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In: Historical Romance, Jane Austen, Sadie Montgomery

Synopsis: Willoughby is the story, taken from the pages of Jane Austen’s Sense and Sensibility, of the ill-fated lovers, Marianne and Willoughby. Foolish and impetuous, Willoughby becomes involved in a reckless affair, the consequences of which he won’t fully know until it’s too late. Only when he meets and falls in love with Marianne Dashwood does he understand and regret the consequences of his rash behavior. Cast aside, her romantic illusions broken, Marianne must teach her heart to love more wisely. Despite their separate paths, Willoughby’s and Marianne’s stories are intertwined, and fate brings them together, with unexpected consequences, at critical moments in their lives. Faithful to the events in the original, Sadie Montgomery integrates new material into Austen’s text and spins a tale ofContinue Reading

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In: Leslea Tash, Sweet Romantic Reads

 Synopsis One look into his piercing blue eyes, and I knew there was no way I could ever say no to Carl Ward. I wasn’t sure he could help me, but more than anything, I wanted to see him again. “Oh, Mr. Ward,” I said. “Nothing would please me more.” Chastity Lilly is no flapper. In 1920s New York, she’s determined to find a career as a teacher so she can support her family upstate. But one thing leads to another, and the company she keeps in the big city leads her down a very different path than the one she sought. When she helps a handsome rancher in town looking for his own errant sister, can she turn her act around? Will she takeContinue Reading

On:
In: Aidan Turner, Articles, Caitriona Balfe, Diana Gabaldon, Historical Romance, Masterpiece Theater, Outlander, Poldark, Sam Heughan, Scotland

Okay, so I’ve been watching on Facebook and hearing everyone else talk about the “highly anticipated” Outlander television series on Starz. On the other side of the camp, all the Poldark lovers are going crazy over that series being redone by Masterpiece Theater. Because, I knew very little about Outlander, written by Diana Gabaldon, except for what I’ve read in multiple blog posts and reader comments, I finally downloaded the first book. From what I’ve gathered in searching the net and reading reviews, there is a lot of polarization regarding the story. The disagreeable readers say this — they liked the beginning and the premise, but as the story continued were appalled by scenes that turned them off (mainly, the supposed marital rape of Claire,Continue Reading

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In: Book Promo Blog, Gothic Historical Romance, Phantom of the Opera, Sadie Montgomery, The Phoenix of the Opera Series

Quite a few years ago, I fell in love with the story of The Phantom of the Opera.  My insatiable hunger for the tale inspired me to start my own blog on the subject, which I eventually put into print. A few years later, I wrote my own continuation of Gaston Leroux’s Phantom, The Phantom of Valletta in 2010. Yes, it’s fan fiction – the latest and greatest craze. Along the way, I met a wonderful woman by the name of Sadie Montgomery. She has written a series of books on the Phantom, taking the story down avenues you could not imagine. I’ve enjoyed every book, which should be read in sequence to keep the story flowing. If you are into the man behind theContinue Reading

On:
In: Book Promo Blog
Tagged: ,

Please join Reina M. Williams on her Love at Pemberley Series Book Blast from May 12 – June 13, 2014. About Most Truly Publication Date: December 15, 2013 Amazon Digital Services, Inc. eBook; 88 pages Heat level: Sweet Colonel James Fitzwilliam is home. The war has left him weary, battle-scarred—and a free man of fortune ready to find a wife. He travels to Pemberley, his second home. There he meets Kitty Bennet. Her unexpected charms soon have him questioning his familial duty and his expectations. A fight looms on the horizon when his aunt—Lady Catherine de Bourgh—and his parents arrive with their own plans for his future. Kitty Bennet has found happiness. At Pemberley, she has improved herself and formed true friendships with her sisterContinue Reading

On:
In: Articles, Belle Movie Review, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Sam Reid, Tom Wilkinson

Stars:Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Tom Wilkinson, Sam Reid, Emily Watson,  Sarah Gadon, and Penelope Wilton Yes, this is not a book review, but a movie review that is worth sharing.  Since I actually touched on the subject of an aristocratic family, in my book The Price of Deception, making their fortune in slave trading, I found this movie both moving and inspirational on many levels. I took the commuter train to downtown Portland to see Belle at the one theater in which it is playing. It is a shame, because the movie needs to be released in many more theaters across the country. It is, frankly, the best film I have seen in a long time. The story pulls at the heartstrings of the audience and challengesContinue Reading

On:
In: Book Review Blog, Mystery and Suspense, The North Wing

Releasing a debut novel can often be a nerve-racking adventure for a first-time author, the outcome of which can be disaster or success. Susan Butler, who has been brave enough to share her talent with the world, has successfully written her first novel that is sure to entertain its readers. As an author, she has mastered the art of mystery and suspense in The North Wing, giving us characters that keep us guessing from the moment we meet them. Abigail Parker, the story’s heroine, is like any other young woman her age. She meets a handsome, dashing bachelor, who sweeps her off her feet and proposes marriage. Of course, she agrees to become his wife and leaves Vienna for England to prepare for their weddingContinue Reading

