pay attention to the masters, and by that I mean Stephen King’s On Writing, Deb Dixon’s GMC, Chris Vogler’s The Writer’s Journey, and Self Editing for Fiction Writers by Renni Brown and Dave King, among others. Learn to write synopsis, blurbs and log lines. Learn how to pitch a book and how to gracefully accept rejections and learn from them. And, finally, the most important thing to do? Write, write, write!

Susana: Do you ever suffer from writer’s block? If so, what do you do about it?

Pam: I’ve not really suffered from writer’s block, but I do have moments of anxiety and times when the words just aren’t there. I think a block can come from several sources. Health problems, grief, fear, and even situational stress.

The best thing to do is to figure out what’s blocking you and then do your best to deal with it. Do you need medical treatment? A counselor? Time to grieve? Or, maybe a job change or help dealing with a domestic issue will make it possible to restart your writing.

Sometimes you can be blocked because of low self-esteem. “I’m no good, therefor I can’t do this. I’m a terrible person and therefore I’m a terrible writer. No one will want to read what I write, etc.”

When this happens, you really need to sit yourself down and start reciting positive affirmations. Writing is a very scary business, when you fail and when you succeed… No matter what, face that blank screen and keep trying.

Susana: What comes first the plot or the characters?

Pam: For me, it’s the characters. I grow the plot from their personality, flaws, goals and what cause conflict in their lives. Every time they solve one problem, I give them another, bigger one. Of course, they all have that “black moment” where they think all is lost, but they figure things out and their story always works out. I believe in Happily Ever After or Happy for Now.

Susana: Are you a plotter or a pantser?

Pam: I’m a plantser! LOL! Actually, I start with my character’s profile and then pants, or free write from there until about halfway through the story. Then, I plot the rest. Also, I always know my ending before I sit down to write the first line.

Susana: What are you reading now?

Pam: I love reading Regency romances, except for when I’m actively writing in the genre. I love to read romantic suspense authors like Tammy Hoag and Kathy Reichs. At present, though, I’m reading the first book in an amazing series by Kristen Painter. The Vampire’s Mail Order Bride was so much fun! I can’t wait to finish the rest of the series.

Susana: What author or authors are most influential in your writing?

Pam: My favorite author growing up was Ray Bradbury. I so loved his books and poetry. He’s a Midwesterner like me, so his writing really resonated with me. In addition to his writing novels, he also wrote short stories and poetry. Plus, he wrote the screenplay for the first Moby Dick movie.

Later on, though I’d love authors like John Jakes, JRR Tolkien, and others, it wasn’t until I read Diana Gabaldon’s Outlander that I really had the urge to write. I’m nowhere near the kind of writer she is, but I learned to write with emotions through her more than anyone else I’ve read. And, finally Jane Austin and Mary Jo Putney were my go to for Regency stories. Mary Jo’s The Rake and The Reformer is still my favorite modern Regency romance.

Susana: What is your work schedule like when you’re writing?

Pam: All over the place! LOL! Six months ago I retired from nursing to write full time, and it has been one of the biggest challenges of my life. I have two grown daughters, and since I left nursing one of the graduated from college—three thousand miles away, and the other one got married. I also attended my first Romantic Times Convention and went to New York City for last year’s RWA National Conference. We are also doing a major reorganization of our house, so you can imagine what insanity that involves. But, I do write every day whenever and wherever I can.

Susana: What did you want to be when you grew up?

Pam: A writer, of course! After that, I decided to become a nurse. I had a long and wonderful career in nursing, 2 years as a nurse tech, and then 33 years as a registered nurse. I met lots of great people, met and married my husband of 26 years (who is also a nurse), and now have two wonderful daughters, one of which has become a nurse as well. I was always blessed with enough work to pay the bills, raise my girls and eek out time for writing, too.

Susana: What has been your biggest adventure to date?

Pam: That was definitely my first visit to New York City last July for the Romance Writers of America’s National Conference. I love that city!!! For my entire adult life, I have had a huge crush on the Big Apple. No lie. I started watching Law and Order, and fell head over heels crazy about that place. I watched Sex in the City not only for the fabulous stories, but to see NYC! And of course, CSI New York, and the list goes on. L&O the first show was my long time favorite show so I’d always felt a kinship. Then, seeing Times Square for real was just awesome. I so can’t wait to go back.

About To Catch a Lady

Ashton Blakely, the Duke of Summerton, cannot stop his aunt from meddling in his affairs. So rather than let her select a most disagreeable mate, Ashton decides to fire the first volley by holding a ball as a scheme to bag the ideal wife: a deferential girl eager to produce and raise an heir, leaving Ashton to his beloved hunting lodge and titled friends. But when Ashton falls for the one woman who isn’t willing to play his game, all his plans scatter like buckshot. Suddenly, the chase is on!

Caroline Hawkins has no interest in marriage. In fact, she has devoted her life to defending women from the indignities visited upon them by their husbands. She only chaperones her beautiful younger sister to Summerton’s ball in the hopes of saving her family from bankruptcy. She certainly doesn’t expect to catch the Duke’s eye… nor is she prepared for the heat that rises every time she thinks of his powerful build or his dark, tantalizing gaze. Caroline can run, but she cannot hide—for Ashton has already captured her heart.

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About the Author

An avid reader since age 5, Pam Labud began seriously writing romance fiction in 1996. Published in 2005, Pam’s first mass market romance novel, Spirited Away, was a Romance Writers of America’s Double RITA contest finalist. That book and the one that followed, If You Could Read My Mind, both received 4 star reviews from Romantic Times Magazine. Since, she has been published both ebooks and in print, via online publishers as well as self publishing her own backlist titles. Currently she writes historical Regency romance, western romance, paranormal romance and fantasy.