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In: Book Promo Blog, The Convict & the Cattleman

Synopsis His love is the key to her release. Sentenced to seven years of servitude in the penal colony of New South Wales, Bridgit Madden is thrust into a world unlike anything she’s known, dangers she never imagined and enemies with their own interests at heart. Certain that the conviction has ruined her chances of ever having a real family, she is fearful of her future. Despite his reluctance to take in a convict, Jonah Andrus, a grazier and pioneer cattleman, needs a servant to care for his orphaned niece. When presented with Bridgit, who is far too beautiful and distracting, he initially tries to refuse. However, with a busy cattle station to oversee, he needs help right away. Upon her first meeting with Jonah’sContinue Reading

On:
In: A Dangerous Invitation, Book Promo Blog, Erica Monroe, Historical Romance Suspense

SYNOPSIS One fatal mistake cost Daniel O’Reilly the woman he loved, spiraling him toward drunken self-destruction. Now sober, he’ll have to prove he’s innocent of the murder he was accused of three years ago. But pistol-wielding Kate Morgan hasn’t forgiven his sins. Torn from her privileged existence by her father’s death, Kate Morgan has carved out a new independent life in the Ratcliffe rookery as a fence for stolen goods. Daniel’s invitation to assist him jeopardizes her structured existence. Yet Kate can’t resist his touch, or the wicked desires he stirs within her. As their renewed passions grow reckless, their investigation takes them through the darkest and most depraved areas of the City. To catch a killer, they’ll have to put secrets behind them andContinue Reading

On:
In: Book Promo Blog, Christina Phillips, Ellora's Cave, Her Savage Scot

Purchase When tough Scot warrior Connor MacKenzie rides into the barbaric lands of the Picts on a mission for his king, he never expects to be captivated by a beautiful Pictish widow. Drawn under her spell, yet unaware of her true identity, he risks everything for one passionate night in her arms.   Aila, princess of Pictland, swore long ago she would do anything within her power to help defeat the Vikings who invaded her land and murdered her husband. But after meeting Connor, her frozen heart thaws and once again she imagines a future filled with love and passion.   When Connor delivers the message from his king, Aila becomes a pawn in a deadly game of politics. Her heart belongs to Connor, butContinue Reading

On:
In: A Twelfth Night Tale, Articles, Historical Tidbits, Regency Christmas Traditions, Susan Ellis

Hogmanay, the Scots name for New Year’s Eve, is pagan in origin, and probably came from the Vikings. Because Christmas was banned during the Reformation—and in Scotland for much longer* due to the very strict views of the Scottish Presbyterian Church, who believed it unbiblical—workers were required to work through Christmastide. For that reason, the winter solstice (New Year’s Eve) became the time that families celebrated the holidays with parties and gifts for the children. Traditions of Hogmanay The essential notion of Hogmanay (and New Year’s) is to clear out the old year and celebrate the clean slate offered by the coming year with family and friends. Not so different from most modern New Year’s celebrations, actually. But rather than making lists of resolutions, HogmanayContinue Reading

On:
In: Cowboy Romance, Harder Than the Rest, Shirleen Davies

Synopsis “They are men you want on your side. Hard, confident, and loyal, the MacLarens of Fire Mountain will seize your attention from the first page.” Will MacLaren is a hardened, plain-speaking bounty hunter. His life centers on finding men guilty of horrendous crimes and making sure justice is done. There is no place in his world for the carefree attitude he carried years before when a tragic event destroyed his dreams. Amanda is the daughter of a successful Colorado rancher. Determined and proud, she works hard to prove she is as capable as any man and worthy to be her father’s heir. When a stranger arrives, her independent nature collides with the strong pull toward the handsome ranch hand. But is he what heContinue Reading

On:
In: Book Review Blog, Book Review Lakota Honor, Historical Romance Paranormal, Kate Flannery, Lakota Honor

Nora Rushton from Willow Creek Colorado is a young woman with a special gift of healing. Her father has taken great pains to keep her gift a secret, fearing she will be labeled a witch. He resents his daughter and the burden she has placed on him due to her special abilities. Otakatay is a half-breed hired to kill all women that have “the mark.” He is also a man with his own demons and has become bitter and angry. Elwood is a wealthy man accustomed to getting everything he wants. He wants Nora. But, he knows nothing of her special abilities and only wants her because of her beauty. He is a cruel, selfish man. But, he is determined to have Nora, no matterContinue Reading

On:
In: Heather Gray, Just Dessert

Synopsis: Dessert…the perfect remedy when nothing in life seems to be going right. What do you do when you are the sole protector of four children, your brothers and sisters? When each day is haunted by disappointment, disillusionment and desperation? When you believe that everyone who ever loved you, including God, has abandoned you? You bake a pie, of course. What do you do when you find a woman whose heart is consumed by fear? Who does not know how to trust? Who scoffs at your faith and throws your kindness back in your face? You eat a pie, of course. Author Bio:   Aside from her long-standing love affair with coffee, Heather’s greatest joys in life are her relationship with her Savior, her family, andContinue Reading

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In: Book Promo Blog, Claudia Harbaugh, Her Grace in Disgrace, Regency Romance

SYNOPSIS Reginald Aiken, Duke of Warwick is dead and his young widow is not grieving…until the will is read. Isobel Kennilworth Aiken, Duchess of Warwick spent 6 years of her young life in a loveless marriage. Now, at the age of 24, Isobel is a widow. As Isobel awaits the reading of her late husband’s last will and testament, she feels no grief, but in fact is quite hopeful. She is eager to start her life anew. But, as the droning of the solicitor’s voice washes over her detailing the bequests to various servants and family members, a shock awaits her. The “other woman” was not his mistress, but his lawfully wedded wife and together they had a son. Six year old Reggie is nowContinue Reading

On:
In: Book Promo Blog, Decadent Publishing Company, Erotic Historical Romance, Sorcha Mowbray, The Market Series

Love Revealed (Book 1) – Decadent Publishing  (Adult Erotic Historical Romance – 18+) Lady Katherine Drummond plays by society’s rules, even after the Ton turns on her. Shunned by her peers, she keeps up appearances by day but allows her true self out in the privacy of The Market. There, in the arms of one man, she comes alive. So much so, she signs a contract to be his for six months. Despite never having seen his face and knowing him only as Sir, she fears losing her heart to the man who breaks through her defenses. Lord Raymond Tarkenton, the Earl of Heathington, despises being one of the most sought after bachelors of the Ton. He could never ask a woman of his circleContinue Reading

On:
In: Book Promo Blog, Historical Romance Books, Lauren Linwood, Outlaw Muse

Synopsis Separated from her twin during the Orphan Train selection, schoolmarm Serena Sullivan searched for her brother Bill over fifteen years. Just as she gets a lead on his whereabouts, she is railroaded by a crooked sheriff and set to hang for the murder of the sheriff’s best friend. English playwright Daman Rutledge has come to the American West on business for his brother when he witnesses a woman about to be executed. On impulse he rescues the beautiful stranger and goes on the run with her across the Kansas prairie. Along the way Daman finds the muse he’s been missing and loses his heart to the raven-haired beauty with haunting amber eyes. As they try to escape the long arm of the law, DamanContinue Reading

On:
In: Book Promo Blog, Fan Language, For Sophia, Moriah Densley

Sophia Duncombe is playing a dangerous game, hiding from her father while working for the mysterious Lord Devon. Afraid someone will recognize her, she knows going to a ball with him is a bad idea, but she can’t explain why without telling secrets that would compromise her identity. She attends the ball, cautiously watching for acquaintances who could out her with even a casual greeting. Here’s how Sophia handles meeting an old friend at the ball: I loved writing this scene! And the best part: the fan language is historically genuine. Nowadays, we text each other with clandestine messages, but there was a time when a lady could carry on a conversation by gesturing with her fan. A few of my favorite signals: Pressing half-openContinue Reading

On:
In: Bewitching Book Tours, Book Promo Blog, Catherine Hemmerling, Entangled Publishing, Historical Romance

Entangled Publishing Synopsis: Rose Warren and Simon Trumbull may have been betrothed since birth, but that doesn’t mean they have to like each other. Rose is sure the notorious playboy Simon will never willingly settle down, and Simon, well… he agrees. Never one to be forced into anything, he’d rather drink and gamble with his mates than spend time with the bookish, bespectacled Rose. When the two are thrown together to investigate a potential poisoning mystery, neither expects the sparks that fly. Simon discovers that Rose is, in face, a brilliant sleuth and – even better – hides a delectable body beneath her flowing skirts. Suddenly, falling into bed may be the best idea either has heard, but can Simon convince Rose his romancing isContinue Reading

On:
In: Regency Romance

Synopsis: A flirty, fun, mix-and-match romance about two sisters who are betrothed to the wrong men… Evangeline Vernon is a woman on the verge of spinsterhood — until the prim and proper Duke of Manchester steps in. Her family is pleased with the match, but the duke is not the passionate man Evangeline craves. Her heart belongs to an alluring, golden-haired gentleman, perfect in every way…except one: he doesn’t exist. Angela Vernon is everything a proper, well-brought-up woman should be. She knows her place and understands society’s expectations — which include not being jealous of her sister and not coveting her sister’s suitor. But how can she bear the heartache of watching the only man she loves marry not only her sister, but a womanContinue Reading